George James

St. Clair County RESA’s Tri-Share Child Care Program is easing childcare costs by splitting expenses between employees, employers, and the State of Michigan. Since September of ’24, 15 providers have joined, serving 21 children. Two new employers, the City of Port Huron and the YMCA of the Blue Water Area, are enhancing the program’s impact. This initiative helps families afford childcare, enabling parents to work while aiding employers in retaining talent.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources completed its annual fish stocking program, releasing nearly 600,000 fish into state waters last fall. In total, over 9.7 million fish were stocked in ’24. In the fall, crews distributed seven species, including trout, salmon, walleye, and muskellunge, at 78 locations, totaling over 10 tons of fingerlings. The DNR says hatchery output varies by water supply and temperature, but the effort ensures stronger fish populations for Michigan anglers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Kiwanis Club of Sarnia-Lambton Golden K has donated $4,000 dollars to St. Clair Child & Youth’s EarlyON program, supporting local children and caregivers. The funds were raised through volunteer efforts at Jackpot Time Sarnia Bingo, an initiative under the Ontario Charitable Gaming Association that helps charities give back to their communities. This donation continues the club’s long-standing commitment to EarlyON, ensuring families in Sarnia-Lambton have access to essential resources and services.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Joshua Frazier, 24, of Port Huron, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for a 15-hour standoff with police last February. The incident began when Frazier fired a gun inside a Chestnut Street home, held a 16-year-old relative against their will, and occasionally shot at police while wearing body armor. He later accepted a plea deal, admitting to multiple charges. During sentencing, his attorney said Frazier was suffering from a mental health crisis, while the victim’s family described the lasting emotional and financial toll of the standoff.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Michigan’s State Park Madness is heating up as Round 2 kicks off, with 16 parks, including Algonac State Park, advancing in the bracket-style competition. Running throughout January, the five-week tournament allows Michiganders to vote weekly for their favorite parks either in person or on social media. Round 2 runs through Saturday, with weekly eliminations leading to the championship round from January 26 to 31st. The winning park will earn the coveted State Park Madness trophy. Brackets are updated every Saturday—let the voting continue!

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System is kicking off its annual Healthy Living Together series on January 15th with a session titled “Understanding Food Lingo.” From 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the McKenzie Dining Room, this event will help locals decode terms like GMO, organic, gluten-free, and probiotic. Led by Registered Dietitian Kris Kreiner, the session aims to clarify food labels and empower attendees to make healthier choices. A virtual option will also be available. This event is the first of many this year, designed to support health and wellness.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet