The Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce is hosting the annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards on October 18th at the Dante Club. Sponsored by Libro Credit Union, the event includes a three-course dinner, live music from True North Music, and the announcement of this year’s award winners. Tickets are on sale early due to last year’s sellout. The evening will celebrate local businesses and entrepreneurs driving success in the Sarnia Lambton area.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

McKenzie Health System will host a free virtual event on October 16th, from noon to 1, featuring organizing expert Connie Kramer from Integrit Cleaning & Organizing. Kramer will share practical home organization tips and time-saving hacks for the community. The session is part of the “Healthy Living Together” series, offering helpful advice on decluttering and maintaining order at home. Locals can register at McKenzieHealth.org.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Lapeer Community Schools is nearing the final stages of several major bond-funded construction projects. These include multipurpose room gyms at three elementary schools, as well as upgrades to Lapeer High School’s science labs and bus garage. Crews are wrapping up gym equipment and flooring installations, and new asphalt paving at the bus garage is almost complete. The $44 million bond, approved in ’22, will fund additional projects next year. The district plans a grand opening for completed projects by next July.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

After 44 years, a key suspect in the 1980 murder of Karen Umphrey has admitted involvement. Anthony Harris, 64, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, revealing that he and Douglas Laming kidnapped and raped Umphrey, with Laming fatally shooting her. Umphrey’s body was discovered in Beard Hills, St. Clair County, in 1980. Advances in genetic testing identified both men as suspects. Harris confessed that the pair abducted Umphrey after a night out and later dumped her purse to hide evidence. Harris now faces 10 to 18 years in prison, with Laming’s trial set to begin.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

The Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, also known as Michigan’s Thumbcoast, has hired the award-winning Paradise Advertising & Marketing Inc. to create a five-year strategic plan focusing on advocacy, destination development, and sales and marketing. Residents of St. Clair, Sanilac, and Huron Counties are encouraged to share their thoughts through a brief survey at Bluewater.org/survey

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Donna Marie Niester, 67, of Fort Gratiot, passed away on Sunday after battling cancer. Born in Mt. Clemens, she was CEO of Acheson Ventures and a dedicated community leader. Donna was known for her hospitality and commitment to family and community service. She is survived by her siblings, nieces, nephews, and her partner, Brian Harris. Visitation will be today at Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home, with a Funeral Mass on Thursday at St. Edward on the Lake Catholic Church. Donations can be made to the Donna M. Niester Fund.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet