George James

The Sherman Woods Homeowners Association in Port Huron raised just over $6,000 dollars for the Salvation Army during its recent Red Kettle Christmas campaign. For the ninth year, volunteer residents managed a Red Kettle drop-off over eight holiday weekends, plus Christmas Eve, as visitors enjoyed festive decorations. President Fred Kemp praised the community’s support. Since ’16, the campaign has raised $48,328. The efforts included carol singing, Santa visits, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan slipped to 41st in the rankings of the best states for entrepreneurs, dropping six spots from last year. The decline is due to slower job growth and a drop in consumer spending, which fell to just 0.4%. Michigan also saw a loss of educated workers, with over 7,000 leaving the state. Despite these challenges, the national entrepreneurial scene is booming, with a record number of new businesses opening each month, driven by trends like remote work, the gig economy, and advancements in AI.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Mackinac Bridge was closed to most vehicles Monday morning due to high winds reaching 50-64 mph, with only passenger cars, vans, and empty trucks allowed. The closure affected traffic heading to the Straits, and drivers were advised to reduce speeds to 20 mph as they approached. Bridge personnel were on-site to direct vehicles. The Bridge Authority required escorts for large vehicles overnight Sunday.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair police officers Colin Ellul and Jared McClure responded to an apartment fire in East China Township early Sunday. Despite being out of their jurisdiction, they evacuated residents from the burning Bree Manor Apartments. Both officers were hospitalized for smoke inhalation and injuries but released by morning. Police Chief Tim Raker praised their bravery. Local departments, including EMS, worked together to ensure everyone was safe. The fire, under investigation, displaced 20-30 people, with local organizations aiding those affected.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron secured a $16.5 million tax credit from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to build the Lincoln Avenue Loft Project near McLaren Port Huron. The development will create 40 affordable housing units aimed at local workers struggling to afford homeownership. City Manager James Freed highlighted the project as a boost for economic growth, workforce support, and social equity. The site, near Erie Street and Lincoln Avenue, is currently vacant but will soon transform into much-needed housing for the community.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Black Gold Brewery in Ontario is celebrating after its Black Gold Smoked Porter won gold in the Smoked Beer category at the Ontario Brewing Awards. Praised for its rich, smoky flavor and smooth finish, the porter stood out among top competitors. Brewer Ricardo credited the win to the team’s dedication to quality and innovation. To mark the achievement, the brewery is offering promotions on the award-winning beer until the end of January. The Ontario Brewing Awards are a top honor in the province’s craft beer scene.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet