October is Agritourism Month

It is Agritourism Month in Michigan. Trips to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch add to the economy and have social and cultural benefits, but this year, protecting farmers and other visitors is a top priority.

Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Gary McDowell addressed promoting agritourism in the midst of a pandemic, saying, “Agritourism opportunities are available in every county in our state. Our operators are implementing key safety measures to assure the well-being of their customers. We also need visitors to help the agriculture community by following on-farm safety protocols, wearing masks, social distancing whenever possible, washing their hands often, and staying home if they are not feeling well.” 

Agritourism includes farmers markets, on-farm markets, wineries, roadside produce stands, on-farm weddings and events, corn mazes and others. October is the peak time for agritourism as it is harvest time and the time when Michiganders traditionally visit local farms.

In the Blue Water Area, Simpson Family Farm, MacCallum’s Orchard, and CornFun Corn Maze Adventure & Pumpkin Patch are listed on the state’s michiganfarmfun.com website.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Grand River Open – Majestic Lot Still Closed

Grand River Avenue is back open after roof work was completed by a local contractor. The closure of the road was unrelated to the work being done by DTE on the Majestic Lot.

The Majestic Parking Lot, a popular parking lot for those shopping at Downtown businesses, will continue to be closed until December 2020. The lot is being reconstructed as a result of infrastructure work being done by DTE, and the City of Port Huron is working closely with DTE to keep up with its progress.

Parking is available in the city owned McMorran lots that surround the Blue Water Transit Center. Those large parking lots usually charge patrons after the first two hours, but they will remain open and free to the public during construction. The walk from the McMorran lots to businesses on Main Street is about 2 city blocks .

The City of Port Huron has also established convenience spots along Huron Avenue for customers who are making a quick trip or pick up from a downtown businesses. Those select spots are designated for loading and unloading or trips of 15 minutes or less.

Questions or concerns about the project can be directed to the Department of Public Works at 810-984-9730.

 

Two Charged Following Drug Raid

(Port Huron)  Two Port Huron men are facing charges following a drug raid on October 1st.

According to Sheriff Tim Donnellon, the St. Clair County Drug Task Force conducted an investigation into the sales of narcotics in the Port Huron area.  The investigation ended with the execution of a search warrant at a home in the 600 block of 13th Street shortly before 11:30 on October 1st.  Once inside, members of the DTF located and seized about $2500 worth of crack cocaine, along with drug paraphernalia.

The suspects were arraigned before 72nd District Court Judge Mona Armstrong on Sunday.  Vincent Lumetto, age 61, is charged with controlled substance less than 25 grams and maintaining a drug house, while 29 year old Deangelo Lee is charged with controlled substance second or subsequent offense.  Bond for both was set at $10,000 cash/surety.

Both men face a probable cause hearing before Judge Armstrong on October 13th at 9:00 a.m.

Submitted by the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office

It’s “Farm to School Month”

October is “Farm to School Month” in Michigan. Almost a million meals have been provided to state schoolchildren and families as part of the pandemic response, and effort has been made to use local food as much as possible.  

Farm to School Month is a national program that connects consumers with fresh food through the Center for Regional Food Systems at Michigan State University, the Michigan Department of Education, and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).

In explaining the connection between the lunch line and the farm, MDARD Director Gary McDowell said, “Michigan’s local farmers, farm workers, and school nutrition professionals are key components of our state’s vibrant food system. The framework in place through Farm to School efforts have been crucial as farmers, school food service workers, and volunteers continue to serve as frontline heroes, expanding their efforts to provide food to our students and families during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Examples of local products used in school lunches include dairy, fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, meat, and beans. Efforts are also underway to improve nutrition education and increase the number of school gardens.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Sarnia-Lambton United Way Hits Half-Million Mark in Yearly Campaign

Sarnia, ON — The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton County has reached the $500,000 mark in its efforts to reach its Needs Target.

The goal is $1.9 million, but the campaign hit a milestone on October 1. Campaign Chair Vicky Ducharme said, “Local businesses have been working on creative ideas to boost their own staff morale during this pandemic while raising funds for United Way of Sarnia-Lambton. We are booking virtual presentations to employee groups; we have had fun at the drive thru breakfasts and lunches.” 

Like everything else, the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton had to change course in the midst of the pandemic. The usual Day of Caring, Dinner and Auction, and Sarnia Sting game were cancelled. However, the challenges that the United Way addresses remain.

Ducharme said that issues including mental health, food insecurity, poverty, and isolation have not gone away. The organization raises funds for 36 local programs that help vulnerable youth, families, and seniors in the area.

More information can be found at theunitedway.on.ca.

Fire Prevention Month

October is Fire Prevention Month in Michigan. It’s time to check the batteries on your smoke detectors, make an exit plan in case of a fire, and teach the kids safe habits.

This year’s National Fire Protection Association theme is “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” It reminds us to never leave cooking unattended and to keep cooking surfaces clean and burners free of grease buildup.

Most fire deaths happen at night. About half of deadly fires start in the living room, while 17% start in the kitchen and 16% in bedrooms. Over half of all deadly fires since 2017 have involved careless smoking.

Orlene Hawks, Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said, “It is critical for each of us to practice fire safety in our home with our entire family, including our children. Create a fire escape plan and practice it often as a family – it is a simple thing to do, and it can save the lives of the people we love.” 

State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer advises homeowners to have working smoke detectors in every bedroom and to close bedroom doors at night.

Reporting for WGRT -Jennie McClelland