George James

Online Vaccine Waiver System

St. Clair County families now have an easier way to file vaccine exemptions. The County Health Department has launched Michigan’s first fully online certification system for non-medical immunization waivers. Instead of making a trip to the office, parents can complete the education and submit forms at scchealth.co. Once done, a certified exemption is emailed within five days. County health leaders say the change removes barriers while respecting family choice and state law. Walk-in help remains available for those who prefer in-person support.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lower Bids Boost Black River Canal Plan

Bids to repair Port Huron’s Black River Canal came in lower than expected, but the city still needs help from nearby townships to move forward. City Manager James Freed says the lowest bid landed at about $4.5 million — a million less than earlier estimates — yet Port Huron can’t fund it alone. Freed asked Fort Gratiot and Port Huron townships to each contribute $700,000, cutting down borrowing for taxpayers. City leaders say reopening it is key to restoring summer boating and business along the river.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Alumni Skate Into Port Huron for Charity Game

Hockey fans in Port Huron are gearing up for a big Sunday showdown as Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs alumni hit the ice for charity. The “Hockey For The House” game gets underway at 2 p.m. Sunday at McMorran Arena, with all proceeds helping Ronald McDonald House Charities Detroit. Tickets run about $35 for adults and $25 for kids, with a noon VIP meet-and-greet at McMorran Theater offering autographs and photo ops for $100. Seats are still available online through Showpass.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Hire Raises New Trust Concerns for Sarnia Police

A hiring decision by Sarnia Police is drawing sharp public concern. The department recently appointed Bradley Murray as its Crime and Intelligence Manager — despite his past conviction for tampering with drug evidence while serving in Halton Region. Chief Derek Davis, also a former Halton officer, defends the hire as part of a formal process. But residents question how someone once caught stealing opioids from a police vault is now overseeing Sarnia’s crime data. Locals are asking whether trust and transparency are really being restored — or quietly recycled.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lunch & Learn

For 100 years, Stapleton Insurance has helped local businesses stay protected—now they’re turning their expertise toward Medicare. On Tuesday, April 28 at noon, Stapleton hosts a special Lunch & Learn at the Port Huron MOC on McMorran Boulevard. Human resource managers and workplace leaders are invited to get straightforward guidance on helping employees through Medicare transitions, whether near retirement age or working past 65. RSVP to Alissa Frantz at Stapleton Insurance for details.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Comedy Festival

A new burst of laughter hit downtown Port Huron as the first-ever Blue Water Comedy Festival packed local venues this past weekend. The four-night run filled seats at The Wrigley Center and Foundry, even selling out last Friday night. Organizer and comedian Daniel Grinnell says the strong turnout and crowd energy proved Port Huron is ready for more live comedy. Locals loved it too, with regulars and first-timers returning for repeat shows. Grinnell hopes to make the Blue Water Comedy Festival an annual tradition celebrating Michigan’s comedy talent.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet