Our life as modern Americans is full of distractions. When a single computer exponentially more powerful than the all the devices used to land a man on the moon fits in your pocket, with access to nearly all the information (good, bad, and neutral) mankind currently has available within a few taps, is it any wonder that we can become entertained in a mind-numbing fashion? I need not list the litany of social media, TV programs, movies, sports, video games, shopping, and other myriads that can … [Read more...]
Judge Michael Warren Looks Past the Empty Gestures of Independence Day
As we approach Independence Day, the toxic cultural and political environment in which we live continues to unravel slowly our once shared belief in the American Dream. Hon. Michael Warren Many people this July Fourth will undoubtedly go through the empty gestures of fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings. Hardly any will reflect on the magnificent Declaration of Independence and how, despite its many flaws, it is a shining, monumental change for all of mankind. Let’s look at four … [Read more...]
Proud to be an American?
Independence Day Commentary Proud to be an American? A recent Gallup poll reveals that such pride has dropped precipitously this year and is at its lowest point since the poll began. 42% are extremely proud, 21% are very proud, 15% are moderately proud, 12% are a little proud, and 9% are not proud at all. As recently as 2016, 81% were extremely or very proud - today it has dropped to 63%. Is it any wonder? With a toxic political environment, pandemic, economic collapse, and mass protests, … [Read more...]
How the Coronavirus has Exposed the Need to Embrace the Information Age in K-12 Education
With the coronavirus, schools across America are scrambling to put together a hodgepodge of solutions to continue teaching for learning while their buildings are closed. Many are valiantly attempting to leverage technology to create on-line and virtual learning opportunities. Unfortunately, weaknesses in technological infrastructure, teacher preparation shortfalls, inequities among students, and ill-equipped students and parents are barriers to success. The information highway has more than one … [Read more...]
Declaration of Independence: The Words Heard Around the World
The Rochester Hills Public Library and Smart Towns presents “Declaration of Independence: The Words Heard Around the World” with Dr. John Todd March 10 The Rochester Hills Public Library will host “Declaration of Independence: The Words Heard Around the World” with Dr. John Todd of Rochester University on March 10, 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the library’s Multipurpose Room. Dr. Todd will discuss the origins of the Declaration of Independence, its purposes, and how it changed the world. Dr. Todd … [Read more...]