Protests are growing outside Bluewater Health in Sarnia, after 24-year-old Kayla Fillion died just hours after being discharged during a mental health crisis. Her father, Matthew Jacklin, accuses the hospital of failing to provide adequate care, claiming staff dismissed her cries for help despite her history of mental health struggles and substance abuse. Jacklin says she was sent home after less than an hour of treatment, only to be found dead later that day. He has since organized a movement calling for accountability, launching a website, petition, and ongoing protests.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marine City is bringing back its community Christmas tree this year, thanks to a $7,500 fundraising effort led by the Marine City Chamber of Commerce. The money will cover the construction of a new base for the tree at 300 Broadway Street. After the old tree was removed due to disease, the city had been without one for years. Local businesses, including Eastern Michigan Bank and Real Estate One Westrick, donated funds, while a GoFundMe campaign helped surpass the goal by $100.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum in Port Sanilac is lighting up the season with its free Christmas Lighted Trail, open every weekend through January 3rd. The trail will also shine nightly from December 24th to January 3rd, offering a magical holiday experience for families. As a nonprofit, the museum relies on donations to keep the lights glowing. Visitors can support the event by contributing at donation stations or online.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lucas Ebmeyer, a local Boy Scout, has completed his Eagle Project by installing a “Telephone of the Wind” at Blue Water Hospice Home in Marysville. This unique phone, unconnected to any network, offers grieving individuals a chance to express unspoken words to loved ones they’ve lost. Located near the Tom Lock Observatory for easy access, it’s the first of its kind in the area, providing a heartfelt space for reflection, especially during the family-focused holiday season. Blue Water Hospice Home hopes to add this new addition to the national directory soon.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet