Volume 3, Issue 15 | September 20 - October 3, 2013 Spotlight

How to Make School Better for Boys Start by acknowledging that boys are languishing while girls are succeeding. by: CHRISTINA HOFF SOMMERS A Positive News Source with a Local Flavor. (See Page 11)

Pontiac’s Rough Road to Recovery Could Indicate Pontiac School District Detroit’s Path by Steven Yaccino Page 2 OKs consent agreement, When Gov. Rick Snyder Editorial: declared this city’s finan- avoids EM Frank Russell cial crisis “resolved” last The Pontiac Board of Education Page 2 month, officially end- has approved a consent agree- ment with the state to deal with Hispanic Heritage Month ing the tenure of the state-appointed emergen- a financial emergency in the by Cindy Y. Rodfiguez cy managers who have district, avoiding the appointment Page 4 controlled it for four of an emergency manager. Gov. Captain Crust years, elected municipal Rick Snyder last month confirmed A Local Success Story leaders thought they were that the Pontiac School District (Also see page 9) getting their jobs back. But they may not be in charge anytime soon. was in financial emergency. Page 5 (Continues on Page 4) Options included accepting a consent agreement, appointment Whats Happening in of an emergency manager, a neutral Oakland County? The story behind Hispanic Heritage Month by Cindy Y. Rodfiguez, CNN evaluation process or a Chapter 9 bankruptcy filing. Page 7 Every time Hispanic Heritage Month rolls around, I learn something new The district faces a roughly a AFRICA NEWS about the Latino footprint in the U.S. $38 million deficit. Interim All About Africa But until I spoke to Robert Lopez, I Superintendent Kelley Williams never knew how this celebration came Page 10 says she’ll follow the agreement’s to be. terms. In May of 1988, Lopez, former intern Five Jobs That Don’t Aimee McKeever, president of the for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Require A Bachelor’s Degree Robert Lopez pushed for Hispanic Heritage Month teachers union, says the consent when he was an intern on Capitol Hill in 1988. was asked to work on a bill that would Page 13 amend the 1968 federal law, authorized agreement equals a “dictatorship” SPORTS by President Lyndon B. Johnson, to change it from a week to a month-long by the state treasurer’s office. 2013-2014 celebration. (Story continues on Page 2) Piston Preview THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 EDITORIAL by R. Frank Russell, Publisher down a road that could only lead to irreparable harm to our City and School District. Well it is clear that we went In the first three issues of the TPN and retention plan that would stop the raiding of the and parent success program that could help our students down the wrong road and …the proverbial chickens have back in 2008, this writer suggested PSD by newly established charter schools and the various achieve and stimulate our parents to get involved. come home to roost. Our school district is in a mess and that Pontiac was at the crossroads nearby school of choice districts. In addition to the above, The very next week this writer personally presented a is now on the verge of being taken over by an Emergency and that several critical actions many other suggestions and specific proposals (based on comprehensive student success program and parental Manager, and we have no one to blame but ourselves. So steps must be taken in order to national and/or international best practices) have been involvement project (based on best practices that have where do we go from here? I have a suggestion, turn our School District and City presented (or we attempted to present) to every sitting worked in this community) to the new school Board perhaps…. just maybe… we ought to just stop electing around. The actions steps related to the school district School Board and Superintendant and Acting President. The new Board President reviewed the and appointing unqualified people to these critical included; 1) Establish and implement a district-wide Superintendant that this community has elected or information and declared “Frank..the programs that you positions of Serviceship (leadership). HEY…I’M JUST student success program; 2) Execute a comprehensive employed since the 1990’s. have here are exactly and precisely what this district SAYING. Please, let us know what you got to say … parent training and involvement program; 3) Initiate and need in order to address our critical student achievement You might ask what were the reactions of our elected and/ contact TPN at [email protected] implement a comprehensive teacher development and and parental involvement problem”, and then.....after a or appointed school officials when presented with ideas training program; 4) Perform an assessment/evaluation of briefpause this person looked up at me and declared, and I and proposals that could have saved this community? every school in the district to determine specific needs in quote “ But you are not the person to do it”. Needless to say order to create school improvement plans specific to each Let me give you just one example of the decision making it never got done! Page 1 processes of just one of these individuals (who will go school; 5) Conduct a community educational/workforce Again, in the very first issues of The Pontiac News in 2008, Pontiac ‘s Rough Road To Recovery • Hispanic nameless ..at this time). This person, the then newly needs assessment to define the business and workforce this writer clearly stated that Pontiac was at the Crossroads Heratige Month • Pontiac School Consent elected school Board President made an appeal to the needs for the next 5-20 years; and 6) Develop and and needed to take sensible action steps to avoid going Implement a 10 point comprehensive student recruitment community for help in devising a student achievement Page 2 Editorial • Hispanic Heratige (Continued) Join Movement to Empower Pontiac: Over the next few weeks and months we will be presenting a variety of projects that are designed to Empower the People of Pontiac Now! The name of the organization that will facilitate this change is New Pontiac, Inc. One of the main goals of New Pontiac is to provide job and/or business opportunities for our young adults and constructive character building Page 3 activities and programs for our children and youth! Please join this movement to Empower Pontiac… by sending your name, phone and address to New Pontiac – P.O. Box 431412 – Pontiac MI 48343, or We The People Have the Constitution 248-758-1411 email is [email protected] . Page 4 (Hispanic Heritage Continued from page 1 ) neglected accomplishments of black today,” said Lopez. Pontiac’s Rough Recovery (Continued) • Ask Elaine Americans in every area of endeavor The third-generation Mexican-American grew Today, Lopez is a veteran journalist who has throughout our history.” Page 5 helped produce award-winning investigative up in an English-dominant household. His What’s Happening in Oakland County? Lopez asked the Library of Congress to put parents were raised in an area of California and multimedia projects for the Los Angeles Page 6 Times, and a social-media expert who has together a list of notable Latino achieve- where you were punished for speaking taught reporters, students and academics in ments in order to better sell the bill to other Spanish, where Mexican immigrants were Remembering Our Community the United States, South America, the members. forced to be “American” and assimilate. So Page 7 Lopez didn’t grow up speaking Spanish at Caribbean and the Middle East. “To me it was a fascinating learning Africa News home. But that wasn’t the case for his two Lopez said Bettie Baca, executive director of experience. When I went to high school there wasn’t Latino studies or Chicano studies,” children, who attended Spanish-language Page 10 the caucus at the time, said a House version immersion schools. Careers had already been introduced in 1987 by Rep. Lopez said. “I knew of some history here Esteban Torres but was stalled by two and there, but was shocked to learn of all the Now, America dedicates a month, from Page 11 subcommittees. A similar bill passed the Latino history in this country from the September 15 to October 15, to celebrating How To Make School better For Boys Senate and there was support from all 13 Congressional Research Service, part of the the culture and traditions of those who trace Latino members of Congress in the House. Library of Congress. their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Page 13 “This bill became a lot about self-discovery,” Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, Sports • Mayweather • 2013-2014 Piston Preview Hearing this, Lopez thought getting enough South America and the Caribbean. supporters “would be a slam dunk” -- until he Lopez said. Page 14 received pushback from some quarters. He wrote in a piece for the L.A. Times that he After speaking to Lopez, I felt a surge of Health Matters urgency to keep sharing his story. I wonder “I got resistance at first. People didn’t just learned about such “notable figures as Page 15 Bernardo de Galvez, a military officer who what would have happened if he hadn’t been didn’t want to support commemorative 2013-2014 Piston Preview (Continued) aided American colonists in their fight against assigned this project during his internship. legislation. People said things like, ‘Well, why What if he hadn’t pushed for the bill with would we do that? Aren’t we all American? the British during the Revolutionary War. Then there was Luis Alvarez, who was born his “Dear Colleague” letter and phone calls, That’s not a thing we want to support,’” or even worse, what if the bill had been put Lopez said. “I was a bit naive at the time and in San Francisco and won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1968.” on the back burner until the following year? didn’t know what to do, so I asked the Black Would we be celebrating Hispanic Heritage Caucus to help me out, and we focused on There was a ticking clock element to Lopez’s Month today? writing ‘Dear Colleague’ letters to New York, task. Since this was the second session of the PUBLISHER & CONTENT EDITOR Texas and California.” 100th Congress, if the bill didn’t pass this “I hope Hispanic Heritage Month helps R. Frank Russell people learn the things I didn’t know growing What we now know as Black History Month time around it would have to be introduced all CONTENTS & NEWS EDITOR: over again. up, the importance of Latinos in our history, originated in 1926, founded by Carter G. and the contributions they’ve have made,” Elaine Smith-Wright Woodson as Negro History Week, but then On an August morning in 1988, Lopez walked Lopez said. “It’s a good way to celebrate our AFRICIAN CORRESPONDENT: the celebration was expanded to a month into the House gallery in a blazer and tie, own culture, but also for non-Latinos to be in 1976. watched the bill pass, and the battle was over exposed. You can’t really understand Kofi Annorh President Gerald R. Ford urged Americans to without any big fuss. American history without understanding CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often “I had no idea it would be as big as it is Latino history.” Elaine Smith-Wright • Rev. James Keys • Quincy Stewart III • Randolph Carter • Kevin McCormick, Adam Polk • Brenda Canty-Carter • Kenny Anderson • Kathleen O’Quinn PHOTOGRAPHER & ADVERTISING MANAGER TBD CIRCULATION MANAGER: Rahim Russell OFFICE MANAGER: Mary C. Russell DESIGNED BY: FOURCOLORS, INC. (248) 877-3044 PRINTED BY: Michigan Web Press TELEPHONE: 248-758-1411 FAX: 248-758-1412 PO Box 431412, Suite #1 Pontiac, MI 48343 www.thepontiacnews.com [email protected]

2 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 of rights We The Peopla Have The Constitution Every person who, under color of any statute, ordinance, regulation, custom, or usage, constitutional violation by the County of By Pontiac City Councilman Randy Carter of any State or Territory or the District of Oakland and the State of Michigan. Columbia. The U.S. Constitution, needs to be done by anyone who has Title 18, U.S.C., Section 245 Federally Snowden is considered by the organization as which is only four knowledge of such gross violations of our Protected Activities - A Law, Cases and Code handwritten pages long, rights. an example of a man who held his oath to is being trampled on by 1) This statute prohibits willful injury, uphold the constitution by exposing NSA’s Title 18, U.S.C., Section 241 Conspiracy corporations and fanning intimidation, or interference, or attempt to do violations of the Fourth Amendment. Yet all against Rights the flames are our own so, by force or threat of force of any person that is needed is one paragraph to take care of elected representatives. This statute makes it unlawful for two or or class of persons because of their and eliminate the extortion let it be known Our U.S. bureaucratic more persons to conspire to injure, oppress, activity as: that WE THE PEOPLE now declare by system for Justice is actual spelled “JUST-US” threaten, or intimidate any person of any b) A participant in any benefit, service, decree a moratorium on all laws being made good old boys, this is the way we always have state, territory or district in the free exercise privilege, program, provided or administered either by Congress, Presidential executive done it process, which speaks for itself with or enjoyment of any right or privilege secured by the United States; orders, state legislators, governors, county reams of legalism and regulations while the to him/her by the Constitution or the laws of supervisors, or city councils. the United States, (or because of his/her 2) Prohibits willful injury, intimidation, or Friends and Family Plan allow for additional We The People are very quickly losing our having exercised the same). Example: We interference or attempt to do so, by force or policies and their own god like powers. freedom and individual rights to a are an entitled city, and it appears have lost threat of force of any person because of race, We the people have The Constitution, is it so carefully-orchestrated international anti- access to community development block grant color, religion, or national origin and because difficult to remind the people that they have sovereignty system or you know it as the (CDBG) and other federal grant programs. of his/her activity as: all power over government and if they choose U.N., and the New World Order. Mr. David It further makes it unlawful for two or more We the residents of Pontiac have been denied to, they can change their government over Rockefeller said: “We are grateful to The persons to go in disguise or on the premises the right or access to federal programs, CDC night! That elected and appointed position Washington Post, The New York Times, of another with the intent to prevent or and not being utilized, Per PA 344 by state within government spell out their civic Time Magazine and other great publications hinder his/her free exercise or enjoyment of statue federal monies come to the citizen obligation of their legal duty and whose directors have attended our meetings any rights so secured. in the blighted area to be administered and responsibilities under Article 6 of the and respected their promises of discretion for delegated by the residents. Constitution. Upholding the oath, and hold Title 18, U.S.C., Section 242 Deprivation of almost forty years. It would have been the Constitution above all else and defend Rights under Color of Law Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1001 Fraud and False impossible for us to develop our plan for the it from domestic and foreign enemies, is a Acts under “color of any law” include acts Statements - U.S. Code as of: 01/02/01 world if we had been subject to the bright lights of publicity during those years. But the requirement to serve. not only done by federal, state, or local Section1001. Statements or entries generally work is now much more sophisticated and My oath is to the Constitution, not to the officials within the bounds or limits of their (a) Except as otherwise provided in this prepared to march towards a world politicians, and I will not obey lawful authority, but also acts done section, whoever, in any matter within the government. The supranational sovereignty of unconstitutional orders, such as Agenda 21 or without and beyond the bounds of their jurisdiction of the executive, legislative, or an intellectual elite and world bankers is surely also known as “sustainability, which was lawful authority; provided that, in order for judicial branch of the Government of the preferable to the national auto-determination created under the U.N. Did you know that unlawful acts of any official to be done under United States, knowingly and willfully - (1) practiced in past centuries.” Local government may not exercise or meddle “color of any law,” the unlawful acts must falsifies, conceals, or covers up by any trick, with foreign countries which are treason be done while such official is purporting or scheme, or device a material fact; (2) makes David Rockefeller, founder of the Trilateral offence? Local government positions such as pretending to act in the performance of his/ any materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent Commission, in an address to a meeting of council has no allegiance to parties only to her official duties. This definition includes, in statement or representation; or (3) makes or The Trilateral Commission, in June, 1991. citizen to reflecting my viewpoints cannot fit addition to law enforcement officials, uses any false writing or document knowing “Nor did these lawyers and bankers walk neatly into either of the mainstream political individuals such as Mayors, Council persons, the same to contain any materially false, about suffused with guilt. They had the moral parties, especially the Democrats and the Judges and persons who are bound by laws, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry; equivalent of Teflon on their soul. Church on statutes ordinances, or customs. Examples of Sunday forecloses on Monday.” —Norman Republicans. May God bless Men such as Sec.1983. - Civil action for deprivation Snowden for being a whistle blower, of what this are the Home Ruled Charter, and Mailer Northern Oakland County Branch NAACP FreedomFund Dynamic Speakers – Great Entertainment • Master of Ceremony, George Pitchford The Northern Oakland County Branch NAACP is holding its 93rd Annual Freedom Fund Dinner on Friday, October 4, 2013 at the Center- point Marriott in Pontiac, Michigan. The theme for this year is “We Shall Not Be Moved.” The organization feels that this theme couldn’t be more appropriate in light of the United States Supreme Court’s attempt to gut the voting rights act of 1965 and the attempt by states around the country to try and find ways to block the rights to vote of some of its citizens. The Freedom Fund Dinner event will begin with a social hour at 6:00 PM and the dinner program will follow promptly at 7:00 PM. Reg- ular ticket prices are eighty-five dollars per person with a limited number of senior and youth tickets at forty-five dollars per person. Please call the following numbers if you need tickets or additional information- (248) 335-5911 or (248) 338-6760 and leave a mes- sage and someone will get back with you. George T. Pitchford, NOCB-NAACP Comm. ...(See Page 14 for Sponsorship & Ad Info) DENTAL ARTS COMPANY Affordable Family Dental Care Dentristry by Jeff Martin, D.D.S.A. 91 N. Saginaw Pontiac, Michigan 48342 (248) 332-4240 A beautiful smile takes more than just brushing! 3 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 under the new leadership. Signs of new business them to leave their officesat night. Pontiac’s Rough Road to Recovery (Continued from page 1) investments downtown are attributed to renewed “The order suggests that local democracy is The mayor has been demoted, reporting to a “city Pontiac’s $87 million debt and eliminated a $9.2 confidence in the city’s fiscal health. administrator” who is now calling the shots. The million structural deficit, leading Mr. Snyder, a indefinitely suspended without any time limit or part-time City Council has the authority to do little Republican, to declare an end to the city’s financial Most of the privatization deals in Pontiac were timeline for its restoration,” said Tim Greimel, the more than approve the minutes from its weekly emergency on Aug. 19. But an effort to protect brokered by Mr. Schimmel, 76, who was appointed Democratic minority leader in the State House and meetings. Public employees, totaling several those changes has raised questions about the best in September 2011 to be the city’s third and final representative for Pontiac. Calling Mr. Schimmel’s hundred not long ago, are almost extinct, overtaken exit strategy for emergency managers and whether a emergency manager. Years earlier, he had balanced final move an overreach, Mr. Greimel sent the in City Hall by private contractors who deliver lasting grip on local government is justifiable when the books in two other Michigan cities – Ecorse governor and other state officials a public letter on nearly all of Pontiac’s public services. the elected leaders fervently opposed the state’s plan in 1986 and Hamtramck in 2000 – but both places Thursday expressing his outrage. were eventually placed back under state control from the start. Sara Wurfel, a spokeswoman for Mr. Snyder, As speculation grows about what Detroit, just 30 after financial problems resurfaced. Ecorse started defended the approach in a statement, saying its minutes south of here, will look like when it is “They didn’t work with me or have anything to do transitioning from its most recent emergency “intent is absolutely to return full control to elected expected to emerge from bankruptcy proceedings with me for two years,” Louis H. Schimmel, the manager to local control in April. and state control a year from now, Pontiac’s most recent emergency manger in Pontiac, said officials as quickly and efficiently as possible, but experience offers a glimpse at the myriad about the City Council. “They have no idea how to “Nobody was thinking about after,” Mr. Schimmel while ensuring the long-term financial success of complications that accompany a transition back to run this city.” said, blaming elected leaders in those cities for the municipality or school district.” going “back to their old ways” of spending when elected leadership after an emergency Still, Pontiac’s City Council recently called for Mr. Schimmel, whose budget will be locked in he left. Now, with lawsuits pending against some of manager departs. “agents of the state to cease and desist for two years after his departure, is one of four his decisions in Pontiac, Mr. Schimmel said it was immediately.” It passed the toothless resolution “I think we all knew we were going to have some members of a state advisory board that will monitor critical to ensure that did not happen again. kind of training wheel when the state decided this financial decisions made in Pontiac until the last month, overruling a veto by Mr. Jukowski, who emergency was over,” said Kermit Williams, a transition is complete. Last month, Mr. Schimmel issued a final order has argued that fighting against the state will only member of Pontiac’s City Council, which has giving a city administrator —Joseph M. Sobota, prolong its short leash on the city. “I just want to make sure my policies don’t go down an aide to Mr. Schimmel while he was emergency battled against the state’s intervention from the And yet, the mayor and council members are still the drain,” he said, adding that the handoff would manager — the power to make fiscal decisions for beginning. “What we didn’t know was that running for re-election in November. Mr. Jukowski take at least a couple of years. State officials will Pontiac during the transition. The new position emergency management would still exist under placed second in a nonpartisan primary in August, determine when the transition is over. comes with a $120,000 salary and authority over all another name.” and will face Dr. Deirdre Waterman, an Though far smaller than Detroit, Pontiac followed a contracts, hiring and spending, with the advisory There are a dozen Michigan cities and school ophthalmologist and widow of a popular judge in similar descent into fiscal disarray. Home of board’s approval. districts under some form of state-imposed Pontiac, in a runoff that many view as a referendum General Motors’ namesake brand, the city and its oversight — with more under review — authorized Mayor Leon B. Jukowski, a Democrat who has been on Mr. Jukowski’s cooperation with Mr. Schimmel. coffers were crippled by the downturn of the auto by a law that gives emergency managers broad shunned by the City Council for worked closely industry. It has lost more than one-quarter of its The shifting power struggle continues to puzzle authority to set budgets, sell city assets and alter with Mr. Schimmel, will make $100,000 a year and taxpayers over the past four decades; today, its more than a few residents. union contracts outside the pressures of elected assist Mr. Sobota as a liaison to business leaders and population is roughly 60,000. “I’m kind of confused about who’s running the office. Few have showcased that power more than the public. city,” said Robert Cluckey, 55, asking for those in Pontiac. Police and fire departments were Residents have mixed reactions to the emergency City Council members, whose predecessors used clarification during the public comment portion of merged with those of municipalities nearby. Private managers. Some deride an early decision to sell the to earn $15,000 a year, will be paid $100 per weekly a recent Council meeting. companies now handle duties like trash pickup, Silverdome football stadium, where the Detroit meeting they attend, plus up to $100 a month for ambulance services and street maintenance. The city Lions used to play, for about $20 million less than committees. The body will be consulted on issues, No one answered his question. payroll now consists of 20 people. what it had once been valued. But many say the but can be overruled by Mr. Sobota or the advisory police force, now run by the Oakland County Selling assets and outsourcing public services, board. The council members are not allowed in City Sheriff ’s Department, has improved drastically though upsetting to many here, have reduced Hall after hours, locked out by a janitor who asks

Captain Crust-A Local Success Story ASK ELAINE.COM by Elaine Smith-Wright When you enter into the bright The restaurant is clean, and has great food, I Mrs. Smith-Wright started out as a Mass Communications major at Oakland University and now holds a B.A. degree in Nursing Home city lights of Pontiac, can say so myself, because I have eaten there Administration and the Certificate of Gerontology and Sociology of the Aging from Wiley College along with a MBA Degree from East conveniently, and centrally many times. Texas Baptist University in Management. She also holds a Certificate in Filmmaking, Screenwriting andDirecting from the Motion Picture Institute of Michigan. located in Oakland County, Also, as we were conducting this interview, you will find Captain Crust, a Dear Elaine: My mother is a beautiful, lively woman she does and where she goes and who she is with? a group of frequent customers came in on very well established their daily lunch routine, “Ms. Bay B” and who goes to church, to a Senior Center, exercise and What kind of a life do YOU have? Why aren’t you busy eatery. There you will find the Williamson coworkers Shanti, and Ms. Latesha drives over dance class and all types of church activities like trying to enjoy your life? Your mother is apparently best soul food in town. This restaurant also ten minutes to frequent the best food place in choir, Bible Study, Sunday School and church services happy, healthy and knows exactly what it is she wants has Pizza and Seafood, also great desserts, town, everyday. and programs. She even still drives at 75! While to do. You seem to be the one who is in the dark about Peach-Cobbler, Cherry and Strawberry Cheese she doesn’t think she’s that old, I think she is really your life. Staying active is EXACTLY what your mother Cake, delicious Pound-cake, and cookies, They wanted to add, that the prices are cold drinks, including Kool- Aid and exotic economical, Al is always friendly, and the doing a lot and sometimes, too much as far as I’m needs to do. It helps to keep the heart healthy and Blue-Berry Lemon Aid at this location. There customer service is great. The food is good, concerned. My sisters and brothers want to know keeps arthritis and other ailments away. All you have is something for everyone. and there is a variety in the choices. There is a what is my problem because they’re glad that she to do is look at those seniors who are not active to great menu to choose from; for instance, you is still active and enjoying her life to the fullest. I know how lucky your mom is. If you want to spend Captain Crust was founded by Al Bahri in can get a super large pizza which is 36 slices 2010 and has served this community for even hope and pray that I’m as active when I reach more time with her yourself because you feel neglect- for twenty dollars. You can feed a small party, four years, and has operated this five star that age. My problem is that I just found out that ed, make arrangements with her to do some activities or a family, for two days off this purchase restaurant, with great southern cook, Navara she is seeing a man from our church! She says they with her. Join her dance class, go shopping, go out which comes with cheese, and one topping. Halsell, Alabama native, who has been are just friends and he likes to take her out to eat, to lunch or dinner or even the movies. Invite your cooking since the age of twelve, taught by Captain Crust serves Pontiac, Auburn Hills, movies and plays and some fancy dances. I think he mom and her friend over for dinner and get to know her mother. She is accompanied by Michigan Rochester, and Waterford. should state his intentions. Does he intend to marry him. You may like him and be glad that he is keeping native, Ms. Sandra Judkins Hardiman. This place can get very busy, but there is my mother or does he intend to keep stringing her time with your mother and stop being jealous of their Between the two, there are over 50 years of never a wait. The food is already hot, and along? She says that she is having fun and she is relationship. Maybe if you get a friend, you won’t have great Culinary Arts skills and experience. ready, served in just minutes, and you are on very happy with the way things are because she can so much time to devote to your mother’s friend. I only The three quickly jelled together, and has the your way. If called in, it is ready when you get go out if she wants to or stay home, she only cooks hope and pray that I’m that active and in good shape best soul food in the city of Pontiac. The there, and they cook to order. for herself and she doesn’t have to worry about and healthy as she is when I reach that age. Count restaurant is centrally located at; 340 Martin We built Captain Crust around customer having any disagreements because she can always your lucky stars and thank God she’s still here and Luther King Jr. Blvd. Pontiac Michigan. You service, according to the words of the owner, go home. I have discussed this with her and she says enjoying her life. Grow up! Good Luck! Elaine can phone your order in by calling; 248-451- Al Bahri. He also tells us his first five favorites that I should mind my own business and find myself 9500, or you can dine in, at the on his list for pleasing his customers: accommodating dinette area. a man! Is she right? Should I not be concerned 1. Quality of food 2. Price 3. Customer about her life and lifestyle? Help! Jeffery Freeman, a long time friend, and Service 4. Variety 5. Conveniently located in mentor, patiently awaited his lunch, prepared Pontiac Making this a Five Star Restaurant, Signed, by AI, which he does daily. “His cliche’ was with a diverse menu!!! Love My Mom told to me, “If you can build it, the people will come!” He also added, Al knew the need When you crave Rib Tips, Chicken and Dear Love My Mom: of the people, and he gave the people what Waffles, Pig feet, neck bones, pork steak, ox Yes, she’s right and no you should not be concerned they wanted. tails, cornbread dressing, pork chops, rice etc. Captain Crust is the place . Call 248-451 9500 about HER life or HER lifestyle. Be happy that she’s The food is prepared daily from scratch, and Story by E. Daniel P. Williamson happy and enjoying her life. Your mother is 75, not 17 he also uses local suppliers. Al helps by and SHE’S the mother not YOU! Why is it that you are employing the local community as workers ( Refer to Ad on page 9 ) and he is here to stay. spending so much of your time concerned about what 4 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 What’s Happening In Oakland County

Oakland County Health Division Issues Safe Sleep Guidelines to Prevent Infant Death September 2013 Business Workshops Oakland County infant sleep on soft surfaces, such Offered by Oakland County Business Center Health Division as a couch or sofa, pillows, quilts, Business owners and entrepreneurs who QuickBooks® Essentials (OCHD), under sheepskins or blankets. need assistance are encouraged to attend Sept. 27 seminars offered by the Oakland County the leadership Session One: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. • Infants must always sleep on their Business Center. Unless otherwise noted, all of Oakland Session Two: 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. backs, even when they are at the programs take place at the Oakland County County stage where they can roll over. Executive Office Building Conference Center, This introduction to small business financial Executive 2100 Pontiac Lake Road, west of Telegraph in management provides an overview of L. Brooks • Keep an infant’s face uncovered Waterford. For pre-registration and location accurate recordkeeping, report interpretation Patterson, issues during sleep for easy breathing. Use map, visit www.AdvantageOakland.com/ and utilization, and management of the guidelines to a sleeper instead of a blanket. expand or call 248-858-0783. variety of tools provided in this system. protect infants • Don’t overheat the infant. Dress FastTrac® GrowthVenture Session I L. Brooks Patterson from unsafe the infant in the same amount of Sept. 20 through Nov. 29 (10 sessions) • Basic accounting terminology sleep clothing as adults are wearing. Keep Excluding Nov. 22, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. • New company file setup arrangements during National Safe Sleep the room at a temperature that is FastTrac® GrowthVenture is an intensive, Month this September. comfortable for an adult. 10-week program designed for owners, • Customizing forms and letters CEO’s and top management team members “OCHD is bringing a train-the-trainer • Don’t allow anyone to smoke • Working with bank accounts of small businesses with at least two years program with safe sleep display to 30 Session II around children. of operating experience, minimum of two community locations this September, Sleep-related infant deaths are typically employees (W2s), and annual revenue of • Invoicing customers including community service agencies, due to accidental causes: suffocation, between $100,000 and $749,000. FastTrac® hospitals and physician offices,” said • Receiving payments and making when an object blocks baby’s airway; GrowthVenture is normally $700 per deposits Kathy Forzley, Manager/Health Officer. entrapment, when baby is lodged participant. Sponsor support allows us to “We hope these trainings encourage offer a scholarship-reduced rate. • Entering vendor bills/paying vendor between two objects such as a mattress residents to follow safe sleep practices.” bills and wall; or strangulation, when Fee: $140 • Using credit card accounts The Health Division received a something presses on or wraps around Women’s Business Certification (WBE) mini-grant from Michigan Department baby’s neck, blocking the airway. Orientation Fee: Each Session $40 of Community Health to promote infant Sept. 21, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Both Sessions: $75 Various OCHD programs focus on safe sleep practices through reducing infant mortality and educating Learn about the benefits and process of FUTURE WORKSHOPS community education. about prevention measures: becoming a Women’s Business Enterprise OCTOBER (WBE.) Benefits include certification to OCHD recommends sharing these 2: FastTrac NewVenture (PM) • Best Start for Babies community private sector WBE’s and access to guidelines with everyone caring for your action team implements strategies to procurement opportunities with major 3: Fundamentals of Marketing Your Business baby. Follow them every time you put assist at-risk families national companies. For additional (PM) your infant to sleep- for daytime naps information visit miceed.org. Presented by 4: Business Research: Feasibility to Expansion, and at night: • Fetal Infant Mortality Review team the Michigan Women’s Business Council. Oxford Twp. Library (PM) develops strategies to prevent An infant must sleep alone. Pillows, Fee: $25 10: Facebook for Business (Beginner) (PM) future deaths blankets, stuffed animals, crib bumpers, Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan 11: Fundamentals of Starting a Business (PM) or other soft items should not be in an • WIC nutrition education program Sept. 27, 9:00 a.m. - Noon 11: Team SBA Financing Roundtable (AM) infant’s sleep area. Infants should never helps families eat well and For small business owners who are 17: CEED Microloan Orientation (AM) sleep with adults, siblings or pets. stay healthy developing their plan to success. Workshop 17: Facebook for Business (Intermediate) (PM) • Public education campaigns participants discover the elements commonly • An infant must sleep in a crib, 18: Fundamentals of Writing a Business Plan (PM) portable crib, or bassinet. Those who promote maternal and infant health found in effective plans and develop these 24: Facebook for Business (Advanced) (PM) breastfeed their child in bed should and available services for their own business. 25: 5 Keys to Achieving Fiscal Fitness (AM) make sure to put him or her back • Public health nurses provide home Fee: $40 in a crib, portable crib or bassinet visits to pregnant women, new 30: Legal & Financial Basics (AM) immediately after feeding. mothers and families in need • Use a firm mattress with a tightly-fitted sheet. Never let an About the Brooksie Way Half Marathon and 5k The Brooksie Way Half Marathon is one of Oakland County’s premier quality of RICHARD T. TAYLOR, P.C. life events. County Executive L. Brooks Patterson began the Brooksie Way races to promote Oakland County and encourage people to become Attorney At Law more physically active. Support from HealthPlus of Michigan, the presenting sponsor for the Brooksie Way Half Marathon, helps make the event and its related 28 N. SAGINAW, SUITE 912 PH: (586) 481-5981 activities possible. PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48342 FX: (248) 338-2222 This year’s race will be held on Sunday, September 29, 2013 beginning at 8 a.m. For more information about race • General Practice weekend and race day schedules, please see contact • Specializing in Criminal information below: Defense Event Contact Phone: 248-860-5989 • Family Law http://www.thebrooksieway.com/Pages/default.aspx • Civil Law

Deb Kiertzner Greg Guidice and Paul Coughlin [email protected] Race Director Race Co-chairs [email protected] [email protected] 5 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 about the REMEMBERING OUR COMMUNITY negative externalities associated with the dissolution, I got who got what. I learned By School Board Trustee Brenda Carter that the communities of Taylor, Westland, Westwood, and Romulus got the children protest of the people, these bills march from Inkster. I learned that the communities of Frankenmuth, Saginaw, and into law. Bridgeport-Spaulding got the children of Buena Vista. I learned which school districts I drove down Inkster Road and looked at got the facilities, and which plan to get the equipment. I did speak in detail with a the small community. My mother used to Board member from Saginaw Township. This Board member told me that care was take me to Inkster for cultural programs taken to minimize the impact on the children. This was done in an all out community in my youth. Inkster was a proud effort involving churches, businesses, the NAACP, and the local colleges. community that provided educational, When I thought of our children in Pontiac, I thought of the children in New Orleans. social, and economic programs to its After Katrina, the children were disbursed all over the country. Many of these children residents. Each year Inkster led their were separated from those that they loved. Many lost loved ones. This is not hear- neighboring communities with statewide It is very important that we remember say, or something I read in a newspaper, or heard on television. These children were educational programs. These programs children of our family members and friends in New Orleans who are still devastated who the real victims with all these often assisted the children in obtaining political regulations are. This is the and recovering from what has been deemed a “business venture”. Pontiac avoided PA scholarships opportunities for higher 96 (the act to dissolve struggling school districts) when it passed July 2, 2013, because regulation that suppose to right the education. Each year Inkster provided financial problems of our municipalities, the district had over 2,500 students. However, the district did not avoid the review food baskets to their senior population. team, or its upcoming painful decision to enact the consent agreement. The bottom and our school districts. I had the Inkster aggressively provided for its opportunity to talk with the Board line of the consent agreement is the District must adhere to the terms of the consent community. Saginaw was exceptional. agreement, or face the other three alternatives of PA 436. These alternatives are an President of Inkster Public Schools, and Buena Vista use to be a thriving I spoke in great detail with members of emergency financial manager, mediation, or bankruptcy. Detroit Public Schools went community near Saginaw. It was into a consent agreement, but later was placed under emergency financial manager. Saginaw Intermediate School District, surrounded by manufacturing facilities When I think about everything that is happening to struggling municipalities and and Saginaw Township Public Schools. It which enabled Buena Vista to provide the school districts around the country, I realize that something had to change. I know is my understanding that the Fiscal best education for their students. Today, that budgets had to balance, and deficits had to be removed. But when I talk to Accountability Acts (Public Act 72, both Inkster Public Schools and Buena legislators in Lansing and Washington, after sometimes passionate exchanges, I asked Public Act 4, and now Public Act 436) Vista School District exists no more. all them the following question. The question is, “At what cost?” We are stabilizing were designed to help struggling Why? Because of decisions made (past the economy by eliminating health care and pensions of the seniors? We are municipalities and school districts when and present)by adults. they face severe financial duress. eliminating the deficits in public education by disintegrating districts and displacing Pontiac School District is facing a myriad children from the friends and teachers that they love? We are passing legislation that It appears that the true beneficiaries of of attacks. Some say it is because we this not so well thought out legislation turns a blind eye to the pain of our poor, our children, and our seniors! We are fixing are the poster child for the new consent America’s trillion dollar deficit on the backs of our poor, our children, and our seniors! are well established businesses. It is agreement under Act 436. Others say We know we only have one vote, and we know we stand in opposition to the true that manufacturing cities (mostly because we are the poster child for the oppressive forces that are disenfranchising our poor, our seniors, and our children, but urban) are disintegrating before our eyes, legislation that uncapped charter and we must and will stand, because it is all we can do. We must do all we can to minimize and it is also true that the onslaught of cyber schools on struggling school the impact of this ever morphing legislation coming from Lansing and Washington on legislation, often passed with bi-parti- districts. We know that this may be true, our poor, our seniors, and most importantly, our children. This may not stop the fiscal san support, fails to recognize the true however, as I mentioned in a previous Katrina from devastating our communities, but it will prepare us for the rebuilding victims of deals made in the past when article, what happened to Pontiac School efforts after the pillaging has been done. We must make sure that our precious senior the gravy train was overflowing. I am District, and a lot of school districts population has food, water, medicine, and most importantly, love and care during wondering, with all the deal making and facing this dilemma, is the loss of their golden years. We must make sure our homeless, indigent population has their hand shaking, if anyone is thinking about manufacturing, declining tax revenues, basic needs met. And most importantly, let’s embrace our children. Let’s form a levee our poor, our seniors, and most and poor fiscal management. What is around the category 5 economic hurricane that is about to hit them. We can do this importantly, our children! There is happening in public education, in my by going to their sports games, volunteering to read to them, having block parties, legislation in Washington that suppose to opinion, is the seizure of properties/ joining the PTA, and attending school board meetings. Sound like things we use to truncate the aid received by the assets at the cost of our children. When do? Maybe that is why Pontiac School District was once the premier school district population that needs it the most, our I asked some insiders from the of Oakland County. With the community’s help, the Pontiac School District will rise poor, our seniors and our children! It communities of Inkster and Saginaw has me shaking my head! Yet, despite the from the ashes like the Phoenix that it is. Law Offices of Darryl P. Mitchell

30 N. Saginaw St. Suite 709 Pontiac, MI 48342 (248) 333-2200

6 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 commodities producers have become weaned on rising prices as part of their growth model. If they have, then a drop in prices will be problematic. Consequently, there is need to create greater AFRICA NEWS domestic demand and provide “much-needed ballast” to make countries less vulnerable to shifts in the global economy. Looking at specific African countries, Kozul-Wright has praise for Ethiopia which he says is gaining a lot of, perhaps deserved, attention. But the African countries which could realistically have become Africa: “African Economies Must Diversify and Stimulate Industrial dynamic regional hubs - Nigeria, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, for example - have not made the progress Development” - Interview With Richard Kozul-Wright, United Nations their potential suggested. Brics countries, particularly China, have done some positive things in the last decade, but much of Commission On Trade and Development the growth in these countries is dependent on external capital markets. Decoupling from western “The export-your-way-to-prosperity model is countries feeding industry in Asia with raw capital markets, apart from China, is largely a myth. dead - didn’t work in the boom years prior to materials to produce goods for final sale in the Africa (and the rest of the Global South) does not benefit when the North is growing slowly. To 2007... and won’t work now.” So says a rather US and EU. combative press release from the United Nations this end, UNCTAD would like to see a rejection of ‘austerity economics’. All you get when the global Kozul-Wright, however, argues that this will not Commission of Trade and Development’s north struggles economically is “a poor form of convergence.” cut it for African countries eager to drastically (UNCTAD) annual Trade and Development report. UNCTAD is most disappointed that there has been no proper reform of the international financial grow and diversify their economies. “We are system and we still live in a world where highly speculative short-term financial flows dominate Richard Kozul-Wright, head of UNCTAD’s Unit on slightly manufacturing fundamentalists” he the movement of capital. The threat from this remains as great as ever and the failure to reform Economic Integration and Cooperation Among says, so in UNCTAD’s analysis “they’ve got to international financial architecture, which is the responsibility of rich countries, remains a problem Developing Countries, appears slightly more find some way to do it [manufacturing].” This for the developing world. nuanced in his analysis, but the thrust will have to start by building up the supply is similar: capacity in relatively unsophisticated Kozul-Wright calls for “a return to some of the unfashionable methods of the past.” For example, “The big challenge for primary exporters manufacturing activities. industrial policy and development banks. [including most African countries] is whether The current ‘commodities supercycle’ will not African policy-makers are aware that listening to the World Bank for the last 25 years has not they can use the rents they have gained from last forever. The expectation is that prices, served them well. What’s changed is that they can now turn to other countries in the global South rising commodities prices in a way that at least which have come down significantly since their rather than The Bank or the OECD for lessons and, particularly in the case of China, loans. begins a diversification process.” high point of 08/09, will not rise Says Kozul-Wright, “African policy-makers went through structural adjustment, that didn’t work, so The ‘Africa Rising’ narrative, which we hear so significantly again. they are more willing to listen to ... heterodox solutions ... development banks, for example.” In this much of at present, is largely based on African The big question in this regard is whether regard, the newly proposed Brics Development Bank could be “something of a game-changer”.

information in nutrition sciences through Africa: More Than 4,000 Experts Have Come Together in Granada to Discuss the Main Advances in Nutrition communication technologies, particularly in Latin Granada — The 20th IUNS International Congress The nutrition and American countries and the Mediterranean basin. of Nutrition is being held in Spain for the first time, food Olympics under the title ‘Joining Cultures through Nutrition’ “In fact, this meeting is not just to disseminate and The congress, which construct the science but also to seek practical • Granada is hosting the IUNS 20th International will be dealing with applications of health policies,” concluded the Congress of Nutrition (ICN) from September 15th eight major topics Chairman of the IUNS-ICN Scientific Committee. to 20th, the leading, most prestigious related to food international event in the nutrition sector. and nutrition, will For this reason, it is important to bear in mind the consist of six plenary multidisciplinary character of nutrition and its • The Spanish nutritional situation is similar to sessions, 32 special interaction with other areas of science in general, that of other developed countries in the sessions, 4 debates, including food technology, food safety, medicine in all Mediterranean area. Particularly striking is the 100 parallel its specialities (genetics, immunology, high rate of obesity in all population groups, symposiums and 38 pharmaceuticals, veterinary science, physical activity especially children and adolescents, partly due to symposiums spon- and condition, psychology and many more), without a diet that increasingly differs from the sored by public bod- which we would lack a clear idea of what is happening Mediterranean diet, with more fast and poorly ies and companies, in the body, stated Prof. Marcos. structured meals within the family. In addition, dealing with topics the population of Spain and southern European Anna Lartey, from the Department of Nutrition and such as: personalised countries lead an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Food Science of the University of Ghana and IUNS nutrition though to apply given nutrients that help improve elected president, highlighted that “Conferences like • During the congress, large cohort studies (studies nutrigenomics and nutrigenetics; nutrition in public health”. this provide the opportunity to learn and know about following population groups) will be presented, different stages of life; nutrition and physical the latest information in the field. Most of the evaluating what types of food are healthiest and activity; specific nutrition for specific diseases; and In this context, Prof. Ascensión Marcos, President of presentations being made here have not been in which ones, when consumed inadequately, can poor hospital nutrition. It will also discuss what we the Federation of European Nutrition Societies and publications yet so participants get to know first- determine the presence of certain diseases. know today about functional foods, including possible Vice-President of the ICN, indicated that the hand the emerging cutting-edge technologies and nutritional situation in Spain “is similar to other • The congress will also discuss the importance of functional bioactive compounds, nutritional habits in the interventions to focus on. These conferences are a developed countries in the Mediterranean area. physical activity as a key part of the life cycle, different parts of the world, the value of the great way to meet scientists whose work one has read Particularly striking is the high rate of obesity take a closer look at the interaction between Mediterranean diet in preventing chronic diseases and about but never met. Young scientists get the in all population groups, especially children and genes and nutrients and how bioactive food, education and safety policies. opportunity to link up with relevant seasoned adolescents, partly due to a diet that increasingly substances present in foods such as polyphenols “During the congress, the latest knowledge on food scientists for post-doctoral positions and to identify differs from the Mediterranean diet, with more fast in oils, fermented beverages (wine, beer) fruit and nutrition produced in various fields will be professors they would like to do their graduate and poorly structured meals within the family. In and vegetables, have major physiological effects discussed. We will take a closer look at how our genes training with.” addition, the population of both Spain and southern interact with nutrients and how the compounds in Under the title ‘Joining Cultures through Nutrition’, European countries lead an increasingly 20th IUNS International Congress of Nutrition food in turn interact with our genes. We will also be the 20th International Congress of Nutrition is being sedentary lifestyle.” The 20th International Congress of Nutrition, the discussing the importance of nutrition throughout the held in Spain for the first time. Over 4,000 specialists leading, most prestigious international event in the different stages of life, highlighting physical activity Another topic of particular public interest is the role from this field will be attending from 15 to 20 nutrition sector, is promoted by the International as a key part of the life cycle,” explained of functional foods and the use of micro-organisms, September in Granada. Union of Nutritional Science (IUNS) and organised by Prof. Martinez. so-called probiotics that can be used to modulate our This event, the leading, most prestigious international gut microbiota, with beneficial effects for individuals. the Spanish Nutrition Society (SEN), in conjunction event in the nutrition sector, is promoted by the The epidemiology of nutrition will be another with the Iberoamerican Nutrition Foundation (FINUT) “There are a number of bioactive substances in foods International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS) and major topic; “large cohort studies will be presented, and the University of Granada. It is being held for the (such as polyphenols in oils, wines, fruit and organised by the Spanish Nutrition Society (SEN). assessing what types of food are healthiest and which first time in Spain, in the city of Granada, from 15 to ones, when consumed inadequately, can determine vegetables) that have very significant physiological 20 September 2013, under the title ‘Joining Cultures According to Professor Ángel Gil, President of the the presence of certain non-transmissible chronic effects,” added Prof. Gil. through Nutrition’. IUNS-ICN Congress, “This event represents the most diseases”, stated Prof. Luis Moreno, vice-chairman of Today, microbiotic study of the organism is very Every four years, the IUNS promotes this congress, important nutrition congress in the world. It is held the IUNS-ICN Scientific Committee. important; this includes not only commensal bacteria every four years: it’s the equivalent of the nutrition bringing together over 100 countries. With respect to nutrition in disease management and in the gut, but also in the mouth, or found in breast and food Olympics. The logo for the Congress is a The 20th International Congress of Nutrition is how it can help prevent or even cure diseases, Prof. milk, and their relationship to newborn programming pomegranate, seeds that spread out over a map of the sponsored by numerous international agencies, Gil stated that “clinical and hospital nutrition are and their interaction with newborns’ state of health. world like countries, Spain being at the centre. It also institutions and companies, including, as Platinum basic elements in reducing patients’ hospital In many cases, microbiotic assessment can reveal a represents “Granada” (the word for pomegranate in Sponsors, Abbott Nutrition Health Institute, DSM, The admission times. Food, and certain nutrients and greater risk of developing obesity with a degree of Spanish), the city where the congress is to be held.” Coca-Cola Company, Nestlé Nutrition, Lactalis-Puleva bioactive compounds applied in isolation and used susceptibility to chronic diseases, as indicated and Unilever; as a Gold Sponsor, Danone; and, as “The congress has been designed to consider and appropriately, can be a potent element in by Prof. Marcos. Silver Sponsors, Ajinomoto, General Mills, Mondelez assess advances in research and nutrition and related mitigating disease”. Other challenges to be discussed are promoting the sciences. The ultimate goal is research into nutrition and Hero Institute for Infant Nutrition. advance of nutrition sciences and research through related sciences and its application to human health,” In addition, to establish specific treatments or global cooperation, promoting collaboration between For further information, visit the official website indicated Prof. Alfredo Martínez, Chairman of the intervention policies at the national or supranational scientists working on nutrition and disseminating http://icn2013.com/ IUNS-ICN Scientific Committee. level, Prof. Moreno stressed that “it is important to establish the population’s nutritional status and how 7 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013

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A POSITIVE NEWS SOURCE WITH A LOCAL FLAVOR 9 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 Careers REGISTERED NURSE Five Jobs That Don’t Require A Bachelor’s Degree And Pay Registed nurses (RNs) are the front line of many hospitals and doctor’s More Than Those That Do 3 offices. They complete a variety of duties, including performing diagnostic tests, consulting with doctors, and helping patients understand how to manage The Value and Cost of a 4-Year Degree their helath. RNs may oversee other nurses in the organization. RN degrees are Earning a degree can help you improve your lifetime earning potential, but a 4-year offered at a variety of levels, but an associate’s degree is typically the minimum bachelor’s degree doesn’t come cheap. The average annual cost of attending a 4-year requirement to enter the field, along with a nursing license. To advance as an RN, degree program was $15,605 at a public school and a whopping $31,975 at a private you may need an additional degree, but many healthcare organizations provide school for the 2010-2011 academic year (http://nces.ed.gov). Over 4 years, that comes tuition reimbursements. Like other health care professions, the RN profession is out to $62,420 and $127,900 respectively - not to mention the time you have to spend growing faster than average. You’ll also have many options for work locations, earning your degree. including hospitals, out-patient centers, and in-home care. Salary and The good news is that you don’t have to earn a 4-year degree in order to have a satisfying employment data represent national data and are not guaranteed. career. We’ve identified five high-paying careers that you can pursue with a 2-year associate’s degree - that’s half the time and half the money to get started in your 2012 Median Pay ...... $65,470/year, $31.48/hour new career! 10 Year Job Outlook . . . . .26% growth (Faster than average) According to The National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average starting Educational Requirement . . Associate’s degree salary in 2012 for someone with a bachelor’s degree was $44,259. Our five picks have an average median salary over $62,000 (starting salaries may be lower) and only require two Editor’s Top Program Picks: years or less of education! • ECPI University: AS in Registered Nursing Five High Paying Career Options That Don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree The numbers below come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN RADIATION THERAPIST Electronic engineering technicians help design all types of electrical and Radiation therapists assist physicians who are 4 electronic equipment, including navigational equipment, medical 1 treating cancer patients with radiation. To excel in devices, and computers. The technicians work closely with engineers to build this profession, you need a combination of prototypes, make parts, and troubleshoot malfunctions. To succeed in this technical and communication skills. In a typical day, profession, you need strong math skills as well as problem-solving and you might examine a machine, conduct an x-ray, and deductive-reasoning skills. Although this is a high paying profession, the job answer patient questions. To get started as a radiation outlook is slowing down as the manufacturing sector declines. However, therapist, you need an associate’s degree, preferably opportunities in engineering service firms may increase. Salary and employment from a program accredited by the American Registry data represent national data and are not guaranteed. of Radiologic Technologists. In addition to offering a 2012 Median Pay ...... $57,850/year, $27.81/hour relatively high salary, radiation therapists have a 10 Year Job Outlook ...... 2% growth (Little or no change) strong employment outlook because an aging population will increase demand for radiation therapy services. Salary and employment data represent national Educational Requirement . . . .Associate’s degree data and are not guaranteed. Editor’s Top Program Picks: 2012 Median Pay ...... $77,650/year, $37.29/hour • DeVry University: Associate - Electronics and Computer Technology 10 Year Job Outlook ...... 20% growth (Faster than average) • ITT Technical Institute : Associate in Computer and Electronics Engineering Technology Educational Requirement . . . .Associate’s degree Editor’s Top Program Picks: • ECPI University: AS in Electronics Engineering Technology • ECPI University: AS in Medical Radiography PARALEGAL OR LEGAL ASSITANT DENTAL HYGIENIST Paralegals work in law offices and assist 5 lawyers in most aspects of law practice. Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on appropriate dental A paralegal’s typical tasks includes helping 2 care. They perform many critical functions in a dental office, including taking lawyers at trial, investigating and dental x-rays, tracking patient care, and completing the patient’s cleaning. To get organizing a case’s facts, and drafting started as a dental hygienist working in a private dental office, you just need a documents. To get started as a paralegal, you certificate or an associate’s degree as well as any required state licensure. Most just need an associate’s degree; however, work programs include a combination of classroom instruction and clinical practice. experience or on-the-job training might help This profession will enjoy robust growth between 2010 and 2020 due to aging your job search. The job outlook for paralegals populations requiring additional dental treatments and new research that links is solid; since much of a paralegal’s work must be done in person, the job is less likely to be oral health with general health. However, demand for dental hygienists may outsourced than others. Salary and employment data represent national data and decline during economic slowdowns. Salary and employment data represent are not guaranteed. national data and are not guaranteed. 2012 Median Pay ...... $46,990/year, $22.59/hour 2012 Median Pay ...... $70,210/year, $33.75/hour 10 Year Job Outlook ...... 18% (About as fast as average) 10 Year Job Outlook ...... 38% growth (Much faster than average) Educational Requirement . . . .Associate’s degree Educational Requirement . . . .Associate’s degree Editor’s Top Program Picks: Editor’s Top Program Picks: • Kaplan University: AAS in Paralegal Studies • Argosy University: AS in Dental Hygiene • Sanford-Brown: AAS in Paralegal Studies • Sanford-Brown: Associate in Dental Hygiene

10 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013

HOWStart by TO acknowledging MAKE that SCHOOL boys are languishing BETTER while girls FOR are succeeding. BOYS recently appeared on MSNBC’s The ambition, compared with 16 percent of any talk of difference only encourages where one in three male students drops Cycle to discuss the new edition of boys. During the same period, the gap sexism and stereotyping. In the current out of high school. The male students my book The War Against Boys. between girls and boys earning mostly environment, to speak of difference she met were bored by their classroom IThe four hosts were having none of A’s nearly doubled—from three to five invites opprobrium, and to advocate instruction and starved for hands-on it. A war on boys? They countered with percentage points. for male-specific interventions invites activities. She was shocked to find that the wage gap and the prominence of This gap in education engagement has passionate and organized opposition. many had never held a hammer or men across the professions. One of them dire economic consequences for boys. A Meanwhile, one gender difference refuses screwdriver. Under her supervision, the concluded, “I don’t think the patriarchy is 2011 Brookings Institution report to go away: Boys are languishing boys built a solar driven Stirling engine under any threat.” quantifies the economic decline of the academically, while girls are soaring. from Coca-Cola cans and straws.” Boys The MSNBC skeptics are hardly alone in median male: For men ages 25 to 64 with Young men in Great Britain, Australia, are born tinkerers,” she said. “They have dismissing the plight of boys and young no high school diploma, median annual and Canada have also fallen behind. But a deep-seated need to rip things apart, men. Even those who acknowledge earnings have declined 66 percent since in stark contrast to the United States, decode their inner workings, create stuff.” that boys are losing in school argue that 1969; for men with only a high school these countries are energetically, even Rajogopalan’s insight is supported by a they’re winning in life. But the facts are diploma, wages declined by 47 percent. desperately, looking for ways to help boys large body of research showing that otherwise. American boys across the Millions of male workers, say the improve. Why? They view widespread taken as a group, men prefer working ability spectrum are struggling in the Brookings authors, have been “unhitched male underachievement as a with things and women prefer nation’s schools, with teachers and from the national threat: working with people. Of course, there administrators failing to engage their engine of A country with are female tinkerers who like to work specific interests and needs. This neglect growth.” The too many with things and gladly enter occupations has ominous implications not only for the College Board languishing such as pipefitting and metallurgy. But boy’s social and intellectual development delivered this males risks the number of men eager to enter these but for the national economy, as policy disturbing losing its fields is substantially greater. Women still analysts are just beginning to calculate. message economic edge. predominate—sometimes over- As the United States moves toward in a 2011 So these nations whelmingly—in empathy-centered fields a knowledge-based economy, school report about have such as early-childhood education, social achievement has become the cornerstone Hispanic and established work, veterinary medicine, and of lifelong success. Women are adapting; African- dozens of psychology, while men prevail in the men are not. Yet the education American boy-focused mechanical vocations such as car repair, establishment and federal government boys and commissions, oil drilling, and electrical engineering. are, with some notable exceptions, young adults: task forces, and Young men may be a vanishing breed on looking the other way. “Nearly half working groups. the college campus, but there are some of young men Using evidence colleges that have no trouble attracting Women in the United States now earn of color age and not ideology 62 percent of associate’s degrees, 57 them—schools whose names include the 15 to 24 who as their guide, letters T-E-C-H. Georgia Tech is 68 percent of bachelor’s degrees, 60 percent graduate from officials in of master’s degrees, and 52 percent of percent male; Rochester Institute of high school these countries Technology, 68 percent; South Dakota doctorates. College admissions officers will end up don’t hesitate were at first baffled, then concerned, and School of Mines and Technology, 74 unemployed, to recommend percent. This affinity pattern points to finally panicked over the dearth of male incarcerated sex-specific applicants. If male enrollment falls to 40 one highly promising strategy for or dead.” solutions. The reconnecting boys with school: vocational percent or below, female students begin Working-class British to flee. Officials at schools at or near education, now called Career and white boys are Parliamentary Technical Education (CTE). the tipping point (American University, faring only Boys’ Reading Boston University, Brandeis University, slightly better. “As the United States moves Commission Enrollment in vocational programs New York University, the University of When econo- urges, “Every has dramatic effects on students’ Georgia, and the University of North mist Andrew toward a knowledge-based teacher should likelihood of graduating from high Carolina, to name only a few) are Sum and his economy, school have an up-to- school—especially boys helplessly watching as their campuses colleagues at date knowledge In a rare example of the academic become like retirement villages, with a the Center for achievement has become of reading establishment taking note of boys’ surfeit of women competing for a hand- Labor Market material that will trouble in school, the Harvard Graduate ful of surviving men. Henry Broaddus, Studies at the cornerstone of lifelong appeal to School of Education recently published dean of admissions at William and Mary, Northeastern success. Women are disengaged a major study, Pathways to Prosperity, explains the new anxiety: “[W]omen who University boys.” A that highlights the “yawning gender gap” enroll … expect to see men on campus. examined adapting; men are not.” Canadian report in education favoring women: “Our It’s not the College of Mary and Mary; gender on improving system… clearly does not work well for it’s the College of William and Mary.” disparities in the Boston Public Schools, boys’ literacy many, especially young men.” The Boys in all ethnic groups and social they found that for the class of 2007, recommends active classrooms “that authors call for a national revival of classes are far less likely than their sisters among blacks and Hispanics, there were capitalize on the boys’ spirit of vocational education in secondary to feel connected to school, to earn good 186 females for every 100 males attend- competition”— games, contests, debates. schools. They cite several existing grades, or to have high academic ing a four-year college or university. For An Australian study found that programs that could serve as a model for aspirations. A recent working paper white students: 153 females to every adolescent males, across racial and national reform, including the from the National Bureau of Economic 100 males. socioeconomic lines, shared a common Massachusetts system, sometimes called Research documents a remarkable trend What can we do to improve the complaint, “School doesn’t offer the the “Cadillac of Career among high-achieving students: In the prospects of boys? For one thing, we courses that most boys want to do, Training Education.” mainly courses and course work that 1980s, nearly the same number of top must acknowledge the fact that boys and Massachusetts has a network of 26 prepare them for employment.” male and female high school students girls are different. In many education and academically rigorous vocational- said they planned to pursue a government circles, it remains taboo to Sumitra Rajagopalan, an adjunct technical high schools serving 27,000 postgraduate degree (13 percent of boys broach the topic of sex differences. Many professor of biomechanics at Canada’s male and female students. Students in and 15 percent of girls). By the 2000s, 27 gender scholars insist that the sexes are McGill University, developed a program magnet schools such as Worcester percent of girls expressed that cognitively interchangeable and argue that for disengaged teenage boys in Montreal, Technical, Madison Park Technical 11 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 Vocational, and Blackstone Valley These potentially disaffected students put and manual occupations tend to be Women and Girls shortly after taking Regional Vocational Technical take up with remediation as well as a full load dominated by men, patterns that have office in 2009, declaring: “When our traditional academic courses but spend of college preparatory courses (including held steady for many years.” daughters don’t have the same education half their time apprenticing in a field of honors and Advanced Placement classes), In March 2013 NCWGE released a and career opportunities as our sons, that their choice. These include computer because otherwise they could not spend report urging the need to fight even affects…our economy and our future as a repair, telecommunications networking, half the semester apprenticing in diesel harder against “barriers girls and women nation.” On the other hand, the proposal carpentry, early childhood education, mechanics, computer repair, or face in entering nontraditional fields.” for a Council for Boys and Men from plumbing, heating, refrigeration, and automotive engineering. Among its nine key recommendations a bi-partisan group of academics and cosmetology. As Pathways reports, these In former times, vocational high schools to Congress: more federal funding and political leaders has now been languishing schools have some of the state’s highest were often dumping grounds for low challenge grants to help states close in Secretary of Education Arne Duncan’s graduation and college matriculation achievers. Today, in Massachusetts, they the gender gaps in career and technical office for two years. rates, and close to 96 percent pass the are launching pads into the middle class. education (CTE); mandate every state Similarly, in Maine, the Portland Press states’ rigorous high-stakes Recent research shows that enrollment to install a CTE gender equity coordi- Herald ran an alarming story about the in high school vocational programs has nator; and impose harsher punishments educational deficits of boys—reporting dramatic effects on students’ likelihood on states that fail to meet “performance that high school girls outnumber boys of graduating from high school— measures” –i.e. gender quotas. by almost a 2-1 ratio in top-10 senior especially boys. But efforts to engage Instead of spending millions of dollars rankings, that men earn about 38 percent more boys in career and technical attempting to transform aspiring of the bachelor’s degrees awarded by programs face a formidable challenge. In cosmetologists into welders, education Maine’s public universities, and that boys a series of scathing reports, the National officials should concentrate on helping both rich and poor had fallen seriously Council on Women and Girls Education young people, male and female, enter behind their sisters. But the director of (NCWGE—a 38-year-old consortium careers that interest them. And right now, Women’s Studies at the University of that today includes heavy hitters such boys are the underserved population Southern Maine, Susan Feiner, expressed the AAUW, the National Women’s requiring attention. frustration over the sudden concern for Law Center, the ACLU, NOW, the Ms. boys. “It is kind of ironic that a couple The reluctance to face up to the boy Foundation, and the National Education of years into a disparity between male gap is evident at every level of Association) has condemned high school and female attendance in college it government vocational training schools as hotbeds of becomes ‘Oh my God, we really need to “sex segregation.” In the U.S., a powerful network of look at this. The world is going to end.’” women’s groups works ceaselessly to Because of decades of successful Feiner’s complaint is understandable but protect and promote what it sees as seriously misguided. It was wrong to lobbying by NCWGE groups, high female interest. But there is no school and college career and ignore women’s educational needs for so counterpart working for boys—they are long, and cause for celebration when we technical training programs face on their own. This contrasts dramatically graduation test. turned our attention to meeting those government sanctions and loss of funds with constructive, problem-solving if they fail to recruit and graduate needs. But turning the tables and Blackstone Valley Tech in Upton, approach of education leaders and neglecting boys is not the answer. Why Massachusetts, should be studied by sufficient numbers of female students government officials in Great Britain, into “non-traditional” fields. Over the not be fair to both? Great Britain, anyone looking for solutions to the boy Canada, and Australia. The British have Australia, and Canada are Western problem. It is working wonders with years, untold millions of state and federal their parliamentary “toolkit of effective dollars have been devoted to recruiting democracies just as committed to gender girls (who comprise 44 percent of the practices” for educating boys—while equality as we are. Yet they are seriously student body), but its success with boys is and retaining young women into fields Americans have the National Women’s like pipefitting, automotive repair, addressing their boy gap. If they can do astonishing. According to a white paper Law Center’s Tools of the Trade: Using it, so can we. on vocational education by the construction, drywall installing, the Law to Address Sex Segregation Commonwealth’s Pioneer Institute, “One manufacturing, and refrigeration in High School Career and Technical CHRISTINA HOFF SOMMERS is a in four Valley Technical students enter mechanics. But according to Statchat, a Education. resident scholar at the American their freshman year with a fourth-grade University of Virginia workforce blog, Enterprise Institute. She is author of The The reluctance to face up to the boy gap reading level.” The school immerses these these efforts at vocational equity “haven’t War Against Boys and Freedom Feminism: Its is evident at every level of government. students in an intense, had much of an impact.” Despite an Surprising History–and Why it Matters. In Washington, President Obama individualized remediation program unfathomable number of girl-focused Copyright © 2013 by The Atlantic Monthly Group. established a White House Council on until they read proficiently at grade level. programs and interventions, “technical All Rights Reserved

HELP YOUR CHILD GET BETTER GRADES AND TEST SCORES IN SCHOOL! Order your copies of: The Parent Success Kit & The Student Success Kit Email: YDI at [email protected] Call: 248-758-1411 (TPN)

12 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 Mayweather, while judge C.J. Ross had one of the crazier but the event did spotlight the sweet science, a onetime scores the sport has seen in years: She had it 114-114. blue-collar sport that has become one that costs money (Most ringside journalists had Mayweather winning most to watch. With compelling fights between elite fighters of the 12 rounds; I had it 11-1.) now broadcast on Showtime and HBO, boxing as a whole Alvarez came into the match undefeated, and the boxing has had a very good year, but Mayweather’s fights usually public was anxious to see these two men battle. Would an become the most talked-about events among both regular SPORTS and casual observers. The promotional effort around aging Mayweather be able to keep up with a young man? How Good Is Floyd Mayweather Jr.? Maybe Too Good But Alvarez was so easily out-matched that it raises the Mayweather is so intense that his matches have become By Gary Andrew Poole question: Who can ever challenge boxing’s equivalent of the Super Bowl. It’s lonely—and boring—at the top for the champion Mayweather? What happens to an Mayweather has a deal to fight four more times. In reality, welterweight, who easily dismissed a supposedly worthy athlete when no one is good enough there aren’t four real opponents out there. And yet the opponent Saturday to go 45-0 and continue a 17-year to test him? fights will happen because there is money to be made, and winning streak. Alvarez was so easily out-matched people would like to see Mayweather, who has brilliantly that it raises the question: What crafted his image as a villain, lose. Mayweather, his And Floyd Mayweather Jr. has won yet another boxing promoter, and Showtime will sell Mayweather to the match. The American boxer hasn’t lost in 17 years, and happens to an athlete when no one is good enough to challenge him? world and create enough doubt in the public’s mind that he handed 23-year-old Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez the next opponent, and the next, and so on, have some his first loss in Saturday’s super welterweight mega fight. There was a moment in the 11th sort of chance in their mind. Boxing has always been a Mayweather, who was guaranteed $41.5 million, is round that perfectly emblema- huckster’s sport. Of his enormous paydays, Mayweather now 45-0. tized the Mayweather dominance says, “We’re looking to break records, what else can I say?” The fight followed a script similar to previous Mayweather “problem”—in other words, why Mayweather has figured it out. Because of his dominance, bouts. He sized up his opponent early, peppered him with he is so fun to watch, and yet almost his fights will never go down as epics, but he doesn’t get quick jabs, and then used a variety of combinations to too good. There was Alvarez missing hit much, he makes millions, and he never loses. Like it or tire, confuse, and hurt his opponent. Mayweather would on a punch so badly that he hit the not, we’re living in the Mayweather Era of boxing. be posing a problem. His fights seem so easy that they rope; Mayweather was already half way across the canvas throw 505 punches and connect on 232 (46 percent) while For his next fight, he will likely fight Danny Garcia of Alvarez would throw 526 punches and land 117 (22 lack drama. as Alvarez haplessly tried to regain his balance. Mayweather stared at the rope, as if to say, “Hello, I’m Philadelphia who also fought, and won, on Saturday. percent). Putting it simply, Mayweather landed a lot; Much of this problem is of Mayweather’s own making: He over here, why are you hitting the rope, way over there?” Garcia is another rising star who is undefeated. But the Alvarez missed a lot. Mayweather, 36, moved like a has had a tendency to avoid well-matched opponents in Alvarez—on paper, at least—was the ripest reality is that it probably won’t matter. much younger man; he dodged and darted while Alvarez favor of more famous fighters who are past their peak. challenger of any. punched a lot of air inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena. It’s called “picking your opponents well,” and a boxer (Gary Andrew Poole - Has written for Time, New York Alvarez looked exhausted by the sixth round, while who wants to win and have career longevity employs There are hundreds of boxing matches throughout the Times, and Esquire. He is the author of PacMan: Behind Mayweather looked fresh and slid around the ring with this strategy to good effect. Mayweather has done this year, but there’s usually one boxing event per year that the Scenes with Manny Pacquiao--the Greatest Pound-for- ease. It was another routine win for the best fighter in the brilliantly, but on Saturday he took on a young fighter on becomes the focus of the sport. Mayweather-Alvarez was Pound Fighter in the World.) world—same script, different opponent. the rise and it created worldwide interest. Judges Dave that event; its promoters proclaimed it the “greatest fight Copyright © 2013 by The Atlantic Monthly Group. All But Mayweather’s dominating performances might just Moretti (116-112) and Craig Metcalfe (117-111) had it for of all time” and the like. That wasn’t exactly true, of course, Rights Reserved.

of whom look primed for breakout seasons on opposite ends of Caldwell-Pope in the lottery. Despite the influx of talent, twin towers, the Pistons are easily talented enough to sneak into the floor. There are plenty of media members out there that still questions remain as to where the club’s outside shooting will the Eastern Conference playoffs. aren’t sure whether or not the Pistons have what it takes to make come from. The Pistons should be headed toward it first playoff 4th place — Central Division the postseason, but it’s hard to see them missing out with a roster appearance since 2009, but whether or not the effort is enough to like this. save Dumars’ job is another matter. - Moke Hamilton 3rd Place – Central Division 3rd Place – Central Division Top of the List – Joel Brigham - Lang Greene Top Offensive Player – Greg Monroe – Monroe led the Pistons in The Pistons had an exciting If this is Pistons general manager scoring last season with 16 ppg while shooting an impressive .486 summer that heightened Joe Dumars last chance to save from the floor, though he shot over 50% his first two seasons in expectations heading into the his job, at least he can rest the league. Also, Monroe’s season scoring totals have gone up by season. After adding Josh Smith, peacefully at night knowing over 250 points in each of his first three seasons, and Detroit is Brandon Jennings and Chauncey there’s not much more he could hoping that trend continues in 2013-2014. Jennings, though less Billups, the Pistons went from have done to improve the team efficient, will also impress on that end of the floor. being a projected lottery team this offseason. Adding Brandon Top Defensive Player – Josh Smith – Andre Drummond has some that featured a lot of young Jennings in a sign-and-trade awesome Per-36 minutes, but the problem is that he may only hile there were plenty of teams undergoing gutsy talent to a team capable of while signing Josh Smith and play about 20 minutes a game this season. Smith, meanwhile, Wroster shake-ups over the course of this past off-season, winning now and possibly drafting Kentavious has been considered one of the league’s best defenders for few teams changed their overall disposition quite as dramatically sneaking into the eighth seed in Caldwell-Pope has the Pistons years and should continue to do so in a new uniform. Smith has as the Detroit Pistons. New head coach Maurice Cheeks has plenty the Eastern Conference. Detroit poised to make serious averaged 2.1 blocks, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game over of toys to play with in Motown, including marquee free agent will certainly be fun to watch and improvements next year. Not to the course of his nine-year career. That isn’t likely to change now acquisition Josh Smith, the newly-acquired Brandon Jennings, they could be very good, if Smith mention, they could also have that he’s a Detroit Piston. and burgeoning youngsters Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe. and Jennings play more under a significant amount of internal Top Playmaker – Brandon Jennings – With 6.5 assists per game Rookies Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Tony Mitchell, Peyton Siva, control and efficient than they development with Greg Monroe last season, Jennings was in no way among the top distributors in and Luigi Datome look enticing, too, and even Chauncey Billups, have in past years. The Pistons and Andre Drummond. Dumars the league, but when one factors in his 17.5 points per game, the has returned to Detroit for one more go with the Pistons. There finished with a 29-53 record last tabbed Maurice Cheeks, a former overall picture looks quite a bit rosier. Jennings is a craftier scorer is plenty to be excited about with this team next season, but the year, but every move Detroit has player with a career coaching re- than anybody else on the Detroit roster, which will be good not question is whether or not it will all come together the way Joe made this offseason suggests cord of 284-286, as the best man only in getting him his own points, but in finding some points for Dumars envisioned it. Pistons fans, who haven’t watched a playoff that the team is in win-now to coach this young, but talented his teammates, as well. team in four years, are certainly more than a little optimistic. mode. If Smith and Jennings can team. The Central Division is top mesh alongside Greg Monroe heavy with two contenders in the The Clutch Player – Chauncey Billups – While Billups has only - Joel Brigham and Andre Drummond, Detroit Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers. played 42 total games over the course of the last two years In & Out could finish as one of the top-eight teams in the East. Few teams Third place should be the Pistons’ goal, but the Cavaliers look to combined, there’s a very good chance that he starts the year in were more active than the Pistons this past offseason, so all eyes be the safer bet for that spot due to their depth. Still, there’s no Detroit’s starting lineup. And if he’s good enough to be starting Additions: Josh Smith, Brandon Jennings, Chauncey Billups, will be on Detroit to see how this new-look roster comes together reason this team should compete for a playoff spot. If they don’t, games at age 37, he’s good enough to finish them. His track Kenatvious Caldwell-Pope, Luigi Datome, Josh Harrellson, Tony in 2013-14. that could spell the end for Dumars. record for hitting big shots once earned him the nickname “Mr. Mitchell, Peyton Siva. 4th Place – Central Division 4th place – Central Division Big Shot,” and while physical skills wane with age, the flair for the Subtractions: Jose Calderon, Brandon Knight, Jason Maxiell, Kim moment certainly does not. - Alex Kennedy - Yannis Koutroupis English, Viacheslav Kravtsov, Khris Middleton. The Unheralded Player – Will Bynum – As the second-longest Pistons owner Tom Gores couldn’t be more clear in his message Brandon Jennings and Josh Smith are quintessential talented Five Guys Think… tenured Piston on the roster, Bynum’s leadership was valuable to his troops. He wants a playoff berth, this season. Period. players whose support systems have failed to maximize their enough to the franchise that they gave him a new two-year deal Not everybody loves what the Detroit Pistons did this offseason, President of basketball operations Joe Dumars spent the majority talents. Now, together, they join Joe Dumar’s team along with this summer. Jennings’ backup point guard has been one of the but when you consider the fact that they added Josh Smith, of the offseason adding the talent necessary to make a playoff newly installed coach Maurice Cheeks to form a somewhat volatile most consistent role players on this team for half a decade, and Chauncey Billups, and Brandon Jennings while giving up only run — on paper at least. The team signed forward Josh Smith, team that could win 45 games as easily as it can be a lottery team. he was the team’s fifth leading scorer and third-best assist man Brandon Knight, it’s hard to hate on their roster moves. They one of the most coveted free agents on the market this summer, Odds are, the Pistons will end up somewhere between those last season despite playing only 18.8 minute per game. Detroit is absolutely upgraded their talent level, not only through free to a lucrative four-year deal. The team also acquired talented, two extremes. Ultimately, how well the team fares will depend clearly glad to have him back. agency and trade, but also in the draft; Detroit looks like they but inconsistent, point guard Brandon Jennings from Milwaukee. on the extent to which coach Cheeks builds his offense around could have four impact rookies in Kenatvious Caldwell-Pope, The newcomers will join promising big men Greg Monroe and sweet-passing Greg Monroe and whether or not the young big Best New Addition – Josh Smith – Considering Smith was the Tony Mitchell, Peyton Siva, and Italian free agent Luigi Datome. Andre Drummond. The team also added former NBA Finals MVP man builds upon his first three pro seasons. Andre Drummond is best free agent this side of Chris Paul and Dwight Howard, Detroit New head coach Mo Cheeks has plenty of toys to play with, the Chauncey Billups in free agency, hired Maurice Cheeks to take the talented enough to be a starter in today’s NBA. If Cheeks realizes should feel very lucky to have landed such a big fish. He didn’t shiniest of which are Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond, both head coaching reins and drafted talented prospect Kentavious this, gets Jennings’ shot selection under control and harnesses his come cheap, but considering how mediocre the Pistons were last (Continued on page 15) 13 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 HEALTH MATTERS We Can Be Disease-Proof! Disease-Proof: The Remarkable Truth About What Makes Us Well by David L. Katz M.D., Stacey Colino When you decades, but it’s a case study demonstrating love you back. can do every job (I am a pretty good carpenter, board a plane that knowledge isn’t power. Knowing what isn’t In the end, after taste bud rehab mediated by and have a well-stocked wood shop). No one -- as I do very the same as knowing how. Knowing how is all skill-power, you can give up that too-sweet skill makes a business. Life’s activities inevitably often -- I about skill-power. Disease-Proof is all about dessert with no force of will, but just because require a skill set. Imagine a pilot being great at presume you knowing both what and how. you don’t like it anymore. Your newly takeoff, but lousy at landing. Or really good at count on the The book lays out the case and presents the rehabilitated taste buds will tell you it is too controlling altitude, but not so good at turning. skill of the ironclad evidence for this 80 percent reduction sweet, and you will trade up by choice, without No thanks -- I want a pilot with the full skill set pilot. You in the risk of all chronic disease that is within effort and permanently. That’s what skill-power for flying a plane, if you please. know, of reach of us all. It highlights what this would can do. The book is filled with an entire Similarly, you should want -- and you can have course, that mean if we applied it to ourselves, and those we inventory of just such skills. -- the full skill set for healthy living. That was the pilot can’t love. We might sum that up by noting simply the idea that turned into Disease-Proof. We have control We know, as well, that we are all generally far this: healthy people have more fun! Better too sedentary -- and that just sitting more and known for decades how to slash the risk of all everything. health means a better life. Longer, too, in all serious chronic diseases, but only some of us Just like the moving less can take literal years off our lives. probability. The combination of more years of But fitting “exercise” into a crammed schedule have the skills to turn that knowledge into the ship captains of old controlled ship and sail, but life, more life in years is about the best gift you power of betterliving. That shouldn’t be. not wind and wave -- so do modern airline can prove daunting to even an indomitable can give yourself, and it’s the gift that keeps will. But there are in fact, ways to exercise Everyone should have that power. pilots control the cockpit, but not the on giving -- because if you know how to get atmospheric conditions. But controlling the without exercising -- by having recreational fun. I do think the best way for that to happen is for there from here, you, too, can pay it forward to There are ways to space activity bursts directly our culture and our environment to change. I cockpit is good enough for me and my fellow everyone you love. frequent fliers. We know we can’t get a into your work day, and get those elusive 30 think health should be on a path of much lesser “guarantee” of a safe flight, but we also know What do I mean by “Better health means a minutes of physical activity resistance -- and then it wouldn’t be on the road that with a skillful captain at the helm of a “skill-power”? Well, for without ever leaving the so seldom taken. My day job is devoted to properly assembled plane, the odds are instance -- let’s imagine better life. Longer, too, office (or living room). accelerating just such changes, and we overwhelmingly in our favor. you have a sweet tooth, in all probability. The Such approaches require address them in Disease-Proof. But I don’t as most of us do. Trying knowledge of, and access recommend you hold your breath while waiting Well folks, I am here to tell you exactly the same to file that down to size combination of more to, relevant tools and on the world to change. The world changes is true of health. The differences are only these: so it doesn’t become a years of life, more life program and resources. slowly and you and those you love can’t afford your body is the plane and you are the captain. sweet fang that takes over in years is about the Such solutions require... to wait. Fortunately, there’s no need. The right Assuming your body is put together about like your life is usually very skill. Skill can be acquired. skill set can give you mastery over health (and a body ought to be -- and you wouldn’t be here hard. It could be all about best gift you can give Skill can be shared. weight) in the world as it is. if it wasn’t -- then you can be the captain of giving up your favorite yourself, and it’s the gift That is why my co-author, It’s not rocket science. It’s not even plane travel. your fate. You can be the master of your medical desserts and just toughing that keeps on giving” Stacey Colino, and I wrote The relevant skills aren’t trivial, but they aren’t destiny. You can even be the boss of your DNA. it out. That’s the willpower Disease-Proof. The skill really hard, either. You can have them -- but You can be, in essence, disease-proof. approach. set for healthy living can be shared. So, quite you have to get them. Remember you once had We can reduce our lifetime risk of all major When that approach fails, as it generally does, simply, it should be. We’ve done our best to do to learn how to ride a bike. But then... you’ve chronic disease by an incredible 80 percent. we beat up on ourselves (and sometimes one exactly that. known how ever since. We can even alter our gene expression through another) for not having enough willpower. These days, most books about health will tell Without the right skill set, health is the power of lifestyle. DNA is not destiny. To a But just as time and wind and rain can wear you there’s just one thing to focus on: to lose elusive. You can’t get there from here. The much greater extent, choices under our control away even mountains, so can time and effort weight, or find health, or stop aging. But those relevant skills are yours for the taking, and with determine our fate. We have scientific evidence and frustration wear down even a mountain who read my columns routinely know I don’t them, you and those you love truly can be to an to show that if we change our own behavior, we of willpower. Yes, will matters -- and there are accept any such nonsense. What worthwhile astonishing degree, disease-proof. I want that change the behavior of our genes. We can ways to maximize it (that, too, is addressed in aspect of your life is all about just one thing? No to happen, and will be deeply gratified to be nurture nature. Disease-Proof). But when even a mountain of one emotion makes a relationship. No one word any part of the reason it does. willpower isn’t enough, then willpower is no But just like a captain needs to learn how to fly makes a conversation. No one outfit makes a Copyright © 2013 TheHuffingtonPost.com, Inc that plane, you need to learn how to navigate longer the problem. wardrobe. No one food makes a diet. No one tool your body to health. Both enterprises are skill What if instead of giving up your favorite dependent. It takes will to want to be an airline dessert, you give up gram after gram of sugar captain in the first place -- but it takes skill to from your diet by trading up foods that didn’t fly the plane. Similarly, you need willpower to need to be sweet in the first place? You won’t get to health, because you do have to care. But miss sugar from pasta sauce, after all. You once you care, you will need skill-power to get won’t miss it in crackers, either. I refer to this as there from here. You and those you love really “stealth” sugar, sugar in foods we don’t consider can be disease proof, but it takes skill. sweet. There is a lot of it -- but most people Fortunately, a lot less skill than flying a plane. don’t know it’s there, let alone where it’s hiding. Maybe it’s more like learning to ride a bike. The good news is that when you find out, you And to that end, I am pleased and proud to can easily trade up to choices in the same bring to your attention my brand new book, categories that don’t have the added sugar Disease-Proof, now available online and coming (without spending more money, by the way). to bookstores nationwide on September 26. I And then, the news gets even better. Taste buds can’t fly a plane, but I can ride a bike -- and I are very malleable little fellas -- they learn do have the skill set for being healthy. I live the to love the foods they’re with. That’s why you benefits of that skill set every day, and I live the probably love way too much sugar and salt right benefits of sharing those skills with those I love, now. Your taste buds have been “corrupted” by notably my wife and five children. the unnecessary processing of the modern food Subscribe to or Advertise in The Pontiac News I have the skills needed to reduce my lifetime supply. But that same food supply provides risk of any major chronic disease -- heart really good options in every category, and if you Call: 248-758-1411 or disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, dementia -- by know which ones those are -- they are all you 80 percent and I want to pay it forward. need to rehabilitate your taste buds. You really can learn to prefer and love the very foods that Email: [email protected] We have known this is possible for literal 14 THE PONTIAC NEWS • SEPT. 20 - OCT. 3, 2013 Season Preview (Continued from page 13) working with Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder over the course of the last four years. Detroit is optimistic he’ll year, and that Detroit isn’t necessarily the most desirable free have similar success with Jennings, and that he’ll be a more Get, Give and Connect agency landing spot in the league, Joe Dumars should feel pretty permanent solution for a team that’s had a revolving door at head happy to have gotten a hold of one of the league’s best defensive coach for the last half a decade. • Do you want to save money? players. Jennings, of course, was a great get, too. - Joel Brigham • Do you need tutoring, child care, transportation, resume content, - Joel Brigham Strengths computer skills or car repair? Who We Like • What talents do you have that you’re willing to share with others? Thanks in part to the emergence of Andre Drummond, the Pistons • Are you an entrepreneur who wants to showcase your skills? 1. Andre Drummond – After only one partial season in the NBA, were one of the more respectable rebounding teams in the league 20-year-old Andre Drummond is already being compared to last year. With 42.1 boards per game, they were 13th in the NBA, Dwight Howard and Shaquille O’Neal. The body is certainly there; but that total was fewer than two rebounds per game less than he came in at 6’10” and 290 pounds over the summer with only the team that finished fifth in the league in that category. With six percent body fat, but the talent is also pretty obvious here, too. slight improvement, they could be among the best in the league Per 36 minutes, Drummond averaged 13.8 points, 13.2 rebounds, here. Also, with Drummond and Josh Smith, they will easily be 2.8 blocks and 1.7 steals per game last season, and as his actual among the league’s top shot-blocking teams. Defense, in general, numbers approach 30 mpg this season, he should actually get should be Detroit’s strong suit this season, especially if Drummond close to seeing some of those numbers in real life. He’s a is able to play more minutes. historically bad free-throw shooter, but in every other way that - Joel Brigham matters, this kid is on the cusp of a breakout season. Weaknesses 2. Greg Monroe – This should be an interesting year for Monroe, who enters the final season of his rookie deal, mostly because he’ll Last season, Detroit scored only 94.9 points per game, good for Pontiac SUN TimeBank is our community skill exchange, currently open only see the bulk of his minutes at power forward after doing most of 9th worst in the entire NBA, and while Josh Smith brings with his work as the team’s center last year. With Drummond at the him 17 or 18 points per game, his inefficiency on the offensive to Pontiac residents five, Monroe can be a nasty offensive mismatch for defending end doesn’t exactly mean those points will translate to higher fours, which could be what gets his field goal percentage up over box scores for the Pistons. They were middle-of-the-pack last Meet us here to learn more and join: 50% again this season. He averaged 16 points and 9.6 rebounds season in terms of field goal percentage (.449, 14th in the NBA) Wednesday September 25 from 12-2 pm per game last season, but as the only Detroit frontcourt player and three-point field goal percentage (.356, 18th in the NBA), and with the ability to score efficiently, there’s a good chance those Smith won’t help them with either. They’re hoping Monroe gets Oakland Family Services, 114 Orchard Lake OR numbers will trend upwards this year, especially as he attempts to his field goal shooting back up this year, and that Brandon Jen- prove himself worthy of a massive extension. nings, Chauncey Billups, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope improve Saturday September 28 from 12-2 pm their outside scoring. 3. Josh Smith – All of the team’s acquisitions this summer were Lighthouse of Oakland County, 46156 Woodward Light refreshments will be offered at each event positives for Detroit, but this one was the best of them because of - Joel Brigham what Smith does for the team defensively. Pairing him up with The Burning Question Drummond gives the Pistons a nasty one-two punch on that end of the floor, and his veteran leadership and playoff experience Have the Pistons thrust themselves into the Eastern Conference’s TimeBank membership donations are a small amount of $25 per individual, $40 per should help boost morale in the clubhouse, too. All they had to upper crust once again? family and $100 per organization for an entire year of service benefits. give up to get him was money, and based on his career numbers, It’s been almost half a decade since the last time Detroit made the it looks as though that money will have been well-spent. Scoring Organizational partners include Common Ground, Lighthouse of Oakland County, postseason, but once it became clear that players like Chauncey Oakland Family Services, OLHSA, Easter Seals, CNS, Furniture Bank and more! efficiently will be a problem this year (Brandon Jennings won’t Billups, Richard Hamilton, Rasheed Wallace, and Ben Wallace were help the team’s field goal percentage, either), but it’s nice to see no longer youthful enough to keep the team in the Conference To learn more, contact: this much star power on Detroit’s roster. It’s been a while. Finals every year, the front office decided it was time to rebuild. Kim Hodge, [email protected] or 248-952-8175 4. Chauncey Billups – Actually, it’s been since Billups was here the That’s what the last four years have been, and it has admittedly Website/details www.pontiacsun.org first time that the team looked this good on paper, and it’s nice to netted some nice young players. The additions of Jennings and think that he’ll have the opportunity to finish his career with the Smith, however, signal the team’s resolve to make a splash in the team that helped win him his championship ring and NBA Finals postseason again, but are those two middling stars enough to MVP. At this stage of his career, Billups is the kind of guy who’s place them among the East’s second-tier playoff teams? more of an assistant coach than an All-Star, but he’s still probably - Joel Brigham going to start for the Pistons this year as he helps pass the torch to the next crop of great young Detroit hoopsters. ______5. Mo Cheeks – While Cheeks doesn’t exactly have a stellar record Article printed from HOOPSWORLD | Basketball News & NBA as an NBA head coach, he has done some wonderful things Rumors: http://www.hoopsworld.com St. John United Methodist Church Men’s Day 2013 We are pleased to announce that Dr. Donald Corr, a product of the Pontiac Schools and attended St. John as a child, will be the Men’s Day speaker on September 22, at the 10:15 am Worship Service. Dr. Corr received his Doctorate in Child Psychology from Rutgers University, NY. The Men’s Day Theme: “Raise up a Child”. Proverb 22:6. The Church is located at 620 University Dr., Pontiac, 248-338-8933.

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