Local News

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

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

Sarnia-Lambton business leaders took their message to Washington, D.C. this week, joining an Ontario Chamber of Commerce mission to push for stronger cross-border trade ahead of the CUSMA review. The delegation met U.S. lawmakers, business groups, and Canada’s ambassador to stress the need for tariff-free trade and stable supply chains. Local industries—especially energy, manufacturing, and agriculture—depend on that stability. Chamber CEO Carrie McEachran says disruptions at the border hit Sarnia-Lambton jobs directly, and cooperation remains key to the region’s growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

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

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

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