The Blue Water Area is mourning the loss of longtime coach and educator Len Perkins, whose impact stretched across generations of local athletes. Perkins coached for more than 50 years, including 20 seasons leading Anchor Bay baseball and guiding Algonac softball to its first state semifinal. Known for building character beyond the scoreboard, Perkins also mentored future coaches, including his son, Port Huron football coach Dan Perkins. Len died December 18th at age 86, leaving behind a legacy in local sports.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

A U.S. District Court has set key deadlines in the civil lawsuit over Joshua Conant’s death outside Port Huron’s Roche Bar over two years ago. The schedule requires witness and evidence lists by April, expert witness filings by May and June, and completion of fact and expert discovery by July and September. Mediation for a potential settlement begins mid-September, with motions on expert testimony or summary judgment due by October. Conant’s death, caused by restraint-related cardiac arrest, led to the Joshua Conant Ordinance requiring bar security training.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

National School Choice Week kicks off January 25th, offering Michigan families a chance to explore all types of K–12 education. More than 810 schools across the state, including public, charter, magnet, private, online, and home-based programs, will host events like open houses, information sessions, and parent nights. The week highlights local schools and gives parents direct access to educators to learn about the best fit for their children. Michigan communities are encouraged to attend and discover their options.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet

Imlay City is set for a major boost in affordable housing thanks to federal funding awarded through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Townsend Manor II, an apartment complex, will receive more than $444,000 in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to rehabilitate 48 units for residents earning below 60% of the area median income. Most of these units will also get rental assistance through a federal program, helping families keep housing costs affordable. The upgrades will improve living conditions and accessibility, while creating 22 temporary construction jobs.

Reporting for WGRT – JP bZet