Local News

Landmark Academy in Kimball is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of educational excellence since opening in 1999. Known for its strong academic performance, community involvement, and successful alumni, the school has grown from a small local institution to a respected center of learning. Events include a ribbon-cutting on September 10 and a gala in December. Superintendent Debby Wilton credits the academy’s success to dedicated staff, students, and families. Landmark Academy remains committed to shaping the future of education in Kimball.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

In about a year, DTE Energy will begin converting Belle River Power Plant from coal to natural gas. This $154 million upgrade will extend the plant’s life by 13 years and cut emissions by 90%. The first unit will switch in ’25, with the second unit completed by late ’26. The conversion is a cost-effective way to ensure reliable power. Up to 200 contractors will be involved. Recently, the plant achieved 100% power availability this summer, thanks to its 250 employees. Belle River, running since 1984, provides 1300 Megawatts of electricity in East China Township.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Richard Hinojosa, a Walpole Island man with a history of drug and weapons charges, now faces 18 new offenses after a recent raid. On August 29th, police found firearms, ammunition, and suspected fentanyl during a search of Hinojosa’s River Road home. He’s charged with multiple drug trafficking and firearm-related offenses, along with breaching bail conditions. Hinojosa, who was previously arrested twice in March ’23 for similar charges, remains in jail with his next court date set for September 13th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Raj Patel, a former Money Mart employee from Sarnia, has had criminal charges related to $20,000 in false loans dropped after agreeing to a peace bond. Patel, who worked at Money Mart in Chatham and Sarnia until December 2023, was accused of processing fake loans and stealing the funds. However, since the full amount was repaid, the Crown decided to drop the charges. Patel, who studied at Lambton College, must now adhere to a peace bond for three years, which prohibits him from returning to any Money Mart and requires him to maintain good behavior.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County has officially responded to a federal lawsuit filed by former Sheriff’s Lt. Scott Jones. The county disputes Jones’ claims that he was unfairly pushed into retirement after reporting Sheriff Mat King’s brother’s arrest and alleging retaliation for his HR complaint. The county admits some facts, such as the sheriff’s call to Jones about the arrest, but denies any misconduct or retaliatory intent. The county argues Jones should have followed protocol by taking Marcus King to the St. Clair County jail instead of Lapeer County.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The United States Coast Guard Cutter Sequoia, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Kent Hunt, arrived at its new home port in Port Huron, Michigan, on Saturday, September 7, completing the final leg of its journey from Detroit. The cutter welcomed 35 media representatives and local dignitaries on board for this segment of the trip, including representatives from WGRT.

After being refitted in Baltimore, the Sequoia spent 19 days traveling to Michigan. It replaces the Hollyhock, which has been reassigned to Honolulu, Hawaii.

The Sequoia is a 225-foot, sea-going buoy tender and one of 16 Juniper-class vessels built and commissioned between 1996 and 2004. Launched on August 23, 2003, in Marinette, Wisconsin, the ship operates with a crew of 48 and carries out a variety of missions, including search and rescue, buoy tending, and icebreaking.