education

Coretta Scott King Calls For Justice Department Review Following Verdict On Martin Luther King Jr.’s Assassination Conspiracy

In a historic revelation, Coretta Scott King, widow of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., feels vindicated by a Memphis jury’s 1999 finding that her husband was a victim of conspiracy, not a lone assassin. King urges the Justice Department to examine the evidence presented in the Memphis case, according to CBSNewscom.

The jury, comprising six blacks and six whites, deliberated briefly before ruling in favor of the King family in a civil lawsuit against Lloyd Jowers, a retired Memphis businessman. Awarded $100 in damages, the Kings sought validation for their call for a new investigation into King’s assassination. 

Attorney William Pepper alleged a vast conspiracy involving the Mafia, federal government agents, and a cover-up by the FBI, CIA, media, and Army intelligence. With a sense of closure, King’s son, Dexter, sees the verdict as liberating, rewriting history and sending a message to those in power.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MLK Day Honors Dr. Martin Luther King’s Enduring Legacy in Shaping Modern Society

As the nation observes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on the huge impact of the visionary leader who championed racial equity and equality during the modern civil rights movement. 

Dr. King’s enduring legacy extends beyond his pivotal role in organizing historic events like the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, where he delivered the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. His commitment to progress and change for the Black community remains unparalleled. 

As the only non-president to have a national holiday dedicated to his memory, Dr. King’s influence resonates in our ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. On this day, we are reminded that it’s our turn to carry forward his legacy through acts of service, fostering unity, and advancing the cause of social justice in modern America.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair County Community Mental Health Inspires Young Artists With “I AM” Bookmark Contest For Elementary Students

St. Clair County Community Mental Health (SCCCMH)  beckons young artists to unleash their creativity in the “I AM” bookmark contest. Open to all elementary students in St. Clair County, the competition encourages participants to design bookmarks with positive affirmations. 

The theme for this year, “I Am Important: the world around me is a better place because of me,” invites students to showcase their unique perspectives.

Contest guidelines require students to submit original artwork, and one winner will be chosen for each grade level (K – 5). Winners will receive certificates, fifty copies of their bookmark, and a $25 Barnes & Noble gift certificate. Winning bookmarks will be printed and distributed across participating schools, fostering a community of positivity and artistic expression. Deadline for submissions is Friday, January 19th. 

For entry forms and details, visit: scccmh.org.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

SC4 Celebration Commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy

St. Clair County Community College (SC4) invites you to step into the heart of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy during a condensed two-hour community celebration. A captivating evening awaits, featuring an array of inspirational elements.

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring beats of music, a compelling dance performance, and the screening of “I AM MLK Jr.,” a poignant documentary delving into Dr. King’s 12-year battle for social justice.

Engage in a rapid-fire panel discussion, witness the expressive piece “Harmony for Justice,” and be captivated by a mesmerizing dance performance. The evening concludes with a powerful closing address, gratitude-filled remarks, and a call to action to actively participate in local social justice initiatives.

Mark your calendars for this unforgettable celebration of unity and empowerment on Monday, January 15th, at SC4’s Fine Arts Theater beginning at 6 p.m.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Birchwood Mall Unveils Exciting Additions: A Haven For Creativity And Bonding

Birchwood Mall is set to become a hub for creativity and family bonding with the introduction of two unique stores. 

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” and “The Process” are the latest additions, offering immersive experiences for both children and adults.

“A Little Hobby Ceramic Studio” combines a ceramics studio with a gift shop, providing a space where families can engage in creative activities and craft personalized keepsakes. Meanwhile, “The Process” promises a hands-on art and science experience, redefining learning through unique and interactive methods.

Birchwood Mall aims to foster a dynamic environment where families can learn and enhance their creativity together. These new stores contribute to the mall’s commitment to providing a memorable and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

For more information, visit their Facebook page at: Birchwood Mall.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Braille Literacy Month, Showcasing Support For The Blind And Visually Impaired Community

Michigan joins the nation in celebrating National Braille Literacy Month throughout January, acknowledging the profound impact this tactile reading system has on individuals who are blind or visually impaired. 

Since its official adoption in 1824, Braille has empowered countless individuals to read using a system of six raised dots. The state of Michigan offers valuable services and resources to support the blind and visually impaired community in learning and enhancing their Braille skills.

Key resources include the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons’ Training Center, dedicated to skill development, and the Braille and Talking Book Library, facilitating access to literature. To explore these resources, visit Michigan.gov/BSBP for the Training Center and Michigan.gov/BTBL for the Braille and Talking Book Library.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell