The International Symphony Orchestra is kicking off its 68th season, Soundscapes Through Time, with a focus on community and youth. Based in Sarnia and Port Huron, the binational orchestra is expanding education programs, partnering with local schools and choirs, and supporting emerging musicians. Its new headquarters will grow the El Sistema strings program, while fundraisers this fall—from an Afternoon Tea to a Big Band night—will help fuel these initiatives. The ISO aims to keep local audiences inspired and connected through music on both sides of the river.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lexington village leaders moved quickly to calm tensions after Fire Chief Keefe Radtke resigned. In a September 17th post, the Village said it asked for his resignation to avoid a public termination hearing and give him privacy, while thanking him for his service. Radtke’s own online statement accused the Village of ignoring urgent fire department needs, bypassing policies and failing to defend staff against false claims. Officials have not addressed those charges but named Assistant Chief James Johnson as interim chief.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bluewater Health has become one of the first hospitals in Ontario to perform a cutting-edge, minimally invasive hysterectomy called vNOTES. On September 19th, Obstetrician-Gynecologists Dr. Stephanie Lammers and Dr. Brittany Hoover successfully completed the hospital’s first two procedures. The surgery leaves no external scars and offering patients less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. The procedure can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by removing Fallopian tubes and, in many cases, ovaries.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Michigan State University study shows most substance use treatment in St. Clair County is concentrated in a five-block area of Port Huron, leaving rural residents at higher risk of overdose. Researchers found county residents outside the city are 4.5 times more likely to die from overdoses than those in Port Huron. Limited outpatient and residential programs, along with transportation challenges, make access difficult for those without cars. Experts say expanding services and targeting specific groups, like single parents and postpartum women, could improve care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet