Going Out of Business

Big Lots announced going-out-of-business sales at all locations last week following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September. President Bruce Thorn said they’ve worked hard but must protect the company’s value. The retailer has 32 stores in Michigan and one in Port Huron. Despite profitable stores, Big Lots plans a more focused footprint. They continue … Read more

Sarnia Launches Online Portal

The City of Sarnia has launched an online portal to simplify applying for business licenses and planning permits. Residents can now submit applications, pay fees, and track progress in one place, eliminating the need for phone calls or emails. The tool enhances transparency and efficiency by automating application routing and reducing manual data entry. Future … Read more

STEM Lab Graduation Success

Memphis High School’s STEM lab gives students hands-on, project-based learning experiences. Before Thanksgiving, students created holiday decorations and custom t-shirts in the lab. This teaching method benefited non-traditional learners, contributing to a 100% graduation rate for the 2023-24 cohort. The lab, funded by $40,000 dollars in grants, includes 3D printers, CNC machines, and more. Students … Read more

$200K Powerball Surprise

A Cottrellville man was stunned to discover that his $1,500 Powerball ticket was actually worth $200,000. Scott MacKenzie, who bought his ticket in Chesterfield, had initially thought he won $50,000 after matching four white balls and the Powerball in the November 30th drawing. Thanks to the Power Play, his prize was multiplied to $200,000. He … Read more

House Bill 5032

The Michigan Senate has passed House Bill 5032, aimed at expanding homeownership options across the state, with the bill now awaiting Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature. The legislation updates the cap on single-family mortgages backed by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, tying it to 90% of the IRS maximum sales price instead of a flat … Read more

Algonac Man Sentenced

A 31-year-old Algonac man, Andrew Arnold, has been sentenced to 15 months to five years in prison after pleading guilty to reduced child pornography charges. Originally facing eight felony counts, Arnold accepted a plea deal reducing them to three: possession and attempted possession of child sexually abusive material. Michigan State Police arrested him in September … Read more

$2.5 Million Pilot Program

In Lambton County, a new $2.5 million pilot program is bringing hope to those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and mental health. The CHIC team, featuring a paramedic and a substance use navigator, operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering everything from on-scene interventions to basic supplies like food and socks. Since June, they’ve … Read more

Garza Gets Nod

Croswell-Lexington’s Board of Education wrapped up the year by appointing Jacob Garza to fill a vacant board seat after Amie Stillson’s November resignation to teach math at the district’s high school. Stillson was honored for her service. Garza, scoring highest among six candidates, will serve thru December of ’26. The board also approved its annual … Read more

Cancer Center Donations

Aspire Rural Health System Foundation expressed gratitude to Thumb Cellular and the Sanilac County 4-H Horse Open Show Group for their donations supporting the Covenant Cancer Center at Aspire Marlette in Michigan’s Thumb. Thumb Cellular’s “Go Pink This October” campaign, featuring games, prizes, food trucks, and pink hair extensions, raised $4,034. The 4-H Horse Open … Read more

Teen Marijuana Use Decline

A new University of Michigan survey shows that teen marijuana use is at its lowest point in 30 years, with usage dropping by as much as 43% over the past decade. This decline spans 8th to 12th graders, despite 24 states legalizing adult marijuana use. The findings match previous reports from the CDC and National … Read more