Local News

In Grant Township, a tiny Chiweenie named Nugget is turning heads across the Blue Water Area. The 2-year-old pup, owned by Sandy and Dale Kress, is a regular at local spots like the Fort Gratiot Meijer, where shoppers instantly recognize her. Nugget is now competing in the America’s Favorite Pet contest, currently ranked second in her group. The nationwide vote supports animal rescue work through PAWS, with winners announced March 27th. Nugget’s calm, friendly charm has already made her a local celebrity.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A winter parking dispute is stirring frustration in Ira Township. A homeowner near Meldrum Road and Dixie Highway says ice fishermen using a nearby lot have brought traffic, litter, and safety worries to his doorstep. He wants the township or property owner to block access before someone gets hurt. But other neighbors say the crowds don’t bother them. The lot’s owners say they’re fine with ice fishermen parking there as long as visitors stay respectful—and so far, police say there’s been no trouble.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The annual Bluewater Travel Guide is rolling off the press, with copies headed to spots across Michigan. Spirit Cheer is happening February 14th at the Blue Water Convention Center. Then on the 27th, McMorran hosts two big gatherings—BLOOM With A Beautiful Me and the Battle of the Badges—while the Faith Lutheran Couples Retreat runs that weekend through March 1st at the Convention Center. Carhartt Day wraps up the month February 28th at McMorran, promising plenty of fun across the Thumb Coast.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new Culver’s restaurant is coming to Marysville, with construction now underway in the Meijer parking lot at Range and Gratiot. The project is being handled by Rhoads & Johnson, the same company known for local commercial builds. Culver’s, a Wisconsin-based fast food chain famous for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard, expects to open this location sometime between spring and summer. It will be the second Culver’s in St. Clair County, joining the one already serving customers in Fort Gratiot on 24th Street.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Registered social worker Katie Joosten is launching a new workshop in Sarnia’s Mitton Village to help new and expecting parents find emotional balance after birth. Her “Postpartum Survival & Support” session runs March 11th at the Radiant Community Centre on Mitton Street South, offering real talk on mental health, identity shifts, and relationships after having a baby. Joosten says her goal is to fill the gap in local care so parents don’t face the postpartum period alone.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lake Huron Medical Center in Port Huron has earned national recognition, landing a four-star spot on Forbes’ first-ever Top Hospitals list. The ranking placed Lake Huron Medical Center among just over 500 hospitals nationwide recognized for outstanding patient care, outcomes, and experience. It was one of twelve Prime Healthcare hospitals to make the list. Hospital leaders say the honor reflects the dedication of doctors, nurses, and staff working every day to serve the Blue Water community with skill, compassion, and quality care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet