Long-Serving Board Of Education Member Joe Bixler Resigns To Expand Community Service

In a heartfelt decision, Joe Bixler, a dedicated member of the Port Huron Schools Board of Education since January 1st, 2019, has announced his resignation, effective September 25th. Bixler’s departure is motivated by his desire to extend his community service beyond the board.

Throughout his tenure, Bixler contributed significantly to the district’s progress, actively participating in committees such as Finance, Board Policy, Building & Site, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. He also represented the board at important meetings held by the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) and the St. Clair County Association of School Boards (SCCASB). In addition, he served as Treasurer in 2020 and 2021 and as Vice-President in 2019.

Superintendent Theo Kerhoulas expressed gratitude for Bixler’s unwavering dedication to Port Huron Schools, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring the best possible education for all students. Even as Bixler embarks on new community ventures, his advocacy for the district remains steadfast.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Honors Pankiewicz Cider Mill & Farm Market As Top Cider Mill In “Vote 4 the Best” Competition

State Rep. Jaime Greene paid tribute to Pankiewicz Cider Mill & Farm Market on Friday, celebrating their triumph as the top cider mill in this year’s “Vote 4 the Best” competition hosted by WDIV. The heartfelt recognition acknowledged the Pankiewicz family’s dedication and their farm’s integral role in the Blue Water community.

Greene praised Steve and Theresa Pankiewicz for nurturing their family business into a beloved local treasure. The cider mill has become a cherished gathering place, where families create enduring memories while savoring delectable doughnuts.

In addition to the accolades, Pankiewicz Cider Mill received verification from the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program, a testament to their commitment to reducing environmental risks.

The Pankiewicz family and their cider mill continue to serve as a beacon of excellence and community spirit in Casco Township.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Supreme Court Extends Stay On Content Removal Requests, Raises Free Speech Concerns

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has extended a temporary stay until September 27th, blocking a lower court’s ruling restricting federal agencies from contacting social media firms with content removal requests. 

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy is at the forefront of the case, accused by critics of collaborating with government efforts to stifle open discourse on public health issues like COVID-19.

This action follows Justice Alito’s initial hold on the July 4th ruling of the U.S. District Judge, Terry Doughty of Louisiana, which was set to expire on September 22nd. Doughty’s order prevented various federal agencies from pressuring social media companies.

Missouri and Louisiana’s attorneys general filed the lawsuit, alleging that the Biden administration coerced platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube into suppressing dissenting voices under the guise of combating misinformation. Concerns regarding freedom of speech loom large as the case unfolds.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

DISC

National Pancake Day Returns On September 26th

It’s time to dust off your spatula and fire up the griddle because National Pancake Day is back for its second round this year on September 26th. 

Pancakes, a culinary classic with roots dating back to Ancient Greece, have evolved into a diverse global delight. Pancakes are a delight to taste buds across the world. In Britain and France, they savor thin crepes, often filled with sweet or savory delights. Indonesians enjoy “serabi,” crafted from rice flour and coconut milk. Uganda’s banana pancakes are a local favorite.

On National Pancake Day, all pancake aficionados are invited to celebrate their preferred style of this beloved dish. Whether you love them fluffy, thin, sweet, or savory, mark your calendar for September 26th and prepare to stack and savor these delectable creations.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Awards $1.5M Grants To Boost College Success For Diverse Student Groups

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Office of Sixty by 30, in partnership with Global Detroit and the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN), has allocated $1.5 million in Student and Immigrant Success Grants to support 12 Michigan community and tribal colleges. 

These grants aim to drive innovation and enhance college completion rates among adult learners, international students, immigrants, refugees, and first-generation students. LEO Director Susan Corbin emphasized the significance of increasing the state’s college completion rates, positioning Michigan for global economic competitiveness. 

The grants, distributed in two categories, aim to align with the goal of equipping 60% of Michigan’s workforce with a degree or credential by 2030. The Adult Student Success Grant and Immigrant Student Success Grant will empower colleges to implement strategies tailored to their respective student populations, fostering a more skilled and diverse workforce.

For more information, visit: Michigan.gov/reconnect.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell