| Newspapers; 3/12/06 | |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 12 2006, 10:15 AM Post #1 |
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From the Detroit News: http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120382/1006 Sunday, March 12, 2006 Wayne Briefs Redford Township Michigan Technical Academy opens The new Michigan Technical Academy High School officially opened Friday, giving students better opportunities for career technical training at the new school site. The high school is one of three sites for the K-12 Technical Academy, formerly known as Michigan Automotive Academy. The high school has been in Romulus since chartered in 1995. The new site was once a school, then sold and reused as offices, now completely gutted and refurbished. An 18,000-square-foot automotive bay was added, with eight lifts. Auto mechanics, electronics, computers, and robotics are among the specialized courses students can add to the core curriculum. About 260 students are enrolled. Livonia Mayor's State of the City is on cable Livonia Mayor Jack Engebretson delivers his annual State of the City Address before the Livonia Chamber of Commerce at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at Burton Manor. A tape of the speech will be shown on City Channel 8 at 8 p.m. on March 29 and April 5, 10 and 19. _________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120377/1026 Sunday, March 12, 2006 Will Bush flap influence teachers? Beverly Hills native who compared words of president to Hitler's is reinstated; he will be more balanced, lawyer says. Joe Menard / The Detroit News Jay Bennish's return to the classroom Monday ends his weeks-long saga over comments he made comparing President Bush to Adolf Hitler, but some educators say the controversy may have a lasting effect on teachers who like to push the envelope to stimulate their students. In suburban Denver, 10th-grade student Sean Allen recorded 20 minutes of Bennish's lecture to his class on Bush's State of the Union address and turned it over to conservative columnists and talk radio, sparking a national controversy. Some educators fear the incident could lead to other students complaining about outspoken teachers. They also believe it may discourage teachers from challenging their students with alternative viewpoints on controversial issues to teach them to think for themselves. "It's scary. If that mentality seeps into our schools, we're doomed," said Margaret Trimer-Hartley, spokeswoman for the Michigan Education Association, the state's largest teachers union. "We're destined to squelch the debate that makes us a strong society." During his lecture, Bennish said some of Bush's speech the night before "sounds a lot like things that Adolf Hitler used to say." Administrators from Cherry Creek School District decided Friday to reinstate Bennish, who teaches social studies and geography at Overland High School. The 28-year-old Beverly Hills native and 1996 Seaholm High School graduate had been on paid administrative leave since March 1. Superintendent Monte Moses said Bennish was being reinstated, but Moses declined to say what the investigation found or whether Bennish had been punished. He did say that Bennish's "practice and deportment need growth and refinement" and that officials had made recommendations for Bennish in the report. Bennish's lawyer, David Lane, also refused to say whether his client would be punished but pointed out "he's not losing one nickel" of pay. "Jay's teaching style will perhaps be, as some would say, a little more fair and balanced on a minute-to-minute basis," Lane said. "When you put out one side, put out the other then and there." Lane said Bennish's classes have been balanced over the course of the whole semester. On Friday, Bennish said he would continue to strive to be a better teacher and present topics that "affect our society and the world." "I'm very excited to continue to encourage students to think critically, to encourage democratic values and to promote social justice just as I have always attempted to do," said Bennish, who on his 2000 application for a teaching position wrote that those were among his main objectives. The controversy prompted calls to the school district from around the country and even elicited a comment from President Bush. Asked about Bennish on Friday, Bush said, "People should be allowed to criticize me all they want, and they do." Bennish's parents, John and Jan, said they were happy the saga reached a conclusion after two turbulent weeks that included violent threats against the Bennish and Allen families. "We're pleased with the outcome," John Bennish said from his Beverly Hills home. "It was an unfortunate situation. I think we can all get on with our lives now." He said his son handled the pressure from the national spotlight well. "He's pretty stressed out, like we all are," he said. "We're very proud of the way he handled himself. Jay can get on with his teaching career and his life." The student's father, Jeff Allen, said he hopes the incident serves as a model for other students. "I'm hoping this incident is going to bring about other change around the country that will take over from this," Jeff Allen said. Because of threats against his safety, the Allen family has not decided if their son will return to Overland High School. Fred Regan, a retired Chippewa Valley High School social studies teacher who taught for 30 years, said he hopes the incident helps remind teachers to balance their material, but not shy away from controversy. "You are always going to have parents who are trying to nail a teacher," said Regan, who ruffled several feathers in his career while teaching students about the issues of the time, including the Vietnam War, Watergate and Roe v. Wade. "These were some of the worst issues ever. There were times I got parents upset. Education is supposed to challenge people and challenge kids. "I hope (Bennish) learns, and it makes him a better teacher." The Associated Press contributed to this report. You can reach Joe Menard at (248) 647-7429 or jmenard@detnews.com. ____________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120380/1026 Sunday, March 12, 2006 Students eat up healthy menus 25 schools in Mich. pass out fruits, veggies as part of national initiative Shawn D. Lewis / The Detroit News Charles T. Tines / The Detroit News Lakeland High senior Cristy Ratliff munches on fruit. The school is one of 375 U.S. schools serving free healthy snacks as part of a program to combat obesity. Food for thought The USDA's economic research service conducted a study of the pilot program and presented it to Congress in May 2003. It was found that 80 percent of students were very enthusiastic about the program, and 83 percent of principals were interested. Consequently, in 2004, the fruits and vegetable pilot program became official. The program is in 375 schools and three tribal organizations nationwide. Students select from a variety of fruit snacks at Lakeland High in White Lake. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports 12 percent of Michigan high-schoolers are overweight, almost identical to the national average. BRIGHTON -- We're fat. As a nation. As a state. As individual counties and neighborhoods. And one of the leading causes, experts say, is we're not eating our fruits and vegetables. Michigan educators are seeing the unhealthful impact in their classrooms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 percent of Michigan high school students are overweight, almost identical to the national average, and 82 percent ate fewer than five servings of fruits and vegetables during a seven-day period. But teachers and administrators are working to combat obesity, by not just teaching about fruits and vegetables, but by serving them up -- for free -- in the classrooms. Originally part of a 100-school national pilot program implemented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture four years ago, it's now in 375 schools in 14 states and three tribal organizations. Six states were added in 2005. The program's participants consider it a good idea: A USDA study showed that 80 percent of students and 83 percent of principals thought the program was very successful. Plans are to continue providing fresh fruits and vegetables to even more schools. Twenty-five schools in Michigan participate in the program. So far, the students are eating the produce. "I really like it when we get the fruits and vegetables because it's relaxing, and we can snack while we do our work," said Meredith Bardsley, 14, an eighth-grader at Scranton Middle School in Brighton. "I especially like the vegetables, like the broccoli and cauliflower served with a ranch dip." Her mother, Diane Bardsley, believes the program is making students more nutritionally aware. "I think having the teachers provide this is like having a good role model," she said. "If that's what the adults are serving, I think they will see that it's a good thing. "I've always offered them fruits and vegetables, but, they eat cookies, too. These programs would be good in the elementary schools." Michigan's surgeon general, Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, gives the program an A. "It is unacceptable not to give children fruits and vegetables," she said. "The data is very hard to look at. We're not seeing a major drop in obesity, but I am seeing a groundswell of activity to improve the health of children." She points to the "Count Your Steps" effort by Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, initiatives to modify what is being served in school vending machines, and the new wellness policy, which must be a part of all school curriculums by July and implemented by September. But fruits and vegetables in school are just the baby steps. "While these efforts may seem small, they will begin to create momentum, such as the anti-littering campaign and the seat belt campaign," she said. "They started off small and built momentum." In Detroit, students get the produce in the morning and after lunch. "We can only do what we can do in the school," said Theresa Ulrich, director of support services with the office of foods services at Detroit Public Schools. "The state wants to give them the opportunity to taste new things -- like starfruit, kiwi and mangoes, so they can make right choices and become healthier adults." Dominique Becker, 17, of Lakeland High School in White Lake, looks forward to the servings of fruits and vegetables. "It gives us a chance to sit down and snack on good things, and it makes me feel a lot better," she said. "I like the pineapple and the carrots." In Brighton, educators are spending about $1,000 a day on fresh fruits and vegetables for students. "We supply the students with the fruits and vegetables at around 9:30 a.m., when they may be hungry if they haven't eaten breakfast," Steele said. "I really believe it is a positive nutritional message we're sending," she said. "And we also have fruit and vegetable trays placed throughout the building -- in the teachers lounges and in the office, for the staff and visitors as a way to have the staff serve as role models for the behavior." Dr. Wendy Miller, medical director at Beaumont Hospital's Weight Control Center, said the program is a step in the right direction. "It's a small step, but there are a lot of things that need to change -- like school lunches. But at least they're giving the message to eat healthy snacks." You can reach Shawn D. Lewis at (248) 647-8825 or slewis@detnews.com. _________________________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120351/1026 Sunday, March 12, 2006 School lists shine light on public records debate As advocates press for access, Mich. lawmakers work to release names of convicted employees. Kathy Barks Hoffman / Associated Press LANSING -- Michigan's Freedom of Information Act marks its 30th anniversary this year, but the rules over what government records should be made public are anything but settled. That was clear in recent weeks as lawmakers and judges wrestled with whether school districts should release the names of school employees convicted of crimes, and how soon they should let the public have access to the list. This week has been declared Sunshine Week by media organizations and other groups pressing for government access, contending information is being withheld more often by officials who cite post-September 11 security concerns. The information is of obvious importance to parents, and media outlets were swift to ask for the list under the Freedom of Information Act once the state Department of Education in early February sent the list to schools after checking the criminal histories of more than 200,000 school employees. But a judge blocked the list's release after teachers testified that they were wrongly included and their unions said school districts needed time to root out inaccuracies that could unfairly ruin teachers' reputations. The state withdrew the list, and state police are working on a more accurate assessment of school employees with criminal records. Lawmakers, meanwhile, are working on a bill that would require releasing to the public the names of only those employees who have committed felonies or certain misdemeanors involving sex or violence, not those convicted of other misdemeanors. The changes don't sit well with FOIA advocates, who worry that the public wouldn't know about many employees who had misdemeanors on their records. "Would you vote for a school board member if they decided to keep someone (on staff) even though they'd been convicted of the use of marijuana, and you know it's been plea bargained down from selling?" asked Dawn Phillips Hertz, an Ann Arbor attorney with Butzel Long who serves as general counsel to the Michigan Press Association. But Sen. Michael Switalski, D-Roseville, said it's better to draw a "bright line" now on what is released and consider adding other misdemeanors to the list later. "The wise thing would be to move slowly, properly and to protect the rights of the innocent," he said. Although the debate over school employee records may not have caused such a ruckus if the original list had been accurate, there's no shortage of attempts in the state to lock government information away from the eyes of the public. Since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, 48 bills affecting open records have been introduced in the Michigan Legislature, and 22 have become law, an Associated Press analysis has found. Nearly all restricted public access to government information. _____________________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120378/1026 Sunday, March 12, 2006 Michigan agenda Committee raises bar for school graduation Michigan Senate considers bill mandating 18 credits to receive high school diploma. Mark Hornbeck / Detroit News Lansing Bureau LANSING -- Tougher high school graduation requirements will be high on the state Senate's agenda this week. Following a series of public hearings around the state, the Senate Education Committee Thursday unanimously approved a bill mandating 18 credits for graduation, including four credits in math and English, three in science and social studies, and one credit each in arts and physical education. The committee also added the two credits of foreign language contained in the State Board of Education's initial proposal. That requirement had been stripped out of the version that passed the House earlier this month. The full Senate is expected to pass the bill by Thursday. House and Senate leaders say they intend to reach consensus and take final action on the legislation by the end of the month. Most of the new state mandates in the Senate bill would be in place for the graduating class of 2011. The foreign language requirement applies to the class of 2012. Under the House bill, the requirements would apply to the class of 2010 that starts this fall. "I think we're doing a good thing. It's unfortunate the state has to step in and do this, but we are at the point where we feel like we have to have a state-mandated curriculum," said Sen. Gerald Van Woerkom, R-Muskegon, who is a former school administrator. The state currently requires only a semester of civics. Other requirements are left to local districts. Gov. Jennifer Granholm and legislative leaders say the higher standards are important to ensure students are prepared for college and for jobs in a competitive global economy. Algebra II remains a required credit in the Senate bill, but with a new twist. Students could decide after their sophomore year to take a slower-moving, two-year Algebra II class, or they could opt for a vocational education course that covers Algebra II concepts. Students would have to wait until after the first semester of their junior year to choose a modified curriculum that does not include some of the higher-level math and science credits. Other differences between the House and Senate bills include: The Senate legislation calls for completion of an earth science credit, as well as biology and chemistry or physics. Controversial language in the House bill that some say would require high schools to teach intelligent design as an alternative to the theory of evolution is not in the Senate version. You can reach Mark Hornbeck at (313) 222-2470 or mhornbeck@detnews.com. _____________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603120362/1008 Sunday, March 12, 2006 Taxpayers and voters have a right to government data 'Sunshine Week' calls for free flow of information The Detroit News / Sunshine week Sunshine week, spearheaded by the American Society of Newspaper Editors and other groups, starts today. It's designed to highlight the right of all citizens to know what their government is doing -- whether local, state or federal. Democracies cannot succeed without informed voters. And that requires detailed information on how each level of government performs. Democracies need free flows of information to function. But in Michigan, local and state governments often opt to keep secrets, especially potentially embarrassing ones such as extravagant expenses or mistakes. The big cases are well known -- including the flap over releasing the names of any public school teachers with felony records. Hiding information, however, is a problem that dribbles down to the smallest township. Ironically, the state's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) can also be used as a shield by officials who concoct innovative interpretations to hide things. For example, the Macomb County suburb of Warren wanted to know how Detroit figures water and sewer fees. At first, Detroit officials claimed the formula was exempt from disclosure because the data was in a computer and, therefore, computer software. Warren won a court case in 2004 but contends it did not get any useful data, and there the matter rests. FOIA disputes include private citizens prodding local governments that do not understand the phrase "freedom of information" or who choose to ignore the concept. In the past, officials have used such tricks as imposing prohibitive costs to discourage citizens from pursuing an information request. But taxpayers pay both government salaries and the tab to collect records and should have access, except for those records clearly exempted by law. Lack of public scrutiny can lead to bigger troubles, as happened during a former regime at the Oakland intermediate school district. Officials ran up a lot of questionable purchases, including travel and custom-wrapped candy for employees. By the time the scandal broke, the amount of money that was misspent was huge. The basic tools to track government are available. Citizens should use them. And officials should not block access to prevent embarrassment. |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 12 2006, 10:24 AM Post #2 |
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From the Livonia Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603120544/1027 Judge denies injunction to halt 'Legacy' BY STEPHANIE ANGELYN CASOLA STAFF WRITER A Wayne Circuit Court judge denied the request by Citizens for Livonia's Future for a preliminary injunction that would have halted progress on the Livonia Public Schools' Legacy Initiative. In refusing the request, Judge John A. Murphy said: "Plaintiffs have not persuasively shown how the Open Meetings Act was violated, or how the board abused the broad discretion allotted it." The Legacy plan will close seven school buildings, redraw attendance boundaries and reconfigure grades into lower and upper elementary schools -- beginning next fall. It aims to save the district $1.5 to $2 million a year. Following the proceedings Friday morning, Supt. Randy Liepa said the district will continue moving forward with transition activities under the Legacy Initiative. "Of course we have the best interest of the kids in mind," he said, walking out of the courtroom. Had the judge ruled differently, the district would have complied and ceased transition activities, he added. The court's decision came to the dismay of many members associated with the Citizens for Livonia's Future. "We're really disappointed," said Melanie Beaudoin, a district parent. "It does affect our children. It affects our whole community. I don't think (the board) listened to a majority of our concerns." So many CFLF members showed up for the proceedings, the courtroom was filled to its 65-person capacity, and many more residents lined the hallway outside. Members of CFLF wore red to signify their opposition to the Legacy plan. 'UNTOLD HARM' Mayer Morganroth, the plaintiff's attorney, highlighted reasons for the complaint against the school district and its superintendent. He mentioned the impact of the plan, such as increases in busing and school populations, and the end of a neighborhood schools concept. Morganroth said the district will lose students to private schools and property values will drop. "What they've done is causing untold harm," he said. Gary King, the district's attorney, said: "Judge, plain and simply, Livonia has to close schools." He said the district has cut $19 million from its budget over the last five years due to declining enrollment. King added that the Legacy plan was created after a year of study in an effort to prevent future cuts in staffing and program. It is meant to balance school populations without increasing class size ratios. But Morganroth attempted to prove that the school board violated the Open Meetings Act when it allowed a total of five trustees to be involved in the demographics committee which created the Legacy plan. Committee meetings were not open to the public and minutes and attendance records were not taken. King responded that the decision to pass the Legacy plan was done in open session on Dec. 5, and that decision was preceded by open meetings with ample time given for public comments. NO EVIDENCE OF INTENT On the question of an Open Meetings Act violation, Murphy ruled that "the Plaintiff's chances of prevailing would be poor." He said there is no evidence a decision was made during committee deliberations, and there is no evidence of intent to violate the Act. Morganroth said the decision at Friday's hearing didn't shut the case down. "The judge said he wanted more information," said Morganroth, adding that's what he intends to provide. Morganroth will take depositions from each of the board trustees and Liepa, as well as members of the demographics committee. He plans to bring in education experts to support the plaintiffs' claims. "We're going full blast in order to show what they did was outrageous," he said. Morganroth also said that the district would fail to save money due to the costs of carrying out its Legacy plan. Under the plan, Murphy said the district would still reduce its operating cost by several closing schools. If students do leave the district to attend private schools, he said, fixed operating costs would decline. "This is a time of monumental change for all school districts," Liepa said in a written statement Friday. "We realize we are asking a great deal of our parents and staff as we move through change. "However, we strongly believe this change will maintain the excellence of our programs and the strength of our district. Our knowledgeable and dedicated staff will continue their commitment to our community as we move forward." scasola@hometownlife.com | (734) 953-2054 Originally published March 12, 2006 _________________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603120546/1027 Supporters speak out favoring Legacy plan BY STEPHANIE ANGELYN CASOLA STAFF WRITER Livonia resident Jerry Kmieciak won't stay silent any longer. "These are complex times and complex issues," he said. "The funding cuts out of Lansing are only gonna get worse." That's one reason why he and wife Peggy Fisher Kmieciak are supporters of Livonia Public Schools Legacy Initiative, the district's plan to save $1 to $2 million a year for the next five years. Next fall, the Legacy Initiative will close seven school buildings, re-draw district boundaries and reconfigure grade levels into lower and upper elementary schools. Since it was introduced in October, and adopted by the school board in December, the plan has caused a rift in the LPS community between those who support the change, and those who felt alienated from the decision-making process and want to start from scratch to form a new plan. The opposing parties have remained vocal and continue to publicly speak out against the initiative. A grassroots group, Citizens For Livonia's Future, has formed and is now pursuing a lawsuit against the board and district, and attempting a recall of five board trustees who supported the plan. Now, supporters in the community are becoming more visible, and vocal. "I have no problem being a voice and a face for the people who don't feel as comfortable in the public eye," said Kmieciak. Peggy Fisher Kmieciak spoke before the board Monday and said: "We need to stop being divided, as this is what is in the best interest of our children." She shared their personal experiences with two children who have since graduated from the district and said her daughter changed schools in second, third and fourth grade. "Our children will be fine," she said. "There is a plan to help them every step of the way." Cathlene Hedden, a first grade teacher at Cooper for 10 years, will transition to Cleveland Elementary next fall. "I'm excited to be part of the Cleveland community," she said. "I support the Legacy Initiative and I'm excited about the direction LPS is moving in under the direction of (superintendent) Dr. Liepa, the administration, community volunteers and the Board of Education." In addition to public meetings, the Legacy debate has played out in cyberspace and on neighborhood streets. In response to the Web site www.citizensforlivoniasfuture, an anonymous host has recently created www.supportlivonia.org. In response to red and white "Recall" signs, Kmieciak said there are now "Support Legacy" signs. "They've been created in the last week," he said Tuesday. About 800 signs were created, for both lawns or car windows, and are available for sale now. Kmieciak said supporters are also looking for an outlet to share their enthusiasm. Their message is simple "Let's work together," he said. "Let's make it happen." Kmieciak said he agrees there will be challenges in this time of change, but he's confident the district will "work through it." To purchase Support Livonia signs, send e-mail to livoniakids@yahoo.com or call (734) 953-1044. scasola@hometownlife.com | (734) 953-2054 Originally published March 12, 2006 _________________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603120545/1027 $6.3 million grant to boost Churchill's engineering program Churchill High School's engineering program just became $6.3 million richer. Unigraphics Solutions Corp. in Livonia recently awarded a grant to teacher Jeff Hatley's industrial education and engineering classes, to cover the cost of 15 licenses for NX academic software. "This state-of-the-art program is currently used by the Big Three automakers," said Jay Young, director of community services for Livonia Public Schools. "It puts into our hands the foremost, cutting edge technology." Hatley said he was introduced to the software last summer and applied for the grant. "Livonia is an integral part of automation alley," said Hatley. "Many designers use UGNX software." Trustee Rob Freeman said he wished he had access to such software when he was a high school student. Trustee Cynthia Markarian was also pleased to hear students will have access to this technology: "They'll probably come up with things we never dreamed imaginable." By Stephanie A. Casola Originally published March 12, 2006 ___________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...556/1199/NEWS10 Set your kids a good example, start them on the reading habit He probably doesn't know it's Reading Month. But he was certainly into the spirit of the annual celebration Sunday when he said matter of factly, "Let's read Papa." My grandson, Aidan, 2 1/2, went off to the bookcase and grabbed two books. He's particularly into a book about a snowman building contest with a clear message that working together will allow you to build a bigger, better snowman. It was such a good story he had me read it twice. Of course, he's a multi-media kind of guy. He sits with Mom or Dad and navigates to his favorite kid-friendly Web sites. He knows how to pop in a DVD. He just attended his first big screen movie to watch one of his favorite book characters -- Curious George -- bigger than life. But the reading is an important part of the mix and the most interactive. He sits on my lap or next to me, listens to the story, asks questions and then talks about the story after we read it. He's getting the habit and it's a good habit to have. March is Reading Month is designed to encourage children to read. It's become a challenge to get children to read anything beyond the bare minimum to get by in the classroom. Reading Month promoters want kids to know that reading is fun, challenging, informative. It's a conversation starter, a project promoter, an escape to exotic lands and wild adventures. But the competition is steep. Met a young man last week. He was a middle schooler, talkative and obviously bright. It was a Tuesday, DVD release day, and he was reminded that the latest Harry Potter was being released that day. He'd seen the movie a couple of times and was anxious to see it, and all the extras, on DVD. We asked if he'd read the latest Harry Potter book (No. 6 in the series). He said he wasn't much of a reader, but had read the first five but not the latest. The Potter books seem to grow in size and complexity to keep the target audience somewhere around Harry's age. That could turn many middle school readers away. But the fact that the movies are now appearing about three years behind the books might also explain it. Movies are easier. Ironically, it was the success of Harry Potter in the 1990s that gave educators and parents hope that a reading renaissance was taking place. After stagnant juvenile book sales and a seeming abandonment of the printed word for television and video games, children were closing themselves away in their rooms to read about the adventures of a bespectacled British schoolboy wizard and his friends. (And many adults also found the adventures appealing.) As state legislators ponder whether to set mandatory credit hours for high school students, educators are concerned about how many elementary students will be able to meet the standards demanded. Reading is the key, the absolutely necessary component to success in school. Even to properly operate or benefit from a computer, you must be able to read. Educators know the distractions. It seems every few years a new distraction comes along -- sports, movies, phonographs, television, video games, DVDs, iPods, MySpace and other online services (temptations?). The important thing is starting good habits early, discouraging bad habits and managing distractions that have good and bad elements (movies, computers, popular music). Easier said than done unless you're with a child 2 4/7 and keep him or her on a tight leash that doesn't allow for any bad decisions (or good ones, either). But you can read. You can turn off the television and the computer and take the iPod out of your ears. The sight of an adult reading a book or a magazine or even (please) a newspaper can be a great inspiration. Just as getting out on a bicycle or Rollerblades or taking a hike in the woods can inspire a child to exercise. And that's what it's all about, exercising the body and the mind. You can distract children into following some good habits. Hugh Gallagher is the managing editor of the Observer Newspapers. He can be reached by email at hgallagher@oe.homecomm.net, by phone at (734) 953-2149, or by fax at (734) 591-7279. Originally published March 12, 2006 ____________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...393/1103/NEWS10 MySpace.com Internet site popular with teens, despite warnings BY LINDA ANN CHOMIN STAFF WRITER Despite the concerns of law enforcement, parents and schools, the Website www.MySpace.com continues to grow in popularity with teens and pre-teens. It seems they don't worry about dangerous online predators. MySpace.com describes their Website as a service that allows members to set up profiles that can be linked together through networks of friends. MySpace members can view each others' profiles, communicate with old friends and meet new friends. Those new friends could be predators. Students' enthusiasm and naivety about the Internet site was apparent during a Tuesday evening panel discussion on the subject. "Some people love it. Some people hate it, but everybody at school has been on MySpace," said Ken Boycott, an 18-year-old senior at Franklin High School in Livonia. Celia Devitis agrees the site is "getting more and more popular." In fact, she thinks some of the teens see it as a popularity contest to post photographs of as many friends as possible. "They have to see how many they can get as friends," said Devitis, a 17-year-old Franklin High School senior who lives in Westland. "Girls I know have 3,000 friends and take provocative photos. Others just go on to talk." The attraction isn't limited to high school students though. Sarah Brererton and Brian Evola, eighth grade students at Dunckel Middle School in Farmington Hills, say all of their friends have either created profiles or browsed the site. Brererton even knows of fifth and sixth grade students who have been on MySpace.com. While the age limit for the site is 14, teens and pre-teens do lie about their age. A safety tips page on the site warns that if a user is under 14, their profile will be deleted. It also gives tips about not posting real names, addresses, phone numbers, or photographs that may reveal their residence or even a vehicle license plate which can be traced by a predator. Personally identifiable information allows predators to stalk their victims. Although cautious about meeting online strangers in person, Brererton befriended a boy who now meets her at Dunckel games. "It's a great way to learn about other kids," said Brererton, who uses MySpace as a way to meet students at the high school she will attend next fall. Brererton's mother had her site deleted after the 14-year-old posted her last name and the city she lived in, and therein lies the danger. Ken Boycott first visited MySpace.com in December 2004 after a friend told him about the site. His mother doesn't know how to use a computer and his father doesn't live with them so Boycott is on his own when it comes to posting personal information like the name of his school. He says he can tell if the person who he meets online is a predator. "I can tell if they're fake," said Boycott. Still, he warns parents to take the time to teach their children about online predators. Devitis' mother has the computer set up so she can check the history of her and her two sisters on the computer, which is located in the family room instead of a private area such as a bedroom. The students said they mostly visit MySpace from a home computer but have gone to a friend's to access their favorite site. At first it was a kick for Boycott to visit MySpace every day, the same for Devitis. Both say it takes time to check on any messages they receive and comment so they've cut back to every couple of days. Obsession with the site could be an underlying danger when it takes away from school work and other interests. "All of my friends had one so I got one," said Devitis. "I put on a couple of pictures and then it got really addicting." Brererton says although many teens were hooked on the site in the beginning, "It's not as popular as it was." Evola agrees, saying he's not as hooked anymore. Michelle Pagliaroni catches herself looking at person after person on the site even though the 18-year-old Plymouth Salem High School student is the first to speak of its dangers. "I've gone to look at friends' sites," said Pagliaroni, a Canton resident. "I won't have one. It's easy for someone to act as if they're someone they're not. "A lot of people talk about it (MySpace) and try to get on it at school but can't. They don't think. They put everything on there and don't think about the dangers. I have a few friends who met with people, a guy met up with girls. It's not as bad for him, but it is for girls." The students said they do check the personal information that friends have posted on their sites. They offer a variety of tips for users including not letting anyone know your password. Boycott said for users to be wary of someone who adds them to their list of friends and they don't know them. "Tell parents to check (their child's profile) every other day," said Devitis. "My mom used to and then stopped." Evola's mother found his real name on his profile so now he uses a nickname. "It's on the news a lot," said Evola whose computer is in his bedroom. "My mom has started to check on me." The teens warn that photographs should never reveal illegal activities such as under-age drinking, because it could come back to haunt them. Devitis' younger sister got into trouble at school for a photograph of her and another girl. In a separate incident a boy posted a photograph of Devitis' sister who was lying on her side. He added a pool of blood, a knife and left a message that he killed her. Pagliaroni says if parents looked at MySpace, they "definitely would not approve" of the photographs, language, and mean comments made by some users who are cyber bullies. Although none of the students have been victims of bullying as yet, they said it does happen. "I think people should be more aware of the dangers," said Pagliaroni. "If they really want to get to someone they could." lchomin@oe.homecomm.net | (734) 953-2145 Originally published March 12, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 12 2006, 10:35 AM Post #3 |
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From the Redford Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603120323/1033 A call for unity as RU vote nears Board to decide Monday Expect a full house at Monday's Redford Union school district Board of Education meeting, planned for 7:30 p.m. at the RU High School auditorium. The seven-member board will choose a district reorganization plan that will result in closing buildings, reducing employee ranks and sending students in some programs to schools different from the ones they now attend. The district is facing a deficit estimated at $3.7 million, and officials say they must find savings by closing buildings and using those that remain more efficiently. The debate has stirred the RU community for the past few weeks, and parents, teachers and students have flocked to board meetings to argue for their schools and programs. Some in the district are calling for unity and getting ready to move beyond the reorganization debate. "We need to start acting like one district," said Christine Walters, president of the parent-teacher organization at MacGowan Elementary. Representatives of the district's four elementaries are planning a get-together for elementary parents and students for 7-9 p.m. Friday, March 24, in the high school cafeteria. The free event will offer refreshments, karaoke and door prizes and is intended to build a sense of community, Walters said. The PTO groups at the four schools are footing the bill. Walters said future events are being planned that will include people affiliated with the high school, Hilbert Middle School and the Pearson Education Center. By Matt Jachman Originally published March 12, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 12 2006, 10:38 AM Post #4 |
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From the Westland Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603120482/1041 Recall group claim: 4,000 names in 3 weeks BY STEPHANIE ANGELYN CASOLA STAFF WRITER Though Citizens for Livonia's Future were unsuccessful in attaining an injunction to stop the Legacy Initiative Friday, members are "moving full speed ahead on the recall." That's what Livonia resident Michelle Pinkowski said following the court proceedings held in circuit court in Detroit. Nearly three weeks since they started, members of the grassroots citizen's group say they've gathered more than 4,000 signatures in the effort to recall five current Livonia school board trustees. The group is aiming to unseat board president Dan Lessard and trustees Lynda Scheel, Rob Freeman, Kevin Whitehead and Cynthia Markarian following their support of the district's Legacy Initiative. The Legacy plan will close seven school buildings and reorganize the district into upper and lower elementary schools next year. Six of the seven trustees voted the plan into action in December. Trustee Joanne Morgan is not included in the recall effort but is running for re-election to her seat in May. And Tom Bailey was the lone opposing vote. Jody Hamilton, a member of CFLF and a Washington Elementary parent, said the group is happy with the way signature collection is going. Hamilton said she envisions the group will gather the most of the signatures they need during the month of April. If the CFLF are able to collect 11,000 valid signatures -- per trustee -- by May 1, a recall election could be scheduled on Aug. 8. Recall supporters are asked to sign a separate petition for each trustee, for a total of five signatures. "That is the hard part," said Hamilton. "It would be a lot easier if they only had to sign one petition." Organizers began by assigning a liaison to each elementary school community. That person handles a group of volunteers and directs how their neighborhood will collect signatures. The volunteer effort began with more support in the northern portion of the school district, which will see more closings under the Legacy plan. Hamilton said their effort is "still a little lighter in the south" but it's increasing. In her own experience garnering signatures, Hamilton said "most people will sign." And those who choose not to sign do so politely. "I haven't had anyone yell at me," she said. "So far, my experience has been good." Petitioners have been stationed across the community and can often be spotted at Woodland and Wonderland bowling alleys, the Wine Palace at Middlebelt and I-96 and the Rite Aid at Five Mile and Newburgh roads. Between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday, petitioners will be at Riley and Holmes middle schools, Washington Elementary and the Livonia Community Recreation Center. In addition to the recall petitions, CFLF is in the process of placing 500 signs around the community, as well as "flooding the city" with newly-printed brochures supporting their cause. "We're moving along," said Hamilton. scasola@hometownlife.com | (734) 953-2054 Originally published March 12, 2006 |
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