Flannel Festival Brings Pioneer History

Port Sanilac is stepping back in time September 19–20 with the Sanilac Museum’s Flannel Festival. Families can explore 18th- and 19th-century pioneer life, including fur-trade camps and logging demonstrations. Visitors will see blacksmithing, chainsaw milling, period crafts, and flintlock musket shows. Live music, history lectures, yard games, and a farmers market add to the fun. Evening events include an open mic, main concert, and a cash bar featuring local Flannel Mouth Hard Cider. Admission is free with flannel; donations support local history.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Golf Par-Tee Set for September

The Marine City Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its 9th Annual Golf Par-Tee on Friday, September 19th. This popular fundraiser helps local businesses thrive while giving the community a chance to connect. Businesses can get involved through sponsorships starting at $100, which include logo placement on hole signs, the Chamber website, and social media. Raffle donations are also welcome, offering another way to showcase your business. Golfers can still register to play at visitmarinecity.com/golfouting.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Houle Files Pre-Trial Motions

Maurice Houle, accused in the ’18 death of 3-year-old Matthew Maison, has filed multiple motions ahead of his October trial in St. Clair County. Houle’s attorney is asking the court to dismiss the murder charge, block certain witnesses, and exclude evidence from a search warrant nine days after Matthew’s death. The defense also wants Houle’s April statements and help from prosecutors to subpoena witnesses excluded. Court hearings for these motions are scheduled for Sept. 2nd, 8th, and 29th. Houle and Amanda Maison both face murder charges in the case.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fort Gratiot Firefighters Honored

Fort Gratiot firefighters Chandler Martin and Mark Smith received the American Red Cross Lifesaving Award Tuesday for saving a local resident’s life after he went into cardiac arrest at home in February. The two performed CPR while EMS transported him, helping him make a full recovery. Both were given the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action and a lapel pin. Fire Chief Mark VanderFeyst praised their quick response as an example of the department’s dedication to the community. Smith urged locals to learn CPR, saying it can save lives.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Residents Speak Out on Clinics and Fluoride

St. Clair County’s Health Board heard hours of public comment Wednesday as residents voiced concern over closing school-based clinics in Yale, Algonac, and Capac and consolidating services to Port Huron. Many warned families without transportation could lose access to care, including vaccines and HIV testing. Fluoride in tap water also sparked debate, with supporters saying it protects dental health. No votes were taken, and unfinished issues will return at the next meeting, set for 9 a.m. Sept. 17th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet