Local News

A Port Huron nonprofit is turning small donations into big impact this month, asking residents to drop off 24-count crayon packs to help fill school kits for children in Guatemala. A Beautiful Me hopes to collect 1,000 boxes, which will be distributed to thousands of elementary students through its longtime partner, Servant Ministries. Organizers say even low-cost purchases, sometimes just 25 cents, can help provide essential learning tools. Donations are being accepted all month at The Closet by A Beautiful Me on Huron Avenue in downtown Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Downtown Port Huron is gearing up for Blue Water Fest, with major events and traffic changes starting today. The Rotary parade kicks things off at 6:30 p.m., followed by a drone show Thursday at dusk along Desmond Landing. Saturday features a classic car show, live music, and food events across downtown. Streets begin closing this afternoon, with wider shutdowns Thursday and special closures Saturday. Officials urge drivers and businesses to plan ahead, avoid restricted parking, and expect roads to fully reopen Saturday night once crowds clear.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Voters across St. Clair County townships will decide August fourth on several tax proposals aimed at keeping police and fire services running. Communities like Brockway, Emmett, and Kenockee are asking to renew or slightly increase millages to maintain equipment, upgrade fire halls, and replace aging trucks. Fort Gratiot and Grant townships are also seeking long-term funding for costly emergency gear. Meanwhile, Ira Township is proposing a new tax to strengthen police coverage after a similar plan failed last year. Officials say the funding is critical to maintaining reliable emergency response.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Lexington man now faces a more serious charge after a violent encounter with bail bond agents at a Roseville gas station. Prosecutors say 45-year-old Aaron Hildreth tried to flee during a June 18th arrest attempt near 12 Mile and Gratiot, crashing into an agent’s vehicle and pinning the agent between cars. Authorities say he hit the vehicle again before another agent shot him in the arm. A judge added a higher felony charge and sent the case to circuit court. Hildreth remains jailed on a $250,000 bond, with arraignment set for July 20th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

One of the Blue Water Area’s signature summer celebrations returns as Blue Water Fest comes to downtown Port Huron July 15 through 18. The four day festival celebrates the excitement of the world famous Bayview Mackinac Race while offering fun for the entire family. Festival highlights include the Rotary International Day Parade, live concerts, the Blue Water Street Fair featuring more than 80 vendors, OT’s Family Night, the Mannequins Making a Difference fundraiser, food trucks, classic car show, a drone show, and front row views as hundreds of sailboats begin the Bayview Mackinac Race on Saturday. Downtown restaurants, shops, and the Social District add to the festive atmosphere throughout the weekend. Many events are free to attend. For the complete schedule, entertainment lineup, and festival information, visit  TheBlueWaterFest.com⁠. 

Health officials in St. Clair County are warning about four local cyclospora cases as Michigan’s outbreak grows to more than 1,500 infections. The parasite causes long-lasting diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and fatigue, and doctors say it spreads through contaminated food or water, not from person to person. Officials say fresh produce is the main concern, and they recommend washing produce well, trimming leafy greens, and cooking foods when possible. Anyone with severe or lasting symptoms should seek medical care.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet