In about a year, DTE Energy will begin converting Belle River Power Plant from coal to natural gas. This $154 million upgrade will extend the plant’s life by 13 years and cut emissions by 90%. The first unit will switch in ’25, with the second unit completed by late ’26. The conversion is a cost-effective way to ensure reliable power. Up to 200 contractors will be involved. Recently, the plant achieved 100% power availability this summer, thanks to its 250 employees. Belle River, running since 1984, provides 1300 Megawatts of electricity in East China Township.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The United States Coast Guard Cutter Sequoia, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Kent Hunt, arrived at its new home port in Port Huron, Michigan, on Saturday, September 7, completing the final leg of its journey from Detroit. The cutter welcomed 35 media representatives and local dignitaries on board for this segment of the trip, including representatives from WGRT.

After being refitted in Baltimore, the Sequoia spent 19 days traveling to Michigan. It replaces the Hollyhock, which has been reassigned to Honolulu, Hawaii.

The Sequoia is a 225-foot, sea-going buoy tender and one of 16 Juniper-class vessels built and commissioned between 1996 and 2004. Launched on August 23, 2003, in Marinette, Wisconsin, the ship operates with a crew of 48 and carries out a variety of missions, including search and rescue, buoy tending, and icebreaking.

The Port Huron Historic District Commission has approved Frank Hoffman’s updated plans for the Riviera and Bijou Theater at 401 Grand River Ave. This decision follows previous rejections of Hoffman’s earlier proposals. The new plan aims to restore the building’s original masonry facade, replacing parts removed in the 1950s with similar materials. Recent work revealed three circular windows, and the facade restoration will also include stained glass and insulated windows. The project, expected to be finished by November, will also feature a charcoal gray overhead door and black-painted rooftop.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

After three days of deliberations, the Macomb County jury has yet to reach a verdict in the Warren murder case. They reviewed a video of Reinaldo Jamison’s testimony, where he argued self-defense in the 2018 shooting of Andre Fort, 32, from Detroit. The incident occurred in Jamison’s mobile home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet