George James

Sarnia-Lambton business leaders took their message to Washington, D.C. this week, joining an Ontario Chamber of Commerce mission to push for stronger cross-border trade ahead of the CUSMA review. The delegation met U.S. lawmakers, business groups, and Canada’s ambassador to stress the need for tariff-free trade and stable supply chains. Local industries—especially energy, manufacturing, and agriculture—depend on that stability. Chamber CEO Carrie McEachran says disruptions at the border hit Sarnia-Lambton jobs directly, and cooperation remains key to the region’s growth.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Hockey fans in Port Huron are gearing up for a big Sunday showdown as Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs alumni hit the ice for charity. The “Hockey For The House” game gets underway at 2 p.m. Sunday at McMorran Arena, with all proceeds helping Ronald McDonald House Charities Detroit. Tickets run about $35 for adults and $25 for kids, with a noon VIP meet-and-greet at McMorran Theater offering autographs and photo ops for $100. Seats are still available online through Showpass.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In Michigan’s rural Thumb region, small schools are teaming up to take on big challenges — in robotics. The Thumb Area Robotics Association, or TARA, links schools from Bad Axe to Harbor Beach, helping kids build, code, and compete on a global stage. Started just three years ago, TARA pools donations to train volunteers and coordinate local tournaments. That teamwork is paying off — with several Huron County teams reaching state and world competitions. For these students, the lessons go beyond robots — they’re learning to innovate, collaborate, and aim higher together.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

For 100 years, Stapleton Insurance has helped local businesses stay protected—now they’re turning their expertise toward Medicare. On Tuesday, April 28 at noon, Stapleton hosts a special Lunch & Learn at the Port Huron MOC on McMorran Boulevard. Human resource managers and workplace leaders are invited to get straightforward guidance on helping employees through Medicare transitions, whether near retirement age or working past 65. RSVP to Alissa Frantz at Stapleton Insurance for details.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A hiring decision by Sarnia Police is drawing sharp public concern. The department recently appointed Bradley Murray as its Crime and Intelligence Manager — despite his past conviction for tampering with drug evidence while serving in Halton Region. Chief Derek Davis, also a former Halton officer, defends the hire as part of a formal process. But residents question how someone once caught stealing opioids from a police vault is now overseeing Sarnia’s crime data. Locals are asking whether trust and transparency are really being restored — or quietly recycled.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A new burst of laughter hit downtown Port Huron as the first-ever Blue Water Comedy Festival packed local venues this past weekend. The four-night run filled seats at The Wrigley Center and Foundry, even selling out last Friday night. Organizer and comedian Daniel Grinnell says the strong turnout and crowd energy proved Port Huron is ready for more live comedy. Locals loved it too, with regulars and first-timers returning for repeat shows. Grinnell hopes to make the Blue Water Comedy Festival an annual tradition celebrating Michigan’s comedy talent.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet