Local News

In St. Clair County, the Community Foundation just wrapped up ’25 with a heartwarming final grant of $3,510 to Kind Human 4 Human Kind. This local group helps families in need, supports people experiencing homelessness, and runs programs that bring neighbors together every day. Thanks to generous donors right here in our community, the foundation continues to connect caring people with important causes, fund nonprofits, build endowments, strengthen local programs, and provide scholarships for students.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron Township welcomed Marcie’s Soul Food at 1735 24th St., replacing the old Red Pepper Mexican space. Owned by locals Marcie McDowell and her daughter Dominic, the spot serves scratch-made soul food favorites like catfish, ribs, oxtails, and pork chop sandwiches with rotating daily specials. Marcie runs the kitchen full time, while Dominic travels from Florida to help. The restaurant blends classic comfort food with old-school music and friendly service. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, noon to midnight.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia residents will see their city property taxes rise by about 3.95 percent this new year, adding roughly $42 more per $100,000 of home value. City council approved a $196 million budget to cover rising costs for basics like water, roads, and sewers while fixing old infrastructure. They’re spending $65 million on repairs, including flood-preventing sewer work and road fixes, but delayed a new police station to keep the tax hike lower. Final tax bills depend on county and school board decisions later this year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Horse owners in St. Clair County should stay alert after a 13-year-old gelding tested positive for strangles just before Christmas. The horse showed signs like fever, runny nose, and fast breathing starting mid-December. He is now quarantined at home to stop the spread. Strangles is a very contagious bacterial infection that passes easily between horses through contact or shared items. Local barns are reminded to quarantine new arrivals, clean equipment thoroughly, and watch for early symptoms to protect their herds during the holiday season. Most horses recover fully.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Winter fun is easy to find across the Blue Water Area as local parks open their hills, trails, and ice rinks for the season. Families are heading to sledding spots like Columbus, Goodells, East China, Marysville City, and Lincoln parks. Port Huron also offers outdoor skating at McMorran Place Plaza and Palmer Park. Many locations provide lighted areas and free equipment. Park conditions depend on weather, always check conditions first — and remember snowboarding is not allowed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron hockey fans are in for a treat at McMorran Arena this season. New owner Ken Andrews has transformed Port Huron Prowlers games into an NHL-like spectacle. Players burst onto the ice through roaring flamethrowers with epic videos projected right onto the surface. Giant screens deliver live action, instant replays, stats, and crowd shots just like on TV. A bigger team store too. Plus, a real thunderous goal horn shakes the building. The Prowlers take on the Indiana Sentinels Friday evening.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet