The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has secured a nearly $1 million grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation to help complete the Bridge to Bay Trail. The funding will support 14 miles of planning and construction across eight local communities, including Port Huron, Fort Gratiot, and Algonac. Once completed, the 52-mile trail will stretch from Algonac to Lakeport State Park. Residents and community leaders say the trail improves outdoor access, connects neighborhoods, and enhances regional recreation.

Reporting for WGRT – Jared Cerullo

 A Fort Gratiot Township woman was taken to McLaren Port Huron recently after arriving at a neighbor’s door disoriented saying she’d been drugged and sexually assaulted. Deputies arrested 67 year-old Charles Fouts Junior of Lennox Township at the apartment. Investigators said the two met on a dating app and later found pictures taken of the woman without her knowledge. Fouts is facing multiple felony charges, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Reporting for WGRT – Jared Cerullo

Port Huron city leaders are seeking $6.5 million from state government to fix the Black River Canal, a key waterway damaged by flooding in ’24. The canal, built in 1912, connects Lake Huron to the Black River and supports local boating, tourism, and safety. Since its closure, emergency response times on the lake have slowed, and nearby businesses have felt the impact. The requested funds will rebuild flood control structures and shorelines, aiming to reopen the canal. A funding decision is expected by October.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

This summer, Dryden Community Schools are improving both the high school and elementary while students are home. At Dryden High, crews are upgrading security with new entrances and alarms, renovating the early college space used by nearly 60 students, and planning tech and water system updates. Dryden Elementary is fixing the gym wall, replacing floors, adding lockers, and boosting security and technology. Major projects like new roofs, boilers, and parking lots are complete. All work is funded by a bond voters approved in ’23.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Sunday, August 3rd, Port Sanilac’s Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum will host a free outdoor concert by the Royal Oak Blues Band from 1 to 3 p.m. The event wraps up the weekend’s Port Sanilac Blues Festival and features a lively mix of blues, gospel, jazz, and rock. Folks can bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the music. A cash bar, snacks, and a raffle will support the museum, with donations welcomed. This local event is backed by Michigan Humanities and the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet