Downtown Port Huron is gearing up for Blue Water Fest, with major events and traffic changes starting today. The Rotary parade kicks things off at 6:30 p.m., followed by a drone show Thursday at dusk along Desmond Landing. Saturday features a classic car show, live music, and food events across downtown. Streets begin closing this afternoon, with wider shutdowns Thursday and special closures Saturday. Officials urge drivers and businesses to plan ahead, avoid restricted parking, and expect roads to fully reopen Saturday night once crowds clear.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lexington man now faces a more serious charge after a violent encounter with bail bond agents at a Roseville gas station. Prosecutors say 45-year-old Aaron Hildreth tried to flee during a June 18th arrest attempt near 12 Mile and Gratiot, crashing into an agent’s vehicle and pinning the agent between cars. Authorities say he hit the vehicle again before another agent shot him in the arm. A judge added a higher felony charge and sent the case to circuit court. Hildreth remains jailed on a $250,000 bond, with arraignment set for July 20th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron nonprofit is turning small donations into big impact this month, asking residents to drop off 24-count crayon packs to help fill school kits for children in Guatemala. A Beautiful Me hopes to collect 1,000 boxes, which will be distributed to thousands of elementary students through its longtime partner, Servant Ministries. Organizers say even low-cost purchases, sometimes just 25 cents, can help provide essential learning tools. Donations are being accepted all month at The Closet by A Beautiful Me on Huron Avenue in downtown Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Voters across St. Clair County townships will decide August fourth on several tax proposals aimed at keeping police and fire services running. Communities like Brockway, Emmett, and Kenockee are asking to renew or slightly increase millages to maintain equipment, upgrade fire halls, and replace aging trucks. Fort Gratiot and Grant townships are also seeking long-term funding for costly emergency gear. Meanwhile, Ira Township is proposing a new tax to strengthen police coverage after a similar plan failed last year. Officials say the funding is critical to maintaining reliable emergency response.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Northstar Bank in Bad Axe is rolling out a new training program aimed at building the next generation of local banking professionals. Partnering with West Michigan Community Bank and Mainstreet Community Bank, the effort targets early-career hires, giving them hands-on experience, mentoring, and a broad look at how community banks serve businesses. The first group recently met for intensive training. Bank leaders say the goal is simple—develop skilled employees who can support local companies, strengthen relationships, and help keep community banking strong across Michigan.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia’s new interim police chief is stepping in with a focus on keeping the department steady and connected to the community during a leadership shakeup. Mike Federico, a veteran officer with decades of experience, takes over while Chief Derek Davis remains on paid leave amid a workplace investigation. Federico says his job is to keep day-to-day policing running smoothly, support officers, and rebuild public trust. He plans to meet directly with residents and community leaders, stressing that strong relationships are key to maintaining safety across Sarnia.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet