Celebration of Lights Seeks Volunteers
The Sarnia Celebration of Lights is gearing up for its annual kickoff at Centennial Park on November 29th and needs help to make it shine. Volunteers, trucks, and strong helpers are needed for three key setup days: moving displays on November 1st, lifting the largest displays with a crane on November 14th, and assembling everything on November 15th. Sarnia Blessings will provide refreshments. The Opening Ceremonies start at 5 p.m. on November 29th, featuring a Christmas concert, fireworks and more.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Officials Update Residents on PFAS Contamination
State and local officials met with Port Huron Township residents last Wednesday night to share updates on PFAS contamination at Thompson Pond. The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team said the chemicals, often called “forever chemicals,” were found in surface water but not in nearby drinking wells. The site remains under investigation, though officials believe a thick clay layer is protecting groundwater. Cleanup continues across eastern St. Clair County, including soil removal at a former compost site on Dove Road. Residents are urged to follow fish advisories and stay informed as testing continues.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet
Port Huron Emergency Food Distribution
City of Port Huron officials are launching an emergency food distribution effort as federal SNAP cuts take effect November 1. City Manager James Freed says the initiative aims to make sure no child or family in Port Huron goes hungry during the federal funding shutdown.
Beginning Monday at nine in the morning, five semi trucks loaded with about forty four thousand pounds of food will begin serving residents. Each truck carries enough to feed three hundred to five hundred families. The first stop is the YMCA of the Blue Water Area.
In addition, Mid City Nutrition has funded five thousand hot meals, expanding immediate access for seniors, children, and families in need.
Freed thanked YMCA director Josh Chapman and Mid City Nutrition director Sarah Jones for partnering quickly during the crisis. Local Coast Guard families and other federal workers affected by missed paychecks will also have access to support.
Residents needing assistance can visit the YMCA starting Monday or contact Mid City Nutrition for meal service details.
Garden vs. Housing in Port Huron
Port Huron is facing a clash between housing development and green space. The city ended Polly’s Place garden’s lease on 27th Street to make room for nine new homes, sparking pushback from founder Julian Ruck and local residents. Ruck says the garden is an educational hub for students and families, while city leaders cite water costs and previous property issues. Councilmember Barbara Payton and supporters argue the garden is vital for the community. Negotiations and public debate over the site continue.
Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet