After sitting idle for years, Port Huron’s old Domtar paper mill is getting new life. Legacy Paper Group is investing $24.5 million to reopen the Black River site, creating at least 82 jobs that start around $27 an hour. State officials announced the project as part of a broader Michigan jobs push. Legacy plans to revamp nearly 400,000 square feet for paper manufacturing and warehouse use, restoring a key piece of the city’s industrial past while tapping local papermaking talent to power new growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Fans in Port Huron are in for a basketball showdown Saturday at St. Clair County Community College. The Skippers host powerhouse Schoolcraft College in one of the season’s biggest doubleheaders. The women tip off at 1 p.m., both teams unbeaten in conference play and battling for first place. The men follow at 3, as SC4 looks to upset the 17th-ranked Ocelots. Fans are urged to pack the SC4 Fieldhouse and show Skipper pride. Tickets are available online or at the door.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Community College’s men’s track team kept its early-season momentum rolling last Friday with standout performances at the GVSU Bill Clinger Classic. Freshman hurdler Dion Edwards set a new school record in the 60-meter hurdles at 9.55 seconds. Fellow freshman Donte Fenderson impressed with a 7.26 in the 60 and a team-best 23.62 in the 200. In distance events, Luke Meyer ran a season-best, while Wyatt Murtos hit a personal record in the mile. The Skippers compete next at GVSU on February 7th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System in Sandusky earned two national awards from the American Heart Association for improving emergency care in rural areas. The hospital received Silver Awards for both heart attack and stroke treatment through the “Get With The Guidelines–Rural” program. Officials say the honors reflect the team’s commitment to following research-based care standards that save lives close to home. Emergency Department Manager Lacey Shea credited the staff’s teamwork and dedication to providing fast, quality care for residents across Michigan’s Thumb region.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Health Department is backing vaccine choice for local residents, after support from its Advisory Board of Health. Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin says the move puts trust back in the hands of patients and their doctors, stressing informed, personal decisions over blanket mandates. With fewer Michigan parents choosing vaccines like hepatitis B or COVID-19 for their kids last year, local officials say this approach better reflects community attitudes. Vaccines remain available and covered at clinics across St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Columbus County Park will host its fourth Annual Tree Hugger Hike on Saturday, Feb. 14th, from 10 a.m. to noon. The free event mixes hands-on learning with winter adventure as guests use sight, sound, and touch to identify trees and shrubs. After the walk, hikers can warm up by the fire with hot cocoa and cookies. The event, held at 1670 Bauman Road, even counts for Michigan Master Gardener credits. Registration is available by emailing klyons@stclaircounty.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet