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

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

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

Port Huron’s Sherman Woods neighborhood is gearing up for its annual Red Kettle bell-ringing tradition, starting November 29, to support the local Salvation Army. Known for its festive Christmas light displays, the neighborhood has raised over $42,000 since ’16 to help provide gifts and meals for families in need. Volunteers will ring the bell Fridays and Saturdays through December, with a special Christmas Eve event. You can enjoy Salvation Army Band performances, Santa appearances, and horse-drawn carriage rides beginning at Lakeside Park.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Starting November 29th at 10 AM, WGRT will embrace the holiday spirit by switching to Christmas music, playing festive tunes daily from 10 AM to 8 PM through Christmas Day. After hours, regular programming will resume, while local news remains a constant. With a focus on supporting the community, this seasonal shift aims to enhance the shopping experience for customers and offer a cheerful backdrop for local businesses like restaurants and stores. The choice of 10 AM to 8 PM aligns with peak retail hours.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet