Local News

Landmark Academy students returned to school Thursday after authorities deemed a recent shooting threat non-credible. The Kimball Township school had canceled Wednesday’s classes after a tip about a gun threat, but the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office found no evidence to support it. School officials reassured parents of existing safety protocols. Police presence will be visible on campus, and middle and high school students will have their backpacks searched. Social workers are available to support anxious students, as administrators remind families that false school threats can lead to felony charges.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System is wrapping up its annual Healthy Living Together series with a session on “Healthy Holiday Meals” on November 20th from noon to 1. Led by Michigan State University Extension’s Mary Gilbert, the event will offer tips on making holiday meals nutritious without losing flavor. Participants will learn about balanced meal planning, healthy ingredient swaps, and holiday recipes that keep gatherings both delicious and healthy. The event is free and open to the public, with both in-person and virtual options.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Youth Wellness Hub in Sarnia-Lambton, which opened in August ’23, has seen a surge in visits, reflecting increasing demand for accessible mental health and addiction services for youth aged 12 to 25. The hub offers a range of services under one roof, from psychiatry and counseling to peer support, which helps streamline care for young people. With over 700 visits in its first few months and an expected rise in demand, the hub is addressing gaps left by long wait times and fragmented services.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A recent investigation by the St. Clair County Drug Task Force led to the arrest of Samuel Serra, 55, in Clay Township for drug trafficking. Serra was found with over 85 grams of methamphetamine, 15 grams of cocaine, 18 grams of fentanyl, and other drug-related items at a storage unit. He faces multiple felony charges, including trafficking in meth, cocaine, and fentanyl, as well as maintaining a drug house. Serra is currently being held at the St. Clair County Detention Center with a $30,000 bond.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Judge Cynthia Lane sentenced 64-year-old Anthony Harris to 10 to 18 years in prison for his role in the 1980 murder of Karen Umphrey, following a plea deal. Harris confessed and testified against codefendant Douglas Laming, who was found guilty of first-degree murder. In his confession, Harris admitted he and Laming forced 21-year-old Umphrey into their car, sexually assaulted her, and then witnessed Laming fatally shoot her. Umphrey’s sisters spoke at Harris’ sentencing, sharing the lasting trauma her murder inflicted on their family.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County Community College, or SC4, in Port Huron will host the inaugural Thumbcoast Tip-Off Basketball Tournament today through Saturday, featuring 12 exciting women’s junior college basketball games. Top-ranked teams like No. 3 Mesa Community College and No. 21 SC4 will compete, alongside other nationally ranked schools. Fans can catch the games, with the championship set for Saturday at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 per day, or $25 for the weekend. Special guest, Hall of Famer Juliene Brazinski Simpson, will also be on hand for ceremonies.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet