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

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

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

Vinculum Care, LLC, a local provider of home help services, has been awarded a $211,000 grant from the IMPART Alliance, selected from a competitive pool of over 900 small business applicants. The funding will support the company’s mission to expand and improve services for seniors and individuals in need of care across St. Clair County. Key initiatives include growing its home help offerings, enhancing caregiver training programs, investing in innovative technologies such as virtual reality, and creating new job opportunities for direct care workers. “We focus on providing excellent care, and that’s only possible with well-trained direct care workers,” said Elia Hussain, CEO of Vinculum Care, LLC. “This grant allows us to continue investing in our team and the tools they need to provide compassionate, high-quality support.” The award highlights Vinculum Care’s leadership and commitment to improving long-term care services in the region.

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.

Klecha Park in St. Clair is getting a major makeover. After years of Little League games, the city is revamping the park, starting with a new splash pad set to open by Memorial Day. The idea came from local resident Mike Barnum, who wanted to honor his late brother, former Police Chief Donald Barnum. Cargill Salt donated $300,000 for the project, with additional support from the Community Foundation and St. Clair County Parks. Future improvements include a new baseball field, athletic court, pavilion, playground, and walking path. Renovations will continue into 2026.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet