New internal government data shows more than half of Sarnia-Lambton’s long-term care homes fell short of the provincial standard for hands-on resident care in ’23 & 24. Six out of ten local facilities did not meet the target of 3 hours and 42 minutes of daily direct care per resident. Non-profit and municipal homes generally outperformed for-profit operators, with Sumac Lodge providing the lowest average at just under three hours per resident. The province plans to raise care standards to four hours per day.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Huron County funeral home director Terry Alvin Kaufman appeared in court last Thursday as proceedings focused on exchanging evidence, not new details of the alleged embezzlement. Kaufman’s attorney requested discovery materials be sent on a flash drive instead of by email to handle more than 4,000 pages efficiently. The state was also allowed to share tax records with both sides. Kaufman faces multiple felony charges including embezzling nearly $193,000 from 55 victims over the past decade. He is scheduled for a preliminary exam on January 9th.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Blue Water Home Care & Hospice is holding its first “Light Up a Life” campaign under its new name, inviting local families to honor loved ones this holiday season. Blue lights will cover the Tree of Remembrance, each symbolizing someone special who has passed and the caregivers who supported them. Donations stay right here in the Blue Water area, helping provide quality hospice care for families who cannot afford it. The campaign runs through December, and residents can contribute to remember someone meaningful while supporting neighbors in need. Visit bwhch.org/lul

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Marlette residents will decide the fate of recreational marijuana businesses in the August election. Last week, the city council hit pause on all pot shop rules and applications after a petition made the ballot. The proposal would completely ban recreational dispensaries and grows inside city limits. If voters say yes to the ban, only the existing medical marijuana grow on Karen Street stays; nothing new opens. If voters reject it, the council will move forward with strict rules allowing a limited number of pot businesses.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The St. Clair County murder trial of Wyatt Stimac is now in the jury’s hands after both sides rested their cases Thursday. Prosecutors played Stimac’s interview where he admitted following his father into the garage and firing five shots. The defense argued the killing wasn’t planned and should not be first-degree murder. A knife-related charge was dismissed, but the main charge stays. Jurors returned Friday for instructions and closing arguments. Stimac faces life in prison if convicted, plus two years for the firearm.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet