5 Things You Need To Know For January 30, 2026

January 30, 2026 5:55 am Published by Chris McLeod

_{January 30th is the 30th day of the year. There are 335 days remaining until the end of the year.}

Little quieter on the roads this morning, it’s a PA Day for most students in Chatham-Kent.

There’s a free swim at the Gable Rees Pool in Blenheim today from 1:30-3 and at the Wallaceburg Sydenham Pool at the from 1:30-4.

If swimming isn’t your thing – grab some skates and get the family out for some FREE Public Skating this weekend.

Friday, January 29 Wallaceburg Memorial Arena, 11 – 12:30 p.m. Tilbury Memorial Community Centre, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Chatham Erickson Arena, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Saturday, January 30 Blenheim Memorial Arena, 7:30 – 9 p.m. Sunday, February 1 Chatham Memorial Arena 10 – 11:30 a.m. Thames Campus, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Tilbury Memorial Community Centre, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Wallaceburg Memorial Arena, 2 – 3:30 p.m. Wheatley Area Complex, 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Click here for more information on the ice skating programs.

Today until Sunday you can stop by Tim Hortons for a limited-edition donut in support of Special Olympics.

100% of proceeds from the Special Olympics Donut supports sports programs for athletes with an intellectual disability in communities across Canada. To date, this exclusive donut has raised nearly $1M for Special Olympics Canada.

The donut is a chocolate cake ring donut with white fondant, coloured sprinkles and whipped topping. The multi-coloured design was inspired by the themes of diversity and inclusion that are central to the Special Olympics mission. It’s $1.69.

The Canadian Cancer Society launches their “Dry-Feb” campaign this weekend to raise awareness and funds to combat cancer.

Dry Feb challenges you to give up alcohol for the 28 days of February to raise funds for CAMH – Canada’s largest mental health teaching hospital. Going alcohol-free for a month can give you benefits such as improved sleep, increase in energy, and helps you feel clearer and more balanced.

To sign up go to DryFeb.ca and register and start looking for sponsors.

A major overhaul of Starbucks Rewards program is happening this spring.

Beginning March 10th, the ‘ll introduce a new three-tier system: Green, Gold, and Reserve, with benefits based on how many Stars customers earn.

Green members will earn one Star per dollar, receive a birthday food or drink reward, early access to select menu items, and a new perk called Free Mod Mondays. Stars at this level expire after six months, but can be extended through monthly activity.

Gold status requires 500 Stars in a year, offering 1-and-a-half Stars per dollar, non-expiring Stars, four Double Star Days annually, and a seven-day window to claim birthday rewards.

The top-tier Reserve level requires 2,500 Stars, includes six additional Double Star Days, a 30-day birthday window, higher earning rates, and access to exclusive experiences, including travel opportunities.

Starbucks says existing Stars will carry over when the program launches.