George James

Black Gold Brewery Wins Gold

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

Early Morning Fire at Bree Manor

An early morning fire at Bree Manor Apartments in East China Township displaced 20 to 30 residents Sunday morning, prompting a swift community response. The Community Foundation of St. Clair County activated its disaster response fund to cover emergency needs like shelter, food, and clothing for the first 48 hours. Local organizations rallied to help: St. Clair High School provided temporary shelter, Blue Water Transit transported victims, and the St. Clair Inn opened its doors overnight. Officials confirmed no foul play in the fully involved blaze.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

James Freed City of Port Huron

Port Huron Housing Development

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

Rescue Mission Extends Capacity

Port Huron’s Blue Water Area Rescue Mission extended its capacity to house more homeless individuals during last week’s extreme cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -7°F. Normally capped at 30 beds, the shelter hosted 34 people Wednesday night, including two women after local women’s shelters filled up. Staff and volunteers added cots and even a couch to ensure no one slept outside. Executive Director Renee Pettinger credited community support, including donations and volunteers, for enabling the response.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet