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

Port Huron Branch NAACP Gears Up For Premier Fundraising Gala

The Port Huron Branch of the NAACP is eagerly anticipating their premier fundraising event, set to take place on Saturday, October 21st, at the Blue Water Convention Center located at, 800 Harker St, Port Huron. This gala serves as a platform to engage stakeholders, showcase the organization’s achievements, pay tribute to award recipients, and spotlight their 21st Century Civil Rights agenda.

The evening begins with a networking reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by the gala and program at 6:15 p.m., where several community leaders will be honored for their contributions.

Attendees can expect a feast for the senses, with delightful cuisine and beautiful decorations by Elle Symone Events and Catering. The Metro Soul Band will provide live music spanning various genres, including R&B, jazz, dance classics, blues, classic rock, and Motown hits.

For more information, visit: eventbrite.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell