Father Sentenced to Life

A Port Huron father will spend the rest of his life in prison after killing one child and seriously injuring two others inside their apartment last fall. A judge sentenced 45-year-old Jeffery Smerer to life without parole for the death of his 17-year-old son, Kayleb, and added decades for the shootings of his younger children, who survived with lasting injuries. The attack happened as the kids were getting ready for school. In court, the children spoke about the trauma and loss, while the judge called the case a tragedy beyond description.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Robinson Tennis Tournament Returns

Port Huron is getting ready for a week of tennis as the 69th annual Robinson Tournament returns to Sanborn Park and the Port Huron Tennis House from July 28th through August 2nd. Free events start the 27th, including a kids play day and warm-up clinics for players. Matches begin Tuesday with finals on Sunday, bringing in competitors from across Michigan, other states, and Canada. Organizers are also inviting community members to take part now through a T-shirt design contest ahead of the tournament.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

New Craft Cocktail Bar Opens

A new craft cocktail spot is now open in downtown Lexington. Detroit City Distillery has launched its first location outside Detroit inside the former Foley’s Market on Huron Avenue. The business says it chose Lexington for its growing popularity as a Lake Huron getaway that is still close to the city. The menu features Michigan-made ingredients, including signature drinks like a Blackberry Bourbon Smash. The bar, created with help from the Roxbury Group, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet