Local News

Port Huron city leaders are seeking $6.5 million from state government to fix the Black River Canal, a key waterway damaged by flooding in ’24. The canal, built in 1912, connects Lake Huron to the Black River and supports local boating, tourism, and safety. Since its closure, emergency response times on the lake have slowed, and nearby businesses have felt the impact. The requested funds will rebuild flood control structures and shorelines, aiming to reopen the canal. A funding decision is expected by October.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Healthy Entertainment.net is bringing a free improv event to Marysville on Thursday, August 7th at Venue 1112. Starting at 7 p.m., guests will see classic improv demonstrations followed by quick lessons and prize drawings. Local host Frank S. Bublitz highlights that short improv games, lasting just a few minutes, improve mental and emotional health—benefits backed by major hospitals and universities. Attendees can win free or discounted classes with Frank, who has over a decade of experience teaching improv in mental health settings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

This summer, Dryden Community Schools are improving both the high school and elementary while students are home. At Dryden High, crews are upgrading security with new entrances and alarms, renovating the early college space used by nearly 60 students, and planning tech and water system updates. Dryden Elementary is fixing the gym wall, replacing floors, adding lockers, and boosting security and technology. Major projects like new roofs, boilers, and parking lots are complete. All work is funded by a bond voters approved in ’23.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum will host its popular Sip & Stroll Wine Tasting event on August 23rd. Visitors can sample wines at six outdoor stations across the historic grounds while enjoying live music from local artist Dave Liniarski. The event features appetizers, desserts, and a cash bar under the open-air pavilion. Tickets cost $15 with a wine bottle donation or $30 without. All proceeds help preserve the history of Michigan’s Thumb region. Guests must be 21 or older.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In a big move for local banking, Mercantile Bank, based in Grand Rapids, is joining forces with Eastern Michigan Bank from Croswell in a $95.8 million deal. This merger creates a powerhouse with $6.7 billion in assets, expanding Mercantile’s reach with 12 new branches in Eastern and Southeast Michigan. The partnership strengthens their commitment to Michigan communities, combining strong local roots and boosting services for customers across Sanilac, Huron, and St. Clair counties. The deal is set to finalize later this year, pending approvals.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Exciting news for Port Huron hockey fans! On Wednesday, Ken Andrews, a local tech entrepreneur from Allen Park, became the new owner of the Port Huron Prowlers. At McMorran Arena, he promised to keep the team in town, saying, “Port Huron is our home!” This marks the first ownership change in the team’s 10-year history, taking over from Barry Soskin. With Andrews also owning the Motor City Rockers, fans are eager for the Prowlers’ next season after their strong 32-18-6 record last year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet