Send new stories and press releases to JP at news@wgrt.com.

Local News

New Wine Bar Opens

Downtown Port Huron welcomes a fresh taste with the grand opening of River City Wine Company on Friday. This new wine bar, part of CityFlats Hotel’s family, sits right on the Black River near the St. Clair River gateway. Visitors can enjoy premium wine tastings, unique cocktails made with Detroit City Distillery spirits, and waterfront views. River City Wine Company aims to be a vibrant spot for locals and visitors, offering seasonal menus, special events, and a warm atmosphere. This new venue marks an exciting chapter in Port Huron’s hospitality scene.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Man Rescued from Smoke-Filled Home Fire

A man was rescued from a house fire in Lexington Township last week. Sanilac County dispatchers got a call just after 1 p.m. about smoke on Roach Road, and the caller later said his home was full of smoke and he couldn’t get out because of medical issues. Police and firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames. After several rescue attempts, they used a chainsaw to free the man through a bedroom window. He was taken by ambulance to McLaren Port Huron for treatment. The fire’s cause is still unknown.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bluewater BorderFest

Sarnia’s Bluewater BorderFest is back, rocking the waterfront from June 19th to the 21st. Country star Chase Rice kicks things off Thursday, followed by The Fray on Friday, a night honoring local first responders. Billy Talent closes the festival Saturday with their high-energy rock. Featuring a mix of country, rock, and alternative acts, the event promises a thrilling start to Sarnia’s summer, which draws thousands of attendees annually and has become a key part of the region’s tourism calendar.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Shooting Suspect Nabbed

On Monday, Sterling Heights police arrested a suspect linked to a shooting near Pine Grove Park in Port Huron. The incident happened two days earlier when a gunman fired at another driver’s car on Pine Grove Avenue, hitting it multiple times. With help from Troy police, the Port Huron Major Crimes Unit tracked the suspect to a Sterling Heights home. The suspect is now in St. Clair County Jail, awaiting a court hearing. The investigation continues, and Port Huron police urge anyone with information to come forward.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Mackinac Policy Conference with Thumbcoast.tv and WGRT

Thumbcoast.tv, in partnership with WGRT 102.3 FM, is excited to announce its in-depth coverage of the 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference, taking place May 27 through the 30th at the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Hosts Josh Chapman and Michael Hensley will lead exclusive interviews with local leaders, business influencers, and key policymakers, highlighting the ideas and initiatives shaping the future of St. Clair County and Michigan’s Thumb Coast region. Throughout the week, WGRT 102.3 FM will air special segments featuring insights from the conference, giving listeners a front-row seat to one of Michigan’s most important annual gatherings of decision-makers. The Mackinac Policy Conference brings together voices from across the state to discuss critical topics such as economic development, education, infrastructure, and leadership. To stay connected with full coverage, including extended interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and daily updates visit Thumbcoast.tv and follow Thumbcoast.tv on social media.

Marysville Man Charged with Hate Crime

In Marysville, 33-year-old Robert Beaton was arrested for a hate crime at St. Christopher Catholic Church. During a baptism ceremony Beaton allegedly threw a rock through a church window, shattering it and disrupting the sacred event. When the priest stepped outside to confront him, Beaton reportedly attacked, injuring the priest and shouting derogatory remarks about the Catholic Church. Marysville police responded swiftly, apprehending Beaton at the scene. He now faces hate crime charges for the vandalism and assault.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet