education

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

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

Harrison Adult Learning Center Empowers Students To Achieve High School Diplomas And GEDs

The Harrison Adult Learning Center is proving that it’s never too late to pursue one’s educational dreams. This center, dedicated to helping individuals obtain their high school diplomas or GEDs, is making a significant impact on the lives of students seeking better job opportunities or furthering their education in college or trade schools.

Beyond academic instruction, the Harrison Center goes the extra mile by offering comprehensive support services. Alongside dedicated teaching staff, they provide a Career Navigator who assists students with crafting resumes, accessing job training opportunities, and conducting job searches, all at no cost to the student.

With flexible day and evening classes, the center accommodates diverse schedules. The pinnacle of their year is the heartwarming graduation ceremony in June, where students don caps and gowns, surrounded by proud families celebrating their remarkable achievements.

For more information, visit: phasd.us.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

National Hispanic Heritage Month Kicks Off, Honoring Latino Culture And History

The vibrant and diverse culture of U.S. Latinos take center stage as the nation marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month on September 15th. 

Originally established as Hispanic Heritage Week by Congress in 1968, this annual celebration was extended to a month-long observance in 1988, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of Latino contributions to American society.

The timing of the month-long celebration holds historical significance, commencing in the middle of September to coincide with the national independence days of several Latin American countries. 

Throughout National Hispanic Heritage Month, communities across the United States will come together to appreciate and honor the rich tapestry of traditions, history, and accomplishments of the Hispanic and Latino population. This annual observance serves as a reminder of the enduring impact and influence of these diverse cultures on the nation’s identity.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

High Levels Of Particulate Air Pollution Linked To Increased Breast Cancer Incidence, NIH Study Finds

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have uncovered a concerning association between elevated levels of particulate air pollution and a heightened incidence of breast cancer. 

In one of the most extensive investigations to date on the subject, the study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, reveals a significant correlation between outdoor air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and breast cancer occurrence.

The research identified a notable surge in breast cancer cases among women residing in areas with higher PM2.5 levels compared to those in regions with lower PM2.5 concentrations.

PM2.5, consisting of minuscule solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air, emanates from various sources like vehicle emissions, combustion processes, wood burning, and industrial discharges. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs when inhaled.

To assess local air quality, visit: airnow.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

BGC Sarnia-Lambton Art Club And STEAM Programs Open For Free Registration, Nurturing Young Creativity

The BGC Sarnia-Lambton Art Club and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programs have officially opened registration for children aged 4 – 12. 

These exciting evening drop-in programs, supported by the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton, are set to kick off on September 13th and 14th at the Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre, located at 180 College Ave. N. Sarnia.

Art Club, which will be held every Wednesday from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., offers children the opportunity to unleash their artistic talents, while STEAM Ahead, scheduled for Thursdays at the same time, provides a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to learning.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance for young minds to explore their creativity and delve into the fascinating world of STEAM subjects.

To secure a spot, interested parents can register at: app.amilia.com.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell