George James

In Port Huron, Mayor Anita Ashford’s attempt to overhaul City Manager James Freed’s evaluation process fizzled out at Monday’s city council meeting. Despite her push to modernize the decade-old review system, council members, including Jeff Pemberton, blocked the discussion, sticking to the usual June evaluation format. Freed, who supports annual reviews, insists any changes need full council approval. The debate, ongoing since April, remains unresolved, with the next review set to follow the traditional format.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Marysville, the City Council unanimously selected Quentin Bishop, St. Clair’s Superintendent, as the new city manager, replacing Randy Fernandez, who’s retiring after 14 years of service. Bishop, chosen over two other candidates, impressed with his strong administrative and economic experience. Fernandez, who grew the city’s savings from $3 million to $11 million and enhanced local parks, announced his retirement in January, citing it’s time to pass the torch. Mayor Kathy Hayman praised Bishop’s qualifications, expecting a seamless transition when he starts in July.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Monday, two fishermen from the Fairhaven Township area found themselves stranded on Saginaw Bay when their boat broke down. One of the men, a Cass City resident, dislocated his hip while trying to restart the vessel. Huron County Sheriff’s deputies sprang into action, launching an airboat from Mud Creek Public Access with help from the Caseville Fire Department. They swiftly rescued the injured man. The second fisherman stayed with the boat until the U.S. Coast Guard arrived to tow it back to Bay Port.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the Teatro Di Vita theater group is staging Sam Shepard’s intense play “Fool for Love” at the Citadel on Huron Avenue from June 6 to 8th. The story dives into a fiery clash between ex-lovers at a Mojave Desert motel, exploring love, hate, and deep family issues. Producer Lucie Gillespie, a longtime fan, says it’s a raw look at relationships that’ll spark reflection. Performances run evenings and one afternoon, with post-show talks included. Tickets are $25 online or $30 at the door, but it’s for adults due to mature themes.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Last week, Sanilac County schools hosted a powerful program to teach teens about safe driving. The Arrive Alive Tour brought a driving simulator to six local school districts, letting over 650 students experience the risks of distracted or impaired driving. Deputies and officers also shared real-life stories to stress smart choices behind the wheel. Thanks to local schools, police, and sponsors like the Michigan Farm Bureau, the event was a big success in promoting road safety.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County is bringing back The Big Give, a 24-hour fundraising event today, aimed at supporting over 60 local nonprofits. The last event in ’21 raised $700,000 in just one day, contributing to a total of $2.2 million over five events. This year, the foundation hopes to surpass that success. The Big Give makes it easy to donate to multiple causes through online and in-person options, with bonus funds boosting the impact of each donation. Organizations supporting everything from education to animal welfare will benefit.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet