Families in Michigan’s Thumb can kick off Independence Day weekend with a free afternoon of activities at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum in Port Sanilac. The event runs Friday, July 3rd from 1 to 5 p.m. and features live music from local band The Humbuckers, exotic animal shows, and hands-on kids games. Visitors can also browse the farmers market, tour historic buildings for a small fee, and enjoy crafts, storytime, and live demonstrations throughout the day.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron man already on parole for past sex offenses is back behind bars following a new child exploitation investigation. Michigan State Police say 55-year-old Raymond Hutchinson was arrested by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force after digital evidence was seized earlier this year. The case began with a tip from the Michigan Department of Corrections. Hutchinson now faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated possession of child sexually abusive material and using a computer to commit a crime.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

As the Fourth of July approaches, residents are being reminded that fireworks laws vary widely by state, and Michigan’s rules are among the most permissive this holiday. In Michigan, people can legally set off consumer fireworks on private property from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. between June 29th and July 5th. However, fireworks are banned on public property and in state parks, and illegal explosives like M-80s remain strictly prohibited, with fines reaching up to $500 or more for violations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A change in routine paid off in a big way for a Port Huron-area woman, who won $1 million on a Michigan Lottery ticket after avoiding the heat and road construction. Officials say the 70-year-old St. Clair County resident skipped her usual walk and drove to a different store, buying a King Cashword ticket at Speedy Q on Water Street. She later scratched it at home and realized she’d hit the top prize. She chose a lump sum of about $693,000 and plans to buy a home and a car.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County voters, including those in Port Huron, will decide August 4th whether to renew a countywide ambulance millage that funds local EMS services. The 0.4993-mill levy, about $50 a year on a $100,000 home, would run through ’29 and bring in roughly $4.3 million in its first year. EMS leaders say the funding has already improved staffing, training, and response times, including faster service in Riley Township. They warn that if the renewal fails, residents could see fewer ambulances and longer emergency response times across the county.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet