Port Huron is getting a fresh riverfront hangout just in time for summer. The new pavilion at Military Street Bridge Pocket Park on Water Street now overlooks the Black River, giving residents a shaded spot to relax and take in the view. Construction wrapped up in late May, and city leaders are planning a public celebration July 6th from six to eight p.m., featuring live music. The park also includes accessible walkways, glass railings, and seating areas designed for small gatherings along the waterfront.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron city leaders are reshaping how local government runs, cutting a vacant deputy city manager position and promoting five longtime employees to keep services moving. City Manager James Freed says the changes will save about $86,000 a year while improving service for residents. Rob Churchill moves into special projects, Ashly Filipiak takes over McMorran Place, Katie Gardner leads recreation and wellness, Jason Kuhlman oversees green infrastructure and cemeteries, and Ben Pionk manages parks and beaches, all now reporting directly to the city manager.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A violent rollover crash left a young driver seriously hurt after being thrown more than 15 yards from the vehicle. Tuscola County deputies say it happened just before 2:30 a.m. Saturday near North Lake and Swaffer Roads in Watertown Township. Investigators believe the northbound car veered off the road, flipped several times, and landed in a field. The 24-year-old Vassar man was airlifted to a hospital. Several local agencies responded. The crash remains under investigation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County groups are being invited to help shape the region’s public spaces with new outdoor art. The Blue Water Arts Committee is offering grants for permanent pieces placed on publicly accessible property, including private land. Projects must already have a location, design, budget and timeline, and applicants must cover at least half the cost. Funding can pay for materials, installation and artist travel, but not staff time. Applications require renderings, cost estimates and property approval, with the next deadline set for July 16th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A father and son from outside the area are safe after a tense rescue off Lake Huron near Oak Beach in Huron County Saturday afternoon. Deputies say both were sailing small boats when strong winds pushed them away from shore around 4 p.m. The son made it back with help from nearby boaters, while crews found the father about an hour later in the water and pulled him aboard a fireboat. He was treated for exposure. Officials credit life jackets and warn changing lake conditions can turn dangerous fast.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A longtime doctor in Michigan’s Blue Water Area is stepping away after more than two decades of care. Lake Huron Medical Center recently honored Dr. Dawn E. Morey at a retirement gathering inside its Lighthouse Café, where coworkers, patients, and community members came together. Hospital leaders say she spent years treating generations of local families while building strong, lasting relationships. Many at the event shared stories about her compassion and steady presence, calling her impact on Port Huron–area patients both personal and far-reaching.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet