Experience Holiday Trolley Tour And Tower Climb At Fort Gratiot Light Station

Dive into the festive spirit with a unique holiday program on December 16th and 22nd at the historic Fort Gratiot Light Station located at 2802 Omar St, Port Huron.

The event, beginning at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., combines a captivating tour of beautifully lit neighborhoods with a candlelit tower climb offering a dazzling view of the Blue Water Area. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies await at the Museum Store.

Tickets, including a tour of the lighthouse, are priced at $40 for General Admission and $30 for Museum Members. With two tours each night, lasting about an hour, the enchanting experience begins and concludes at the Lighthouse. Secure your spot for a festive adventure under the twinkling lights.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

U.S. Postal Service Announces Price Adjustments For 2024 Mailing Services

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has submitted a notice to the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) detailing proposed changes in mailing services prices, set to be effective from January 21st, 2024. 

Among the adjustments, the cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp is set to rise by 2 cents, from 66 cents to 68 cents.

If approved by the commission, the overall increase for mailing services products will be approximately 2 percent. The adjustments, greenlit by the USPS governors, encompass various categories, including letters, domestic and international postcards, and international letters. Notably, there will be no modification to the additional-ounce price, remaining at 24 cents.

The USPS cites ongoing inflationary pressures on operating expenses and the need for revenue to achieve financial stability as the driving force behind these adjustments, aligning with the Delivering for America 10-year plan. 

Reporting for WGRT – Harold Powell

Salvation Army Urgently Appeals For Help As Christmas Gift Distribution Lags

The Salvation Army of St. Clair County is facing a pressing need for support as Christmas approaches, with over 600 pre-registered families awaiting gifts, toys, and food. The organization employs an adopt-an-angel format, with printed tags representing each child in the program. Unfortunately, many angel tags remain unadopted, prompting a call to action.

Angel tags can be found on trees at Birchwood Mall and the Fort Gratiot Walmart. Additional tags are available at the Salvation Army’s main office and online registries at Walmart and Amazon. To ensure timely distribution before Christmas, purchased gifts should reach the Salvation Army office by December 15th or the designated locations by December 17th.

The Salvation Army expresses gratitude for the community’s generosity and emphasizes that St. Clair County’s support is crucial for bringing holiday joy to families in need. 

For inquiries or tag requests, contact (810) 984-2679.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Mike Harris Criticizes Proposal To Pay People To Move To Michigan, Advocates For Cost-Effective Solutions

State Representative Mike Harris, R-Waterford, voiced skepticism today regarding proposals from the governor’s Growing Michigan Together Council that suggests incentivizing new residents with grants, tax credits, or direct rewards to counter the state’s population decline. Harris dismissed the idea, stating that paying people to move to Michigan would be akin to a temporary fix, emphasizing the need for more substantial, cost-effective solutions.

Harris advocated for prioritizing infrastructure, public safety, and education investments to address underlying concerns contributing to the state’s lagging population. He criticized the council’s consideration of extravagant programs and potential tax hikes, pointing out that other states’ similar incentive programs have shown limited success. Michigan’s population decline remains a significant challenge, with the state ranking 49th in population growth since 1990 and experiencing a decrease since 2020.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

BWROC Expands Transportation Services To Boost Access To Treatment And Recovery Support

In a pivotal move to address the pressing issue of drug overdoses and bolster accessibility to vital services, BWROC proudly announces the expansion of its transportation services in St. Clair County. 

Funded through the Michigan opioid settlement, this initiative, effective December 10th, aims to bridge the gap for economically disadvantaged individuals seeking treatment or recovery support services.

The extended services will now cover transportation to Recovery Support Groups, Recovery Events, detox facilities, treatment centers, hospitals, and other recovery-related needs. By prioritizing the reduction of health disparities and enhancing long-term recovery opportunities, BWROC strives to overcome obstacles faced by those in need. 

Recognizing the critical role transportation plays as a barrier to treatment, BWROC remains steadfast in its commitment to filling community gaps and is grateful for the opportunity to provide this essential service.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Sanilac County Museum’s Victorian Christmas Extravaganza Concludes With Festive Farewell

As the New Year approaches, the Sanilac County Museum invites the community for a final celebration of the season with the enchanting Victorian Christmas Decorations at the Loop-Harrison Mansion. 

The culmination of the month-long display, crafted by over 30 dedicated volunteers, showcases beautiful trimmings on four distinct Christmas trees and festive decor throughout. Admission is just $5 per person, with children 12 and under entering for free, providing a delightful way to bid farewell to the holiday season.

Additionally, the Christmas Lighted Trail continues every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., illuminating the historic village and nature trail. While admission is free, donations are appreciated and can be made at designated tubes near the mansion and Forestville Church. Also, don’t miss “Santa’s Workshop” at the General Store, contributing to the festive spirit in the community.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell