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Local News

Domtar Paper

Port Huron Moves to Rezone Industrial Sites

Port Huron officials are moving to open up redevelopment options for several older industrial sites, including the former Domtar paper mill on Washington Ave. Last week, the Planning Commission voted 5-2 to recommend rezoning these properties from industrial use to a Planned Unit Development, which allows more flexible future uses while keeping current operations. The proposal, affecting sites along Washington, 12th, Kearney, and Thomas streets, now heads to City Council for a final vote today.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Road Rage Ends in Tragic Death

A road rage incident in Croswell last Wednesday afternoon ended tragically when a man was found dead at his home. Police say the dispute began around 1:40 p.m. near North Howard and Wells Streets, escalating when one man brandished a firearm and fled. Officers searched the area using drones, tips, and family contacts but lost him. The investigation involved multiple local agencies, including Croswell and Lexington police, Sanilac County deputies, and emergency responders.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Feel Good, Funny Magic

Downtown Port Huron’s McMorran Theater will light up with magic and laughter on Jan. 17th as “Feel Good, Funny Magic” takes the stage. International performers Nick Paul and Taylor Hughes will combine sleight-of-hand, comedy, and storytelling in a fast-paced, two-man show designed to entertain all ages. Doors open at 7 p.m, with tickets starting around $25 at mcmorran.com or the box office. Fans may know Paul from “CONAN” and Netflix, and Hughes from Amazon Prime specials, promising a night that blends Hollywood-style magic with heart and humor.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fort Gratiot Welcomes Burlington

Fort Gratiot Township is getting a new Burlington Stores this spring. The off-price retailer is renovating the long-empty former Dick’s Sporting Goods on 24th Avenue. Township officials say permits are approved and work is underway, calling the redevelopment a boost for the area’s commercial corridor. The 45,000-square-foot building has a long retail history, including Dick’s Sporting Goods and Builder’s Square. Burlington’s arrival is expected to create jobs and draw shoppers, with officials hopeful more vacant spaces nearby will follow suit.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Dad Helps Rescue Girls Basketball Team

A local dad turned hero Tuesday night when he rushed to help after spotting a school bus on its side along icy Highway M-553 near Marquette. The bus was carrying Escanaba’s girls basketball teams home from a game when the driver lost control. Thankfully, everyone survived with only minor injuries—two teens were checked at the hospital and others treated on site. Dave Pepin, the first on scene, safely got all 26 people out and stayed until help arrived. Escanaba schools stayed closed Wednesday due to the bad roads.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Meat Market Closes Amid Threats

In Marine City, a confrontation outside Zimmerman’s Meat Market on Broadway Street has forced the local butcher shop to close temporarily. A group exercising their right to film in public clashed with the owners on Tuesday. Things escalated quickly, with one person deploying pepper spray on a male owner, who was then taken to the hospital as a precaution. Marine City Police are investigating conflicting claims—one side calls it self-defense, the other an assault—while reviewing video footage. The incident has sparked online backlash.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet