It's The Simple Things

The global financial crisis is coming down especially hard on Michigan, primarily as a result of all the cutbacks in the Manufacturing sector (notably automotive). Being a "survivor" of Chrysler's brush with "extinction" I am profoundly grateful to be employed, and to be able to provide for my family. Many are not as fortunate and need our prayers and assistance. The recent reality of nearly losing "everything" has highlighted the tremendous joy that comes from the simple things. Spending time with family and friends, making the best of the cold weather through sledding, skating, or whatever. Speaking of skating, my oldest daughter and I (at her insistence) took on the task of trying to build an ice skating rink in our backyard. Nothing extravagant, but a successful "Daddy/Daughter" project nonetheless. Watching the kids laughing and screaming in delight as they play on the rink with their friends is a welcome respite from the stresses and concerns that all of us here in Motown are continuing to struggle with. Too often we realize that we really don't need more things....we just need to be more grateful. That's how I see it.

Hi, I'm from the Government and I'm Here to Help

This evening I attended a meeting of the Bloomfield Hills Board of Education, where I am currently serving as a Trustee. The Michigan Department of Education has asked all Michigan school districts to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), committing us to abide by legislation (which has not been finalized!) which they "hope" will qualify Michigan for part of the "Race To The Top" legislation coming out of Washington. The Board decided not to sign the MOU for a host of reasons. Two things that immediately called out to me were:
1. No good attorney would ever advise a client to sign a document that would obligate them to an agreement that has not been finalized, and fully "vetted" relative to it's potential impact on the client
2. It seems this legislation is targeted at helping select Districts that are woefully inadequate in taking care of the education of their students, and taxpayer dollars. Nevertheless, it is also being forced on all the rest of the Districts that do not fall into that categorization. Why not word the legislation to help those who truly need it? It's important in life to stay focused on the problem(s) you are trying to solve. Otherwise the "cure" can be worse than the "disease".

That's how I see it.