Eastpointe’s Memorial Library lawn turned into a medieval battlefield recently as the Order of Pegasus women’s armored combat team demonstrated their sport. Dressed in 100-pound armor, they wielded swords in Buhurt, a competitive fight with rules banning stabs or hits to vulnerable areas like the neck. Local fighter Lisa Hoy says it’s a fun way to channel knightly dreams from fantasy stories. With only nine female teams in the U.S., this rare sport is captivating Eastpointe, offering residents a glimpse of history brought to life.

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

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