St. Clair County Community College (SC4) and the North American Indigenous Council are hosting the Indigenous People Celebration on November 7th, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the SC4 Fine Arts Theatre. The event, free and open to all, will feature cultural dancers, a water ceremony, and a tribe and land acknowledgment. Artwork will be displayed, and vendors will sell cultural items. Jessica Brown, SC4’s chief diversity officer, emphasized honoring Indigenous culture and raising awareness. For more info, visit SC4’s event page.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reopened the eastbound span of the Blue Water Bridge after completing significant maintenance. Since May, eastbound traffic had been diverted to the westbound lanes for necessary repairs, including work under the bridge deck. Although the bridge reopened, some lane closures continue for painting and other minor work. The entrance ramp on Pine Grove Avenue to the toll plaza remained closed from Wednesday to Saturday until the end of October. Wide and super loads may cross on a limited basis.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Point Edward and Sarnia have reaped significant financial rewards from their local casinos, with nearly $550,000 in recent payments from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. Point Edward received about $448,500 for hosting Starlight Casino, a facility that has generated over $53 million since opening in 2000. Sarnia, on the other hand, received just over $100,000 from Gateway Casinos Sarnia, contributing to $27.8 million since 1999.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Discovery City Children’s Museum has officially opened in downtown Port Huron, located within the Knowlton Ice Museum on Grand River Avenue. This new indoor play space offers a variety of attractions, including a camping exhibit, water features, an animated sandbox, and a miniature city where kids can pretend to run businesses like a pizza shop or veterinary office. Over $500,000 was raised for its launch, with significant contributions from the city and St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Human Development Commission (HDC) announced it will stop several senior services in Huron County, including home-delivered meals and senior transportation, by October 31st. The decision followed unsuccessful funding negotiations with the county, as the Senior Citizen Millage did not meet HDC’s needs. District 7 HDC will continue supporting seniors in Sanilac and Tuscola counties, focusing on outreach and community support.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Earlier this year, St. Clair County Organizing for Regional Equity (SCCORE) integrated the Write to Read literacy program into its afterschool sessions, funded by a $26,000 grant from the Community Foundation of St. Clair County’s Youth Advisory Council and Women’s Initiative. This grant covered materials, food, administrative costs, and tutor stipends. SCCORE Director Kim Brown emphasized the importance of literacy for personal and professional growth. The program focuses on students aged 4 to 17, especially in underserved Port Huron communities.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet