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

The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating Deputy Megan Loding’s promotion to Sergeant, effective December 29th. Starting as a Records Clerk in ’14, Loding quickly moved up, becoming a Corrections Deputy and then graduating from Delta College Police Academy in ’19. She joined the patrol division and became a key figure in local schools, mentoring youth and serving as a Drug Task Force Investigator. Sheriff Paul Rich praised her, calling her an excellent choice to lead as Sergeant and continue setting a positive example in Sanilac County.

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

Memphis High School’s STEM lab gives students hands-on, project-based learning experiences. Before Thanksgiving, students created holiday decorations and custom t-shirts in the lab. This teaching method benefited non-traditional learners, contributing to a 100% graduation rate for the 2023-24 cohort. The lab, funded by $40,000 dollars in grants, includes 3D printers, CNC machines, and more. Students develop valuable skills for future careers.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Cottrellville man was stunned to discover that his $1,500 Powerball ticket was actually worth $200,000. Scott MacKenzie, who bought his ticket in Chesterfield, had initially thought he won $50,000 after matching four white balls and the Powerball in the November 30th drawing. Thanks to the Power Play, his prize was multiplied to $200,000. He plans to take a vacation, save, and keep playing Powerball with his winnings.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet