Send new stories and press releases to JP at news@wgrt.com.

Local News

Fundraiser Sets Sail for Kids’ Safety

In Port Huron, the St. Clair County Child Abuse and Neglect Council is gearing up for its annual Dinner for Kids’ Sake, coming up Thursday, April 23rd at 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Water Convention Center. This year’s nautical‑themed evening helps fund programs that protect local children from abuse and neglect. Guests can enjoy dinner, a cash bar, mobile auctions, and raffles. Tickets are $60 each, and one lucky guest could win a private Huron Lady II cruise or take home $1,000 in cash.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan Shelters Receive $150K

Michigan’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is giving out $150,000 in new grants to help 24 animal shelters statewide. The money comes from the Animal Welfare Fund—supported by tax return donations. Local recipients include Macomb County Animal Shelter with $10,000, Gratiot County with $8,600, and Sanilac County Humane Society with $6,500. Most projects this year will boost spay and neuter services, expand vaccinations in underserved areas, and provide pet microchips. Since 2010, Michigan has awarded over $2 million to shelters improving animal care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Device to Reduce Stroke Risk for AFib Patients

McLaren Port Huron has become the first hospital in St. Clair County to offer a new stroke-prevention option for patients with atrial fibrillation. Doctors there can now implant the Watchman device — a small plug that seals off a part of the heart where dangerous blood clots often form. The minimally invasive procedure can reduce the need for long-term blood thinners. Hospital leaders say bringing this advanced cardiac treatment to the Blue Water region shows their commitment to improving local heart care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Trade Talks in Washington

The Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce says local CEO Carrie McEachran is in D.C. this week taking part in a cross-border business mission led by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. The two-day trip comes ahead of a major review of the Canada–U.S.–Mexico trade deal. McEachran joins business leaders from across Ontario in meetings with American lawmakers to push for smoother trade and stronger supply chains. As a border community, Sarnia-Lambton’s energy and manufacturing sectors play a big part in North American trade.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

False Bomb Threat

In Millington, police say a false bomb threat at Millington Community Schools Thursday morning turned out to be a hoax. The call came in around 10:46 a.m., prompting a full lockdown and heavy police presence, including deputies from the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office and a bomb-sniffing dog. Officers swept the buildings and found no danger. The lockdown was lifted once everything was cleared. Investigators say this was a “swatting” incident — a fake emergency meant to trigger a police response. Police continue to investigate who made the call.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marysville Mayor Chosen

Marysville’s mayor is heading to Harvard this summer. Mayor Kathy Hayman has been chosen as a Taubman Fellow, giving her a spot in Harvard University’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government program. Elected in 2022, Hayman says the experience will strengthen her leadership skills to better guide city teams and improve community life. She currently serves on several regional boards, including the Marysville Community Fund and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet