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

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

Port Huron leaders are moving forward with early plans for a permanent downtown farmers market structure near Quay and Merchant streets. City Manager James Freed says the project builds on the market’s proven success, with free conceptual design work from the U.S. Department of Agriculture valued around $100,000. The open-air structure could host markets, festivals, and events like Blue Water Fest. Officials are now refining designs to pursue state, federal, and local grants, with hopes the long-term project becomes a reality within the next few years.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet