The St. Clair County Health Advisory Board voted 5-2 Wednesday to back a proposal that could ban adding fluoride to local drinking water. The move supports Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin’s recommendation to draft county regulations stopping fluoridation. Nevin says new studies show health risks may outweigh benefits. Health Officer Elizabeth King will review the plan before any rules are made. For now, water systems stay the same, but the proposal could reshape how fluoride is used across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A bright butterfly mural behind Twisted Scissorz Salon honors the memory of Jason Schultz, a tow truck driver killed by a drunk driver in ’16. Painted in ’23 by artist April Cutler, the mural serves as a somber reminder of road safety. Jason’s sister, Jenn Schultz, commissioned the artwork and now plans a second mural to coincide with the 10th anniversary of his death. She hopes it will remind drivers to slow down and move over for emergency responders, a law updated in Michigan to protect people on the roadside. National Move Over Day was on Saturday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Casa Tequilas Mexican Grill burst onto the Fort Gratiot dining scene with a packed grand opening near Birchwood Mall last week. The new family-run restaurant, located in the former Red Lobster building, drew such a crowd that staff had to turn customers away. Owners Monse and Nicolas Leon moved from Tennessee to bring their Chicago-based brand of authentic Mexican cuisine to the Blue Water area. Everything from salsa to guacamole is made fresh in-house, and experienced chefs were brought in to train new staff.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Law enforcement agencies across the Thumb are hosting the DEA’s National Drug Take Back Day on October 25th. Residents can safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescription pills, capsules, and patches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at sheriff offices and Michigan State Police sites in Huron, Lapeer, St. Clair, Sanilac, and Tuscola Counties. Local police departments will also join in collecting medications. Syringes, sharps, and liquids are not accepted unless sealed tightly in their original container. The event helps prevent drug misuse and keeps citizens safe.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet