Author

Rita MacDonald

Rita MacDonald is a U.S. Army Veteran and a full-time Oncology RN who attributes Irish and Scottish heritage to her love of storytelling. She is "Mum" to two sons, “Gummy” to her six grandchildren, loves talking with anyone who will engage in a conversation, and “eats life with a shovel!” In addition to her work with The Keel, Rita is a past contributor for the Thumbprint News, an author of three books, and writes a blog at kitchentabledevotions.com.

Rita MacDonald's Latest Articles

CocoBella’s whisks charming European bakery to St. Clair

Transporting visitors to a European-style village bakery, CocoBella’s in St. Clair is whipping up daily, freshly-made baked goods, from Nutella croissants to cranberry loaves.

Keeping the Prohibition era alive at Port Huron’s speakeasy, The Laundry Room

The Wrigley Center’s speakeasy in Port Huron has become a popular destination for locals because of its unique Prohibition-era atmosphere, specialty cocktails, and live music.

Tires and Treads Community Project provides clothes and shoes to children in need across the county

Tires and Treads is a community-driven, local non-profit organization that strives to ensure every child has access to basic clothing needs, which was the dream of the organization's founder, Fran Morris.

Leslie Cieplechowicz, The Keel's new Community Correspondent.
New Community Correspondent with The Keel to cover rural life, diversity stories

Grant money provided by the Community Foundation of St. Clair has provided Leslie Cieplechowicz with the new role of Community Correspondent. This role will provide opportunities for minority-owned businesses and rural residents to be highlighted, focusing on recognizing diversity within the Blue Water Area.

Left to Right: Theresa Rosso, Jan Evans, John Highstreet and Sue DeLange.
St. Clair County Quilt Trail stitching community together one block at a time

Algonac Church of Christ’s Piece to Peace Quilting group quilts with purpose, supporting community events and organizations and promoting the county’s history and unique off-the-highway attractions.

St. Patrick’s Day vendor show to support local charity organization

Port Huron resident Samantha Baptiste has turned her buying and selling hobby into a career of running successful craft and vendor shows that bring the community together and support local charities.

Port Huron’s Dance Academy inspires young dancers while supporting the community

The Dance Academy turns 50 this year and is owned by Donna and Charles Miller. The studio has dance classes for students of all ages, from ballet to hip hop, and donates regularly to local charities.

Urban Paws Pet Spa offers specialized grooming care for all pets.
Pets get pampered at Urban Paws Pet Spa

Jenny Wagar, owner of Urban Paws Pet Spa in Marysville, has created a one-of-a-kind, stress-free environment for pets' grooming and spa experiences. The facility features specialized equipment and dedicated one-on-one care throughout the process.

Marlo Ellis, owner of MI Creators Cove standing outside her store in Birchwood Mall.
Newly opened MI Creator’s Cove at Birchwood Mall to add art classes & hands-on activities

St. Clair County resident Marlo Ellis says she never imagined that her crafting hobby would lead her to become a business owner and provide creative space for local artists to showcase their talents. The grand opening will take place on Saturday, November 16.

Boxes of red peppers given out to families in need.
Harbor Impact Ministries provides community members with life’s necessities

This non-profit is meeting its struggling community residents' emergency or monthly needs by providing life’s necessities like food, clothes, and resources to care for their families. 

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