Sarnia’s 123rd Labour Day Parade returns to Front Street September 1st, celebrating all workers under this year’s theme, “Elbows Up Canada.” The march starts at 9:30 a.m. at Front and Davis streets and moves north to Maxwell Street, with a detour around downtown construction. Parade marshal Candace Young says the event honors unionized and non-unionized workers while promoting community unity. Trophies will be awarded for Best Union Float, Best Band, Best Commercial, and Best Non-Commercial Entry.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Port Huron’s working waterfront got a $1 million boost as the Lakes Pilots Association upgraded its St. Clair River station. Improvements over the past five months include two new boat wells, a reinforced seawall, new cabins, eye beams, and docks. Association president Capt. Tony Brandano says the upgrades protect the shoreline and strengthen daily operations. The project wraps up in two weeks, keeping the 17 pilots—who guide ships from Port Huron to Buffalo—safe and ready on one of the Great Lakes’ most challenging waterways.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A heated Clay Township Board meeting on Monday turned chaotic when Supervisor Paul Cassidy and Treasurer Jerry Galka walked out after a dispute over public comment. The tension began when a resident mentioned an alleged social media message from Galka criticizing a past campaign. Cassidy tried to cut her off and called for removals, but police refused, saying no laws were broken. Trustee Jon DeBoyer challenged Cassidy’s handling, and after Cassidy and Galka left, DeBoyer took over as chair. With a quorum still present, the board completed its agenda.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The U.S. Coast Guard and local agencies worked nonstop during Sunday’s Port Huron Float Down to keep thousands of participants safe on the St. Clair River. Strong winds created rough water, pushing many floaters off course toward Canada. Thirty Coast Guard boats and a helicopter responded to emergencies, from capsized kayaks to boats filling with water. Despite repeated warnings against the event, crews stayed busy all day, but no major injuries or deaths were reported. Officials say teamwork among agencies ensured everyone made it home safely.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

From August 24th through September 7th, McDonald’s in Sarnia and Petrolia is asking customers to add a loonie to their order to help local kids get school lunches. The 20th annual Loonies for Lunches campaign supports The Inn of the Good Shepherd, which provides snacks and meals to more than 900 children each month. Since it began, the initiative has raised over $135,000 for Lambton County students. Donations can be made at McDonald’s counters, drive-thrus, or online at theinnsarnia.ca/donate.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet