Local News

St. Clair County heart patients no longer have to leave home for a procedure that can lower their stroke risk, and 50 of them have already benefited. McLaren Port Huron performed its 50th Watchman implant on October 27th, just months after becoming the county’s first hospital to offer it in March. The device seals off a pocket in the heart where clots can form in people with atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat linked to about 20 percent of strokes, and it may let patients stop long-term blood thinners.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron voters have filled three City Council seats, though the race for the final spot came down to just 239 votes. Jeff Pemberton led the six-candidate field with 4,567 votes, followed by Brian Farquhar with 3,913 and Jack Belyea with 3,553. Robert Mosurak finished just short with 3,314 votes, while Amir McDuffie earned 3,190 and Gregg DeVoogd received 1,650. All Port Huron precincts have reported, but the results remain unofficial until they are certified by the St. Clair County Board of Canvassers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two fishermen are recovering after a chilly November outing on Lake St. Clair turned into a rescue in Harrison Township. The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called Monday afternoon after a boat capsized near Gino’s Surf on Jefferson Avenue. Firefighters say both men were pulled from the water and treated for a mild case of hypothermia. The close call is a reminder for local anglers that lake water turns cold fast this time of year, and a life jacket can make all the difference.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Seniors and caregivers across St. Clair County can get answers about Medicare, home care, Veterans benefits and more under one roof next Tuesday, November 10th, at the free St. Clair County Senior Expo in Port Huron. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Lake Huron Room at the Blue Water Convention Center on Harker Street, more than 50 organizations will share information on assisted living, mobility solutions and other services. Visitors can also get free health screenings, enjoy complimentary refreshments and giveaways, and enter hourly prize drawings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Chesterfield Township man is searching for his missing cat after a car crashed through his living room near 23 Mile and Donner roads. Michael Pingel says a Detroit Lions timeout got him off the couch around 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 25th, and moments later a black Kia burst through the wall, stopping feet from where he had been sitting. Pingel says 4 young people jumped out, and 1 was hospitalized with minor injuries. Chesterfield Township Police are investigating, and anyone who spots Pingel’s cat is asked to reach out.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron residents who need to pay a water bill or handle city business after work now have extra time, but Fridays are off the table. New hours took effect this week at the Municipal Office Center at 100 McMorran Boulevard. Instead of closing at 4:30 p.m. every weekday, city offices now stay open until 5:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and until 5 p.m. on Thursday. The offices are closed Fridays, though water payments can still go in the drop box in the north parking lot.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet