Judge Denies Motion to Remove Prosecutor

A St. Clair County judge on Monday refused to remove the prosecutor from the case of Maurice Houle — the man accused of killing 3-year-old Matthew Maison in Port Huron Township back in ’18. Houle’s attorney wanted Prosecutor Joshua Sparling off the case, claiming he might need to call him as a witness. But Judge Cynthia Lane ruled other officers could testify about Houle’s police questioning. The trial is now set for June 23rd in Port Huron, with a plea hearing planned for June 15th. Houle faces felony murder and resisting charges.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Walk for Warmth Returns to Downtown

Port Huron’s Blue Water Community Action Walk for Warmth returns downtown this Saturday. Walkers will step off from the Wrigley Center on Grand River Avenue to raise money for local families struggling to heat their homes. Participants can collect pledges online at bwcaa.org. The fundraiser also includes raffle baskets with themes like Pure Michigan Pride and Happy Hour Liquor—tickets are $2 each or six for $10. The route loops twice through downtown, with maps and parking available. Sponsors include Blue Cross Complete of Michigan and others.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fire Destroys Cottrellville Barn

Firefighters from several St. Clair County departments battled a large barn fire Monday night in Cottrellville Township. Crews were called just after 8 to the 6400 block of Indian Trail, where flames destroyed the barn and several vehicles inside. No injuries were reported, but the structure was a total loss. Marine City Fire Authority says the cause is still under investigation. Township Supervisor Greg Abbey thanked responding crews and reminded residents to be cautious with heaters and open flames after several similar fires in the area last week.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia Eyes Air Canada Coach Link

Sarnia City Council is weighing a plan that could reconnect local travellers to Air Canada’s network—without planes taking off from Sarnia. At its March 9th meeting, council will review a proposed deal with The Landline Company and Air Canada to launch an Air Canada–branded coach link from Chris Hadfield Airport to Toronto Pearson. Passengers would check in right in Sarnia, load their bags once, and board a luxury motorcoach featuring Wi-Fi and roomy seats. It’s a one-year pilot worth up to $375,000, partly shared with Tourism Sarnia-Lambton. If approved, service could roll out by May.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Regional Teacher of the Year

In Marysville, Woodland Developmental Center teacher Angela Jackson got a surprise call — she’d been named Michigan’s 2026–27 Regional Teacher of the Year for Region 5, representing St. Clair County. Jackson teaches students ages 3 to 9 with severe multiple impairments, focusing on communication, independence and life skills. A Memphis High graduate, she began her career in Port Huron schools before returning to Woodland in ’18. Colleagues say she brings compassion and high expectations to every child. Jackson calls the honor a win for her entire school community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

WGRT Celebrating 35 Years

As changes take place across parts of the local radio landscape, one station remains steady and committed to the Blue Water Area. WGRT 102.3 FM is proud to remind listeners that nothing is changing here. After 35 years on the air, WGRT continues to deliver the same great music, local news, community features, and hometown involvement listeners have counted on for decades. While other stations announce restructuring and frequency moves, WGRT remains locally owned, locally programmed, and focused on serving Port Huron and surrounding communities every single day. From community events and nonprofit partnerships to local business spotlights and trusted on air personalities, WGRT’s mission remains unchanged. The station’s commitment to stability, consistency, and strong local roots has defined it for more than three decades. Listeners can continue tuning in at 102.3 FM, online, and through streaming platforms, knowing that WGRT’s voice in the Blue Water Area is as dependable as ever. WGRT. Celebrating 35 years of serving the Blue Water Area, and we’re just getting started.

Reporting for WGRT – George James