Local News

Port Huron’s third annual Blessing of the Boats returns this Saturday after a weather delay. The free event runs from 10 to 11 a.m. near the Huron Lady II dock on the Black River and is open to everyone. Participating boats will stay in the river while their names are announced. They’ll then head east, where holy water will be sprinkled on each vessel. Locals without boats can watch the fleet sail past from the Black River Walk. It’s a great chance for the community to enjoy the boats and celebrate the start of the season together.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Families in St. Clair County are being urged to sign up early as enrollment opens for the state’s expanding PreK for All program. Officials report record participation, offering free preschool to any child turning four by December first, regardless of income. The program can save families about fourteen thousand dollars a year in child care. Classes are led by licensed teachers, with options like full-day schedules, transportation in some areas, and before-and after-school care. Leaders say early enrollment is key as spots fill quickly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron, MI – The Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation (EMCF) completed the sale of the former Grace Baptist Church property located at 7040 Imlay City Road in Clyde, Michigan. The property was acquired by a group of private investors who plan to repurpose the facility into a sports-related community complex.

The transaction marks the second significant property gift and liquidation effort completed by EMCF, demonstrating the Foundation’s growing ability to receive, steward, and convert donated real estate and other non-cash assets into sustainable funding for Christian ministry, charitable outreach, and community initiatives throughout Eastern Michigan.

The church property was donated to EMCF, allowing the Foundation to oversee the transition of the asset and redirect its value toward Christian ministry and community outreach efforts across the region. Leaders noted that many churches, families, business owners, and nonprofit organizations hold real estate or appreciated assets that may no longer align with their long-term needs but could create meaningful charitable impact through strategic giving.

EMCF currently supports seven faith-based nonprofit member organizations throughout the region, including A Beautiful Me, SPERO Pregnancy Center, New Life Christian Academy, Operation Transformation, SONS Outreach, HOPE FM, and Youth for Christ East Michigan. These ministries collaborate through EMCF to strengthen sustainability and expand community impact across Eastern Michigan.

Karen Palka, Executive Director of A Beautiful Me and EMCF member organization representative, said, “This successful property transition demonstrates how generosity today can create a lasting impact for generations to come. EMCF provides the confidence that charitable gifts will be stewarded responsibly and transformed into sustainable resources that strengthen ministries, empower communities, and change lives.”

EMCF leaders hope this successful transaction will encourage individuals, churches, ministries, and organizations to explore creative charitable giving strategies involving real estate, estates, business interests, land, buildings, and other appreciated assets.

For more information about the Eastern Michigan Christian Foundation or to discuss charitable giving opportunities involving property or non cash assets, visit ALastingGift.org or call 810-689-4123.

St. Clair County health officials have confirmed the area’s first salmonella case tied to a multistate outbreak linked to backyard poultry like chicks and ducklings. Even healthy-looking birds can spread the germs through droppings, feathers, and coops. Officials urge residents to keep children under five away from poultry. Wash hands thoroughly with soap after handling birds or cleaning their areas. Clean equipment outdoors, and never keep live birds inside homes. Those with the runs, fever, or stomach cramps should contact a doctor promptly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A late-night drive turned frightening for a Clay Township family traveling through nearby Ira Township. Around 10:30 Sunday night, Tom Agbay and his children were on Palms Road when something slammed through their open window, striking his son, who initially feared he had been shot. They believes teenagers were throwing rocks or concrete at passing cars. Another driver nearby reported similar damage. Clay Township police say they are investigating, warning incidents like this have turned deadly in the past.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County is making leadership official. Commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Thomas Hull as the county’s full-time administrator and controller, dropping his interim title after months on the job. Hull stepped in January first following the previous administrator’s retirement and will now serve through the end of ’28. He started with the county 13 years ago, and worked his way up through several roles. In this position, Hull manages daily operations and oversees county finances, with full support from the board.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet