"We Can Do Better"

# 9

As I conduct my campaign I am often asked "What Is Your Platform?"

Every School Day the parents of over 24 thousand Scholars in Bibb County entrust the education of their children to the Bibb School System.  As a member of the Board I will strive for:

• 
  
  A World Class education for these Scholars so that they will be ready to compete for the employment opportunities of the future.
• 
  
  Managment of the financial resources to obtain the most education for the limited funds available.
• 
  
  The establishment of policies that insure a safe and secure setting for the safety of all our Scholars.
• 
  
  Policies that insure open and honest communication from the District to the Citizens of Bibb County.
• 
  
  Enforcement of the discipline standards which are currently established.

By working together, You and I, we can insure a World Class Education for our Scholars.

"We Can Do Better!!!!"  Vote for Alan Thiese in the General Election.  Thank You!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia Board of Education

"We Can Do Better"

#8

As I prepare for the November 2010 General Elections you will see this Sign around Bibb County. I have pledged to conduct a cost effective campaign which I will model as a member of the School Board. I know that I will be but one member of a team of eight, however I know that I can express me views and share my concerns in an effective manner. I am confident that everyone is concerned about the tax dollars that all governments are collecting. I am also confident that "We Can Do Better" as regards the management of the limited resources that all governments will collect in the future. I am aware that many have reduced hours, been terminated, or are living on limited financial resources because of the current economy.

I know that by working together that we can continue to provide an excellent education for the Scholars of Bibb County. Will it be easy? Of course not, but I also know that it can be done. I appreciate your support. Thank You!!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#7

In several blog entries I have discussed the fact that Parent Engagement in the nurturing of their children is vital. I have also discussed the fact that a Child learns more in their first three years of live than during any other period.

During the recent Fourth of July (Independence Day) I noted families with young children enjoying the opportunity to learn more about the Birthplace of Macon at Historic Fort Hawkins.
This fifteen star flag was flown at Fort Hawkins on the Fourth of July 2010. Attendees learned about the War of 1812 and how this Flag was of great importance during that time.

Parent engagement such as I witnessed is what I am encouraging now and will encourage as a member of the Bibb County School Board.

Together "We Can Do Better."

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#6

Why am I seeking the Post 8 (County Wide Seat) on the Bibb County Board of Education? I have always thought it was much better to be the part of the solution rather than being a part of the problem. I Care and I am a Concerned Citizen and I know that I can work as a team player on the Board of Education to "Make our School System Better!!"

In addition to bringing diversity to the Board I would like to share my comments as to why I am the Right Person to Make a Difference:

My Vision and Goals for high academic achievement for all students:

I realize that a child learns more in the first three years of life than they will ever learn after that.

I believe that all of our Children deserve the best education we can provide.

I believe that the role of public education is to educate all Scholars so that they can be productive citizens in our society.

I believe that all Scholars have the potential to achieve a proper education to the level of their abilities. I am aware that our society will always have special needs scholars and they also must be afforded the opportunity to receive an education.

As a member of the school board it will be my goal to provide a well rounded education so that all can achieve their potential.

Do I have Confidence in our local Public Schools?

Yes. 92 percent of our citizens in training currently receive their education in Georgia's Public Schools. As a society we rely on the citizens who have received a public school education in our every day lives.

I have been an engaged parent in the Bibb School System as my Children attended Rosa Taylor Elementary, Clisby Magnet School, Miller Middle School and Central High School.

• I was the Chairperson of fund raising at Miller Middle School.
• I was the President of the Parents organization at Central High School. During that period I was involved with the Principal, Ms. Espy and another Concerned Citizen, Mr. Tom Hudson working on a Drug Abuse Prevention Program.

In recent years I have been engaged as a Concerned Citizen:

• I have been a Rolling Reader (also known as Read Aloud in recent years) during the period 1999 through 2007. I read to Scholars at Weir, Bruce, Morgan and Vineville Academy.
• At this time I am a Mentor to a High School Scholar.

I believe in leading by example. Both of my Children were involved in the Sugar Bear Band at Central High School. One Child was a member of the Clisby Quiz Team. One Child was involved with the Army ROTC at Central.

I was also educated in Public Schools and achieved a score of 98 percentile on the Iowa Standardized Test each of My High School Years.

I would submit that I have confidence in our Public School System and when elected I pledge that I will speak to School Parent Groups as often as afforded the opportunity to stress parental engagement as well as address the needs of Children in their first three years of life.

Do I understand the role of the School Board?

Yes! When elected I will be one of eight members of the Bibb School Board. I know that it is the duty of the Board to establish policy and monitor the System. I know that no one individual of the Board has any authority over the system. The Board has the power to manage the system while the day-to-day operation of the system is properly executed by the Professional Educators. In this regard I understand and pledge to adhere to the principles of Georgia Senate Bill 84 as recently passed:

"The General Assembly finds that local boards of education play a critical role in setting the policies that lead to the operation and success of local school systems. School board members hold special roles as trustees of public funds, including local, state and federal funds, while they focus on the singular objective of ensuring each student in the local school system receives a quality basic education. Board duties require specialized skills and training in the performance of vision setting, policy making, approving multimillion dollar budgets, and hiring a qualified superintendent. The motivation to serve as a member of a local board of education should be the improvement of schools and academic achievement of all students. Service on a local board of education is important citizen service. Given the specialized nature and unique role of membership on a local board of education, this elected office should be characterized and treated differently from other elected offices where the primary duty is independently to represent constituent views. Local board of education members should abide by a code of conduct and conflict of interest policy modeled for their unique roles and responsibilities. And although there are many measures of the success of a local board of education, one is clearly essential: maintaining accreditation and the opportunities it allows the school system's students."

As a Candidate I have already participated in a Seminar sponsored by the Georgia School Board Association to learn about Board member Duties. When elected I will participate in all required educational opportunities to learn about my duties.

Do I have knowledge and concerns about the broad range of challenges our School Board must address?

• Since 1978 I have attended the Budget Hearings of the School Board on a regular basis.
• As a Candidate I have attended all the Called Meetings and the Regular Meetings of the Bibb County School Board.

The Bibb County School System has a great physical plant. As we proceed in the future the Board must:

• Provide the best education possible for all of our Scholars.
• Improve the image of the Bibb System. Policies which enhance open and honest as well as timely communication must be developed. The system must be aware of the need to address the "bad" things that happen in a timely manner. I recall the recent Bloomfield Middle School Gun Discharge Incident and the Howard Middle School Restroom Tragedy.
• The establishment of a consistent, yet fair discipline policy to insure that all of the Scholars are Safe.
• Prudent and effective use of the limited resources. We are all aware of the challenges all levels of Government are currently experiencing. Thus the school board will need to continue to address the use of limited funding. As a member of our U.S. Military for 21 years I know that I have personal experience regarding the management of limited financial resources and living within my means. As a member of the School Board I know that we can all work as a team and think "Outside of the Box" as we engage in the yearly activity of establishing the following year's budget. Yes, a challenging task; but one that must be completed each year with the primary focus on providing an excellent education for all Scholars in the Bibb System.
• I am also aware of State and Federal Mandates on the education process. Many of these mandates are issued without the necessary funding. A major problem, but I also feel that Citizens and School Boards can advocate for their respective school systems. I know that all levels of government that all elected officials must be and always indicate during their respective campaigns that education is a top priority, if not a number one priority.

I am not a single issue candidate and realize that many challenges face all of us.

The Bibb System as well as all other School Systems face major challenges at this time and also in the future.

Can I work effectively with the rest of the Board?

• I submit that I as a career enlisted Sailor of 21 years in our Navy have the team working abilities to function with the Board. During my 17 years as a production worker at Brown and Williamson here in Macon I worked on a team which consistently exceeded production goals as well as safety goals.
• I have witnessed the current board as they developed the FY 2011 Budget and am aware of how each current board member interacts.

Do I have a mix of skills and background to contribute as a board member while representing the diversity of the citizens of Bibb County?

• I am been an engaged parent while my children attended the Bibb County Public Schools.
• I have been a dedicated volunteer within the Bibb County Public Schools.
• I served in the U. S. Navy as a Yeoman (administrative clerk and as an administrative supervisor at higher pay grades).
• I worked as a production worker in a local factory.
• I currently work part time as a standardized patient at the Mercer University School of Medicine.

I know that I can provide useful, while also being respectful to others on the board, insight as a citizen of Bibb County for over 35 years. I am a listener and can communicate well.

I also communicate with all levels of our local, state and nation on matters that impact on us all.

As a member of the Board I will always remember that it is my responsibility to be focused on the proper education of all Scholars.

In summary: I know that I can share the views of the citizens of Bibb County and also reflect and represent the concerns of these same citizens. I have an sincere and respectful appreciation of "Common Mankind and Common Womankind." I will use a "Common Sense" approach in my actions as a member of the Board while also remaining in compliance with the laws and ethics governing members of the School Board.

Do I have the commitment to do what is right for all children, even in the face of opposition?

• My life of service to all the Citizens of the U. S. A. as a Sailor reflects that I know what "Service" is about.
• The mantra in life is: "My Word is Good!"
• I pledge to continue to act in the best interest of our Scholars as the Board seeks to provide the best education possible for all of our Scholars.
• I am seeking this office because I believe that "We Can Do Better." This must be done, not only for our own security and well being; but for the future of our next generations. The Scholars of today and tomorrow also deserve a great life.
• The Scholars of today will be providing the labor and services that our entire society will require in the future.

In Summary:

I desire that our current and future Scholars are afforded the education opportunities that have allowed me to have a productive and blessed life.

I also know that my current campaign will be the model for my actions as a member of the School Board. We need to obtain the maximum impact for the financial resources expended.

As the world currently struggles with the economy I will always know that jobs are essential, but that an excellent education will also be a priority for all citizens. I would suggest that we cannot have jobs without an excellent education. A World Class education for the Future. We can achieve this with a World Class Work Force. As a member of the Board I will always strive for educational excellence and the establishment of policy to make educational excellence possible.

Please Vote for "Alan Thiese" on November 2, 2010.

Thank You!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#5

The following information is quoted from the Georgia School Boards Association Brochure entitled "All in Favor."

"Cast your vote for student success.

Your local school board makes the decisions that determine how your community's children are educated and how your tax dollars are spent. Voting for school board members is a simple but powerful way to support student success and strengthen your community.

You have Everything to Gain or Lose!

Everyone - not just parents - has a stake in the success of public schools. When schools are strong and students are successful, everyone in the community benefits.

• Good Schools are good business. They attract employers, strengthen the local economy, and enhance property values.
• Good schools ensure our students will be prepared to keep our nation competitive in a global economy.
• Good schools keep the American Dream alive with an opportunity for every child to receive a world-class education.
• Good schools keep the quality of life in a community high by producing citizens who pay taxes and obey the law.
• Good schools teach students from all backgrounds how to live and participate in our democracy.

Voting in a school board election is an investment in the future of all children, of your community, and of the nation.

Every child enrolled in your school district is a reason for you to vote in school board elections. Local school boards can impact the overall quality of your local schools, both now and in the future. You want the most qualified people in charge.

The Power to Pursue Excellence

The decisions made by the school board affect virtually every important aspect of local schools from boundaries to bus schedules, curriculum to clubs, and funding to field trips.

The Georgia Constitution requires that an elected school board oversee each school system. Members of a local school board are to "manage and control" and to make decisions on almost every aspect of public school operations. Each school board - as a whole - serves as the governing body. Individual board members have no authority outside of the board room.

Many of the day-to-day responsibilities for which school boards are responsible generally are delegated to the superintendent. However, responsibilities of a public school board also include, but are not limited to some duties that cannot be delegated, such as:

• Buying and selling school property (including the power of condemnation),
• Calling elections to authorize a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) and bond elections to authorize the issuance of bonded debt,
• Making the policies and rules necessary to govern the school system,
• Reorganize and consolidation of schools within their control, and
• Authority to hire employees on the recommendation of the superintendent.

More About Duties of School Board Members

For more information about what Georgia law says about local school boards, their roles, and their responsibilities, please refer to the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) website: http://www.gsba.com/. The Center for Public Education also provides important information about school boards and school board candidates.

The Right Person Makes a Difference

What qualities, skills, and experience should you look for in a school board candidate? Here are some questions to consider:

• What are the candidate's vision and goals for high academic achievement for all students?
• Does the candidate inspire parents and other stakeholders to have confidence in the local public schools?
• Does the candidate understand that the school board's role is about the big picture - setting the direction for the district and providing oversight and accountability - rather than day-to-day management?
• Does the candidate focus on one issue or discuss a broad range of school district concerns?
• Does the candidate's approach make it likely that he or she will be able to work effectively with the rest of the board to get things done?
• Will the candidate enhance the mix of skills and backgrounds on the board and help represent the diversity of the community?
• Does the candidate have the commitment to do what is right for all children, even in the face of opposition?

Qualifications for School Board Membership

In Georgia, there are actually very few qualifications for school board membership. Board members should be willing to serve and must reside within the school system's political boundaries.

In many instances, local laws prescribe additional qualifications such as residing within a particular war or election district. Check with the local board of elections for details. Beyond that there are few requirements for school board membership.

Georgia law actually provides more criteria for ineligibility for the office of local school board members than it does for eligibility. A person is ineligible to hold the office of school board member if the individual is:

• Not a resident of Georgia.
• Under the age of 21.
• Not a resident in the county in which the individual is seeking office for 12 months prior to the election or appointment.
• Employed by or serving on the governing body of a private educational institution.
• Employed by the Georgia Department of Education.
• Employed by the board of education the individual is serving on.
• The holder of another county office.
• A holder or receiver of public money that has refused to, or failed to, account for it or pay it over when asked.
• A convicted felon who has not been pardoned and is not the subject of a restoration of rights.
• Of unsound mind or unable to discharge the duties of the office because of advanced age or bodily infirmity.
• A publisher of schoolbooks, an agent of schoolbook publishers, or someone with financial interest in the sale of schoolbooks."

I know that this is a rather long post, however I publish it in the interest of informing all voters that our Georgia State School Boards Association has developed valid and appropriate information that we all should be aware of. Public Education is the backbone of our Economic Future here in Bibb County, Middle Georgia, the State of Georgia and the Nation. Within the State of Georgia 92 percent of our scholars are the product of public education. Thank You!!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#4

I attended the Called School Board Meeting on June 3, 2010. During that meeting I addressed the Board with these comments:

"As you press on with the task of:

• Coordinating with the Search Firm to find a new Superintendent, and
• As you conclude the FY 2011 Budget process

I remind you that the new principals for the 4 Grant High Schools need an effective monitoring system by the management staff to insure that they are 'thinking outside of the box' in an effective manner and also leading appropriate efforts as the Bibb School System is involved in 'The Race To The Top' program. I would hope this can also be done without an increase in the management staff. Thank You!!"

The State of Georgia is awaiting the announcement of which states will receive the "The Race To The Top" funds. The planned announcement date for Phase 2 applications (of which Georgia is one) is scheduled for September 2010.

During the 3 June 2010 meeting it was announced that the board anticipates information from the Transportation Department regarding possible budget cuts so that the board could adopt the FY 2011 Budget during the Scheduled Board Meeting on Thursday, June 17, 2010. I understand that the Board has conducted work sessions to wrap up the proposed budget.

I understand the the Search Firm for the next Superintendent has now established a "Web Site" so that citizens can submit their input regarding the Search. I also understand that this information will be published within the next day or two.

On Monday, June 14, 2010 I attended the Education Policy Forum sponsored by the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education and the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) at Central Georgia Technical College. This event had a very informative agenda and I am glad I attended.

The highlight of the Meeting was a presentation entitled "What I Wish I'd Known Before I Ran For the Board." Mr. Albert Abrams (currently holding Post 8) made an excellent presentation. All three of the Bibb County Candidates for Post 8 attended this afternoon event.

During this Forum I also learned that some of our elected leaders to the General Assembly feel that Public Education is a lost cause. During this Forum I learned that 92% of our Scholars in Georgia attend Public Education Schools in grades K through 12. It was pointed out that as Citizens we all should support Public Education simply because the citizens of the future will be those who we will rely on to provide our health services, retail services, and the list goes on. I understand this information, which points out quite dramatically that we all depend on the outcome of Scholars who are in the Public Education System should be a valid reason for broad base support of Public Education in Georgia. Think for a moment, 92 out of 100 citizens of the future certainly means that as we all mature and interact with service providers in 2015 (or any other year) we will place our fate on citizens that were educated in the public system. To state this concept briefly, "We all have a stake in the results of Public Education" no matter where our own Children are educated. Thus we all have a responsibility to support Public Education as we "Race To The Top." I look forward to your vote in November 2010. Thank You!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#3

As I continue my campaign to be elected to Serve I desire to share with you the following. I firmly believe that it is proper to prepare one's self for public office. In this regard I have read the following book: "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman, a New York Times Columnist. This book was first published in 2005 but it has been updated in 2007.

I am currently reading "The Other Wes Moore" which has a subtitle of: "One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore which was published in 2010.

I share these two titles with you because they both place major emphasis on education. I also believe that it is important for the electors to know that there is an abundance of information available for their own education.

Now an Update on my activities:

2 June 2010: I attended the Called Meeting of the Bibb County School Board. The sole purpose of this meeting was to launch the work of the Search Firm as regards the hiring of a new Superintendent for the School System. This meeting garnered a lot of press in "The Telegraph" of Thursday 3 June 2010 so I will not go into great detail here.

However, I would like to report that the Search Firm will employ three methods of collecting information as regards the qualifications for the next Superintendent. They Will be:

1. On Line Responses from the Public

2. Individual Interviews

3. Focus Groups/Small Group Meetings of the Public

These three activities will happen rather fast in as much as the goal is to acquire appropriate stakeholder response so that a "Profile" can be developed as the Search Firm advertises for the position.

Each of these three methods of collecting information will be employed and will be promoted in the local print and electronic media. It is my recommendation to the Citizens of Bibb County that they participate. At this time, Option 1 appears to be the most appropriate because it will allow everyone to share their thoughts and concerns in a private manner. I was informed that the process will be set up so that no one individual can "Spam" the On Line Response Web Site with multiple responses.

Now for my own Concern in this the "We Can Do Better" Post #3. I would suggest that the parents of Scholars become engaged in the Education of their Children. Please remember that the word engaged is quite different from the word involvement. I use the word engaged to mean that parents are performing as parents of Scholars in their own homes. Involvement is usually considered as the task parents and grandparents perform at the local school/s.

In this regard I would also suggest that our Bibb County School System require that the Leaders of our Middle Schools and our High Schools require that all Parents and Guardians sign a pledge such as the Staff of the Four Grant High Schools had to recently sign in order to continue their employment. We all know that the $24,000,000.00 will be much more effective as a tool to improve our Scholars Education with parent/guardian engagement.

Our Future Adult Citizens deserve the best. Now we must all step up to the Plate and also Do Our Own Best as we prepare our "Future Adult Citizens." Thank You!!!!

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#2

As of this date I have attended the following Bibb County School Board Meetings:

May 20, 2010: I attended the Regular Meeting which was held at Westside High School. This was the meeting where Scholars in the Bibb System were recognized for their achievements during the past school year.

• One 13 year perfect attendance award.
• Honor Band/Chorus/Reading. 87 Scholars.
• National Drill Team Champions. Rutland High School. 18 Scholars.
• Academic Team. Miller Middle School. They will be competing in the National Championship Contest. May 28-31. 11 Scholars.
• Middle Georgia Invitational Academic Bowl. Central High School. 1st Place. 5 Scholars.
• Young Georgia Authors. 12 Scholars.
• High School Literary Competition. 27 Scholars.
• National History Day. 28 Scholars.
• High Schools That Work - Award of Educational Achievement. 29 Scholars.
• Career and Technical Instruction State Board. 1 Scholar from Hutchings Career Center.
• DECA Award. Howard High School and Northeast High School.
• FBLA Award. Hutchings Career Center.
• FBLA State Competition. 6 Scholars.
• FCCLA. 3 Scholars.
• Georgia Career Student Association. 4 Scholars.
• SKILLS USA. 2 Scholars
• National Financial Capability Challenge. 6 Scholars.

I was impresssed with the number of Scholars who have represented the system in State and even National Competitions this past year. Unfortunately, we the citizens of Bibb County are not aware of our School System's achievements.

Twenty-Nine Employees of the Bibb System were recognized for their achievements on the occasion of their retirement.

Three citizens of Bibb County addressed the Board and presented a petition signed by over 2000 people requesting that the Bible be taught in our Schools.

May 20, 2010: I attended a Called Board Meeting which enacted the 2010-2011 School Calendar and revised the Work Days.

The Board also approved the closure of the Joseph N. Neel Academy.

The Board approved the Ombudsman Program.

The Board tabled consideration of a reduction in Transportation Services agenda item.

The Board announced the new principals for the four Grant High Schools.

May 26, 2010: I attended this Called meeting which announced the selection of a Firm that will conduct a Nationwide Search for a new superintendent.

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

"We Can Do Better"

#1

On April 20, 2010 I announced on this Blog that I would seek the Post Eight Seat on the Bibb County, Georgia School Board.

In order to communicate with potential voters I have decided to use this Blog as a Campaign Tool. Thus far I have posted the following entries on "The World This Week:"

April 20, 2010 Post 8 (Bibb County At Large) Bibb County School Board Candidate.

April 23, 2010 "We Can Do Better" which announced the theme for the Campaign

April 29, 2010 Alan Is A Candidate - A post with my picture after I had qualified for the Post 8 Seat.

May 17, 2010 Bibb County Education - The Future. This post summarized what I heard at an Education Forum held at the Douglass Theatre concerning Education.

Tomorrow I will post a list of my activities since May 17, 2010 as I seek the Post 8 Seat on the Bibb Board of Education.

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8, Bibb County Georgia School Board

Jobs!!!! Jobs!!!! Jobs!!!!

The other evening I was watching the evening television news here in Macon, Georgia. The newsperson was presenting the situation at the Bibb County Department of Family and Childrens Services (DFACS) which involved many, many people who had responded to an announcement that "Government Assistance" would be available for those who showed up.

The DFACS Staff did not anticipate the record number of citizens who assembled. In fact we were told that the event in Macon, Georgia attracted many more citizens than any previous "Government Assistance" event in the entire State of Georgia.

The Television News Reporter interviewed a citizen who could not gain admission to the event because of the large crowd. Her comments, which were broadcast to the entire Middle Georgia area simply stated:

I would like to get a job. If I could get a job I would not have to depend on the Government for assistance or words like these. I was impressed. She stated what everyone needs to hear. Our duly elected leaders at the highest levels of government need to hear here words. She certainly summed up the current situation very well.

You may be wondering why I chose the picture that I did for this Blog Post. We have the U. S. Flag as well as the Service Flags from each Branch of our Armed Forces plus the Prisoner of War Flag. We must always remember how our United States of America became a great Nation!! We did not achieve our standard of living because of Government Assistance. We achieved our status through the hard work of millions of Workers and our Way of Life has been protected by those who have Served our Great Nation, those who are currently Serving our Great Nation and hopefully, those who will Serve our Great Nation in the Future.

It is my prayer today as I compose this Entry that "May Our God Continue To Bless America!!!!" Additionally, may we all accept the fact that more than Government Assistance, we need Jobs.

I am glad that this lady stated the current situation in America so well. I share it with you today.

"A Man Named Pearl"

Pearl Fryar with his Bride. Pearl is over seventy years old but he still practices his Craft in his Three Acre Gardens in Bishopville, South Carolina.


Pearl is a real people focused person. He posed with many, many Garden Club Convention Attendees. Here he is with the Flower Child and His Bride.

This is an example of his topiary work. He usually starts with a smaller tree/shrub and produces impressive results over a period of several years.

Some time ago I viewed a segment of a Television Show that highlighted "A Man Named Pearl." Last year my Garden Club Bride was attending a planning meeting for the upcoming "National Garden Clubs 2010 Convention" which was to be held in Atlanta. She volunteered to work at this convention. Within a few days the Volunteer Coordinator offered her the task of being a "Page" for Pearl Fryar who is known world wide as the "Man Who Cuts Up Trees."

The Convention was held this past weekend in Atlanta and we had the opportunity to meet Pearl Fryar. He was the Saturday Evening Banquet Speaker. The opening of his talk with us stressed the importance of "Education." Certainly not what we had come to hear, but his talk went on to show his Topiary Gardens in Bishopville, South Carolina. Then he demonstrated his skill in topiary design.

To learn more about this Man and his remarkable talent please conduct an internet search using these keywords:

pearl fryar in bishopville south carolina

It was my pleasure to meet this "A Man Named Pearl" last Saturday Evening. His is a remarkable story.

Third Tuesday Organ Interludes

Today it was my pleasure to attend the Final Third Tuesday Organ Interlude in the company of my Bride for the 2009-2010 Concert Year.

The event was held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church at Noon. Patricia McCall performed on the Violin and Nelda Chapman, Organist and Director of Music at Saint Joseph's, performed on the Pipe Organ.

The selections were terrific. The most inspiring one for me was entitled "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty" by Paul Manz (1919-2009). To learn more about Paul Manz please conduct an internet search using these key words:

paul manz

The Third Tuesday Organ Interludes have been a fixture in Macon for the last five years. This fall they will be known as the Third Thursday Interludes at St. Joseph. The first Interlude will be at Noon on October 21st.

I have enjoyed this yearly event and hope to continue to do so.

Bibb County Education - The Future

Macon Speaks

On Tuesday, April 27th it was my good fortune to attend the Public Forum hosted by the Douglass Theatre at 7:00 P.M. This event was announced in "The Telegraph" and it was free.

I determined that the Young Scholar that I Mentor should attend this event. He and I attended and arrived early to obtain a good seat. The meeting started at 7:00 P.M. with the following in attendance:

4 - Panelist

2 - Moderators

2 Douglass Theatre Staff

15 Citizens

It should be noted that an additional 11 citizens joined during the course of the Forum for a total of 34 in attendance.

The Panel consisted of the President of the Bibb County Georgia Board of Education, the Acting Superintendent of Bibb County Schools, the Director of Campus Clubs and the President of Education First here in Macon, Georgia.

The Moderators were Charles E. Richardson of "The Telegraph" and Kenny Burgamy of "Mix in the Morning" also here in Macon.

During the course of the Forum I heard the following information:

• We must have Community engagement
• We must have Stake Holder engagement
• We must ask the question: "Did the Student Learn?"
• We face a most challenging and exciting future!
• We must try to do things that liberate students
• We also face challenging budget issues
• As the search for a new Superintendent evolves we must:

Seek Community Input

Involve the Chamber of Commerce and such organizations at 100 Black Men

Focus on Student Achievement

• Schools are only as strong as the community makes them
• We must be bold
• We must demand a well educated work force to acquire future job opportunities for all citizens of Bibb County/Middle Georgia
• We must demand accountability

The statement was made that Bibb County is ripe for Charter Schools. Two individuals from the Charter School Association of Georgia addressed the Forum. The highlights of the comments included:

• We must be open to innovations in education!
• We must focus on what is best for the Students!
• Community/Citizen involvement is required to produce a great charter school!
• Parent engagement is essential. (Please note that Parent Involvement at the School is not what the word "engagement" means.) Engagement can be parents that are concerned about their Scholars and require them to study, perform their homework and do well in school.
• School Staff can be expected to conduct "Home Visits."
• Scholar Discipline is vital
• Bibb County Schools have an image problem.

The Director of Campus Clubs summed up the forum with these statements:

1. We must resolve the Behavior Problems
2. We must address the Scholars who have Special Needs
3. We must know the needs of Macon

The Young Scholar that I mentor summed up the event with this sentence: "A very productive evening."

Beauty Abounds in Middle Georgia

The Climbing Hydrangea blooms are the best ever this year. I, the Flower Child, just had to share these lovely looking blooms with everyone. Enjoy!!!!

The Flower Child Visits Disney World

Recently I was fortunate enough to be able to visit Disney World in Orlando. The visit could not have been timed any better. The EPCOT Park featured Special Displays during the 17th Annual Flower and Garden 2010 Festival. When I saw this display I insisted that my picture be taken.

Upon my return home I visited the EPCOT Website to learn this about the Festival:

"First-Ever American Gothic Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse - Topiary experts pulled out all the stops to create an American Gothic Mickey and Minnie scene based on the 1930 Grant Wood painting."

Most readers here know that The Flower Child was born and nurtured in Iowa which was also the home of Artist Grant Wood. Therefore I could not pass up the opportunity to have my photo made here.

Contemporary Worship/Contemporary Music

As I travel about Central Georgia conducting my errands I often view Church Sign Boards that announce to the travelers that this Worship Facility offers Contemporary Worship at a certain time on Sunday Morning.

I have often wondered what Contemporary means. I know that for some it is alternative music performed on a guitar or other stringed instruments.

While I have nothing against Contemporary Music I often think about Psalm 150 verses 3 through 5 which I quote here:

3. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp.

4. Praise him with the timbrel and dance; praise him with stringed instruments and organs.

5. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals.

Therefore I would humbly suggest that "Contemporary Music" has been with us for well over 2000 years.

Now to consider the pictures that this post contains I would suggest that the Church I attend has a very Contemporary Organist.

Mercer/Macon Symphony

Youth Orchestra

A Sound Investment in the Future

Last evening, Saturday, May 8, 2010 my Bride and I attended the Final Concert of this organization of the 2009-2010 School Year. As I prepared to compose this Post the following words came to my mine:

Terrific, Awesome, Magnificent, Elegant, Majestic, Splendid, Superb, Grandiose, Brilliant, Amazing, Impressive, Wonderful and finally Glorious

The Concert was performed in the Neva Langley Fickling Hall in the Music Building at Mercer University. For those who may have not ever attended an event in this venue please be aware that the main seating is on a slope to that all attendees can view the stage. Additionally there are side galleries on both sides as well as in the rear of the Hall.

The opening numbers entitled "Also Sprach Zarathustra Sehr breit" by Richard Strauss and "Stars and Stripes Forever" by John Philip Sousa were conducted by Amy Wilson. The Main stage as well as the side and rear galleries had performers for these two numbers. We were fortunate to arrive early enough to acquire seating in the middle of the main floor seating. We did not know before hand that we would actually be afforded the opportunity to enjoy music with the dynamics of "Surround Sound." WOW!!!!! The opening numbers were but a foretaste of the grand performances yet to follow.

The Mercer/Macon Symphony Youth Orchestra is composed of Musicians from Middle Georgia Schools. Please note that the number after the School Name indicates the number of musicians from that school:

Central High School - 3

Howard High School - 4

The Westfield School - 1

Mount de Sales Academy - 5

Houston County High School - 14

Home School - 9

Mary Persons High School - 2

Covenant Academy - 1

Thompson Middle School - 2

Vineville Academy - 1

Taylor County High School - 2

Westside High School - 3

Woodward Academy - 1

Progressive Christian Academy - 1

Howard Middle School - 1

Warner Robins High School - 2

Rutland High School - 9

Jones County High School - 7

Trinity Christian School - 1

Bonaire Middle School - 1

Perry High School - 3

First Presbyterian Day School - 2

Mercer University - 1

West Laurens High School - 4

Baldwin High School - 1

Idaho Virtual Academy - 1

Georgia Virtual Academy - 1

A review of the above list indicates that Middle Georgia has great musical talent in both the Private and the Public Schools. Please note that the Bibb County Public Schools have a total of 21 musicians in this Orchestra.

In addition to performances by the entire Orchestra we were entertained by numerous ensembles as well as solos and duets. Again, I will use the word "magnificent" to comment on every performance. The program included two Intermissions, however everyone was captivated with two and one-hours of grand music.

The program included Music composed by:

Aaron Copland

John Williams

Miles Davis

J. S. Bach

G. F. Handel

Richard Strauss

John Philip Sousa

W. A. Mozart

Johann Pachelbel

Of note, one selection was composed by a Junior High School Student who attends Trinity Christian School in Dublin, Georgia. Not only had she composed this selection, she performed it on the Piano. It was entitled "I Will Write You a Song."

The program included the following selections:

Theme from "Schindler's List"

Canon in D

Ashokan Farewell

The Concert featured a total of forty selections. An additional highlight of this Concert was the fact that a total of four Musicians actually conducted the Orchestra. The following is a summary of these selections:

Hello Zepp (Theme from Saw) conducted by

a Central High School Junior

Pirates of the Caribbean conducted by

a Jones County High School Senior

Overture for a Comic Book Hero conducted by

a Rutland High School Junior

Jurassic Park conducted by

a Perry High School Sophmore

I also noted that several of these amazing musicians were skilled in more than one instrument. The program included an abundance of light hearted selections as well as several classical Orchestra Selections.

The musicans handled their selections very well. The "Concert of the Year," from my point of view. Well Done.

Why?????

Last evening as I observed the evening news I learned that the citizens of Greece were not happy with their government. They were rioting in the streets.

I also learned that:

• There are eleven million people in Greece
• Four Million residents of Greece are employed
• One Million of these four million work for the Government

Certainly interesting demographics. Most of you know that the Title of this Blog is: "The World This Week." However I have not addressed any "World Situations" in my recent post. Today I am compelled to address the situation in Greece and what we here in the United States of America may soon become.

At this time our own Government is seeking to manage most aspects of our lives. Who builds our Automobiles, who pays for our Health Care, etc. It appears that our Government is seeking to emulate the policies that are causing the problems in Greece.

Just the other day I learned that one of our esteemed U. S. Lawmkers recently stated that the goal is to have everyone who resides in the United States of America to have the same stuff in their homes as everyone else has. While this concept may appear "fair" I also recall that this is one of the basic tenents of the true communist society.

It certainly eradicates the incentive to work hard to obtain the individual goals that most of us now appreciate. This may be a nice concept but in the end, why should I labor any harder than any other citizen if my government is going to level the playing field, so to speak. Taken a step further, why should any student study harder to become a Doctor, a Lawyer, or even an Indian Chief if the Government's goal is to have everyone enjoy the same standard of living. Where is the incentive to work hard, or even study hard to achieve excellence?

These questions certainly need to be studied before we become another "Greek Society."

I appreciate what our Nation has achieved. I appreciate what our Nations's Heroes have achieved. We all know that many have given their very lives so that we can enjoy our mantra:

America, The Land Of The Free, The Home Of The Brave!!!

Or are we at that point where we desire to emulate the Countries that were great in the History of the World? I would hope not!!! I also hope that my past education was not in vein.

May 8th, 2010

Help "Stamp Out Hunger"

Letter Carriers everywhere in the United States of America will be conducting their annual Food Drive to "Stamp Out Hunger" on Saturday, May 8th, 2010. If you reside on a Mail Route you are encouraged to place non-perishable food items in a bag and place by your mail box to assist in this project.

Not only do I encourage others to perform this civic task, but I have already packed my bag and have it ready to place by the Mail Box on Saturday Morning, May 8th, 2010.

Who Went To Florida?

April 29, 2010 - May 3, 2010

This question is not rocket science. The answer should be easy to ascertain. The Flower Child and His Bride captured over 250 images. This one taken by the Flower Child is his best!!

Happy Mother's Day to the Mother of our Great Sons!!!