The St. Clair County Health Department is urging residents to take steps to prevent the spread of seasonal illnesses as cases of flu, RSV, COVID-19, and norovirus rise locally. Officials recommend staying home when sick, practicing good hygiene like washing hands and covering coughs, and keeping shared surfaces clean. Residents are also advised to stay hydrated, eat well, rest, and improve indoor airflow. The health department emphasizes talking to healthcare providers about vaccines to protect against these illnesses.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office is warning local residents about recent break-ins at the Storage of America facility on Range Road in Kimball Township. Over the past six months, both the Sheriff’s Office and Port Huron Police have been investigating thefts. Some customers may not realize their units were targeted, so authorities urge everyone to check their belongings. If you think you’ve been affected and haven’t reported it, you’re requested to call St. Clair County Central Dispatch.

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

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to decide the future of TikTok, with a potential ban looming just days away. President Biden signed a law forcing the app’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell to a U.S. company by Friday. The U.S. government argues TikTok poses a national security risk, claiming the app shares user data with China and may influence public opinion. TikTok denies these allegations, calling the ban a violation of free speech.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County’s Board of Commissioners held a workshop on Thursday to address conflicts with the Economic Development Alliance (EDA). The meeting highlighted residents’ split opinions on the importance of the nonprofit. Some residents, mostly from smaller townships, criticized the EDA for a lack of transparency and unwanted projects. Others supported the EDA for its role in attracting jobs and investment. The county commission had paused funding for the EDA, sparking debate on its future. A second workshop is set for tomorrow.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Blue Water Area Chamber’s CEO has announced her resignation, effective February 7th due to personal life changes. Over the past decade, her leadership has significantly strengthened the Chamber, achieving record membership and a solid reputation across Michigan, especially in the Thumb region. The Chamber’s board chair praised her vision and commitment, which have left a lasting impact. The search for a new CEO will begin soon, aiming to continue the Chamber’s success for its members in St. Clair, Sanilac, Macomb, and Sarnia Lambton Counties.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet