Float Down Draws Thousands

More than 1,000 people packed Lake Huron and the St. Clair River Sunday for Port Huron’s annual Float Down to Marysville. The unsanctioned tradition, dating back to the 1970s, drew families, friends, and even pets despite strong winds and waves. Some braved the water with kayaks, rafts, and tubes, while others watched from shore. The National Weather Service had warned of hazardous conditions, and both U.S. and Canadian coast guards advised against participating. Still, locals called the Float Down a summer highlight they hope continues for years.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Man Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Maritime Training Records

A St. Clair County man pleaded guilty last week to falsifying records at his marine training school.

Mel Stackpoole, 62, ran Great Lakes Charter Training, where he offered Coast Guard-approved courses. In ’20, he cut classroom hours nearly in half, instructed students to lie about their experience and health, gave out exam answers, and inflated test scores.
Stackpoole let unqualified mariners gain credentials, officials say. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine at his December 18th sentencing.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Wheels & Wells Car Show

The Oil Museum of Canada in Oil Springs is hosting the Wheels & Wells Car Show on Saturday, August 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., blending Lambton County’s oil history with classic cars. Car registration starts at 9:30 a.m. by donation, with a $10 suggestion, while spectators get in free. The event will feature museum displays linking oil to the rise of automobiles, trivia with prizes, food and drinks, a 50/50 draw, and awards for show cars at 2 p.m. It runs rain or shine.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet