George James

About 200 people packed the Wrigley Center in downtown Port Huron Wednesday for the city’s new State of the City event. The program, hosted by the Blue Water Area Chamber, spotlighted how local partnerships are driving development. City Manager James Freed pointed to the Wrigley Center’s $16 million transformation as proof of teamwork. Speakers from Port Huron Schools, SC4, and local nonprofits shared efforts to build talent, expand child care, and support recovery. Freed wrapped up by announcing teamporthuron.com to connect residents with new opportunities.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lambton Shores is wrapping up the first stage of its downtown Forest parkette, turning two former vacant King Street West lots into a new community hub. Crews have restored walls, poured concrete, and set up water lines, with hydro work still underway. Sod is set for spring planting. The next phase will add benches, gardens, and landscaping as part of ongoing downtown revitalization. Once complete, the space will feature seating, trees, and a small stage for performances.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fans in Port Huron are in for a basketball showdown Saturday at St. Clair County Community College. The Skippers host powerhouse Schoolcraft College in one of the season’s biggest doubleheaders. The women tip off at 1 p.m., both teams unbeaten in conference play and battling for first place. The men follow at 3, as SC4 looks to upset the 17th-ranked Ocelots. Fans are urged to pack the SC4 Fieldhouse and show Skipper pride. Tickets are available online or at the door.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A year after Vincent Buckles was found shot to death inside his Vanness Street home, a judge has ruled the two people accused in his killing will face separate jury trials. Judge Michael West decided Tuesday that 37-year-old Sayon Florence and 23-year-old Dazman Drake can’t be tried together because each plans to blame the other. Investigators say Florence, Buckles’ former partner, told police she only meant to scare him, not have him killed. The separate trials could push back the April court date for at least one defendant.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

After sitting idle for years, Port Huron’s old Domtar paper mill is getting new life. Legacy Paper Group is investing $24.5 million to reopen the Black River site, creating at least 82 jobs that start around $27 an hour. State officials announced the project as part of a broader Michigan jobs push. Legacy plans to revamp nearly 400,000 square feet for paper manufacturing and warehouse use, restoring a key piece of the city’s industrial past while tapping local papermaking talent to power new growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Columbus County Park will host its fourth Annual Tree Hugger Hike on Saturday, Feb. 14th, from 10 a.m. to noon. The free event mixes hands-on learning with winter adventure as guests use sight, sound, and touch to identify trees and shrubs. After the walk, hikers can warm up by the fire with hot cocoa and cookies. The event, held at 1670 Bauman Road, even counts for Michigan Master Gardener credits. Registration is available by emailing klyons@stclaircounty.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet