One of the Blue Water Area’s signature summer celebrations returns as Blue Water Fest comes to downtown Port Huron July 15 through 18. The four day festival celebrates the excitement of the world famous Bayview Mackinac Race while offering fun for the entire family. Festival highlights include the Rotary International Day Parade, live concerts, the Blue Water Street Fair featuring more than 80 vendors, OT’s Family Night, the Mannequins Making a Difference fundraiser, food trucks, classic car show, a drone show, and front row views as hundreds of sailboats begin the Bayview Mackinac Race on Saturday. Downtown restaurants, shops, and the Social District add to the festive atmosphere throughout the weekend. Many events are free to attend. For the complete schedule, entertainment lineup, and festival information, visit  TheBlueWaterFest.com⁠. 

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

Health officials in St. Clair County are warning about four local cyclospora cases as Michigan’s outbreak grows to more than 1,500 infections. The parasite causes long-lasting diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue, and doctors say it spreads through contaminated food or water, not from person to person. Officials say fresh produce is the main concern, and they recommend washing produce well, trimming leafy greens, and cooking foods when possible. Anyone with severe or lasting symptoms should seek medical care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Deputies in Wales Township say a woman who reported an assault at a fast food restaurant on July fifth had been abused for days inside a home. Investigators say two men living with her repeatedly beat her, threatened her with a gun, and held her against her will. Both suspects were arrested without incident. Thirty-year-old Tariq White faces a second-offense domestic violence charge with a ten-thousand-dollar bond. Thirty-nine-year-old Aimeir White faces multiple felony charges, including unlawful imprisonment, weapons offenses, and drug delivery, with bond set at two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet