The Sandusky Community Schools Board voted to expand its School Resource Officer program while rejecting a new state funding offer. Superintendent Kurt Dennis said the $125-per-student grant could force the district to give up legal protections if a “mass casualty” occurred, putting the district at risk of lawsuits. Dennis assured families that safety upgrades, camera improvements, and mental health supports will continue using district funds. He stressed protecting students and staff legally is more important than accepting money with risky conditions.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Port Huron Civic Theater is bringing a touch of Russian history to the stage this holiday season with the musical “Anastasia.” Performances run Dec. 12th–14th at McMorran Place, with shows on Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The story follows a young woman after the Bolshevik Revolution as two conmen try to pass her off as Anastasia Romanov, the lost daughter of Russia’s last Czar. Tickets are available online or at the door.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair is gearing up for its ninth annual Santa Pub Crawl on Friday, giving locals a festive jump-start to the holiday season. The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. at War Water Brewery, where participants can register and enjoy early food, cocktails and raffles. The crawl then moves through several favorite St. Clair spots, including Hamlin Pub, Mannina’s, The Voyageur, LaCroix’s and Murphy’s Inn. Tickets cost $25 and include two drinks, a pizza dinner, and a light-up holiday cup for the first 300 people.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County families started the holidays early with festive events across the area. On Friday, Santa arrived at Birchwood Mall in Fort Gratiot with photos and live music. That same evening in downtown St. Clair, the Lighted Santa Parade began at Vine Street, ending with a tree lighting, Santa receiving the city key, and live reindeer at the Candy Cane Corral. On Saturday the Marine City Old Newsboys Craft & Vendor Show ran at Perch Point Conservation Club, offering local crafts, raffles, and food, all supporting the local charity.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet