Melanie Irwin

Melanie has been a broadcast and multimedia journalist in Sarnia-Lambton since 2005. She grew up on a farm in Mt. Brydges and attended Strathroy District Collegiate Institute and Fanshawe College before settling in Sarnia. She is married to her high school sweetheart and is the proud mother of two boys. Email her at mirwin@blackburnradio.com. Follow her on Twitter: @MIrwinCHOKNews

Teen arrested, suspected cocaine seized following disturbance call

Sarnia police seized a substantial quantity of suspected cocaine after responding to a disturbance call early Saturday morning.

Ontario hires more health and safety inspectors

Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton — who serves as Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development — said they made a promise in March 2020 to keep workers safe.

Walt Anderson. Blackburn News Sarnia file photo from 2013.

St. Clair Township fire chief retiring

St. Clair Township’s fire chief since 2013 is stepping down from the role.

YMCA Peace Medal nominations open

Nominations for this year’s Peace Medal are being accepted.

Storm wreaks havoc on Sarnia-Lambton (GALLERY)

Sarnia’s Emergency Management Coordinator Ron Realesmith said extensive tree damage is reported across the city.

Vehicle stolen from Sarnia Bay Marina recovered quickly

Sarnia police said an individual entered the marina lobby just after 3 a.m. and once inside pried a key box from the wall in an office.

Local restaurants close indoor dining as vaccine passport takes effect

Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine passport is prompting some area restaurants to change business models or close completely.

City hires security company to enforce vaccine passport

Proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 will be required to access non-essential businesses in Ontario starting Wednesday.

Infrastructure improvements push draft capital budget above $50M

Sarnia city staff have presented a draft capital budget for 2022 which details $55 million in spending.

Lambton College in Sarnia. 16 June 2021. (BlackburnNews.com file photo)

Lambton College offers support to survivors of sexual violence

Lambton College recently created a sexual assault prevention ambassador position, part of the school’s commitment to support students who are victims of sexual violence or harassment.