Local News

The 2025 Girl Scout cookie season is here, allowing locals to enjoy their favorite treats like Thin Mints and Tagalongs. This annual event not only satisfies sweet cravings but also helps Girl Scouts develop entrepreneurial skills. The sale began this month and runs through April. By supporting the Girl Scout Cookie program, buyers contribute to local councils and troops. The tradition dates back to 1917, when a troop in Oklahoma first sold home-baked cookies.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System is kicking off its annual Healthy Living Together series on January 15th with a session titled “Understanding Food Lingo.” From 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the McKenzie Dining Room, this event will help locals decode terms like GMO, organic, gluten-free, and probiotic. Led by Registered Dietitian Kris Kreiner, the session aims to clarify food labels and empower attendees to make healthier choices. A virtual option will also be available. This event is the first of many this year, designed to support health and wellness.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s State Park Madness is heating up as Round 2 kicks off, with 16 parks, including Algonac State Park, advancing in the bracket-style competition. Running throughout January, the five-week tournament allows Michiganders to vote weekly for their favorite parks either in person or on social media. Round 2 runs through Saturday, with weekly eliminations leading to the championship round from January 26 to 31st. The winning park will earn the coveted State Park Madness trophy. Brackets are updated every Saturday—let the voting continue!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Ethan Morgan, 25, of Port Huron Township, pleaded guilty to reduced charges of attempted possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Originally facing eight felonies, a plea deal lowered them to three. Morgan admitted to downloading and sharing explicit videos in a group chat leading to his September arrest. Michigan State Police traced the material back to his devices. Each charge carries up to five years in prison, and he must register as a sex offender for 25 years. Sentencing is set for February 24th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

126 entrepreneurs from Shiawassee, Lapeer, Tuscola, Huron, Sanilac, and St. Clair Counties applied for the Eastern Michigan Small Business Network’s Cohort program. Selected participants will receive up to $7,000 in support, plus coaching and mentoring to help their businesses grow. The program, which aims to boost local small businesses, is expanding after the success of its recent initiative. Entrepreneurs must complete training, set goals, and track progress through 2026. The application process is now closed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Students from St. Clair County Technical Education Center showcased their skills at the annual local SkillsUSA competition on December 14th. A total of 130 students from various programs, including Automotive, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, and more, competed for top honors. The top three winners in each category earned medals and will advance to the regional competition in February. Congratulations to the winners, and best of luck to those moving on to the next level of competition!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet