Local News

As summer approaches, Huron County Prosecutor Tim Rutkowski is warning about the dangers of heatstroke in vehicles, a leading cause of preventable child deaths. On National Heatstroke Prevention Day, May 1, Rutkowski is joining efforts with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to promote the “Once You Park, Stop, Look, Lock” campaign. Since ’98, over 1,000 children have died from vehicular heatstroke, with 39 deaths last year alone. Rutkowski stresses, “This is 100% preventable.”

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Last year, Michigan reached a major recycling milestone, surpassing a 25% recycling rate for the fourth year in a row. The state’s recycling efforts have grown significantly since ’19, with more than 723,000 tons of materials recycled last year. This includes over 330,000 tons of paper and 58,000 tons of plastic. EGLE reports this progress is benefiting the economy, supporting 72,500 jobs, and contributing billions of dollars. With the goal of reaching a 30% recycling rate by ’29, Michigan is well on its way, with more residents recycling.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Courthouse is usually a place people want to avoid, but Judge Daniel Damman is working to change that. With a new project funded by the Blue Water Arts Committee, high school student artwork is now on display in Damman’s courtroom. The project showcases a variety of pieces, including a black-and-white photo by Port Huron Northern student Cameron Cronce and a charcoal painting by Capac’s Jayla Barron. Damman hopes the art will bring some positivity to the courthouse.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Marine City, roadwork on M-29 between Chartier Road and Belle River Avenue is underway. Michigan’s transportation department is investing $1 million to resurface the road with fresh asphalt, repair joints, and improve sidewalks for accessibility. One lane remains open in each direction to keep traffic flowing. Set to finish by June, the project will deliver a smoother, safer ride for locals. Governor Whitmer highlights it as part of fixing Michigan’s roads, supporting local jobs without tax hikes.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Port Huron, 63-year-old Mark Weaver was sentenced to five to ten years in prison for exploiting teenage girls. He messaged two teens, offering marijuana and cash for nude photos, and police found illegal images at his home. Despite his apology, the judge slammed Weaver for fueling the child pornography market, harming young victims. Weaver, who skipped an earlier court date, must now register as a sex offender for 25 years after his release.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On Saturday, hundreds gathered under the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron for Michigan’s “Bridge of Friendship” event, aimed at supporting Canada amid rising tensions. Protesters were voicing opposition to President Trump’s tariffs. Organized by local groups like Yoopers Unite, the gathering highlighted frustration over tariffs affecting cross-border relationships. Many attendees said the protest was a response to what they felt was unfair treatment of Canada.