Local News

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County is refining its focus to boost economic development along the primary commercial corridor, which follows the Bridge to Bay Trail from Algonac to Lakeport. Their new priorities, set through ’27, aim to support major “anchor projects” that promote placemaking and enhance the community. A new Mission Related Investments Committee will help guide these efforts, focusing on projects that attract visitors and drive local growth, like the Blue Water River Walk upgrades.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County has officially closed its Disaster Response Fund’s efforts for the January 26 apartment fire in East China Township. After raising over $23,500 and spending nearly $24,700 on victim aid, they ensured every donated dollar directly supported affected residents. Created last year, the fund prepares for disasters like this, allowing immediate fiancial aid. Thankfully, no lives were lost in the fire, though its cause remains unknown.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A former Macomb County morgue worker has won a legal battle after a federal judge upheld their complaint related to an incident at the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office in Mount Clemens. In May of ’20, a birthday cake featuring male ‘parts’ was brought into the office, sparking the worker’s original grievance. The judge ruled in favor of the worker, though further details of the ruling remain unclear. The case highlights workplace conduct issues, with the cake incident being the central trigger for the complaint.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Indwell, a charity dedicated to providing affordable housing with support for mental health and addiction, is bringing its program to Sarnia-Lambton. After years of local struggles with homelessness and housing insecurity, Indwell offers a solution with its supportive housing model. The charity has already helped over 1,290 people across Ontario. An open house on April 15th at the Four Points by Sheraton in Point Edward will showcase the program and its impact. The event will feature a documentary, discussions, and opportunities to get involved.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Closet by A Beautiful Me in Port Huron is holding its second annual dress sale on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 235 Huron Ave. Dresses will be priced between $5 and $10, offering up to 90% off, just in time for prom season. Proceeds will benefit A Beautiful Me, a local nonprofit focused on building self-esteem in girls from grades 3 to 12. The sale will feature hundreds of dresses not typically available at the store, with every dollar supporting the organization’s mission.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Suncor Energy reported a second hydrocarbon leak at its Sarnia refinery on April 2nd, just days after a crude oil spill in the St. Clair River. The company quickly responded, identifying the source and deploying equipment like booms and vacuum units to contain the spill and monitor air quality. The exact type and amount of hydrocarbon released haven’t been disclosed, and it’s unclear if it reached the river. This follows a March 27th spill. No advisories have been issued for the latest incident.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet