George James

Port Huron’s former Central Fire Station, built in 1960, will be demolished after the City Council approved a $258,300 contract with Oak-Wood Building Company. The building, vacant since August, was too damaged to renovate due to foundation issues and lack of proper facilities for female firefighters. City officials stressed it was falling apart and needed to be torn down. Demolition is set to finish by May of next year, and the city is already exploring future uses for the property along the Black River.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Climate Action Network will honor six leaders for their climate and civic engagement efforts today. The virtual event celebrates those making a difference, including Odalis Perales and Em Perry from Michigan United for challenging corporate influence in politics, and Megan Owens for expanding public transit. Andrea Pierce, founder of the Anishinaabek Caucus, and Janet Zahn of the Grand Rapids Climate Coalition are also recognized for their advocacy. Jack MacQuaig, coordinator of MSU’s Sunrise Movement, will receive the youth award for his climate justice work.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s holiday spirit was alive as Officer Tinsel, the town’s beloved elf, made his rounds to meet Nitro, a new elf from Tri-Hospital EMS. Despite Nitro’s confidence, Tinsel reminded everyone who’s been spreading holiday cheer for years. But the fun didn’t stop there! The Port Huron Fire Department sent in their own elf, Firefighter Peppermint, who had to wait for Tinsel’s approval before joining the festivities. The friendly rivalry continues, but Tinsel is not ready to pass on his elf title just yet!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Grocery shoppers in Port Huron area need to plan ahead for Christmas Eve, as many stores will have early closures. Meijer closes at 7 p.m., while Walmart operates from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nieman’s on Carney Drive closes at 6 p.m., and Wally’s Supermarket on Gratiot Avenue in Marysville wraps up at 5 p.m. Country Style Marketplace in downtown Port Huron will shut its doors at 4 p.m., and VG’s in Marine City is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Kroger closes at 5 p.m., but Dollar General stays open until 10 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Sarnia Council has approved $150,000 for a new playground at Queen Street Park, just a short walk from Rainbow Park. The funds, drawn from the Parklands Dedication Reserve, will improve the park at Queen and Devine Streets, offering a safer, more accessible play area. Councillor Chrissy McRoberts, who proposed the motion, said Rainbow Park’s playground has been neglected and is difficult to access due to Christina Street. The project includes a variety of playground equipment and upgrades to the park space.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet