Sarnia residents are crossing the Bluewater Bridge to Michigan far less, with February seeing 12,000 fewer travelers than the year before. Rising costs, including $20 breakfasts and $14 bridge fares, combined with a weaker Canadian dollar and political tensions, have made shopping or dining in Port Huron less appealing. Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley blames U.S. policies, while Port Huron officials worry about the economic impact.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron’s St. Clair River hosted the thrilling Championship Round of the B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup last Friday. Local favorite Team 7Brew Coffee, a father-son duo from Texas, Alton Jones Sr. and Jr., rallied late to win with 26 smallmouth bass weighing 62 pounds. Team YETI finished close behind with 26 bass at 59 pounds. The Joneses credited their win to precise river knowledge and a special drop-shot bait, making it a career-defining moment for both. Across four teams, anglers landed 89 bass totaling nearly 189 pounds.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Sandusky is set to get a major healthcare upgrade. The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a $74 million loan to replace McKenzie Memorial Hospital, built in 1967, with a modern 68,000-square-foot facility. The new hospital will combine services currently spread across multiple buildings, add more parking, and include multiple entrances for easier access. Officials say construction will start soon and finish by the end of next year, giving residents improved access to quality care.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
The Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum is hosting its annual Nature Trail Dinner: Renaissance Splendor on September 13th, starting at 6 PM. Guests will enjoy a magical forest dining experience with fairy lights, chandeliers, and Renaissance décor along the museum’s Nature Trail. Barber-Que Smokehouse Catering will serve Texas-style smoked meats, mac & cheese, pit beans, and more. Live performances will add a mystical touch. Tickets are $75 for members and $85 for the public. Seating is limited, and advanced reservations are recommended.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Construction of a new roundabout begins today at Marine City Highway and Palms Road on the Ira-Casco township border. The project will run through late October. Westbound traffic on Marine City Highway will stay open, but eastbound drivers must detour onto Church, Meisner and Starville roads. Palms Road north of the highway will close for three and a half weeks, with detours using Springborn and Starville. The $1.3 million project aims to improve safety and reduce pollution. Access to homes, businesses and emergency vehicles will remain open, but drivers should expect delays.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
A St. Clair County woman has a warrant out for her arrest after missing a court date on robbery charges. Jessica Casper, 23, was due in Circuit Court for an unarmed robbery case and two misdemeanor charges, but she didn’t show up. Casper is accused of breaking into a Port Huron apartment on July 13th with two other women, assaulting the resident, and stealing nearly $1,000. Police say she was found with brass knuckles. Her $15,000 bond has been revoked, and she faces up to 15 years if convicted.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet