PONTIAC SILVERDOME TO OPEN ON SATURDAY APRIL 17 WITH MONSTER TRUCK EVENT – TO GET YOUR TICKETS GO TO WWW.SILVERDOMETICKETS.COM The April 15 - April 24, 2010 New Pontiac City Council President Lee Jones (shown with Pro Tem Patrice Waterman) calls for a coming together of all elements of the Pontiac News community to move Pontiac forward. A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR VOL. 2 ISSUE 1 See story on page 2 The Pontiac Silverdome will return to operation as a sports and entertainment venue, bringing with it economic activity that could help to revive the city. The first event will be "Domination in the Dome," a monster truck and motorsports event on April 17. Silverdome spokesman Tom Constand talked about the venue's role in helping to revive the local economy. "We’ll be creating jobs, working with local vendors and businesses, and making the Silverdome an engine of economic impact and community support,” he said. Future events are planned including Composer A.R. Rahman, the Oscar- and Grammy- winner behind the “Slumdog Millionaire” soundtrack, will perform on June 19, 2010.
Tony Brown Featured Trinity Baptist Church SIMBA Program Speaker at Oakland County Host Reginald Bullock Producer of Diversity Conference “A War For Your Soul” Join the "Taking Diversity & Inclusion to the Next Oakland County Level - Practical and Fair Application! This Employment event will take place on Thursday, April 22, Diversity Council 2010, at The Met Hotel (formerly the (OCEDC) along Ramada Plaza Hotel-Troy) located at 5500 with presenting Crooks Road in Troy MI, from 8 am until Shown in photo are sponsor Oakland 4:30 pm. The keynote speaker during the SIMBA Director Bruce County Michigan lunch hour will be producer, bestselling Stewart, filmaker Works, Oakland author, educator, radio host, television Reginald Bullock and Tony Brown County Human commentator and film director Mr.Tony Dr. Drew Marshall Resources Brown, who will discuss strategies for pastor of Trinity Department, The Pontiac News and Baker Taking Diversity & Inclusion to the Next Missionary Baptist College of Auburn Hills in presenting the 8th Level, with a focus on Diversity Through Church Annual Workplace Diversity Conference. Excellence. (See Page 16) The Dangerous Consequences of High-Stakes Standardized Testing What is a High-Stakes Test? High-stakes tests are tests that are used as the SOLE • A performance-based assessment system requires Tests are called "high-stakes" when they used to make determinant of critically important educational decisions, students to demonstrate what they know, not how well they major decisions about a student, such as high school gradua- such as grade promotion or graduation, in the life of a child. take tests. tion or grade promotion. To be high stakes, a test has to be So why does TPN and YDI say "NO" to high stakes tests? • A performance-based assessment system tells schools, very important in the decision process or be able to override Because... parents, colleges and employers how well students do in real- other information (for example, a student does not graduate if • Learning is complex; assessment should be, too. world situations. s/he does not pass the test regardless of how well s/he did in • Multiple forms of assessment have more reliability and • The well constructed performance-based assessment school). Currently, more than 17 states require students to consequential validity predicting future success than single system is aligned to, meets and exceeds the State Learning pass a test to graduate, and several more are planning such instrument high-stakes tests. Standards. tests.(Article continues on page 10) Captain Crust Pizza • Seafood • Subs Featuring Southern Smoked BBQ Dine In – Carryout – Catering 248-451-9500 • 340 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in Pontiac Late Night Deliveries Available – Open Late See Full Page ad and Insert Center of Paper Page 2 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Who Said Nothing Positive Is Going On In Pontiac? Pontiac News PUBLISHER & CONTENT EDITOR The Pontiac News making Pontiac a better place for all to live, Arena and Frank Russell, Publisher The R. Frank Russell would like to applaud the work and play. During his brief talk Pontiac News. The Unsung Hero and CONTENTS & NEWS EDITOR: efforts and vision of Lee President Jones emphasized the importance Heroine Award Recipients included Brenda Elaine Smith-Wright Jones the new Pontiac of allowing the skills and abilities of each Canty-Carter, Velma L. Stephens, Robert AFRICIAN CORRESPONDENT: City Council President, member of the community to shine, as we Lee Griffin, Quincy Stewart II and Tom Kofi Annorh who on Saturday April strive to make our city work for all its resi- Runyon. Thank You award winners and CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: 10, during his keynote dents.. Pontiac Democratic Club for all the Good Dianthia Spann, Elaine Smith-Wright, presentation at the 3rd Kudos to the Pontiac Democratic Club work that you do for our community. Rev. James Keys, Quincy Stewart III, annual “Unsung Hero and for recognizing individuals in the community Special recognition also to Dr. Rev. Drew Jonathon Givens, Ken Corr, Heroine” luncheon spon- for their service, although they were not all Marshall and the Men’s Ministry of Trinity Ray Wright, Adam Polk, Brenda Canty-Carter. Publisher sored by the Pontiac Democrats. During this event the following Baptist Church on its SIMBA program that is PHOTOGRAPHER: TBD R. Frank Democratic Club encour- individuals were honored with Community designed to take young boys to manhood. ADVERTISING MANAGER: Kashif Russell Russell aged those in attendance Service Awards: Chris Riley – “Sky The We urge other community organizations and CIRCULATION MANAGER: Christopher Riley to be inclusive and open to involving all of Limit Community Foundation, George churches to duplicate this critical program. OFFICE MANAGER: Mary C. Russell the diverse elements of the community in Derderian Jr., Owner – The Ultimate Soccer (See SIMBA Program model below) DESIGNER & PRINTER: Michigan Web Press CONTACT INFO: TELEPHONE: (248) 758-1411 FAX: (248) 451-1653 PO Box 431412, Suite #1 Pontiac, MI 48343 S I M B A www.thepontiacnews.com “A War for Your Soul” [email protected] On Saturday April 10 - The “SIMBA” The program will conduct twice monthly, focuses on equipping the boys to deal with Male Mentoring Ministry of Trinity Saturday morning sessions, on a variety of the stress and pressure they experience when Inside Missionary Baptist Church opened its doors topics pertinent to the development of young dealing with issues among their peers group, and hosted a community viewing of the short males (see curriculum offerings). Most such as crime, violence, sex, drugs and other Guest Opinions ...... 3 film entitled “A War for Your Soul”, sessions will be held at the Trinity social and moral conduct. They will have the produced by filmmaker, Mr. Reginald Missionary Baptist Church Family Life opportunity to participate in decision making Pontiac Clean Up ...... 4 Bullock of Nashville , Tennessee. Mr. Center, 113-123 Wesson Street, Pontiac, and leadership by participating in group proj- Bullock created the film two days after Michigan, except for enrichments activities ects. What’s Happening in President Obama’s historic election to the for which a permission slip must be signed • Young Lion Warriors presidency of the United States. The intent by the parent/guardian in advance. On occa- High School - age boys 15 – 18 years old. Oakland County ...... 5 of this the film is to inspire African American sion we will schedule an outside activity that The program will continue to focus on Africa & World News ...... 6 youth to achieve their full potential and not will require chaperones. helping our boys to deal with the social and fall prey to the negative influences that chal- • The curriculum societal issues confronting them so that they Randy Carter ...... 7 lenge them on a daily basis. Heralded for its The curriculum is designed to enhance, make good decisions. In addition, they will sobering and powerful message targeted to reinforce, and solidify the lessons that young be encouraged to make plans and set goals SIMBA Event ...... 8 our youth, “A War for Your Soul”, has also men should be receiving at school and at about their career choices and start to think struck a passionate nerve in the adults in home. We work on an “open book” basis, about creating options for the future. We Unsung Hero & Heroine attendance and is projected to spark a wide meaning there are no secrets and all of our will have guests address the boys from many Event ...... 8 variety of discussion in the African American material is open to review by parents or different career fields and vocations. and wider community. Mr. Bullock was guardians at any time. If there is a topic or Leadership development, problem solving Educational Matters ...... 10 present and spoke on the important themes session that you feel uncomfortable with, and community service will be emphasized. highlighted in the film. Following his pres- feel free to contact one of the program coor- Ask Elaine.comy ...... 11 entation, Mr. Bullock answered questions dinators to discuss your concerns. For addi- SIMBA Curriculum Plan Activities 2010 from the audience of over 200 youth, teens tional information contact the Church office April 24, 2010 . . .Dealing with Temptation. PRC Carnival ...... 12 and adults from Pontiac and surrounding at (248) 334-5043. Financial Literacy: Money Game communities. (See SIMBA Event photos on • Meeting Times May 8, 2010 ...... ………….. Career Day Healthy Affair ...... 13 Page 8) All sessions will begin promptly at May 22, 2010 . . .………….. Oral Hygiene Kindergarten Round-Up . . . .14 9:00AM and end at 11:30AM. The time for June 5, 2010……………..….SIMBA Goes A Christian Based Male Mentoring and enrichment may differ. Please be on time for Fishing and Cookout Community Events ...... 15 Rites of Passage Program the start and be there at the end of each July 12, 2010 ...... IMBA Rite of Parent/Guardian Overview session to pick up your Young Lions. Passage Ceremony OCEDC Tony Brown ...... 16 Age Levels • Purpose • Young Lion Cubs This program is designed to instill pride Elementary –age boys 8 – 10 years old. (PPEZFBS"VUP4FSWJDF$FOUFSTo5JSFTt.BJOUFOBODFt3FQBJST and hope in our male youths (ages 8 – 18) The program for the young lion cubs will and provide them with the knowledge, skills focus on developing academic and social and ability to face the challenges of being a skills and on involving the boys with 95 Christian man in our society as they transi- Christian African American men as role $ tion from adolescences into adulthood. They models. The curriculum will be more 18 Coupon Price OR will leave the program with the confidence to activity based with a brief period of instruc- $10 OFF Premium FREE Oil Change make sound decisions when confronted with tion. societal issues that will test their moral fiber • Young Lions One FlatTire Repair Standard Oil Change and be the men that God created them to be. Middle School age boys 11 – 14 years plus a FREE 4 Tire Rotation • Program dynamics/Location old. The program for the young lions Must present coupon to get this price. Redeem at participating Goodyear Auto Service Centers only. See store for complete details. Must present coupon to get this offer. Most vehicles. No other discounts Offer ends 05/31/10. apply. Rotate all 4 tires. Up to 5 quarts of oil. Canister filter, diesel, syn- thetic blend and full synthetic oil extra. Fluid/filter disposal charges may apply. Additional charge for shop supplies, up to 7% or $25 maximum, Principles may be added. Redeem at participating Goodyear Auto Service Centers only. See store for complete details. Offer ends 05/31/10. A YOUNG Lion is $ OFF PONTIAC Regular price of any 10 preventive maintenance Strong He is strong in mind, body, and spirit. over $50.00 50300 Woodward Avenue ON IMPORTANT (248) 335-6167 Intelligent He thinks his way through life and applies himself in every situation. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE "JS $BCJO'VFM'JMUFSTt#FMUT)PTFT Manly He is becoming a man who is strong, responsible, and caring. 'MVJE&YDIBOHFT'MVTIFTt)FBEMBNQT#VMCT Must present coupon to get this offer. Most vehicles. No other Brave He is brave enough to be his own person and not follow the crowd. discounts apply. Additional charges for shop supplies, up to 7% or $25 maximum may be added. Redeem at participating Goodyear Auto Service Centers only. See store for complete details. Offer A Leader He leads the way for others by always doing what is right. ends 05/31/10.
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 3 Guest Opinions Jazz: Given Up for Adoption This article is not as far a departure from We embraced the music and danced music. Now we are at a day where John cultural heartbeat to the rubbish pile and my previous articles as to it, cried with it, laughed in it, vented our Coltrane, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Morgan, replaced it with dishonest art, disingenuous meets the eye because the indignation by it and as it developed; we found Sonny Rollins, Wayne Shorter, Art Blakey, Art reasons for doing so and in the process lost our abandonment of true jazz is great spiritual value in it. It was indeed, the Tatum and countless too many to mention, integrity. as political as our abandon- highest form of expression bar none- and have been embraced by most countries in Certainly I’m not suggesting that jazz ment of culture, which jazz became America’s true indigenous art form, Europe; jazz conservatories around America music was our saving grace and the loss of it is certainly an integral part borne from struggle, ingenuity and true fron- are bursting at the seams with young white was the death nail; I am suggesting however, of. tiers-manship. men and women who clearly see the music’s that jazz embodies all that came before it- and From its beginnings, It is beyond shameful, that we have come to worth and are learning it, and existing current all that came before it contains the essential jazz music has chronicled this point in our people’s history where we jazz musicians of color and otherwise are elements that runs through all that comes after Quincy our history in America as view Charlie Parker, who incorporated Heifetz, embraced everywhere but in the black commu- it. In this way our integrity is intact, our history Stewart III people of African descent in Stravinsky, Debussy, Wagner, Bessie Smith, nity where we have opted for songs that are is succinct, so that even the so-called hip hop various forms reflecting the shifting attitudes Louis Armstrong, imitated deacons in the misogynistic, embrace crime and the superflu- culture would not have to make excuses for of our people yet, containing the stability that a “Amen Corner” of the black church, and the ousness of materialism. Many of our children itself trying to explain away why much of it has rich culture provides. There are certain never- stomp-down blues, and logically and ingen- don’t learn to play musical instruments or severed the vein in which the blood of our fore- changing constants that remain with us regard- iously expanded those aforementioned influ- study singing; they throw together sampled fathers and mothers fed us with continued less of the harshest of oppression, both in ences and sold it wholesale to the public at “beats”, play one to two note “bass lines” for vision and the desire to hold the past in one culture and in the norms and mores that come large, as “old fashioned”, passé and thrown to the lack of a better description and talk trash hand and the future in the other. with that culture. Our people have suffered others to enjoy and embrace. Even more over the top of it. Every clinic I attend, most concerts I go to, countless inundations, gross inhumanities and shameful, is the legacies that people like Louis This is not to say for one second that there its Caucasian people who are playing the jazz, continue to this very moment. The blues and Armstrong left, not just in high musical isn’t great hip hop out on the market where rap attending the concerts, even teaching it. There jazz have both not just merely chronicled those integrity and virtuosity, [if that wasn’t enough] and hip hop are expressed at high levels, like was a time that “smooth jazz” was merely the agonies, but have provided a source of but in the consistency of their struggles to live Naz, Dead Prez, Talib Kwali, Lupe Fiasco, kind of music found in doctors’ offices, playing triumph, joy, and buttressed the political and this music and expand it where and when they Mos Def, Common and others. These are in the background at the mall, or while we shop social retorts that have come from the non- could, that we have abandoned it for calling artists who have chosen to take this relatively for groceries. There was a time where jazz was musical side of our lives. each other niggers, bitches and hoes and label new art form and express it at high levels and not so much an “acquired taste” but recognized Field hollers and mascon songs from the it as “art”. exercise integrity. But when you have buffoons among our people as a delicatessen; a gumbo Mississippi Delta to the songs from the wheat It is the trickery of systematic oppression and minstrels like Nelle, whose “Tip Drill” served hot with culture and yes, we even fields of New York and the tobacco fields of that has left us psychologically so debased that song incorporates sliding a credit card between danced to it. These sentiments aren’t the the Virginias and the Carolinas provided much we have opted for such a low road and literally a young lady’s butt-crack on a video, this must musings of an old school jazzer pining for the more than outlets for frustration and pain, but spat in the faces of our ancestors who saw be shunned and called out. I’m calling it out. good old days; rather a soldier lamenting the served as communication devices, like the themselves as protectors of the culture with As a black jazz musician, over the years I loss of a stronghold on the battlefield of his famous “Drinking Gourd” song and “Steal hopes that the next generation would expand have seen the enmity we face when we take the people’s struggle for liberation and eventual Away” to name a few. The blues, which on what they left and reach such high levels of stage in our own communities to play music victory. For without culture, our first line of emanated from those spirituals gave us the human expression, that it would transform the that is very difficult and takes many years to defense is gone, and leaves us naked to lunacy. sounding board to fortify the struggle for liber- world. Instead, opinions like mine have been even be competent at, that expresses high The kind of lunacy that causes us to see the ation both personally and collectively as our seen as “haters” and still living in the past. The degrees of human emotion and conveys high word nigger as a term of endearment, the kind ancestors strove to maintain families, provide progression of time in and of itself is not neces- drama, as young people and now even older of lunacy and pathology that leads us to exploit food and shelter, and yes, chronicle the never- sarily progression in thought, or an excuse to ones, walk away to opt for some boodie- our women and for them to exploit themselves ending complexities of love, relationships, see integrity as old fashioned. Nor is it an shaking music while other cultures remain and on videos as insatiable vixens and dehuman- betrayal, rejection and sometimes, outright excuse to diminish the need for the consuming enjoy us. Though I welcome the embrace of ized sex objects and for us to see nothing lust. public to demand of those who call themselves anyone who loves this great art form, I often wrong with it. As an artist, I also lament the Jazz, with its roots in Congo Square and artists to express that art with high levels of feel like an adopted child who longs to connect loss of musical integrity, the loss of our young eventually in Storyville, New Orleans grew craftsmanship and sound judgment. with his kin but they don’t love him anymore. people actually learning to play an instrument quickly to places like Chicago, New York, Our struggle is sacred. Countless lives Amilcar Cabral said it best…”Culture is the and being musically literate. I welcome and Detroit, and wherever we migrated to. It was a were needlessly lost and America has our first line of defense against colonialism” It is love the technology that affords people to make music that incorporated European music, blood in its very soil. Jazz music, though seem- safe to say that our defenses are way down. It is music and I realize that art evolves, but there is utilizing the more complex harmonies of ingly just an art form has been much more than safe to say that we have allowed the shelter that no evolution without a firm grasp of the foun- Debussy, Stravinsky and others married to spir- that. culture provided for us to survive slavery to dation that evolution rests on. ituals, blues and folk songs. It was a music that It is the only art form that for many years, have its shingles torn asunder, the foundation Jazz has been all but forgotten in our could reflect enormous beauty, ugly realities, whites and blacks shared a perfect democracy, to sink into the muddy earth and we stand culture and relegated to the dusty closet of faint sweet love and even downright raunchiness. In as jazz musicians by and large held no racial unprotected from the cruel elements that remembrances and the price we pay for the other words, it reflected at its best, the human prejudices on or off the bandstand. Their America’s nature has rained down upon us. storage is bankrupting us. experience which effects and affects us all. common denominator was the greatness of the We have discarded the very center of our Kenneth R. Burch, Sr. P.C. Attorney At Law PERSONAL INJURY WE HAVE MOVED Auto and Truck Accidents • Wrongful Death Cases See New Address Below Medical Malpractice • Premises Liability All accident and serious injuries
Office - 248-338-1242 • Fax – 248-338-1051 Email – [email protected] 295 West Huron - Pontiac, MI 48341 A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 4 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010
Join Us • Join Us • Join Us Let’s Clean Up Our City & Take Our Pride Back Pontiac Clean Up Initiative 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Clean-up Campaign Saturday’s Focus Areas M-59 April 24, 2010 Woodward Ave. April 24, 2010 Auburn Rd. May 8, 2010 Note: Please bring your own rake and tools if possible! Join Us The City of Pontiac • Greater Pontiac Community Coalition • Woodward Ave. Committee • Genisys Credit Union Downtown Development Authority (DDA) • Grace Centers of Hope • Young Adult for Change (YAC) • Kensington Church Doctors’ Hospital of Michigan • Downtown Business Development (DBA) • District Council • Taubman Realty Group Pontiac Residents, Business Leaders, and Churches as we go street by street!!! To sign-up call: Welcome Missionary Baptist Church 248-335-8740 and ask for Odessa, Grace Centers of Hope 248-334-2181 and ask for Rachel or go online at www.pontiac.mi.us
Law Offices of n the event that you or your loved ones, friends Iand/or acquaintances find themselves in need of CYRIL C. HALL, P.C. legal service, do not hesitate to contact me. For informational purposes, you should be aware that we Attorney And Counselor At Law provide the following, but not limited to legal services. 1. All Personal Injury matters: a. Automobile/Motorcycle accidents: b. Slip and Fall accidents on private property/ businesses and other locations c. Dog Bite: and d. Police Brutality and Abuse/Excessive Force 2. Medical Malpractice/Nursing Home Negligence 3. Contract Matters/Real Estate/Business Transactions: a. Automobile and Home Insurance Dr. Harry L. Riggs Building 4. Probate Matters: Wills – Trust – Estate Planning: 149 Franklin Blvd and Guardianship and Conservatorship. Pontiac, Michigan 48341 5. Workmen’s Compensation and Social Security (Phone) 248-333-7880 Claims. (Fax) 248-333-7924 6. All Criminal matters Felony/Misdemeanors and Traffic. Email: [email protected] A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 5 What’s Happening In Oakland County L. Brooks Patterson Declares 2010 - 2012 Economic April Oakland County Fair Forecast for Oakland Housing Month - "Fair County At 25th Annual Housing in 2010: Time To Act" Economic Luncheon Oakland County unlawful discrimination is widespread so the A few select seats remain for the 25th www.oakgov.com/peds/calendar/economi- Executive L. Brooks fight against housing discrimination must Annual Oakland County Economic Outlook coutlook.html For more information, call Patterson has declared April continue,” Patterson said. “I hope that this Luncheon on Thursday, April 29, 2010 at the 248-858-8706. 2010 as Oakland County declaration of April as Oakland County Fair Marriott Hotel in Troy. The 2010 - 2012 George Fulton and Donald Grimes, econ- Fair Housing Month, in Housing Month will increase awareness of Employment Forecast for Oakland County, a omists with the University of Michigan’s recognition of the 42nd the fair housing laws and the various organi- joint venture of Oakland County Planning & Institute for Research on Labor, Employment anniversary of the signing zations working to protect individuals in their Economic Development Services (PEDS) and the Economy, will present the 2010 - L. Brooks of the Federal Fair Housing search for housing of their choice.” and the University of Michigan's Institute for 2012 Employment Forecast for Oakland Act. Freedom from A Housing Counselor is available to all Research on Labor, Employment and the County, which includes forecasts for total Patterson discrimination in the denial Oakland County residents to assist in cases of Economy, will be presented at the luncheon, employment in private manufacturing and of housing on the basis of sex, color, race, suspected discrimination. scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. non-manufacturing sectors with breakdowns age, religion, national origin, disability, Inquiries may be directed to the Oakland Hosts for the luncheon are Chase, Oakland for various industry categories. The outlook family or marital status is guaranteed by this County Housing Counselor at (248) 452- Community College and Oakland County. report is a main component for the County's act and other federal and state legislation. 9200, or to the Fair Housing Center of The cost is $40 per person. This event is long-term planning and promotion activities. “There is ample evidence to indicate that Metropolitan Detroit at (313) 963-1274 expected to sell out. Register online today at April Business Workshops Offered By Oakland County Business owners and entrepreneurs who designed for owners, CEOs and top manage- tion is required. companies buy from you, and why they need assistance are invited to attend seminars ment team members of businesses with at don't. Presented by Gerry Weinberg & in April, 2010 offered by the Oakland least two years of operating experience. Legal & Financial Basics for Small Associates. County Business Center. Business Basics Focused on issues most important to busi- Business - This workshop covers many of Wednesday, April 28, from 9:00 a.m. to workshops are now offered in the evenings ness health and growth, attendees gain the key legal and financial issues faced by Noon on alternating months. knowledge to make critical decisions about both new and existing small businesses in Oakland County Executive Office their business and strategy, investigate next- Michigan. The program initially focuses on Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac FastTrac® NewVenture is an intensive, stage growth and opportunity, plan for the many management and liability concerns Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. 10-week program that helps you evaluate strategic growth, build and maintain a faced by entrepreneurs, as well as today's tax For pre-registration and location business opportunities and develop an action competitive advantage and maximize cash consequences. The program also provides specifics, visit our website at plan for owning your own business. Written flow for profitability. solutions and techniques for business oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) by entrepreneurs for aspiring entrepreneurs, The class is from Friday, April 23 concession and individual investment and 858-0783. FastTrac® NewVenture offers essential busi- through June 25, 2010 (ten consecutive retirement planning. Presented by Carter & The fee is $45. No refunds. ness information to help you develop your sessions), from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Affiliates, P.C. entrepreneurial skills and build your business Oakland County Executive Office Tuesday, April 27, from 9:00 a.m. to Fundamentals of Writing a Business on a strong foundation. FastTrac® Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac Noon Plan is a workshop for small business NewVenture provides the opportunity to Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. Oakland County Executive Office owners who are developing a plan to serve as objectively evaluate your concept and plans For pre-registration and location Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac their road map to success. for moving forward, begin building an infra- specifics, visit our website at Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. Thursday, April 29, from 6:00 p.m. to structure for your business operations and oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) For pre-registration and location 9:00 p.m. processes, understand how to access the 858-0783. specifics, visit our website at Oakland County Executive Office human, financial and business resources, and The fee is $700. No refunds. oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac build an actionable business plan. 858-0783. Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. The class is from Tuesday, April 20 Oakland County and CRA Association This workshop is free, but pre-registra- For pre-registration and location through June 22, 2010 (ten consecutive Small Business Money Smart Forum - tion is required. specifics, visit our website at sessions) from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This no-charge financial forum is sponsored oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) Oakland County Executive Office by the Oakland County Community Sales II: Is Following Up Your Best 858-0783. Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac Reinvestment Act (CRA) Association and is Sales Strategy? - Learn what questions to ask The fee is $40, which includes all mate- Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. intended to provide entrepreneurs with up to to help the prospect discover why to buy rials. No refunds. For pre-registration and location date information on sources of funds and from your company. Better understand why specifics, visit our website at valuable resources to support their busi- oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) nesses. Panel will address the audience and 858-0783. elaborate on their services. There will be a LARRY JONES The fee is $700. No refunds. display of banker member products and serv- ices and an opportunity for entrepreneurs to Fundamentals of Starting a Business is sit face to face with the various bankers and a seminar for anyone thinking about going address financing needs. Panel includes City CPA into business. Participants examine their of Pontiac, Pontiac Regional Chamber of entrepreneurial skills, learn how to imple- Commerce, Oakland County CRA ment their ideas and receive a list of pitfalls Association members (bankers), Oakland to avoid when starting a business. County Business Consultant, Oakland Thursday, April 22, 2010 from 6:00 County Business Finance Corporation Loan p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Officer, CPA. Co-Sponsored by the Oakland Dr. Harry L. Riggs Building Oakland County Executive Office County Business Center. Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac Friday, April 23, from 8:00 a.m. to 149 Franklin Blvd Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. Noon For pre-registration and location Oakland County Executive Office Pontiac, MI 48341 specifics, visit our website at Building Conference Center, 2100 Pontiac oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) Lake Road, west of Telegraph, Waterford. 858-0783. For pre-registration and location The fee is $30. No refunds. specifics, visit our website at oakgov.com/peds/calendar, or call (248) FastTrac® Growth Venture (Venture 858-0783. (248) 333-7414 Forward) is an intensive, 10-week program This workshop is free, but pre-registra- A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 6 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010 Africa (Alkebulan) & World News Editors Note: The ancient name for the continent of Africa is Alkebulan. It means”mother of humankind. Africa the current name, was given to this continent by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Source: Alkebulan Reference Center – www.ancient-knowledge-breakthrough.net Billionaires and Mega-Corporations Behind Immense Land Grab in Africa (Alkebulan) wheat, rice, vegetables and flowers for the Leading the rush are international agribusi- hot spots. South Korean companies last year Saudi market. It expects eventually to employ nesses, investment banks, hedge funds, bought 1.75 million acres of northern Sudan for more than 10,000 people. commodity traders, sovereign wealth funds as wheat cultivation; the United Arab Emirates But Ethiopia is only one of 20 or more well as UK pension funds, foundations and have acquired 1.875 million acres and Saudi African countries where land is being bought or individuals attracted by some of the world's Arabia last month concluded a 100,000 acre leased for intensive agriculture on an immense cheapest land. deal in Nile province. scale in what may be the greatest change of Together they are scouring Sudan, Kenya, The government of southern Sudan says ownership since the colonial era. Nigeria, Tanzania, Malawi, Ethiopia, Congo, many companies are now trying to acquire land. Zambia, Uganda, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, "We have had many requests from many devel- Land rush Mali, Sierra Leone, Ghana and elsewhere. opers. Negotiations are going on," said Peter An Observer investigation estimates that up Ethiopia alone has approved 815 foreign- Chooli, director of water resources and irriga- to 125 million acres of land -- an area more than financed agricultural projects since 2007. Any tion, in Juba last week. "A Danish group is in double the size of the UK -- has been acquired land there, which investors have not been able discussions with the state and another wants to in the last few years or is in the process of being to buy, is being leased for approximately $1 per use land near the Nile." negotiated by governments and wealthy year per 2.5 acres. In one of the most extraordinary deals, investors working with state subsidies. The data Saudi Arabia, along with other Middle buccaneering New York investment firm Jarch used was collected by Grain, the International Eastern emirate states such as Qatar, Kuwait Capital, run by a former commodities trader, Institute for Environment and Development, the and Abu Dhabi, is thought to be the biggest Philip Heilberg, has leased 2 million acres in Kofi Annorh International Land Coalition, ActionAid and buyer. In 2008 the Saudi government, which southern Sudan near Darfur. Heilberg has prom- African Correspondent other non-governmental groups. was one of the Middle East's largest wheat- ised not only to create jobs but also to put 10% Kofi provides TPN with news The land rush, which is still accelerating, growers, announced it was to reduce its or more of his profits back into the local about events that are happening has been triggered by the worldwide food short- domestic cereal production by 12% a year to community. But he has been accused by on the African Continent. ages which followed the sharp oil price rises in conserve its water. It earmarked $5-billion to Sudanese of "grabbing" communal land and 2008, growing water shortages and the provide loans at preferential rates to Saudi leading an American attempt to fragment Sudan European Union's insistence that 10% of all companies which wanted to invest in countries and exploit its resources. By John Vidal, Mail & Guardian transport fuel must come from plant-based with strong agricultural potential . ©2010 Mail & Guardian All rights reserved. biofuels by 2015. Meanwhile, the Saudi investment company New colonialism Awassa, Ethiopia – We turned off the main In many areas the deals have led to evic- Foras, backed by the Islamic Development Devlin Kuyek, a Montreal-based researcher road to Awassa, talked our way past security tions, civil unrest and complaints of "land grab- Bank and wealthy Saudi investors, plans to with Grain, said investing in Africa was now guards and drove a mile across empty land bing". spend $1-billion buying land and growing seen as a new food supply strategy by many before we found what will soon be Ethiopia's The experience of Nyikaw Ochalla, an seven million tonnes of rice for the Saudi governments. "Rich countries are eyeing Africa largest greenhouse. Nestling below an escarp- indigenous Anuak from the Gambella region of market within seven years. The company says it not just for a healthy return on capital, but also ment of the Rift Valley, the development is far Ethiopia now living in Britain but who is in is investigating buying land in Mali, Senegal, as an insurance policy. Food shortages and riots from finished, but the plastic and steel structure regular contact with farmers in his region, is Sudan and Uganda. By turning to Africa to in 28 countries in 2008, declining water already stretches over 50 acres* -- the size of 20 typical. He said: "All of the land in the grow its staple crops, Saudi Arabia is not just supplies, climate change and huge population soccer fields. Gambella region is utilised. Each community acquiring Africa's land but is securing itself the growth have together made land attractive. The farm manager shows us millions of has and looks after its own territory and the equivalent of hundreds of millions of gallons of Africa has the most land and, compared with tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables being rivers and farmlands within it. It is a myth prop- scarce water a year. Water, says the UN, will be other continents, is cheap," he said. grown in 1,500 foot rows in computer agated by the government and investors to say the defining resource of the next 100 years. "Farmland in sub-Saharan Africa is giving controlled conditions. Spanish engineers are that there is waste land or land that is not 25% returns a year and new technology can building the steel structure, Dutch technology utilised in Gambella. Huge deals treble crop yields in short time frames," said minimises water use from two bore-holes and "The foreign companies are arriving in large Since 2008 Saudi investors have bought Susan Payne, chief executive of Emergent Asset 1,000 women pick and pack 50 tons of food a numbers, depriving people of land they have heavily in Sudan, Egypt, Ethiopia and Kenya. Management, a UK investment fund seeking to day. Within 24 hours, it has been driven 200 used for centuries. There is no consultation with Last year the first sacks of wheat grown in spend $50-million on African land, which, she miles to Addis Ababa and flown 1,000 miles to the indigenous population. The deals are done Ethiopia for the Saudi market were presented by said, was attracting governments, corporations, the shops and restaurants of Dubai, Jeddah and secretly. The only thing the local people see is al-Amoudi to King Abdullah. multinationals and other investors. elsewhere in the Middle East. people coming with lots of tractors to invade Some of the African deals lined up are eye- "Agricultural development is not only sustain- Ethiopia is one of the hungriest countries in their lands. wateringly large: China has signed a contract able, it is our future. If we do not pay great care the world with more than 13-million people "All the land round my family village of with the Democratic Republic of Congo to and attention now to increase food production needing food aid, but paradoxically the govern- Illia has been taken over and is being cleared. grow 7-million acres of palm oil for biofuels. by over 50% before 2050, we will face serious ment is offering at least 7.5 million acres of its People now have to work for an Indian Before it fell apart after riots, a proposed 3 food shortages globally," she said. most fertile land to rich countries and some of company. Their land has been compulsorily million acres deal between Madagascar and the But many of the deals are widely the world's most wealthy individuals to export taken and they have been given no compensa- South Korean company Daewoo would have condemned by both Western non-government food for their own populations. tion. People cannot believe what is happening. included nearly half of the country's arable land. groups and nationals as "new colonialism", The 2,500 acres of land which contain the Thousands of people will be affected and Land to grow biofuel crops is also in driving people off the land and taking scarce Awassa greenhouses are leased for 99 years to a people will go hungry." demand. "European biofuel companies have resources away from people. Saudi billionaire businessman, Ethiopian-born It is not known if the acquisitions will acquired or requested about 10 million acres in We met Tegenu Morku, a land agent, in a Sheikh Mohammed al-Amoudi, one of the 50 improve or worsen food security in Africa, or if Africa. This has led to displacement of people, roadside cafe on his way to the region of richest men in the world. His Saudi Star they will stimulate separatist conflicts, but a lack of consultation and compensation, broken Oromia in Ethiopia to find 1,250 acresof land company plans to spend up to $2-billion major World Bank report due to be published promises about wages and job opportunities," for a group of Egyptian investors. They planned acquiring and developing 1.25 million acres of this month is expected to warn of both the said Tim Rice, author of an ActionAid report to fatten cattle, grow cereals and spices and land in Ethiopia in the next few years. So far, it potential benefits and the immense dangers they which estimates that the EU needs to grow export as much as possible to Egypt. There had has bought four farms and is already growing represent to people and nature. crops on 43 million acres, well over half the size to be water available and he expected the price of Italy, if it is to meet its 10% biofuel target by to be about 15 birr (about $1) per 2.5 acres per 2015. year -- less than a quarter of the cost of land in "The biofuel land grab in Africa is already Egypt and a tenth of the price of land in Asia. Mosaic Ghana Africa displacing farmers and food production. The "The land and labor is cheap and the climate In October 2010, Mosaic Ghana Africa will lead a business development, invest- number of people going hungry will increase," is good here. Everyone -- Saudis, Turks, ment and cultural tour to Accra, Ghana in West Africa. The delegation will include he said. British firms have secured tracts of land Chinese, Egyptians -- is looking. The farmers various Oakland County, State of Michigan and other U.S. based executives of in Angola, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Nigeria and do not like it because they get displaced, but small, medium, and large U.S. firms representing a variety of business sectors. Tanzania to grow flowers and vegetables. they can find land elsewhere and, besides, they Indian companies, backed by government get compensation, equivalent to about 10 years' The overall focus of the trip will be commercial, cultural and investment opportuni- loans, have bought or leased hundreds of thou- crop yield," he said. ties for Oakland County, State of Michigan and other U.S. companies, including sands of acres in Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, joint ventures, presented by the continuing market liberalization and privatization Senegal and Mozambique, where they are Man-made famine underway in this country. In Ghana briefings and one-on-one business appoint- growing rice, sugar cane, maize and lentils to Oromia is one of the centers of the African feed their domestic market. land rush. Haile Hirpa, president of the Oromia ments will be arranged for members of the government, business and cultural dele- Nowhere is now out of bounds. Sudan, studies' association, said last week in a letter of gation”. For information regarding this trip contact emerging from civil war and mostly bereft of 248-758-1411 or email [email protected] development for a generation, is one of the new See Land on page 7 A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 7 District 4 is taking a strong, proactive stance against blight and vandalism
District 4 has May 13, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Columbia two active Avenue Boys and Girls Club. On Saturday neighborhood April 17, 2010, this watch group will be watch groups, cleaning up to blighted properties located on one on the verge W. Yale Avenue. For more information of starting and about this event, contact one neighbor- [email protected] hood association The E. Valdosta Neighborhood Watch all with the goal Group is in its formation stages. This group of making our residents safe. A successful neighborhood Councilman watch program Randy Carter can begin with something as simple as cutting your porch This is a picture of the house on W. Yale that is scheduled to be lights on at night, or getting to know your cleaned up this Saturday by the Columbia-Baldwin Neighborhood neighbors who live in the front, back and on Watch Group. the sides of your home. The Highwood-LeBaron Neighborhood will encompase houses located in and around E. Side of Baldwin Avenue. If you are inter- Watch Group formed two years ago. It’s Valdosta Circle off of W. Walton Blvd. ested in either of these group, or to form a boundaries cover from Highwood to Arlene People interested in being a part of this group watch group in your area contact me at 248- and from Columbia Avenue to Beverly can contact District 4 resident Jeffrey 758-3210 ext. 3014 or write Avenue. This group meets on the second Hawkins- Pontiac’s Fire Chief at 248-333- [email protected] . Saturday of each month at 1:30 p.m. at St. 7001 – Fire Department Main number or Blight and vandalism should not be toler- Paul Lutheran Church located at 1133 Joslyn 248-210-8311. ated but fiscal circumstances have caused Avenue. For more information email The residents of Walton Manor have major cutbacks in our city services. We may [email protected] . formed a small group that is actively policing not be able to control dollars spent at city The Baldwin-Columbia Neighborhood the Cherrylawn Park area. Their goal is to hall but we can control what sits in our Watch Group is a few months old. Its bound- County Commissioner Tim keep the park free of blight and debris so our neighborhoods and who and what our chil- aries are from Baldwin Avenue to Stanley Greimel assists Highwood young can play safely. There are several dren may be playing around. Remember it is Avenue and from Columbia Avenue th LeBaron WatchGroup in remov- other watch groups in its early stages. There up to us. Sheffield. The next meegting is Thursday ing grafitti. is one for E. Chicago area and another for the
Land from page 6 required chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, intensive water use, and large-scale protest to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon transport, storage and distribution which that India had acquired 2.5 million acres, together turned landscapes into enormous Carter's Custom Djibouti 2,500 acres, Saudi Arabia 250,000 and mono-cultural plantations. that Egyptian, South Korean, Chinese, Nigerian "We are seeing dispossession on a massive and other Arab investors were all active in the scale. It means less food is available and local state. people will have less. There will be more "This is the new, 21st-century colonization. conflict and political instability and cultures The Saudis are enjoying the rice harvest, while will be uprooted. The small farmers of Africa Communication the Oromos are dying from man-made famine are the basis of food security. The food avail- as we speak," he said. ability of the planet will decline," she says. But The Ethiopian government denied the deals Rodney Cooke, director at the UN's were causing hunger and said that the land deals International Fund for Agricultural 877-537-4920 • 248-920-0331 Fax were attracting hundreds of millions of dollars Development, sees potential benefits. "I would of foreign investments and tens of thousands of avoid the blanket term 'land-grabbing'. Done the P.O. Box 210802 • Auburn Hills, Michigan 48321 jobs. A spokesperson said: "Ethiopia has [187 right way, these deals can bring benefits for all million acres] of fertile land, of which only 15% parties and be a tool for development." is currently in use -- mainly by subsistence Lorenzo Cotula, senior researcher with the [email protected] • www.carterscusco.com farmers. Of the remaining land, only a small International Institute for Environment and percentage -- 3 to 4% -- is offered to foreign Development, who co-authored a report on We specialize in investors. Investors are never given land that African land exchanges with the UN fund last belongs to Ethiopian farmers. The government year, found that well-structured deals could also encourages Ethiopians in the diaspora to guarantee employment, better infrastructures website construction, invest in their homeland. They bring badly and better crop yields. But badly handled they needed technology, they offer jobs and training could cause great harm, especially if local printing, photography to Ethiopians, they operate in areas where there people were excluded from decisions about is suitable land and access to water." allocating land and if their land rights were not and all your media The reality on the ground is different, protected. according to Michael Taylor, a policy specialist Water is also controversial. Local govern- at the International Land Coalition. "If land in ment officers in Ethiopia told the Observer that related needs. Africa hasn't been planted, it's probably for a foreign companies that set up flower farms and reason. Maybe it's used to graze livestock or other large intensive farms were not being deliberately left fallow to prevent nutrient charged for water. "We would like to, but the Count on Carter's Custom Communication depletion and erosion. Anybody who has seen deal is made by central government," said one. these areas identified as unused understands In Awassa, the al-Amouni farm uses as much for your media needs. that there is no land in Ethiopia that has no water a year as 100,000 Ethiopians. owners and users." *Measurements in the article have been Development experts are divided on the adapted from metric system. benefits of large-scale, intensive farming. © 2010 Mail & Guardian All rights Ask us about our Indian ecologist Vandana Shiva said in London reserved. - View this story online at: last week that large-scale industrial agriculture http://www.alternet.org/story/145970/ not only threw people off the land but also $399.00 website special A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 8 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010 Trinity Baptist Church SIMBA Program “A War for Your Soul” Event
Pontiac Democractic Club Photos Unsung Hero & Heroine Luncheon
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 9
Build Your Own Captain Crust Pizza • Salad Menu Desserts • Broasted Chicken • Appetizers
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 10 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010 Educational Matters The Dangerous Consequences of High-Stakes Standardized Testing Articles continues from Page 1 Cover The higher the stakes, the more schools schools are doing. However, tests fail to validity of such decisions." focus instruction on the tests. As a result, provide sufficient information. The federal American Educational Research Tests are called "standardized" when all what is not tested often is not taught. Whole requirement that only assessment scores be Association, 2000 students answer the same questions under subjects may be dropped; e.g., science, social used to determine whether schools are "We're embracing standardized tests just similar conditions and their responses are studies, art or physical education may be improving has made the situation worse. when the new economy is eliminating stan- scored in the same way. This includes eliminated if only language arts and math are Teaching to the test causes score inflation dardized jobs." commercial norm-referenced tests as well as tested. (score gains that don’t represent actual Robert B. Reich, former Secretary of state criterion-referenced or standards-based Important topics or skills that cannot be improvements in learning) which misleads Labor exams. They can include multiple-choice or tested with paper-and-pencil tests – such as the public into thinking schools are "As someone who has spent his entire open-ended (constructed) responses. writing research papers or conducting labo- improving, when they may not be better – career doing research, writing, and thinking Research has shown that high-stakes ratory experiments – are not taught. and due to teaching to the test, may even be about educational testing and assessment testing causes damage to individual students Instruction starts to look like the tests. worse. issues, I would like to conclude [this study and education. It is not a reasonable method For example, reading is reduced to short Most tests are secret, so the public cannot review] by summarizing a compelling case for improving schools. Here are a few of the passages followed by multiple-choice ques- know what students are expected to know. showing that the major uses of tests for many reasons why: tions, a kind of "reading" that does not exist State academic content standards typically student and school accountability during the 1) High-stakes tests are unfair to many in the real world. Writing becomes the "five- are too long, often too obscure, and much of past 50 years have improved education and students. paragraph essay" that is useless except on what is in them is not tested. student learning in dramatic ways. Some students simply do not test well. standardized tests. Tests are a narrow slice of what parents Unfortunately, that is not my conclusion. Many students are affected by test anxiety or Narrowing of curriculum and instruction and the public need to know about schools. Instead, I am led to conclude that the unin- do not show their learning well on a stan- happens most to low-income students. In They don’t include non-academic areas and tended negative effects of high-stakes dardized test, resulting in inaccurately lower schools serving wealthier areas, teachers and they are weak measures of academics. accountability uses [of tests] often outweigh scores. parents make sure most students gain the Test results don’t take into account non- the intended positive effects." Many students do not have a fair opportu- skills and knowledge they need to succeed in school factors that affect learning, such as Robert L. Linn, Distinguished Professor nity to learn the material on the test because college and life. Too often, poor kids in poverty, hunger, student mobility, lack of at the Center for Research on Evaluation, they attend poorly-funded schools with large under-funded schools get little more than test medical care, safety, community resources, Standards, and Student Testing, University class sizes, too many teachers without coaching that does not adequately prepare parents’ education - all of which must be of Colorado, Boulder, and Co-Director of subject area certification, and inadequate them for further learning. In some schools, addressed if "no children are to be left CRESST (National Center for Research on books, libraries, laboratories, computers and the library budget is spent on test prep mate- behind." Evaluation, Standards, and Student Testing other facilities. rials, and professional development is Conclusion: High-stakes testing does at UCLA). "Assessments and These students are usually from low- reduced to training teachers to be better test not improve education. Accountability," Educational Researcher, 29, income families, and many also suffer prob- coaches. All this further limits educational Test standards and major research groups 2, p.14 (March, 2000). lems with housing, nutrition or health care. opportunities for low-income children. such as the National Academy of Sciences "We opposed high-stakes, standardized High-stakes tests punish them for things they Some people say that teaching to the test clearly state that major educational decisions tests used to make important decisions about cannot control. is fine if test content is important. However: should not be based solely on a test score. students or schools for the following reasons: Students with learning disabilities, whose • Most tests include many topics that are High-stakes testing punishes students, and making bad decisions, narrowing the first language is not English, or who attend not important, while many important areas often teachers, for things they cannot control. curriculum, focusing exclusively on certain vocational schools fail high-stakes tests far are not included on standardized tests It drives students and teachers away from segments of students, losing instructional more frequently than do mainstream because they cannot be measured by such learning, and at times from school. It time and moving decision-making to central students. tests. narrows, distorts, weakens and impoverishes authorities and away from local personnel." Some people say that it is unfair to • Teaching to the test produces a class- the curriculum while fostering forms of National Council of Teachers of English, students to graduate them if they have not room climate and style of teaching that is instruction that fail to engage students or 1999 been adequately educated. But if students do ineffective and turns many students off to support high-quality learning. In a high- "If teachers are judged by their students' not have access to an adequate and equitable learning. stakes testing environment, the limit to standardized test scores, they will no longer education, they end up being held account- • Teaching to the test does not produce educational improvement is largely dictated see the opportunity to engage with their able while the system is not. States must take real and sustained gains on independent by the tests - but the tests are a poor measure students as guides, rather only as taskmas- responsibility and be held accountable for learning measures. Teaching to the test does of high-quality curriculum and learning. In ters. Unfortunately, both parents and teachers providing a strong educational opportunity not work if the goal is high-quality learning. particular, the emphasis on testing hurts low- are likely to treat children who fail tests for all. 4) High-stakes testing drives out good income students and students from minority differently, and potentiate the self-fulfilling 2) High-stakes testing leads to teachers. groups. Testing cannot provide adequate prophecies begun by the tests." increased grade retention and dropping As learning largely depends on teacher information about school quality or progress. Brian K. Hixson (veteran teacher), "How out. quality, real improvements in schools can High-stakes testing actively hurts, rather Tests Change a Teacher," The New York Grade retention has repeatedly been only come through teachers. Good teachers than helps, genuine educational improve- Times, January 25, 2000 proven to be counterproductive: students are often discouraged, even disgusted, by the ment. "As states have rushed to adopt high who are retained do not improve academi- overemphasis on testing. Many excellent Q8: What Do They Say Against High- stakes testing, there have been no significant cally, are emotionally damaged by retention, teachers leave. It is absurd to believe that the Stakes Tests? gains in academic achievement... The suffer a loss of interest in school and self- "best and brightest" will want to become "It is improper - and potentially illegal - dropout rate has increased for both blacks esteem, and are more likely to drop out of teachers when teaching is reduced to test to use a test score as a single factor to deter- and whites, contrary to most reports... The school. prep and when schools are continually mine retention, graduation or college admis- basic theory justifying such tests - that The most comprehensive national study attacked by politicians, business leaders and sion." students rationally react to increasingly finds that graduation tests lead to a higher the media. When narrow tests are used to U.S. Department of Education's Office demanding requirements by learning more in dropout rate for students who are relatively hold schools accountable, teachers also leave for Civil Rights, 1999 earlier grades - has little support. If the basic low-achievers in school, while they do not low-performing schools where they are "Decisions that affect individual students' premise upon which high stakes testing is produce improved learning for those who needed most. life chances or educational opportunities founded is false, and its costs are so severe, stay in school. 5) High-stakes testing misinforms the should not be made on the basis of test scores then why is it being so widely championed as 3) High-stakes testing produces public. alone. Other relevant information should be teaching to the test. People have a right to know how well taken into account to enhance the overall See Testing on page 11 Producer, Bestselling Author, TV Commentator & Film Director Tony Brown Featured Speaker at Oakland County Diversity Conference On April 22, 2010 Hurry Reserve Your Seat today – Call 248-858-5204 Join the Oakland County Employment Diversity Council (OCEDC) along with presenting sponsor Oakland County Michigan Works, Oakland County Human Resources Department, The Pontiac News and Baker College of Auburn Hills in presenting the 8TH Annual Workplace Diversity Conference. "Taking Diversity & Inclusion to the Next Level - Practical and Fair Application”. This event will take place on Thursday, April 22, 2010, at The Met Hotel (formerly the Ramada Plaza Hotel-Troy) located at 5500 Crooks Road in Troy MI, from 8 am until 4:30 pm. A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 11 Ask Elaine.com Testing from page 10 By Elaine Smith-Wright a panacea?" Gary Orfield, Professor of Education and Social Policy, Harvard University Graduate School of Education Mrs. Smith-Wright started out as a Mass Communications major at Oakland University Q15: What Does Performance Assessment Look Like? and now holds a B.A. degree in Nursing Home Administration and the Certificate of Performance assessment tasks include work such as: Gerontology and Sociology of the Aging from Wiley College along with a MBA Degree from 1. Literary Essays That Demonstrate Analytic Thinking East Texas Baptist University in Management. She also holds a Certificate in Filmmaking, • Why Do They Have to Die: A Comparative Analysis of Screenwriting and Directing from the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan. the Protagonists' Deaths in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Metamorphosis and Of Mice and Men • What Role Do Black Characters Play in Faulkner's The Dear Elaine: would have to find someone to make a not understand how a person could let Sound and the Fury and Flannery O'Connor's Short I’m getting married this summer and dress that at least came close to what themselves get to that point. A lot of Stories? I am planning a pretty large wedding everyone else was wearing. I’m sorry times, they don’t even realize that they • How Do Puzo's Characters Change from Book to Film in because I come from a large family and but I have this awful image in my head are becoming obese until it’s too late. the Godfather Saga? so does my fiancé. I have been dreaming as to how my wedding pictures would Many people are emotional eaters and • Insanity in Literature: Catch-22, One Flew Over the about this day since I was a little girl look with her in them and I don’t want a any type of an emotion can trigger the Cuckoo's Nest and Selected Short Stories and have always known exactly how I great big blob right in the middle of the hunger pangs that cause a person to 2. Problem-Solving in Mathematics That Demonstrates wanted everything to be including the picture. I love my sister but I don’t want overeat. She may need professional High Level Conceptual Knowledge way my wedding party would look. I her in the wedding with all of that counseling and the advice of a nutri- • Regression Analysis for Determining Effect of Water have picked out everything from the weight. All the girls weigh around tionist and her doctor to help her to get Quality on Cosmos Suphureus dress, bride’s maids dresses, flower girl 125lbs to 150lbs. She weighs almost started on getting healthy. That’s one • Finding the Parabolic Path of a Comet as It Moves dresses, groomsmen’s tuxedos, the color 300lbs and has trouble walking and problem and as far as the wedding is Through the Solar System of the wedding, where it will be held, breathing, wearing shoes and it just does concerned, I understand that you want • Developing a Computer Program to Create the Brain the honeymoon, gifts for the wedding not look nice. I am very worried about your pictures to look nice but I want you Game party, the reception and everything else. her health and feel sorry for her because to consider this: after the wedding is • Determining and Proving Distance Between Two Points The problem is that I have ten bride’s she has no self-esteem but like I said, over, even though you will have your Using Trigonometric Formulas maids and seven of them are girlfriends, until she makes up her mind to do some- pictures to remind you of the day, what • Isaac Newton's Laws: Discoveries and the Physics and one is my fiancé‘s sister and two out of thing about it, I sure can’t. I’m feeling kind of a relationship will you be able to Math Behind a Model Roller Coaster three of my sisters are included. I have very guilty about my decision but then; maintain with your sister? Since you 3. Original Science Experiments That Demonstrate been trying to get my third sister to lose should I? HELP! are determined to not allow her to be in Understanding of the Scientific Method weight for over a year so that she could Signed, the wedding party, remind her of your • How Does a Garter Snake Detect Its Prey? be in the wedding too by asking her to I’m Getting Married In The love for her and give her another task so • What Combination of Focal Length and Aperture of a go to the gym with me and go on a Summer that she still feels like she is a part of the Pinhole Camera Will Create the Best Image? Weight Watcher’s diet plan and trying to occasion. She can be the one who • How Does Water Pollution Affect Micro-Organisms? eat healthier. I have been doing every- Dear I’m Getting Married: collects and arranges the gifts and takes • How Does the Shape of an Airfoil Affect the Flight of an thing that I could but unless she puts I understand your dilemma but I sure the cards that contain money or gift Airplane? forth the effort nothing is going to don’t envy you at all. On the one hand cards or she can pass out the program if 4. Research Papers That Demonstrate the Use of happen to improve her appearance. I your sister is not doing all that she can there is one or if she has a beautiful Evidence and Argument would gladly drop one of my so-called to better her health and THAT should be singing voice, allow her to be a part of • Who Or What Is Responsible for the End of Slavery in girlfriends out of the wedding so my her main reason for wanting to drop the the ceremony. This way she will be in the United States? sister could be in the wedding party but pounds. Many diseases are attributed to the wedding without feeling cast aside • What Is the Meaning of the Free Exercise Clause of the she refused to try and drop some pounds being overweight including diabetes, completely by her sister. Good Luck! First Amendment? for the occasion. She says that if I high blood pressure and kidney disease • Why Did the United States Become Involved in the REALLY loved her, I would let her be in as well as the threat of having a heart You can write to Ask Elaine.Com at: Conflict of Vietnam? the wedding REGARDLESS as to how attack or a stroke. A lot of time when a [email protected] • Did King Make the Movement or Did the Movement she looks but the dresses that the girls person reaches that size it is time for Make King? are wearing do not come that large and I desperate measures. Many people do National Center for Fair and Open Testing www.fairtest.org
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 12 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010
PONTIAC REGIONAL CHAMBER 2ND ANNUAL CARNIVAL
35&&DUQLYDO«'$<62)(;&,7(0(17 YOUR SUMMER FUN STARTS NOW! THURSDAY, MAY 6³ SUNDAY, MAY 16
BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Join Us for FOOD, GAMES & FUN!
Thursday, May 6 ² Sunday, May 16 Th, May 6 4 p.m. ² 10 p.m. Fr, Sa, May 7 & 8 Noon - 11 p.m. Su, May 9 Noon ² 9 p.m. M ²Th, May 10 - 13 4 p.m. ² 10 p.m. Fr, Sa, May 14 & 15 Noon - 11 p.m. Su, May 16 Noon ² 9 p.m. Enjoy State Fair Quality Rides! Freakout Where: Oakland Pointe Shopping Center Swinging Boat Across from Summit Place Mall Orient Express Telegraph & Elizabeth Lake Rd. Starship Sizzler Cost: No Admission Price Screamer Individual Ride Tickets Available and many more Pay One Price Wrist Bands ($20) for Rides- Available Everyday Arcade Games! Great Prizes!
Questions: Pontiac Regional Chamber The Chamber thanks 248-335-9600 www.pontiacchamber.com TheThe PontiacPontiac News S U M M E R S T A R T S H E R E for their support!
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 13 Health Matters Healthy Affair VIII “A Family Affair” Health Screenings for Oakland County Residents Free Free Saturday - April 17, 2010 _ 9am - 3pm Welcome Missionary Baptist Church 143 Oneida Street _ Pontiac, MI 48341 _ (248) 335-8799
Services Provided By – Area Hospitals, Doctors, Agencies and Health Care Professionals
Follow-up Care - Oakland Primary Health Services (OPHS)
Screenings and Services Blood Pressure _ Cholesterol _ Diabetes _ Nutritionist _ HIV/AIDS/Hepatitis C _ Ask The Doctor _ Breast Exams _ Dentistry Screenings _ Hearing Test _ Ophthalmology _ Free Mammogram Vouchers _ Pediatrician _ Family Medicine _ *Teen/Children Health Screenings _ Sports & Camp Physicals _ Podiatry _ Breathing Test _ *Teen/Children 17 & Under Must be accompanied by a Parent/Guardian.
Sponsored By: Greater Pontiac Community Coalition, City of Pontiac & The Oakland Press
Co-Sponsored By: Great Lakes Health Plan, Molina, POH Regional Medical Center, Additional Contributors & Supporters: Oakland Primary Health Services, Oakland County Medical Society, Community Network Services, Allstate-Donna Quince Agency, Hospice of Michigan, Doctors Hospital Of MI, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, Oakland County Health Division, Lancaster Village Cooperative, OLHSA, American Heart Association, Chief Financial Credit Union, Matchan Nutrition Center, Gleaners Community Food Bank and Forgotten Harvest.
If you need transportation call Chifon Dennis at (248) 335-8799 by Wednesday, April 14, 2010 Free Childcare Provided _ Free Transportation Hosted By: Greater Pontiac Community Coalition FERIA DE LA SALUD VIII Gratis Gratis “Una Feria Familiar” Exámenes de salud para los residentes del Condado de Oakland Patrocinado por : Greater Pontiac Community Coalition Fecha: Sábado, 17 de Abril, 2010 _ 9am - 3pm Lugar: Welcome Missionary Baptist Church 143 Oneida Street _ Pontiac, MI 48341 _ (248) 335-8799
Servicios ofrecidos por el área de Hospitales, Doctores, Agencias del Condado de Oakland y Profesionales de la Salud:
_ Preguntas al doctor_ Exámenes de mama _ Dentista _ Examen del oído _ Oftalmólogo _ Pases gratis para mamografía _ Pediatra _ Medicina Familiar _ *Exámenes para niños y adolescentes _ Doctores de deportes y campismo _ Podiatras _ Exámenes respiración _ *Niños y adolescents de 17 anos o menores deben estra acompañados por un adulto.
Exámenes; Presión sanguínea _ Colesterol _ Diabetis _ Nutriólogo _ VIH/SIDAS/Hepatitis C _ Seguimiento -Oakland Primary Health Services (OPHS) _ y mucho mucho mas!
Patrocinado por : Greater Pontiac Community Coalition, City of Pontiac y The Oakland Press. Co-Patrocinado por : Great Lakes Health Plan, Molina, POH Regional Medical Center.
Apoyo y Contribución de : Oakland Primary Health Services, Oakland County Medical Society, Community Network Services, Allstate-Donna Quince Agency, Hospice of Michigan, Doctors Hospital Of MI, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, Oakland County Health Division, OLHSA, American Heart Association, Chief Financial Credit Union, Gleaners Community Food Bank, Matchan Nutrition Center and Forgotten Harvest.
Si necesita transporte llamar a Chifon Dennis al (248) 335-8799 antes del Miércoles 14 de Abril de 2010 Cuidado de niños gratis _ Transporte gratis
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 14 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010
The School District of the City of Pontiac A World Class School District – We Put STUDENTS First Excellence, Efficiency & Equity
2010-2011 Kindergarten Round-Up Kindergarten Round-Up will be held at each of our elementary schools to give families an opportunity to meet the principal, school secretary and teachers. Come take a tour, register early and secure your spot for the first day of school. Parents are asked to attend the round-up at their home school: If you are unsure of your “home school” please call the Pupil Management office at 248-451-7527
April 21, 2010 – 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Alcott Elementary School - 460 W. Kennett - 248-451-7910 Owen Elementary School - 1700 Baldwin - 248-451-7870
April 22, 2010 – 8:30 am – 2:00 pm Rogers Elementary School - 2600 Dexter - 248-451-7850 Whitman Elementary School - 125 Montcalm - 248-451-7950
April 23, 2010 – 9:00 am - 3:00 pm WHRC Elementary School - 60 Parkhurst - 248-451-7545 Herrington Elementary - 451 Bay - 248-451-7790 Jefferson/Whittier Elementary School - 600 Motor - 248-451-7620
To register, your child MUST be 5 years old on or before December 1, 2010 and you will need the following:
PROOF OF RESIDENCY: (one of the following) BIRTH CERTIFICATE: • Lease/Rental/Purchase Agreement or rental receipt with address • Your child’s certified birth certificate or legal guardianship papers. • Closing Statement, warranty deed, or occupancy permit indicating Michigan law requires certified birth certificates within 30 days you have taken final possession of your residence (mandatory). • Notarized letter and property tax statement IMMUNIZATION RECORD: • Current utility bill in parent’s name • Your child’s immunization record. • Affidavit for student living in the home of a relative • Residence affidavit VISION SCREENING: • Current driver’s license • Vision screening (free at the Oakland County Health Department)
If you do not have a complete immunization record or a vision screening, please register and you may provide these before the first day of school. Current Pontiac Pre-school students do not need to register. They will automatically be enrolled in Kindergarten.
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR April 15 - April 24, 2010 The Pontiac News Page 15
The Advertisement Information Please complete information below if you want to Pontiac News place an ad in The Pontiac News. Subscription Order Form Name of Business______Yes, I would like to receive The Pontiac News at my Business Address ______( ) Business or ( ) Home ( ) Church Cost of subscription is $15 annually or .50 per issue Name and Title of Authorized Person ______Company______Telephone # ______Name______Fax______Address______Email ______City/State/Zip______Website Address ______Telephone #______Fax # ______Ads should be submitted in a Word, jpg, pdf, or tiff and payment must Email Address______accompany ad. Deadline for submission of ad copy is 2 weeks prior to publication date (See Media Kit for ad size, cost, publication dates and Website Address______related information). Mail completed Subscription or Ad Form to: The Pontiac News - P.O. Box 431412 - Suite 1, Pontiac, Michigan 48343. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A CONTRIBUTING WRITER, OR DISTRIBUTOR OF TPN PLEASE CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY! Email [email protected] Phone - 248-758-1411 - www.thepontiacnews.com A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR Page 16 The Pontiac News April 15 - April 24, 2010
Along With
A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR