The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is holding an in-person meeting on Thursday at Kimball Township Hall to hear public concerns about Smiths Creek Landfill. The landfill faces multiple violations for poor gas control and odors that have upset nearby residents. Officials are proposing a $145,000 fine and new methane monitoring systems. The county supports the plan, but state approval depends on public feedback. Residents unable to attend can comment online or by email. A virtual meeting will follow on May 29th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan is hosting a local food drive at the Port Huron Art & Music Festival, “Art on the River,” from June 6 to the 8th. Residents are encouraged to donate everyday essentials like cereal, peanut butter, canned tuna, fruits, vegetables, and soup. Donations will stay within St. Clair County to help local families. The Food Bank supports the community with 314 partner agencies and offers mobile pantries, SNAP benefit assistance, and programs focused on feeding children in need.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marlette and Brown City communities recently came together for the Pink Out softball and baseball event, raising nearly $13,000 for the BCUPS Program. This local initiative helps women get free or low-cost breast cancer screenings and supports patients during treatment. Raffle winners from Marlette and Brown City took home prizes like a Milwaukee toolset. The Aspire Rural Health System Foundation thanked everyone for their support, emphasizing that these funds make a real difference for neighbors facing breast cancer.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Last Friday, north of Grand Marais on Lake Superior, the U.S. Coast Guard and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore rangers rescued four people from a fishing boat taking on water. Using a Coast Guard 45-foot response boat, the park service’s Arrowhead vessel, and a Coast Guard helicopter from Traverse City, crews safely moved the passengers to other boats. They then towed the damaged fishing vessel back to port. The joint effort prevented any injuries and saved the boat.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet