Cirque Italia Coming to Birchwood Mall

Cirque Italia is bringing its European-style circus to Fort Gratiot near Birchwood Mall from May 30th to June 1st. The show features thrilling acts, including aerial stunts, extreme balancing, and a “wheel of death,” all performed by talented athletes from around the world. Inspired by the 1950s, the performance will transport audiences to a time of Elvis and hula hoops. The circus will set up a large blue tent in the parking lot, with tickets ranging from $10 to $50.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Affordable Summer Fun

The Barn Theatre in Port Sanilac is bringing big laughs and local flair to Michigan’s Thumb with its ’25 Summer Season. Kicking off June 6, the lineup features six shows through Labor Day, including family hits like The Snow White Variety Show and Michigan favorite Escanaba in Da Moonlight. Performances run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and tickets are just $15. From zany comedies to heartfelt stories, the Barn delivers affordable fun and small-town theatre charm all summer long.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Missing Man Found

Robert Leon Smith has been found. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office had been seeking help in locating the 69-year-old from Fort Gratiot, who had been missing since May 2. He was last seen by a family member, who said he mentioned being in trouble before disappearing. His phone had been off since then, and FLOCK cameras had spotted his black 2012 Town and Country on I-96 near Davison. Smith, who is diabetic and without medication, was believed to be in need of urgent care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Teacher Wins Excellence Award

Heather LaMarra, an ESL teacher at Weston Elementary in Imlay City, has received the Michigan Lottery’s Excellence in Education award. LaMarra, who has been teaching for 22 years, was nominated by a family member. She switched careers from social work to education, inspired by her work with students learning English. LaMarra’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for students earned her the recognition. The award includes a $2,000 cash prize, and she was featured in a TV news segment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System Upgrades MRI Capabilities

McKenzie Health System in Sandusky has upgraded its Wide Bore Mobile MRI Scanner to offer Magnetic Resonance Enterography, a safe, radiation-free scan that provides detailed images of the small intestine. This helps doctors diagnose conditions like Crohn’s disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, or blockages. Patients drink a contrast liquid and may get an IV for enhanced imaging, all in a roomy, comfortable scanner. It’s cutting-edge technology, keeping specialized care local for the community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Bluewater Health

Temporary Surgery Pause

Bluewater Health in Sarnia is temporarily halting emergency general surgeries, like those for appendicitis or gall bladder issues, thru Friday, due to a shortage of surgeons. Patients needing these surgeries will be transferred to nearby hospitals. The hospital’s regular operating rooms remain open for scheduled surgeries. This is the third pause since December, but relief is coming with new surgeons starting this summer, ensuring no further disruptions. Locals are urged to visit the ER for any urgent medical needs, where staff will assess and arrange transfers if needed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet