Wed Sep 18 16:46:57 UTC 2024: ## Hidden Figures Honored, JD Souther Passes, ‘SNL’ Announces Season 50 Hosts

**Washington, D.C. -** The families of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and Christine Darden, the “hidden figures” who played crucial roles in the early days of the space program, were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal on Wednesday. The four Black women were recognized for their groundbreaking work as mathematicians, engineers, and “human computers” on space missions from the 1930s to the 1970s.

**Los Angeles, CA -** John David “JD” Souther, a prolific songwriter and musician whose collaborations with the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt helped shape the country-rock sound of the 1970s, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 78. Souther contributed to some of the Eagles’ biggest hits, including “Best of My Love,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight.”

**New York, NY -** “Saturday Night Live” has announced its lineup of hosts for its landmark 50th season, which kicks off on September 28th. Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart will host the season premiere, followed by Nate Bargatze, Ariana Grande, Michael Keaton, and “SNL” alum John Mulaney.

**Other News:**

* **Shohei Ohtani** stole his 49th base, moving closer to becoming the first player in MLB history with 50 homers and 50 steals in a season. The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Miami Marlins 8-4.
* **The FAA is investigating** a Delta Air Lines flight that experienced pressurization issues, resulting in some passengers suffering bleeding eardrums, headaches, and bloody noses.
* **MrBeast is facing a lawsuit** from contestants on his new Amazon reality show, who allege unsafe working conditions and misrepresentation of the grand prize.
* **Adrian Wojnarowski** is leaving ESPN to become the general manager of the St. Bonaventure men’s basketball program.
* **A vandal damaged a statue** outside St. Louis’ Cathedral Basilica, using construction equipment to drop a heavy boom lift onto the sculpture.
* **Donna Kelce**, mother of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, is making her film debut in two football-themed Hallmark Christmas movies.
* **Americans can now renew their passports online**, bypassing the previous cumbersome mail-in application process.

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