Local News

Fort Gratiot firefighters Chandler Martin and Mark Smith received the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award Tuesday for saving a local resident’s life after he went into cardiac arrest at home in February. The two performed CPR while EMS transported him, helping him make a full recovery. Both were given the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action and a lapel pin. Fire Chief Mark VanderFeyst praised their quick response as an example of the department’s dedication to the community. Smith urged locals to learn CPR, saying it can save lives.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Three young girls died in a tragic house fire Tuesday morning in Carsonville. The blaze broke out on Washington Road just after 11, and multiple fire departments rushed to the scene. Despite efforts, the children did not survive and were later pronounced dead at local hospitals. The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the cause. Carsonville-Port Sanilac schools are offering counseling for students and families. A GoFundMe and local fundraisers, including a raffle by the fire department, aim to help cover funeral expenses.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia’s 123rd Labour Day Parade returns to Front Street September 1st, celebrating all workers under this year’s theme, “Elbows Up Canada.” The march starts at 9:30 a.m. at Front and Davis streets and moves north to Maxwell Street, with a detour around downtown construction. Parade marshal Candace Young says the event honors unionized and non-unionized workers while promoting community unity. Trophies will be awarded for Best Union Float, Best Band, Best Commercial, and Best Non-Commercial Entry.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s working waterfront got a $1 million boost as the Lakes Pilots Association upgraded its St. Clair River station. Improvements over the past five months include two new boat wells, a reinforced seawall, new cabins, eye beams, and docks. Association president Capt. Tony Brandano says the upgrades protect the shoreline and strengthen daily operations. The project wraps up in two weeks, keeping the 17 pilots—who guide ships from Port Huron to Buffalo—safe and ready on one of the Great Lakes’ most challenging waterways.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A heated Clay Township Board meeting on Monday turned chaotic when Supervisor Paul Cassidy and Treasurer Jerry Galka walked out after a dispute over public comment. The tension began when a resident mentioned an alleged social media message from Galka criticizing a past campaign. Cassidy tried to cut her off and called for removals, but police refused, saying no laws were broken. Trustee Jon DeBoyer challenged Cassidy’s handling, and after Cassidy and Galka left, DeBoyer took over as chair. With a quorum still present, the board completed its agenda.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron will shine with community spirit as Recovery Fest ’25 takes over Pine Grove Park on Saturday, September 13th. Hosted by the Blue Water Recovery & Outreach Center, the free event celebrates National Recovery Month with food, music, and family fun. Highlights include a 5K run, live bands, exotic animal shows, and a community softball game with local police, fire, church, and recovery teams. A dove release will honor lives lost to addiction. Organizers say the festival is about healing, second chances, and proving recovery grows stronger together.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet