Sarnia-Lambton United Way Sets $1.49M Goal

United Way of Sarnia-Lambton is aiming to raise $1.49 million to support 28 local programs helping thousands across the county. The campaign unofficially started Wednesday at the Sarnia Sting Black & White Game, and officially launches September 16th on Day of Caring. Early efforts have already raised $375,000. Local golf tournaments and cornerstone supporters like Imperial and NOVA Chemicals will help fill the gap. United Way is fully local, keeping donations in Lambton County to fund programs that make a real difference.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Judge Blocks Key Murder Case Statements

Port Huron’s murder case saw a major legal ruling Monday, as a judge blocked key police statements from being used in court. Sayon Florence, 36, charged in the January death of Vincent Buckles, had told police during a February 12th interrogation that she arranged for Dazman Drake to confront Buckles. The court ruled her statements inadmissible because she had previously requested an attorney, which halted earlier questioning. Florence faces first-degree murder, arson, and felony firearm charges. Her jury trial is set for Oct. 7th in St. Clair County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Safety Upgrade to Temporarily Close Trail

A safety upgrade is coming to the I-94 Business Loop in Port Huron and Marysville. The Michigan Department of Transportation plans to spend about $338,000 to add left-turn lanes at Ravenswood Road. The goal is to reduce crashes and improve traffic flow. Construction is expected in summer of ’27 and will temporarily close part of the Bridge to Bay Trail for about two months. MDOT is asking for public feedback on the closure through September 8th. Residents can share input online or by contacting the department directly.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Schools Welcome Lt. Gov. Gilchrist

Port Huron Area Schools kicked off the new school year with a boost of support Tuesday, as Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II visited the district. About 900 teachers and staff gathered at McMorran Place for the Welcome Back Celebration ahead of classes starting Sept. 2nd. Gilchrist praised local educators and highlighted state efforts to provide resources for schools. Superintendent Theo Kerhoulas said the visit shows Michigan leaders recognize the hard work of teachers and staff in Port Huron.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair Seniors Saved Swiftly

After a sprinkler failure flooded St. Clair Landings Retirement Community last Friday, over 25 residents had to leave their homes immediately. The Community Foundation of St. Clair County quickly stepped in, using the SCC Strong fund to secure hotel rooms and provide meals for the displaced seniors. First responders and emergency staff worked with the foundation to ensure residents were safe, fed, and supported. County officials praised the quick action, saying it preserved residents’ dignity and highlighted the strength of the St. Clair community in times of crisis.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Yale Woman Jailed for Embezzling

In Yale, 35-year-old Kymberly Williams was sentenced to three years of probation and 30 days in jail for stealing $47,000 from her employer, Center Line Gage, to fund her gambling habit. She wrote forged checks, causing layoffs at the machine shop. Despite her plea to avoid jail, Judge Daniel Damman ordered the sentence after Williams failed to pay an initial $5,000 restitution. The shop’s owner, Matt Jurcak, forgave her, but the judge emphasized the harm caused to workers who lost jobs.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet