George James

The City of Sarnia has launched an online portal to simplify applying for business licenses and planning permits. Residents can now submit applications, pay fees, and track progress in one place, eliminating the need for phone calls or emails. The tool enhances transparency and efficiency by automating application routing and reducing manual data entry. Future updates will include building permits and development applications. Officials say this marks a major step in modernizing city services and streamlining processes for local businesses and residents.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Memphis High School’s STEM lab gives students hands-on, project-based learning experiences. Before Thanksgiving, students created holiday decorations and custom t-shirts in the lab. This teaching method benefited non-traditional learners, contributing to a 100% graduation rate for the 2023-24 cohort. The lab, funded by $40,000 dollars in grants, includes 3D printers, CNC machines, and more. Students develop valuable skills for future careers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Cottrellville man was stunned to discover that his $1,500 Powerball ticket was actually worth $200,000. Scott MacKenzie, who bought his ticket in Chesterfield, had initially thought he won $50,000 after matching four white balls and the Powerball in the November 30th drawing. Thanks to the Power Play, his prize was multiplied to $200,000. He plans to take a vacation, save, and keep playing Powerball with his winnings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Senate has passed House Bill 5032, aimed at expanding homeownership options across the state, with the bill now awaiting Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature. The legislation updates the cap on single-family mortgages backed by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, tying it to 90% of the IRS maximum sales price instead of a flat $224,500. This change allows the cap to adjust annually with the housing market, addressing rising home prices. The reform is expected to help more Michigan families secure affordable housing within 90 days of becoming law.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A 31-year-old Algonac man, Andrew Arnold, has been sentenced to 15 months to five years in prison after pleading guilty to reduced child pornography charges. Originally facing eight felony counts, Arnold accepted a plea deal reducing them to three: possession and attempted possession of child sexually abusive material. Michigan State Police arrested him in September following an investigation that uncovered he was downloading and distributing illegal content from his home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Lambton County, a new $2.5 million pilot program is bringing hope to those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and mental health. The CHIC team, featuring a paramedic and a substance use navigator, operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering everything from on-scene interventions to basic supplies like food and socks. Since June, they’ve engaged with the community over 777 times, providing not just immediate aid but also fostering long-term relationships to help individuals navigate towards recovery and stability.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet