Local News

Ice breaking on the Black River in Port Huron started today. The city moved the start back a day to give crews more preparation time. Drawbridges along Military, Seventh, and 10th Streets will lift as an ice-breaking tug heads from the river’s mouth to the I-94 bridge. Traffic will stop while the tug works through thick ice, and residents are urged to stay off the river. With temperatures climbing into the 60s this weekend, officials hope the effort helps prevent spring flooding.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Several K-9 officers across Michigan’s Thumb region are hanging up their leashes. In Tuscola County, longtime explosives dog Blek retired after seven years and more than 275 calls, including one pipe bomb find. He’s now staying with Sheriff Ryan Robinson as a family pet. Nearby in Sanilac County, K-9s Phoenix and Zuzana are also wrapping up their service. Phoenix joined the force in 2021, and Zuzana in 2019. Both will spend their retirement with their handlers and families here at home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Health Department is warning area cities with public water systems about possible changes to federal fluoride rules. Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin says the EPA is under court order to review fluoride safety after new research linked higher exposure to potential brain-development issues. The agency could lower the national limit, now set at 0.7 parts per million. County health officials already backed a plan last fall to ban added fluoride locally, with draft rules coming soon for public comment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Americans for Citizen Voting delivered over 750,000 petition signatures — far more than needed — to get a ballot proposal before Michigan voters this fall. The measure would require that only U.S. citizens can vote in state elections, mandate photo ID at the polls, and ensure regular reviews of Michigan’s voter rolls. Supporters say signatures came from all 83 counties, reflecting broad, bipartisan backing for election security. Lawmakers from both chambers called the drive a strong message that Michigan voters want accountability and confidence in their elections.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Sandfest won’t return this summer at Fort Gratiot County Park. Organizers say they’re taking a one-year break to rethink and reimagine Michigan’s biggest sand-sculpting event for next year. The Friends of the Fort Gratiot Light say the pause will help strengthen their mission and support restoration work at the historic lighthouse. Sandfest Chair LeeAnn Baker thanked sponsors and visitors for years of support and promised bigger, better plans when the event returns next year to Fort Gratiot.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s Blue Water Community Action Walk for Warmth returns downtown this Saturday. Walkers will step off from the Wrigley Center on Grand River Avenue to raise money for local families struggling to heat their homes. Participants can collect pledges online at bwcaa.org. The fundraiser also includes raffle baskets with themes like Pure Michigan Pride and Happy Hour Liquor—tickets are $2 each or six for $10. The route loops twice through downtown, with maps and parking available. Sponsors include Blue Cross Complete of Michigan and others.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet