Local News

Michigan State University is calling for nominations for its ’26 Dairy Farm of the Year Award, which honors excellence in Michigan’s dairy industry. Open to individual farmers, families, or partners, the award recognizes top-tier farming practices and strong community involvement. The honoree will be celebrated at the Michigan Dairy Industry Banquet and spotlighted during the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference. Their portrait will be added to the Farm Bureau Pavilion at MSU. Nominations are due by September 15th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, Wyatt Riehl, a dedicated paramedic and National Guard lieutenant, honored his employer, Tri-Hospital EMS, with the Patriot Award last Wednesday. When an ice storm struck Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Riehl’s team quickly covered his shift, allowing him to deploy 300 miles away. This support enabled Riehl to serve his community and country without worry. He praised his bosses and coworkers for their flexibility, highlighting how Tri-Hospital EMS supports its Guard members, ensuring they can balance both roles.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Macomb County, 18-year-old Jolyan Zahrah was arrested by the FBI for sharing child pornography and gruesome animal torture videos through multiple Discord accounts. His phone revealed disturbing content, including searches about school shootings and buying guns. A judge labeled him a danger to the community, ordering him detained without bond until placed in a mental health facility. Zahrah, allegedly tied to the extremist 764 network, faces federal charges and is due back in court on June 30th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Clay Township, a new park called North Channel County Park is taking shape at 2431 Pointe Tremble Road. The St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission is building it to give locals better access to the St. Clair River, with a beach, trails, and more. Construction started after years of planning and grants, with the first phase adding a parking lot, trailhead, and pavilion. More features like a kayak launch and playground will come later, boosting outdoor fun for everyone in the area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On June 27th, Lexington locals can enjoy a free evening of award-winning country music at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park, just steps from downtown. Devin Scillian & Arizona Son, a Detroit Music Award-winning band, will perform their lively mix of country, bluegrass, and southern rock starting at 7:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and umbrellas, as the show happens rain or shine. Grab refreshments on-site or from nearby Lexington vendors.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Southside Neighborhood Improvement Authority in Port Huron is bringing the community together with its new Summer Pop-Up Market, held every Tuesday at Knox Field. This free, family-friendly event runs from 4 to 8 p.m. throughout the summer, offering locals a chance to enjoy a vibrant mix of homemade crafts, fresh baked goods, farm produce, and unique items from area vendors. A highlight of the season will be a special pop-up market on July 15th, where young entrepreneurs from the Blue Water Area will showcase their talents and sell their own creations.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet