Local News

Port Huron is gearing up for Blue Water Fest this week, bringing major crowds, events, and downtown changes. The celebration kicks off Wednesday with a 6:30 p.m. parade along Huron Avenue, marking the start of several days of activity tied to the Bayview Mackinac Race. A drone show lights up the riverfront Thursday night, while Saturday features a new classic car show, live music, food trucks, and “Tastes of Port Huron” at local restaurants. A kids zone also returns with new attractions.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A human trafficking case out of Macomb County is ending with prison time for two men after a woman’s escape from a Warren motel exposed the operation. Prosecutors say 41-year-old Aaron Streety forced the victim into sex work and labor before she reported it in November of ’23, triggering the investigation. Streety now faces 7 to 20 years, along with additional concurrent terms, and is barred from contacting the victim. Co-defendant Bernard Harris was sentenced to 9 to 20 years and is also serving federal time.

Reporting WGRT – JP bZet

Voters in the Algonac Community School District will decide August 4th whether to renew a property tax millage to keep funding building repairs and upgrades. The 1.8152 mill rate would stay the same if approved, bringing in about $2 million by ’28 for a restricted sinking fund that cannot be used for salaries or daily operations. District leaders say the money has already fixed leaking roofs, improved security, and upgraded classrooms, but aging buildings still need work, including courts, lighting, windows, and parking lots.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Clinton Township man is heading to prison after a jury found he assaulted his elderly grandmother with a belt. Prosecutors say 34-year-old Jordan Ellington attacked the 77-year-old woman in March of ’25, putting a belt around her neck and threatening to tighten it next time. A Macomb County judge sentenced him to 20 to 48 months behind bars, going above state guidelines. The conviction came in May, and the judge called the violence serious enough to warrant a longer prison term.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A sudden resignation shifted the tone of a Watertown Township board meeting Tuesday, as Supervisor Richard Henderson stepped down effective midnight, citing ongoing conflict. With the position now vacant, the board plans to seek applicants while dropping a pending recall effort against him. However, recall petitions still target three remaining officials, including the clerk, treasurer, and a trustee, following months of disputes. In a rare moment of agreement, the board unanimously voted to reverse recent pay raises, calling the meeting one of its most productive in months.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A major investment is moving ahead in Port Huron as US Farathane prepares to build a large logistics center in the city’s industrial park. City officials say the $30 million project on Dove Street will feature a 200,000-square-foot facility, making it the largest building in the park. The center is expected to support the company’s existing operations, help retain about 560 local jobs, and potentially add more. Leaders say the project, years in the making, strengthens the city’s position for future industrial growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet