Local News

In Marysville, Woodland Developmental Center teacher Angela Jackson got a surprise call — she’d been named Michigan’s 2026–27 Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 5, representing St. Clair County. Jackson teaches students ages 3 to 9 with severe multiple impairments, focusing on communication, independence and life skills. A Memphis High graduate, she began her career in Port Huron schools before returning to Woodland in ’18. Colleagues say she brings compassion and high expectations to every child. Jackson calls the honor a win for her entire school community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A court hearing for Port Huron father Jeffery Smerer, accused of shooting three of his children and killing one, has been pushed back. Smerer was set to appear Feb. 27th, but Judge Michael West delayed the hearing until April 16th after the court didn’t get a psychiatric report. The case has been on hold since November, when Smerer’s lawyer filed notice he may claim insanity. Smerer was arrested last September at his Glenview Court home and faces ten felony charges, including open murder, that could mean life in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

As changes take place across parts of the local radio landscape, one station remains steady and committed to the Blue Water Area. WGRT 102.3 FM is proud to remind listeners that nothing is changing here. After 35 years on the air, WGRT continues to deliver the same great music, local news, community features, and hometown involvement listeners have counted on for decades. While other stations announce restructuring and frequency moves, WGRT remains locally owned, locally programmed, and focused on serving Port Huron and surrounding communities every single day. From community events and nonprofit partnerships to local business spotlights and trusted on air personalities, WGRT’s mission remains unchanged. The station’s commitment to stability, consistency, and strong local roots has defined it for more than three decades. Listeners can continue tuning in at 102.3 FM, online, and through streaming platforms, knowing that WGRT’s voice in the Blue Water Area is as dependable as ever. WGRT. Celebrating 35 years of serving the Blue Water Area, and we’re just getting started.

Reporting for WGRT – George James

Seasonal weight limits went back into effect across St. Clair County as of Monday. The county road commission says truck drivers must cut axle weights by 35 percent and slow down to 35 miles per hour on restricted roads until conditions improve. Overweight and building-move permits are on hold unless specially approved. The limits help protect local roads from freeze-thaw damage. Routes like 24th, 32nd, Capac, and Gratiot remain open as All-Season Roads. The full list is posted by the St. Clair County Road Commission.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Tri-Hospital EMS has earned national accreditation for the next three years, a major achievement confirming the St. Clair County agency meets the highest emergency care standards in the country. The voluntary review by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services examined leadership, safety, and clinical quality. CEO Ken Cummings says the honor shows a commitment that goes beyond simple compliance. With more than a hundred licensed responders, Tri-Hospital EMS answered nearly 26,000 calls last year, serving residents countywide around the clock.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new moving option has rolled into Sarnia. Storage 4 U Sarnia on McGregor Side Road South is now an official U-Haul neighborhood dealer, offering truck rentals and moving supplies. The partnership helps local small businesses earn extra income while supporting do-it-yourself movers. U-Haul has worked with independent dealers like this since 1945, and today more than 22-thousand businesses across Canada and the U.S. are part of the network—keeping moving convenient and local for Sarnia residents.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet