Health Clinics Scale Back Services

The St. Clair County Health Department is currently consolidating its clinical services, closing school clinics in Yale and Algonac and ending nurse support at Capac schools. Limited services at Marysville schools and community outreach events, such as mobile testing and vaccines, will also stop. Only the Main Clinic and Teen Health Center in Port Huron will remain open. Officials say the move focuses on public health prevention, not direct care, but many residents worry it will hurt low-income families. County leaders will discuss alternatives on Friday, but no new plan is in place yet.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Portside Solar Seeks Role in County Solar Rules Lawsuit

A Fort Gratiot solar project wants in on a lawsuit over St. Clair County’s new solar rules. Portside Solar, which plans a 900-acre farm approved by the township, asked the county court last weel to join DTE Energy’s case challenging the May regulations. The rules limit noise, visibility, and require decommissioning plans. Portside says it’s affected differently than DTE, noting its near-construction project and independent status. The company claims the rules are vague and could force extra approvals. A court hearing is set for next Wednesday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Father-Son Duo Wins Bass Championship

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

Bridge Traffic Drops

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

Sandusky Hospital Gets $74M Upgrade

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

Renaissance Dinner on Sanilac Nature Trail

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