George James

Today’s First Friday in Sarnia brings an exciting mix of art and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy photography from Lambton College students, traditional Pysanky egg decorating, and live performances scattered throughout downtown. From the Sarnia Legion to the Lawrence House Centre for the Arts, there’s plenty to see and do. The event also features a special challenge supporting survivors of sexual violence. With local food, drinks, and the chance to buy art, it’s the perfect way to kick off spring and celebrate creativity in the heart of the city.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In the Blue Water Area, locals are gearing up for a protest against President Donald Trump’s administration this Saturday. Blue Water Indivisible and Blue Water Allies are teaming up for the “Hands Off” march, kicking off at 1 p.m. from the Huron Lightship in Pine Grove Park to Thomas Edison Parkway. A pre-march rally starts at noon. This comes as part of a nationwide push against Trump’s second term, sparked by his and Elon Musk’s move to cut thousands of federal jobs.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

UPDATE: Mackinac EAS: Mackinac Bridge, previously closed due to falling ice, is now OPEN. Crossings will be in ESCORT MODE @ 20mph. Please travel safely.

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The Mackinac Bridge is currently closed to all traffic due to hazardous ice falling from its cables and towers following a severe ice storm over the weekend. The Mackinac Bridge Authority has not provided a specific timeline for reopening, but crews are working to clear the ice as quickly as possible.  

Travelers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. For real-time updates, visit the Mackinac Bridge Authority’s website or text “MacBridge” to 67283.

A Port Huron father, Maximus Manns, was sentenced to two years of probation for involuntary manslaughter after accidentally suffocating his infant daughter, Taytum, in September of ’23. Manns, 20, pleaded guilty and was granted sentencing under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, which could erase his criminal record if he completes probation. Despite previous warnings about the risks of co-sleeping, Manns brought Taytum to bed with him, leading to her suffocation. Experts warn against bed-sharing due to the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Community Action is rallying support for local students through The Big Give on May 14th. Donations will fund BWCA’s annual Backpack Giveaway, providing 1,000 fully stocked backpacks to children in need across St. Clair County. To boost impact, BWCA urges early donations before May 12th, allowing them to pool funds for a larger contribution and a bigger share of bonus funds. Supporters can donate online, by mail, or through The Big Give. Every dollar helps local kids start the school year prepared.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Friends of the St. Clair River will honor local environmental champions at the annual River Bash on April 10th in Port Huron. This year’s Environmental Excellence Awards recognize St. Clair County RESA for its leadership in environmental education, the Blue Water Convention and Visitors Bureau for promoting the region’s natural beauty, and artist Jason Stier for using art to teach at-risk youth about nature. The event, held at the Port Huron Yacht Club, features live music, a silent auction, and a rare chance to see baby sturgeon before their June release. Tickets are $50 at scriver.org until April 7.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet