Senator Elissa Slotkin visited Port Huron this week as part of her tour of Michigan’s border areas. She focused on the economic and security challenges faced by communities near international crossings. Slotkin met with local leaders to discuss the impact of tariffs and trade issues on Port Huron’s economy, especially at the Blue Water Bridge. She pointed out that declining tourism is hurting the local economy, as Canadian visitors are hesitating to cross due to border uncertainties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron has placed an American flag retirement bin in the Municipal Office Center, located at 100 McMorran Blvd. Residents can now drop off flags that are no longer suitable for display. City Manager James Freed highlighted the community’s respect for the flag, especially with over 1,400 local veterans. The bin, created by Breacher Rustics in Marysville, will ensure flags are retired properly, working alongside the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars to honor these symbols of freedom.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Annual Dinner for Kids’ Sake returns May 1st at 5:30 PM at the Blue Water Convention Center in Port Huron. Tickets are $60 and include dinner, fun, and fundraising for local youth programs. This year’s honorees are the YMCA’s Josh Chapman and staff, named Child Advocates of the Year, and the Youth Advisory Council of the Community Foundation of St. Clair County, named Community Advocates of the Year. Guests are encouraged to wear tropical attire.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Two Thumb-area businesses just got a major boost from the state. The Michigan Department of Agriculture awarded over $196,000 in grants to support rural job growth and industry upgrades. TCA Management in Caro will use $100,000 to hire staff and buy equipment that helps serve agriculture needs. In Ubly, Maurer Meat Processors received $96,350 to upgrade packaging equipment and cut down on waste. The funding supports rural jobs and strengthens key local industries.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Sanilac’s Historic Village & Museum is bringing back its Open Mic Music Series, kicking off May 24th with events also set for June 14th, July 12th, August 9th, and September 20th. Music starts at 4 p.m., with performer sign-ups at 3:30 p.m. Expect free concerts, bourbon tastings, history lectures, and even the Croswell-Lexington Band. Events align with big weekends like the M-25 Yard Sale and Flannel Festival. It’s all free thanks to host Johnny Johnston.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In a St. Clair County courtroom last Thursday, Judge Daniel Damman sentenced Michael Hogan, 41 from Algonac, to over seven years in prison for killing 29-year-old Brandon Accettura in a November crash. Hogan, who was intoxicated and had THC in his system, veered into Accettura’s lane on Dixie Highway, causing a head-on collision. Hogan, with a history of drunk driving offenses, apologized, but prosecutors emphasized his lack of concern for the victim. The courtroom was filled with Accettura’s supporters.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet