Port Huron Township has a new leader to boost its downtown. On Monday, the township board unanimously picked Randy Fernandez as the Downtown Development Authority director. Fernandez, who just retired as Marysville’s city manager, is already sharing fresh ideas to revitalize the area. Despite some initial concerns about his role with the St. Clair County Economic Development Alliance, Trustee Dawn Fulk now backs him, confident in his vision. Fernandez, earning $15,000 a year, steps in for Scott Beedon, who left last year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On August 13th, Blue Water Community Action will host a Back to School Event at McMorran Place Arena in Port Huron. Families can grab resources to get kids ready for school. Every child gets a free backpack loaded with supplies like pencils and notebooks. Organizers require children to be present at the event and families to provide proof of St. Clair County residency, like a driver’s license or utility bill, to receive the free supplies. This event helps kids start the school year strong.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Mercantile Bank Corporation of Grand Rapids is expanding its footprint in Michigan with the acquisition of Eastern Michigan Financial Corporation in a deal valued at nearly 96 million dollars. The agreement, announced Tuesday, will combine Eastern’s 12-branch network with Mercantile’s existing 45 locations, significantly boosting its presence in eastern and southeastern Michigan.

Based on financials from June 30th, the merged company will have 6.7 billion dollars in assets, 4.9 billion in loans, and over 5 billion in deposits. Eastern, based in Croswell, serves Sanilac, Huron, and St. Clair counties and brings a strong, low-cost deposit base and substantial liquidity to the deal.

Mercantile Bank CEO Ray Reitsma says the merger enhances balance sheet strength and deepens the bank’s commitment to Michigan communities. Eastern Michigan Bank CEO William Oldford says the partnership allows for greater reach while preserving local values and customer trust.

Both banks were founded in Michigan and say this move is about growing locally—together.

In Kimball Township, 33-year-old Kyle Cornette was arrested after Michigan State Police discovered he was sharing illegal child images online. Following a tip in May, the Computer Crimes Unit investigated, leading to a search of Cornette’s home where officers found illicit videos and photos on his devices. He faces four felony charges, including aggravated distribution and possession of child sexually abusive material, plus two counts of using a computer for criminal acts. Arrested on July 15th, Cornette remains in St. Clair County jail with a court hearing set for July 29th

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, women’s fastpitch softball is back after a 20-year absence, thanks to Micah Wallace-Seals. He launched a new league with three teams—Lady Rebels, Turn Two Tequila, and Blue Water Assassins—playing Tuesday night doubleheaders at Memorial Park and Pine Grove Park. Local players like Sarah Hall and Gabby Lamere, who grew up playing fastpitch, are thrilled to return to their roots, bringing together women of all ages to compete in the sport they love.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Friday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Deckerville residents can enjoy a fun-filled Community Cookout hosted by Aspire Rural Health System. The event features open houses at Deckerville Community Hospital and the Medical Office Building. Locals can meet doctors, tour a renovated clinic, explore an ambulance, and grab free hot dogs or lemonade. Visiting both spots enters folks into a $50 gift card drawing. It’s a great day for families to connect with healthcare heroes in Deckerville.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet