Local News

Tuscola County voters have big decisions on the November 3rd ballot. Countywide, they will decide whether to renew the property tax that pays for veterans services. That would not raise the rate. The countywide veterans’ proposal would continue funding at about 17 cents per $1,000 of taxable value for six years. A separate question asks whether to add a new tax for the same purpose, because the county’s veterans office says it needs more money. In the townships, Akron and Columbia want to renew fire and ambulance funding, while Almer Charter and Dayton are asking for new road money.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Summer on the St. Clair River is over for one of Port Huron’s best-known attractions. The Huron Lady II has wrapped up its 2026 season. Since late May, the 73-foot boat has carried passengers on 90-minute narrated cruises from its dock along the Black River in downtown Port Huron. Riders got a close-up look at the Blue Water Bridges, the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse and Great Lakes freighters along the way. Port Huron-area fans will have to wait until next year to climb aboard.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Algonac school district voters will choose three board members from a field of four candidates on November 3. The Port Huron Times Herald asked each candidate about their background, their reasons for running and their experience. On the ballot are Jennifer Baker of Harsens Island, 52-year-old Nicole Emery and 50-year-old Janice Pasko, both of Clay Township, and Sandee Kuhfeldt. Kuhfeldt says she would bring practical business experience, community involvement and a willingness to listen. Winners will serve 6-year terms on the Algonac School Board.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Families in Sanilac County still have time to squeeze in some fall fun before camping season wraps up. Jellystone Park North Port Huron, along Lake Huron in Carsonville, is hosting Halloween-themed weekends as the campground heads toward its season closing. Campers can expect spooky family fun, like trick-or-treating and campsite decorating. The park sits just 5 minutes north of Port Sanilac, making it an easy Thumb-area getaway. Once the final weekend ends, the campground will shut down for the winter.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Folks in St. Clair County can turn an ordinary shoebox into a gift for a child halfway around the world. Operation Christmas Child will collect filled boxes during National Collection Week, November 16th through the 23rd, with drop-off spots open across Michigan. Since 1993, the group has delivered gifts to kids facing war, poverty, and disaster, and hopes to reach 12.8 million children this year. People who can’t pack a box can give ten dollars online and track where it goes. A step-by-step guide to packing a shoebox is posted on the group’s website.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A bald eagle is fighting to recover just across the St. Clair River from the Blue Water Area. The eagle was found stuck in a tree for hours on Stag Island Monday, with a branch through its wing. Tree climber Justin Nicol sawed the branch off and carried the bird down. Caregivers at a Sarnia wildlife clinic say its chances are guarded, but it is eating well and getting pain medicine. A vet stitched the wing, and specialists are being lined up for more care. For now, caregivers say they are taking it one day at a time.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet