George James

The IRS is sending checks to taxpayers who missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit on their ’21 returns. After identifying eligible taxpayers, the IRS will distribute $2.4 billion dollars. These automatic payments, part of the effort to aid taxpayers, will arrive by late January. Filers don’t need to take any action. Payments will be direct deposited or mailed. The maximum payment is $1,400 per person. Taxpayers who haven’t filed ’21 returns can still do so by April 15th, to receive the credit.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lambton County Library is teaming up with Service Canada to bring crucial government services to rural areas. Starting in January, Service Canada representatives will be available at libraries in Alvinston, Corunna, Forest, Thedford, Watford, and Wyoming to assist with applications for programs like Employment Insurance, Canada Pension Plan, and more. No registration is needed, and services are first-come, first-served. A valid government ID and Social Insurance Number are required for access. 

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Port Huron Major Crimes Unit is investigating a string of thefts across St. Clair County, including break-ins, copper wire theft, and stolen items from doorsteps. Last week, they executed a search warrant on Garfield Street in Port Huron, recovering stolen property worth over $50,000 and finding six ounces of methamphetamine. William Kenneth Evenson, 54, was arrested and charged with multiple crimes, including breaking and entering and possession of meth. A bond of $100,000 has been set, and authorities are working to return the stolen items. 

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron is launching its first Edible Park, offering fresh fruit for free to kids and families in the area. Located across from Cleveland Elementary on 28th Street, the park features trees with pears, apples, and peaches for anyone to pick. This new initiative, led by the city manager’s office, aims to transform vacant lots into productive green spaces. A second park is planned near Garfield Elementary next year. City officials hope this simple, low-cost idea will bring healthy snacks to local neighborhoods and potentially expand to more sites in the future.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Big Lots announced going-out-of-business sales at all locations last week following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September. President Bruce Thorn said they’ve worked hard but must protect the company’s value. The retailer has 32 stores in Michigan and one in Port Huron. Despite profitable stores, Big Lots plans a more focused footprint. They continue working on a sale, aiming for early January. Sales will start soon at remaining stores, and they’ll keep serving customers in-store and online.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Sheriff Drug Task Force recently raided a home on Garfield Street in Port Huron. During the search, they seized 15 grams of methamphetamine, 30 grams of cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and sales materials. As a result, 45-year-old Jamal Cannon of Port Huron was arrested. Cannon, charged as a habitual offender, is currently being held at the St. Clair County Detention and Intervention Center with a $25,000 bond. The Drug Task Force continues its efforts to combat drug-related crime in the area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet