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 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

Drivers heading through St. Clair County should plan for delays this week as road crews roll out multiple projects. Officials say several roads in Casco, Emmett, and Riley townships will see full, one-day closures for culvert work, while others like County Line and Gratiot roads will have intermittent lane restrictions. Additional slowdowns are expected from ditching, bridge washing, and ongoing bridge replacement on Frith Road. All work depends on weather, so drivers are urged to allow extra time and follow posted detours.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A historic building in downtown Lexington is getting a fresh start with a modern twist. Foley’s Market, originally built in 1858, is set to reopen soon as a multi-use indoor marketplace led by the Roxbury Group, known for restoring nearby Cadillac House. The updated space will feature four businesses, including an expanded Foley’s Spirits, a new sandwich shop, a Detroit City Distillery tasting room, and a cigar lounge. Renovations highlight the building’s original structure, with a full opening expected within weeks.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet