Local News

Thumbcoast residents can enjoy free access to national parks today, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The National Park Service is waiving entrance fees at sites nationwide, including Michigan’s parks, trails, and lakeshores. This winter season is a perfect time to explore snowy landscapes and frozen vistas at destinations like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Pictured Rocks. MLK Day is one of several annual fee-free days aimed at encouraging outdoor exploration and honoring the federal holiday’s spirit of community and service.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

On January 19th, Port Huron will host the annual “One in Christ” Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service at Kingdom Authority Ministries at 3 p.m. The event will unite local churches in a celebration of Dr. King’s vision for unity. Attendees can expect worship, dance performances, and youth sharing their thoughts on King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Pastor Todd Lee will deliver a message, and newly elected Mayor Anita Ashford will be honored. The service will also collect non-perishable food and hygiene items for local shelters.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lambton County Library is gearing up for its second annual Family Literacy Day Festival on Saturday, January 25th at the Sarnia Library and Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery. Families can enjoy two live performances by Toronto’s Dan the Music Man, along with face painting, retro gaming, and crafting activities. Local community groups will also host a Literacy Fair with helpful resources. All activities are free, and registration isn’t required. The event celebrates the fun and importance of learning together as a family.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The City of Port Huron is hiring part-time school crossing guards to help children safely cross streets near local elementary schools. The job involves working about 2.9 hours per day, Monday to Friday, in all weather conditions. The pay is $13.00 per hour. Applicants must be 18 or older, have a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and a personal phone. The application deadline is February 7th. For more information, visit the City of Port Huron’s Human Resources Department.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Chesterfield Township residents are opposing a proposed auto auction center at 25 Mile and Bates roads. Nearly 500 people have signed a petition citing health, safety, and environmental concerns. Residents voiced their worries at a public hearing, emphasizing potential water contamination, noise, and traffic. While developers insist it’s not a junkyard, residents plan to attend the upcoming Planning Commission meeting on January 21st to voice their opposition. Petition organizers are urging more community involvement to halt the development.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Starbucks has ended its open-door policy, which allowed non-customers free use of restrooms and internet, at its nearly 300 Michigan locations and nationwide. The change prioritizes paying customers. The new conduct code bans discrimination, outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling. The open-door policy started in 2018 after a racially charged incident in Philadelphia. There are two Starbucks in the Port Huron area and two in Sarnia.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet