A former Michigan school employee is now facing serious charges after a months-long investigation. Sixty-year-old Duane Paehlig, once the maintenance director for Sandusky Community Schools, was arraigned in Sanilac County court and did not enter a plea. Prosecutors accuse him of embezzling at least $20,000, committing forgery, and damaging school property. Police say searches at his home last October turned up district-owned items. He is being held on a $100,000 bond and is due back in court June 9. If convicted, he could face years in prison.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A traveling exhibit is bringing Michigan’s Thumb history to local communities this summer. The Sanilac County Historical Society will take “Echoes of Sanilac” to 15 stops across Sanilac, Huron, Tuscola, and Lapeer counties from June through September, with free admission. The exhibit covers everything from ancient petroglyphs to Great Lakes shipping, wildfires, and Prohibition-era rumrunning. Organizers say it highlights how everyday people shaped the region through hardship and change. A permanent display is also open at the Sanilac County Historic Village and Museum in Port Sanilac.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan is securing a major military upgrade with ripple effects nationwide. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a $152 million funding bill to modernize Selfridge Air National Guard Base near Detroit, improving runways and taxiways ahead of a new fighter mission. The move also unlocks nearly $800 million in federal investment. The base is transitioning to F-15EX fighter jets, replacing aging A-10 aircraft, with new KC-46A refueling tankers set to arrive starting in ’27 as part of a broader military overhaul.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac is getting a major boost to its harbor. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is awarding the village $1.65 million to begin upgrades at the municipal marina, including pier repairs, fuel dock replacement, and utility work. The project is part of more than $4 million in statewide boating grants supporting seven communities. With local matching funds, the total investment tops $6.5 million. The program, funded by boat fees and gas taxes, helps improve public access to Michigan waterways.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet