Local News

Five Michigan farm families will be honored in the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame on September 20th at the Barry Expo Center in Barry County. Among them is St. Clair County’s Tom Durand, known for advancing corn production and supporting local farmers through leadership roles in state corn organizations. Durand grows corn, soybeans, wheat, black beans, and sugar beets locally. Established in 1982, the Hall of Fame celebrates farmers who excel in agriculture and serve their communities.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Port Huron is hosting free oral cancer screenings on Sept. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m.. Oral cancer, Michigan’s fastest-growing cancer with over 54,000 annual cases, can affect anyone and often shows no early symptoms. The painless, five-minute screenings can detect pre-cancerous tissue, and anyone with abnormal results will be referred to a nurse navigator for follow-up care. Risk factors include tobacco, alcohol, sun exposure, and certain demographics, making early detection crucial. Appointments are required and space is limited.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County families are being warned about a new scam targeting loved ones in jail. Scammers call family members, pretending to be from the Sheriff’s Office, and demand money through PayPal, Zelle, or ApplePay to “release” the inmate. One recent victim lost nearly $1,000 after a call claiming to be Sgt. Wise. Sheriff Mat King reminds residents the office will never request money digitally and urges anyone suspicious to call the Sheriff’s Office. Families are advised to stay alert and verify any such calls.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A Port Huron woman faces serious charges after a deadly shooting on 10th Avenue. Police say Jennifer Goodall has been arraigned for open murder, felony firearm, and buying a pistol without a license. The victim, Chase Hoyt, died after being shot during a domestic dispute late last Wednesday night. Officers say an 11-year-old child was inside the home but was not hurt. Goodall was taken into custody at the scene and remains in the St. Clair County Jail as the investigation continues.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

St. Clair County is searching for a new District 5 commissioner after Robert Fielitz resigned on August 29. District 5 includes the City of St. Clair and the townships of East China, Kimball, and St. Clair. Residents interested in the role must submit a letter or resume to the County Clerk in Port Huron or by email to citizens@stclaircounty.org
by noon on Friday, September 12th. A special meeting will review applications that day, with candidate interviews expected September 16 and 17th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lambton County’s latest numbers show homelessness in Sarnia-Lambton remains a growing crisis, despite ongoing affordable housing projects. The county reported 284 people without stable homes in July, with chronic homelessness staying high at around 200. Shelters are stretched near capacity. While new housing projects on Confederation Street, Maxwell Park Place, and Kathleen Avenue are in the works, delays mean key targets from the county’s plan have been missed. County leaders say without more funding, the daily struggle for hundreds of residents will continue.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet