Local News

A Port Huron patient’s kind words have earned Lake Huron Medical Center’s latest “WOW Employee of the Month” honor for Chase McKenzie. The student radiologic technologist joined the hospital’s radiology team in January of ’25 and has already stood out for his professionalism and compassion. A patient described Chase as respectful, kind, and eager to help beyond expectations. Hospital officials say his care reflects the center’s mission to provide outstanding, patient-focused service across the Blue Water community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County deputies handled two crashes just hours apart last Wednesday. Around 10:20 a.m. in Worth Township, a Lexington man and woman were hurt after their Ford Focus tried to avoid a minor crash on South Lakeshore Road and collided with a semi. Both were hospitalized in Port Huron with non-life-threatening injuries. Then around 4:40 p.m. in Buel Township, an Applegate man lost control of his pickup on icy Peck Road, rolling into a ditch. Deputies say alcohol was a factor, and charges are pending.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron native Demetri Stafford is returning home to lead the Blue Water Area Rescue Mission as its new executive director. Stafford brings nearly a decade of leadership and ministry experience after serving in Texas. He takes over from Interim Director Renee Pettinger, who helped reopen the shelter in ’23 after it shut down during the pandemic. BWARM has since served more than 400 homeless men across St. Clair County, offering food, shelter, and support. Stafford says he’s honored to continue the Mission’s work.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sanilac County’s parks are set for a major upgrade. County commissioners last week approved a five-year recreation plan that will guide improvements across all four public parks. At Forester Park, crews will upgrade all campsite hookups, add cabins, and debut a splash pad. Evergreen Park will grow with a serenity garden, Wi-Fi, more campsites, and a dog park. Lexington Park’s getting a bath house, seawall, and improved accessibility. Delaware Park plans 20 new cabins plus new trails and courts. The upgrades will be paid through grants and county funds.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A familiar corner in Lexington is getting its donuts back. The long-missed Lakeview Donut Shop spot on Lakeshore Road near Cedar and Birchcrest is being rebuilt as Lexington Donuts. New owner Juli Corlew bought the landmark property for $170,000 and invested about $400,000 to rebuild it after the old structure was found unsafe. The new 1,500-square-foot shop doubles the size of the original. Construction began last fall, and Corlew hopes to open by March, serving fresh donuts and breakfast early each morning.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Women around Port Huron are invited to celebrate friendship this winter at the Blue Water Area Chamber’s “Hearts Along the Blue Water” event on Wednesday, Feb. 11th. The casual Galentine’s evening runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Haven by Royal-T on Military Street. Guests can sip wine, enjoy appetizers, and relax without any speeches or networking pressure. It’s all about connection and fun. Tickets are $15 for Chamber members and $20 for others, with registration required since spots are limited.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet