In Port Huron, the 12th annual Blue Water Sand Fest turned Fort Gratiot Light Station into a vibrant sandy art gallery. Talented sculptors from across the U.S. crafted 540 tons of sand into breathtaking designs. Families enjoyed watching live sculpting, savoring food truck treats, and joining kids’ activities like sand play and lessons. The event, supporting Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, drew about 10,000 visitors. It ran through Sunday with $7 admission, free for kids under 4.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Sarnia last year, police solved more crimes than ever, with a record 39.25% clearance rate, meaning more cases were closed with charges or other resolutions. However, violent crime hit an all-time high, with four homicides pushing the Violent Crime Severity Index up 11.5%, despite a national drop in violent crime. A surge in non-consensual image distribution cases, which are easier to solve due to digital evidence, partly boosted the clearance rate. As Sarnia plans a new $91-million police headquarters, residents are questioning how these stats reflect community safety.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Saturday, Royal Oak’s Memorial Park came alive with the Michigan Electric Vehicle Alliance’s Clean Cruise. Families marveled at electric vehicles, from sleek cars to e-bikes and even an electric school bus. Kids enjoyed fun activities, food trucks dished out delicious eats, and live music set the vibe. Experts shared insights on electric mobility, and at 4 p.m., a police-escorted EV parade cruised down Woodward Avenue, highlighting Michigan’s leadership in green innovation.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet