George James

The 105th Rotary International Day Parade in Port Huron will honor Nancy Winzer as Grand Marshal. Winzer recently retired after 30 years serving the city, including as Director of Parks and Recreation and Deputy City Manager. She is celebrated for improving local parks with accessible playgrounds and kayak launches. The parade will begin downtown at the corner of Huron and Glenwood on Wednesday, July 9th, at 6:30 p.m. This event officially kicks off Boat Week and leads into the 101st Bayview Mackinac Race, drawing crowds and celebrating the city’s waterfront heritage.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Local school boards are busy this summer despite the break. Carsonville-Port Sanilac recently approved buying a new bus for over $140,000 and accepted resignations from two teachers. Superintendent Doug Muxlow reminded the board about renewing the 18-mill tax on businesses and second homes, which helps fund schools. Sandusky’s board approved a future student trip to Europe and announced upcoming retirements of key staff members.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Sunday, August 3rd, Port Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum will host the Royal Oak Blues Band for a lively outdoor concert from 1 to 3 PM. Held on Ridge Street, this free event wraps up the weekend’s Blues Festival with a mix of blues, gospel, country, and rock sounds. Attendees can bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the music under the summer sky. A cash bar, concessions, and a raffle will be available, with proceeds supporting the local museum.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron’s Lakeside Cemetery, nearly 400 people rest in an unmarked paupers’ section, long forgotten by the community. Local resident Erik Wurmlinger is working to change that by researching burial records and connecting with city officials to raise funds for a memorial sign and bench. The city has already cleaned up the area and removed fences blocking access. This hidden part of local history dates back to 1851 and holds stories of immigrants, children, and low-income families. Wurmlinger’s project invites the community to honor those buried there.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron burger joint tucked inside a party store has just claimed Detroit’s top burger title. Zip Sauce Burger wowed judges at Eastern Market’s annual Burger Battle, beating out 10 competitors. Their signature burger, grilled with onions and slathered in a famous metro Detroit steak sauce, brought home the $1,000 prize and trophy. Nearly 2,000 people packed the event to taste and vote. Zip Sauce Burger, launched by Bloomfield Hills’ Michael Esshaki, blends local roots with bold flavor—and now plans to expand beyond Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System is expanding access to care in Sandusky by extending hours at its After-Hours Clinic and adding Family Nurse Practitioner Trisha Ameel to the team. Starting June 30, the clinic on Delaware Street will open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. Ameel, a lifelong Sanilac County resident, brings nearly 20 years of nursing experience and joins current provider Abigail Knox in delivering urgent care services close to home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet