Local News

McKenzie Health System in Sandusky earned two national awards from the American Heart Association for improving emergency care in rural areas. The hospital received Silver Awards for both heart attack and stroke treatment through the “Get With The Guidelines–Rural” program. Officials say the honors reflect the team’s commitment to following research-based care standards that save lives close to home. Emergency Department Manager Lacey Shea credited the staff’s teamwork and dedication to providing fast, quality care for residents across Michigan’s Thumb region.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Columbus County Park will host its fourth Annual Tree Hugger Hike on Saturday, Feb. 14th, from 10 a.m. to noon. The free event mixes hands-on learning with winter adventure as guests use sight, sound, and touch to identify trees and shrubs. After the walk, hikers can warm up by the fire with hot cocoa and cookies. The event, held at 1670 Bauman Road, even counts for Michigan Master Gardener credits. Registration is available by emailing klyons@stclaircounty.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Nova Chemicals has been fined $130,000 for safety violations after a May 2025 accident at its Corunna facility in St. Clair Township. Investigators say two contract workers were cleaning a heater when hot boiler water unexpectedly burst from a pipe, seriously injuring one of them. The province found that the site lacked proper shields and safety instructions for the job. Nova Chemicals pleaded guilty in December to failing to protect its workers under Ontario’s safety laws.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, students now have the chance to get a jump on college. The Blue Water Middle College Academy is taking applications for the ’26–27 school year through March 31st. The program lets teens earn a high school diploma and an associate degree—free of charge—while staying involved in sports and school activities. Families can learn more at the Open House on February 21st at the Welcome Center on St. Clair County Community College’s campus. Evening info sessions are also planned at area high schools through March.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents have a chance to win big while helping local families. The Blue Water Eagles Ladies Auxiliary is raffling off a ’26 Chevy Traverse as first prize, and $1,000 cash for second. The drawing happens March 27th at the Eagles Club on Howard Street. Only 1,500 tickets are available at $75 each, sold at the club or through members. Funds raised will support the Auxiliary’s holiday programs, including the Children’s Christmas Party and the Needy Food Basket drive that helped 127 families last year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Attorneys for a medical contractor tied to a St. Clair County Jail lawsuit want off the case. The firm Foley, Baron, Metzger & Juip says clients including CHS TX haven’t paid them, and they’ve asked a judge for 90 days to withdraw. The lawsuit stems from a ’21 injury, when former inmate Lisa Brown says she broke her neck in a bunk bed fall and wasn’t hospitalized for nearly three days. Corizon Health, which then handled jail medical care, went bankrupt, transferring assets to CHS TX. A hearing is set for February 4th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet