Michigan’s cannabis market is kicking off the new year under pressure. For the first time since recreational sales began six years ago, marijuana sales slipped 3% last year to just over $3 billion. Now, a new 24% wholesale tax—meant to fund road projects—is hitting dispensaries hard. Industry leaders warn higher prices and job cuts could follow, as many companies say they can’t afford to absorb the cost. Lawsuits challenging the tax are moving forward, but for now, businesses and customers are bracing for more expensive weed.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Michigan man has admitted to stealing nearly $900,000 from his employer over three years. Federal prosecutors say 51-year-old Peter Paulus of Port Huron pleaded guilty last Friday to wire fraud. Court documents show that between late 2020 and mid-2023, Paulus worked for a countertop company near Detroit, where he diverted customer credit card payments into his own accounts. He even faked receipts to make the transactions look legitimate. Paulus is scheduled to be sentenced May 19 and could face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Puzzle lovers can sharpen their skills and support local history Saturday at the Carnegie Museum in Port Huron. Teams of two to four will race to finish a 500-piece puzzle within three hours, with prizes for the top two spots. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1, and entry includes museum admission and refreshments. All proceeds go toward preserving the museum’s 45,000 artifacts through the “Change for the Collection” campaign. Registration is required in advance at phmuseum.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Police in Yale are investigating a phone threat about explosives made Tuesday morning against Yale Junior High. Officers quickly checked the building and found no credible danger. Chief William Black says the investigation is still underway. The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office and Michigan State Police helped search the scene. No suspects have been named, and classes at the junior high are continuing as normal while police keep looking into where the call came from.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the community came together for the MLK Day Youth Empowerment Breakfast on Saturday morning. Pastor Keith Wyett served meals as Mayor Anita Ashford — the city’s first African American mayor — led a down-to-earth talk on leadership and creating change close to home. Young participants then jumped into advocacy training, learning how to speak up and take action in their schools and neighborhoods. The event on Lapeer Avenue was backed by local groups, including Black Lives Matter Port Huron and Impact Youth Services.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, the St. Clair County Community College men’s basketball team lit it up on the road Saturday, rolling past Jackson College 106–78. The Skippers shot a scorching 56 percent from the floor, hitting nearly half their threes and racking up 39 assists. Kevin Tiggs led with 21 points, while Chris McLavish added a double-double with 17 points and 14 assists. SC4 dominated the glass and kept Jackson cold from deep, improving their conference push. The Skippers visit Macomb today before hosting Wayne County Saturday afternoon in Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet