Local News

Port Huron city leaders are reshaping how local government runs, cutting a vacant deputy city manager position and promoting five longtime employees to keep services moving. City Manager James Freed says the changes will save about $86,000 a year while improving service for residents. Rob Churchill moves into special projects, Ashly Filipiak takes over McMorran Place, Katie Gardner leads recreation and wellness, Jason Kuhlman oversees green infrastructure and cemeteries, and Ben Pionk manages parks and beaches, all now reporting directly to the city manager.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County groups are being invited to help shape the region’s public spaces with new outdoor art. The Blue Water Arts Committee is offering grants for permanent pieces placed on publicly accessible property, including private land. Projects must already have a location, design, budget and timeline, and applicants must cover at least half the cost. Funding can pay for materials, installation and artist travel, but not staff time. Applications require renderings, cost estimates and property approval, with the next deadline set for July 16th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A longtime doctor in Michigan’s Blue Water Area is stepping away after more than two decades of care. Lake Huron Medical Center recently honored Dr. Dawn E. Morey at a retirement gathering inside its Lighthouse Café, where coworkers, patients, and community members came together. Hospital leaders say she spent years treating generations of local families while building strong, lasting relationships. Many at the event shared stories about her compassion and steady presence, calling her impact on Port Huron–area patients both personal and far-reaching.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new family attraction is opening this week at Kenwick on the Lake Park in Bright’s Grove, giving kids a fresh way to cool off just in time for summer. The splash pad, funded by the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation, officially opens Thursday at 11 a.m. City leaders and project partners will attend. The idea came from Val Gladwish after visiting a similar park with her grandchildren. Built in memory of her late husband, the project aims to create a lasting space for families to gather and play.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A St. Clair County man will face a murder trial tied to a toddler’s ’18 death in Port Huron Township. Maurice Houle, 29, pleaded guilty Monday to resisting officers during his arrest, but the felony murder charge remains. Jury selection is set for June 23rd. The child’s mother, Amanda Maison, has already pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is expected to testify. Prosecutors say the three-year-old died from blunt force injuries and asphyxiation. Houle maintains his innocence and faces life in prison if convicted.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A father and son from outside the area are safe after a tense rescue off Lake Huron near Oak Beach in Huron County Saturday afternoon. Deputies say both were sailing small boats when strong winds pushed them away from shore around 4 p.m. The son made it back with help from nearby boaters, while crews found the father about an hour later in the water and pulled him aboard a fireboat. He was treated for exposure. Officials credit life jackets and warn changing lake conditions can turn dangerous fast.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet