George James

In Port Huron Northern High School, college advisor Maya Savedra helped nearly 50 students overcome big challenges to plan for college. Over two years, she boosted FAFSA completion rates from 30% to 47%, making college more accessible for many first-generation and low-income families. Now, due to nationwide AmeriCorps funding cuts, Savedra’s role—and others like hers—have been eliminated, leaving students without critical support. Savedra has joined St. Clair County Community College to continue helping students, but she warns the impact won’t be the same.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Holland Beach in St. Clair County was closed to swimmers after routine weekly water tests revealed E. coli levels above the state’s safety limit of 300 per 100 milliliters. Health officials said recent rain likely caused runoff that washed animal waste into the lake, triggering the spike in bacteria. They warned that contact with the contaminated water could have led to stomach problems, skin infections, or more serious health issues. The beach remained off-limits as a precaution and is now open to swimmers. 

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Courtney Benavidez’s Dance Complex in East China is gaining national attention just four years after opening. 16 dancers from the studio are competing at the Kids Artistic Revue National Dance Competition in Tennessee, marking their first trip to nationals. Known for its inclusive approach, The Dance Complex welcomes dancers of all ages and abilities, from toddlers to seniors. Their dedication earned them a top regional award and a spot in the prestigious KAR Showcase. For Benavidez, success is about building a strong, supportive dance community in the Blue Water Area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Attorney General has settled a lawsuit with Domtar Industries over toxic “forever chemicals” found near Port Huron. The company’s paper mill sent sludge containing harmful PFAS chemicals to a local composting site on Dove Road, contaminating soil and water beyond state limits. As part of the agreement, Domtar will remove the sludge, investigate water sediment, and pay $300,000 to clean up the area. Domtar closed its Port Huron mill in ’21 after 130 years. This settlement marks a step forward in protecting local health and the environment.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Tuesday, nearly 40 local elementary kids got a firsthand look at police work during the Port Huron Police Department’s Elementary Police Academy. The day included hands-on activities like exploring patrol cars, trying out police gear, and learning fingerprinting. Officers and K9 Zeke showed demonstrations, while kids tackled an obstacle course and met therapy dog Willow. The event was supported by the Community Foundation of St. Clair County and local schools. Port Huron PD will continue its summer with a Middle School Academy.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marine City’s beloved Gar’s Lounge, a local staple since 1978, is officially up for sale. Owner Penny Garwood, who has run the bar since her husband’s passing in 2018, is ready to retire after seven years. Located at 142 Water Street, the spacious 7,000-square-foot bar features three rooms, pool tables, outdoor areas, and a loyal crowd that includes boaters along the St. Clair River. The asking price is $1.55 million. Garwood promises to help the new owner keep the bar’s signature flavors alive while staying close as a regular.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet