Barn Fire Sparks Community Support

Last month a barn fire destroyed more than 100 pigs and $200,000 in equipment on Alan Thueme’s farm near St. Clair. Firefighters from multiple nearby towns stopped the blaze from spreading, but the loss was heavy. The barn, originally built in the 1920s and part of a family farm since 1946, held decades of local farming history. Neighbors and fellow farmers quickly stepped up, raising over $18,500 through a GoFundMe and helping clear debris. Despite the damage, Thueme’s key breeding hogs survived, and the farm will keep running.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

CF Industries Wins Global Award

In Sarnia, CF Industries has earned global praise for their Star Wars-themed sculpture made from 8,213 food cans. Their “CAN or CANnot, There is No Try” Death Star won the annual CANstruction International People’s Choice Award. This local team’s creative effort also snagged multiple honors at Sarnia’s March CANstruction event, helping raise thousands of dollars and tons of food for the community food bank. Sarnia stood out as the only Canadian city among international winners, highlighting the team’s dedication to fighting hunger right at home.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Brown City Residents Raise Alarms

In Brown City, residents voiced concerns at a July 1st meeting about a proposed 70-home development by Maple Valley Estates LLC. They worry about cramped conditions on just 13 acres, poor road conditions that school buses and snow plows avoid, and ongoing sewer issues from past mistakes. While new homes are needed, locals fear there aren’t enough jobs to support buyers or renters. The developer promised to fix the roads and sewers, with construction set for summer ’28 if approved.

Reporting fgor WGRT – JP bZet

EMS Honored by American Heart Association

In St. Clair County, Tri-Hospital EMS earned a prestigious silver award from the American Heart Association for their life-saving work. The team’s quick responses and top-notch care for heart attack and stroke patients shone through. Led by CEO Ken Cummings and Vice President Karyn Belanger, the 85-member crew handled 24,000 calls in 2024. Their coordination with local hospitals ensures patients get the right care fast. This first-time applicant aims for gold next year.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet