George James

The Port Huron City Council has approved a new policy aimed at keeping more city workers local. Under the plan, full-time employees who live within Port Huron will get a 5% pay boost. City leaders say it’s a voluntary way to strengthen neighborhoods and improve response times, especially in police and public works departments. Mayor Anita Ashford says it’s about building community pride and keeping tax dollars in town. The policy takes effect later this month after a unanimous council vote last Monday night.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Authorities say there was no danger to students or staff after a substitute teacher brought two antique blades to Bad Axe High School last Wednesday. Before classes began, a staff member reported seeing one of the items, prompting Principal Craig Archer to step in. The teacher explained they were historical artifacts used for a lesson about world travel. As a precaution, Archer removed the blades, and the school resource officer secured them until they were taken off campus. Superintendent Greg Newland thanked staff for acting quickly to keep the school safe.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Construction on McKenzie Health System’s new hospital in Sandusky is moving full speed ahead. Crews are setting steel beams, pouring concrete for foundations, and installing underground water and power lines. The first steel post is now in place — a major step toward the new facility. The project also includes a wider entrance off M-46, a second access point on Gates Road, and expanded parking. Work began last fall and is on track to wrap up by spring of ’27, bringing modern healthcare closer to home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s sailing season is gearing up as Detroit’s Bayview Yacht Club names Mica Reardon as race chair and Peter Gerard as principal race officer for this year’s 102nd Bayview Mackinac Race. The Port Huron-to-Mackinac Island event launches July 18th, drawing hundreds of boats and sailors from across the country. Reardon, a Detroit River racer and marketing manager for the Pistons, calls it the club’s flagship event. Organizers say strong early registration shows the Thumb Coast is ready for another big summer on Lake Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A man accused of pepper-spraying a butcher in Marine City will face trial in circuit court. Police say 47-year-old Ian Pfister sprayed Zimmerman’s Meat Market owner Richard Hobig during a January confrontation caught on camera. Pfister and others claimed they were filming a First Amendment audit when the argument turned heated. Video played in court showed Hobig being sprayed in the face while not appearing to threaten Pfister. The judge ruled the case should go before a jury. Pfister could face up to two years in jail.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Beautiful Me is gearing up for its 8th Annual “Bacon & Bubbles” fun run this June 13th in Port Huron. The lively event starts at the DoubleTree along the St. Clair River, with both a 5K and a one-mile walk for runners and families alike. Participants can look forward to the group’s signature treats — sizzling bacon, bacon-covered donuts, and plenty of bubbles along the route. Event proceeds help A Beautiful Me continue its mission of boosting confidence in young women across the Blue Water area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet