George James

In Port Huron, city leaders are taking action to bring back the trees. The City Council approved a $113,000 plan to map every tree on public land and create a long-term forestry plan to rebuild the city’s shrinking tree canopy — now at just 25%, well below the regional goal of 40%. The work will be handled by EnviroTrac and paid for over two years. City leaders say this investment can help Port Huron qualify for future grants and restore shade across neighborhoods where big, old trees have disappeared over the decades.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Older adults in St. Clair County are getting new help to fight loneliness. The Council on Aging recently received funding from Molina Healthcare of Michigan to boost its “Reinvent Yourself Seminar,” which helps seniors adjust to life changes like retirement, caregiving, and loss. The grant is part of a statewide $135,000 effort supporting senior centers with wellness, arts, and tech programs. Local leaders say the money will help keep seniors connected and healthy—one conversation at a time.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Road crews are gearing up for a busy spring in Fort Gratiot. One of the biggest jobs will be rebuilding Krafft Road between State and Parker, including a new mini-roundabout at Krafft and State. The intersection will fully close for about 30 days, with no traffic allowed through, not even emergency vehicles. Township planners are already working on alternate routes to keep response times steady. Other summer projects include repaving in the Old Farms neighborhood and fixing up parts of Shorewood Boulevard.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Art on the River has named Michigan artist and designer Jody Parmann as its annual Featured Artist. Parmann, known for blending art, design, and community connection, is creating an exclusive piece celebrating Port Huron and the Blue Water Area. Her work, supported by a grant from the Blue Water Arts Council, will appear at the Port Huron Museum and later rotate through local venues like Andy’s Wine Bar on Water Street. Parmann also leads The Forge at Foundry makerspace in Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Tragedy struck in Huron County Friday afternoon when an 83-year-old Port Hope man died after his tractor rolled over in Rubicon Township. The accident happened around 2:30 near Ruppel Road and M-25. Deputies say a passerby spotted the overturned tractor and called for help. Fire crews from Port Hope and Harbor Beach freed the man, identified as Rodney Weiss, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators believe Weiss may have suffered a medical emergency before the rollover. The case remains under review.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, a Detroit man has pleaded guilty after a wild joy ride three years ago caused more than $50,000 in damage during Boat Week. Investigators say 33-year-old Kyle Mayhew took a car without permission and went on a spree downtown, damaging a dozen vehicles and street lights. Police later found his cell phone inside the wrecked car, linking him to the crime. Under a plea deal, Mayhew admitted to unlawful driving of a vehicle and attempted property destruction. He’ll be sentenced April 20th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet