Some worthwhile articles published elsewhere in the past 24 hours or so:
- Mich. Court of Appeals hears case of preacher sentenced for criticizing judge – This article from the Michigan Messenger is a good profile of activist Rev. Edward Pinkney of Benton Harbor who was recently in Grand Rapids for an appeal in a case in which he was imprisoned for criticizing a judge. That case grew out of a campaign of repression directed at Pinkney for his activism in Benton Harbor.
- What happened to single payer? – Single payer health care–a popular (according to polls) reform proposal in which the government would cover medical bills using taxpayer money–is being excluded from the debate on health care that is now starting in Washington. Much of the Democratic Party leadership and establishment is rejecting the idea, even as Michigan Congressman John Conyers is arguing for such a system.
- After Tiller, Holocaust museum shootings, Mich. police agencies ramp up for gay events – After two recent acts of right-wing violence, police agencies are increasing security at various pride events being held over the weekend.
- Granholm signs global warming agreement with Indian tribes – Governor Granholm signed an agreement with the 12 federally recognized Native American tribes in Michigan urging cooperation on the fight against global warming.
- Pride and politics: Gay rights advocates differ on whether split exists, hurts equality push – This is an interesting look at the relationship between the LGBT community–as represented through major organizations such as Michigan Equality and the Triangle Foundation–and the state government. It looks at the recent legislative battle for anti-bullying legislation and Lt. Governor John Cherry’s burgeoning campaign for governor.
- Alternative school graduation rates cited by Grand Rapids Public Schools appear out of date – This is a disturbing blog post from the Grand Rapids Press that shows that the Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) recently discussed changes to the district’s alternative education programs based on statistics that were 3 years old.
- Some Kent County Commissioners bristle at Peter Secchia labor union statement during pitch to expand sports facilities – So, here is a good example of why money from rich white businessmen isn’t simply about charity and benevolence. Pete Secchia–a longtime funder of the Republican Party–recently suggested that the Kent County Commission lease some land to the West Michigan Sports Commission to build baseball fields. Secchia said that it was a good thing to do since the county had decreased tax revenues due in part to the state’s alleged “high tax rates and perceived issues with labor unions.” So basically Secchia is asking for government money to promote a private entity while attacking labor unions–who says philanthropy is ideological neutral?
- Meeting on foreclosures joins together Grand Rapids-area renters, homeowners – The Grand Rapids Press reports on a meeting last night at the Wealthy Theatre on foreclosures and the need to address the ongoing foreclosure crisis.
- Students in financial-aid limbo – Michigan students planning to start college this fall have no idea how much financial aid they will be receiving from the state government due to uncertainty about the state’s 2010 budget.
- State GOP offer plan for another group of schools – Republicans are offering yet another plan to dismantle the public education system in Michigan.
MediaMouse 