The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation paid over $520,000 to Sarnia and Point Edward for hosting Gateway Casinos. Sarnia received over $91 thousand this quarter, totaling over $300 grand this fiscal year, and $27.9 million since 1999. Point Edward got over $429 thousand this quarter, totaling $1.32 million this fiscal year, and $53.5 million since 2000. The payments support local infrastructure and community programs.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
The St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission is hosting its third annual “Tree Hugger Hike” on February 1st at Columbus County Park. The free even offers a guided walk to explore the park’s native trees and their role in the ecosystem. Participants will learn how to identify and care for trees, as well as how invasive species threaten local forests. The hike is a great winter outing and aims to deepen appreciation for local wildlife. Preregistration is required. Weather-related updates will be posted on the Parks social media page.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
The St. Clair County Health Department is warning residents about rising seasonal illnesses like flu, RSV, COVID-19, and norovirus. To reduce the spread, they advise staying home when sick, practicing good hygiene, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. Health experts say these illnesses often peak in winter due to colder weather and more indoor gatherings. With flu and RSV on the rise, local health officials stress the importance of getting vaccinated and taking simple precautions to stay healthy.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
The St. Clair County Board of Commissioners will hold its second workshop on January 30th to discuss the future of the Economic Development Alliance (EDA). The meeting, moved to 6 p.m. after residents found the previous time too early, follows withheld funding and growing frustration over the EDA’s activities and communication. Residents will discuss solutions to improve the county’s relationship with the EDA. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the County Administrative Office Building.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Thumbcoast residents can enjoy free access to national parks today, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The National Park Service is waiving entrance fees at sites nationwide, including Michigan’s parks, trails, and lakeshores. This winter season is a perfect time to explore snowy landscapes and frozen vistas at destinations like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Pictured Rocks. MLK Day is one of several annual fee-free days aimed at encouraging outdoor exploration and honoring the federal holiday’s spirit of community and service.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Healing Hearts Home in Port Huron teamed up with Millstone Ministry to host a human trafficking awareness seminar on Saturday in Marysville. The event educated attendees about child sex trafficking, how traffickers exploited the internet, and shared survivor experiences. Dr. Christina Gallina-Flood, Healing Hearts Home’s director, emphasized that trafficking had occurred locally, including in St. Clair County. Her organization provided counseling for survivors through its S.H.O.U.T. program. The seminar aimed to raise awareness and inspire action against trafficking.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet