Recognition Magazine's Official Website has launched!

Attention readers Recogntion Magazine has launched it's official website. From here on to read all the latest articles on everyday people achieving excellence, news, education, health and much more go to:

http://recognitionmagazine.com/

Black Music Month: Favorite Rap Videos To View

Today marks day one of Black Music Month!  On June 7th 1979 it was declared by former pres. Jimmy Carter that we should celebrate black music during this month..Personally I celebrate black music and all music every month, year around, round the clock it doesn't matter.  I have put together a collage of some of my fav rap videos (and one Caribbean joint by Shaggy I use to listen to every day the good lord sent) growing up in my teen years.  It is redundant when we say or hear "hip hop" and/or "rap is dead"...yeah we know this already!  I personally think it will never come back to its full glory..thank goodness we can still enjoy the music of the past, it never goes out of style!  Remember this? (LOOK BELOW) ENJOY! ;-D

NYC: JANUARY REGENTS FOR H.S. STUDENTS ELIMINATED, MY OPINION

It was yesterday early evening when I heard the breaking story on the news that The Board of Regents made the decision to eliminate the January administration of state exams which is required to graduate High School!  I am thinking my goodness these children are stressed out enough! This is their so called way of closing budget gaps?!  Teacher's laid off, schools closed down, test eliminated..well looks like the current and next generation is shot to hell when it comes to education.  Unless that child is naturally gifted then we will have children that will not receive a decent education!  This is 2011 and we should be moving forward not backwards into the Flintstone Era!  I have observed one of the lowest grades which is kindergarten and it sure is a far cry from my school days! Children these days are required to obtain so much advance information at a younger age they don't even have the freedom to be children. Sorry to get a little off subject but what I am saying is overall our Education System wants students to become these robotic geniuses, but where is the budget to keep them on point!?  Overcrowding schools equal overwhelm teachers and students in need of more attention with their academics suffer even more, schools closed down equal overcrowding of schools or students trying to squeeze into charter schools!  Educational material outdated.... Ok back to the elimination of January Regents!
In the mid to late parts of the nineties I was a high school student, stressed out with all the statewide test I took in order to graduate high school, I took a few Regents Exams..however at the time back then we had it easier because a Regents Diploma was not a requirement for students in this era to graduate.  Literally the following year after I graduated it became a requirement to pass all the Regents in order to earn your High School Diploma!  Regents Exams are extremely challenging (from my experience taking them & knowing over the years they have become even more complicated)and the January test assisted in upping the chances of students passing the Regents in the final analysis.  January Regents became the method to spread out all of these test so students wouldn't experience burn out! 
Students will experience the hard hitting pressure taking all of these exams in the month of June! Especially high school seniors set to graduate will fell the wrath of stress!  They could be the best of students but not exactly the greatest test takers and failing a Regents can leave them back!?!? How crazy is that!?  True they have regents in August but the January Regents increased students chances to graduate on time!  High school students in 2011 are sitting in overcrowded classrooms with the increasing cut of their teachers with the lack of educational attention that they deserve!  Students are learning to take test only and barely comprehending these skills due to the teacher shortage! They are not receiving an enriching education that goes beyond test taking, the education system is trying to mold these individuals into robots.  In my opinion the elimination of the January Regents will lead to increase rates of high school students not graduating on time and student stress which will lead to h.s. drop outs.
I feel like this if your trying to built a child into a robot know that with anything "electronic" it
eventually will crash if you don't upgrade it..well this means bringing our teachers back and opening the door for new teachers,  this means updating educational materials, keeping our schools open and last keep the January Regents into effect!

Showcase: The D. Buchanan Collection

D.Buchanan Collection

Brentwood Long Island, N.Y  May 15th 2011. I attended The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Fundraiser event which showcased Talent, gorgeous jewelry, baked goodies, make your own pocket books, art exhibitions& etc.  It was an all day event that breezed by with all the excitement of the days events!  A resident of Bronx, N.Y. It was not exactly a baby step, but I was determined to come out to show support for the Dennis Buchanan Brand.  What is the Dennis Buchanan Brand?  It is a unique line of strikingly gorgeous neck-ware which comes in matching cases according to the design of the tie.  To order check out http://www.dennisbuchanan.com/.  I met up with Dennis Buchanan himself and partner Evans P. Bercy, their third partner Vladimir Bercy was not there due to prior business engagements.  I arrived to Long Island just when the heavens above decided to clean the highways and water natures plants! I had no clue where I was going..I called Mr. Buchanan and the humble man that he is came out in the rain sharply dressed in a suit with a striking fire engine red silk tie from his brand!  Dennis helped me with all my lighting equipment as we headed to Knights of Columbus center.  I chit chatted with both Evans and Dennis regarding the line and enjoyed the festivities.

D. Buchanan&Evans P. Bercy

Dennis and Evans emphasized giving back to their community by participating in various fundraisers and throwing events within their hometown of Long Island, New York.  After hours of talent shows and raffles the main event began showcasing the D. Buchanan Collection!  If you never paid much attention to neck-ware, Buchanan and his team will have you develop a new fetish!  Models from young to old showcase the versatility of how stylish and classy men can look with the touch of the Dennis Buchanan brand!  The event came to a close, I interviewed these savvy business men (interview coming soon with the launch of Recognition Magazines official site Summer 2011) and thanked them for their time.  They officially have a new customer and that is me!  I will be sure to scoop up a few ties for father's day next month!  Make sure you grab a few of these ties for your loved ones or even yourself! Go to http://www.dennisbuchanan.com/.  I have included pics from the event on Recognition Magazine's facebook, click here to view the pics.

Backstage @ The Lawrence Blake Summer Fashion Show Preview

Friday the 13th a night that could either bring dread or delight I hop on the train to head out to Lawrence Blake Summer Fashion show preview.  This event held by PR tycoon Lawrence Blake showcases all the up and coming fashion designers summer clothing line.  I met up with my good friend and we traveled through the city lights as I lugged my lighting equipment and camera to The Trump      World Bar.  The scene was laid back as the bartenders served drinks and I snacked on some cheese and crackers waiting for Blake's arrival.  To my surprise the electric violinist/viola artist Lorenzo Laroc whom I blogged about last month (Underground Magic: Electric Violinist/Viola Artist: Lorenzo Laroc)was there as one of the performers!  Well my blogging has indeed touch some viewers hey! I converse with Mr. Laroc and filled out the scene. 
Lawrence Blake walked into the spot with his staff , already you could see the urgency that he met business!  He politely greeted his guest, myself and gathered his models and staff upstairs to get the show on the road.  Previously I have attended two fashion shows managed by Mr. Blake but never had much insight on what went on behind the scenes of his events.  I floated to the upper level to interview Blake for my upcoming website to this very blog coming online this summer.  The room was swimming in colorful fabric, clothing, stilettos, models, Blake staff, fashion assistants and makeup artist.  It was an overwhelming experience  seeing such a massive amount of people working in this fast forward type of grind.  The Lawrence Blake backstage experience was like Times Square in a tiny glass room!  I observed Blake juggle running up and down the stairs greeting incoming guest and speaking with staff regarding the blueprint of how the show will operate.  He was like a ping pong ball, back and forth..forth and back..making sure  attendees sitting on the lounge couches, standing etc were comfortable.  What looks so flawless and easy going to the guest isn't smooth as it may appear.  One man as the nucleus of the show defiantly gets all of my respect.  Managing staff, gathering guest, recruiting talent, renting out venues is challenging but is overcome by the quick wit of Mr. Blake.  Sitting backstage observing everything alone had me exhausted! If you were unable to witness this event you can view the pics on Recognition Magazines Facebook  CLICK HERE FOR PICS enjoy!

Gone For A Minute

Hello everyone I know it's been an extremely long time since  my last blog post.  In real life basically LIFE happens between busting my behind to finish up all these term papers and final exams for school and losing my stepfather recently, everything was set on the back burner. Recognition Magazine however is my passion and never will I plan to give it up, this is not some type of fad for myself, there are individuals out there that deserve Recognition for all the gifts God has given them and I will  put everyone that I can to the forefront.

Underground Magic: Electric Violinist/Viola Artist: Lorenzo Laroc

In the early evening from handling a lil’ biz I was heading back uptown and as I flew down the subway stairs I can hear the echoes of a crowd cheering.  I saw an extremely talented man playing this beautiful electric instrument which look like some type of violin that I never saw before!  At first I was determined to hop on this train because I was tired, but this man’s talent could not be ignored!  I flipped out my i-pod touch 4 and start recording him.  Crowds of people were purchasing his cd (Entitled "Under The Covers") like hot cakes as his partner politely thanked the consumers for their purchase! 

When the show wrapped up and the crowd cleared I approach him, before he mentioned his name I already knew as it was draped on banners and his cd!  The name Lorenzo Laroc and he explained to me how the instrument that he plays is a custom-made, five-string, plexi-glass, electric violin/viola. Larco was born and raised in Harlem USA living in the Grant Projects. He first learned how to play the violin in elementary school @ PS 125 Lorenzo went on to enroll in the Julliard School of music.  Lorenzo Larco performed with Shelia E, Tito Puente and other Latin bands.  I read his bio a little further in his cd cover and this man has appeared on CBS,FOX, ABC , toured South Korea and New Delhi, India!  Wow I sure bumped into him at the right time!  His clients include the NBA, Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, IBM and more for all whom  he had the opportunity to perform!

To purchase music go to amazon or i-tunes and type in Lorenzo Laroc.  To book Lorenzo Laroc call 212-224-0003 or email info@lorenzolaroc.com.

P.O.V: Cathie Black out Dennis Walcott takes over as NYC School Chancellor




Cathie Black



Dennis M. Walcott



Today I was rushing as always doing a million things at once and just before I turned off my television set while watching the news I found out that Cathie Black resigned!  I am thinking well damn what took so long!  I never was too enthused with Bloomberg appointing Black in the first place when this womans career background consist of a journalist/media managment background and a zero Educational work experience environment!  Black  had an extensive career working at various publishing companies such as Holiday Magazine, USA Today, President of Hearst Magazine and the list goes on!  To add fuel to the fire a while back I didn't appreciate Ms. Blacks commit in regards to the overcrowding of schools.  Cathie Black made an ignorant commit saying birth control should be used in regards to this issue, she claim this was a joke.. well this was a joke in distaste lady! The rumor mills spun out of control with how disorganized and inexperience she was in handling NYC Public Schools.



 

In only three months time  four deputy Chancellors parted ways which gives our NYC Department of Education the negative conception of being disorganized with little regard to the importance of education as the foundation of success!  I guess it finally registered in Bloomberg's skull when he met with Black this morning to suggest she resign, the two mutually agreed!  Today Bloomberg appointed Dennis Walcott as Chancellor whom served as Deputy Mayor since the start of Bloomberg administration.  Mr. Walcott has an extensive background in related educational matters which include being the Executive Officer of the NYC Urban League, member of the NYC Board of Ed. including  being a kindergarten teacher and professor @ York College(CUNY)!



Well my goodness Mayor thank the heavens above you nip this in the bud!  Did you learn your lesson Bloomberg or what!?! I don't care how much management or executive skills this lady has she is inexperience with no regards for our childrens' need to thrive and grow!  It's bad enough we are experiencing all these extensive budget cuts,  laying off teachers, cutting down on after school programming and other resources! Education is becoming shot to hell!  Hopefully Walcott can make a difference along with the Senate, Mayor and Governor in regards to this educational crisis, if not we will live in a heathen land where education isn't of any importance! With less teachers and  the overcrowding of classrooms it is only a matter of time that even more instructors will become overwhelm and leave the profession altogether.. there has to be a balance! (It's bad enough some have left already due to this situation).  True individuals have fought against all odds to become successful without graduating high school but that is a SMALL PERCENTAGE!



The majority needs education as their foundation to success!



I know what I am about to say is nothing new in 2011, but never could I figure out how celebrities, entertainers or whatever you want to call them earn top dollar in this society, however teachers which have one of the hardest jobs besides the parents themselves and have to scuffle for a penny!  Teachers laid off left to right and all these entertainment centers are built while our educational system is experiencing rapid demise..it's crazy!  It's but so much small groups can do to fight for education!  I feel the same effort some people put into praising these celebs and putting money in their pocket, let us put that same effort into our children!







Playwright Archie McNair's "Love Doesn't Hurt" hits the stage May 1st!

Last month I wrote an essay on Domestic violence and Emotional Abuse.  In the following days I mention the victim  Kety Sanchez of the bronx being stabbed to death by her husband, while he set the house on fire killing their baby girl. I indicated an address for donations, if you would still like to donate here is the address:

Hernandez Family Donations
C/O Family Life Academy Charter School
14 West 170th Street
Bronx, NY 10452


Coincidentally my friend, Archie McNair who is a playwright  developed a script regarding Domestic violence and Emotional Abuse!  We never sat down to discuss the issues of Domestic and Emotional abuse, both  of us live very busy separate lives and I had no clue he was in the process of writing such a powerful play.  We text eachother one day just to say hi and he mention how he completed writing the play entitled "Love Doesn't Hurt" and currently in the process of perfecting the actual stage production which will hit the stage May 1st!  Of course I mentioned to him my blog on the issue! I felt that I must spread the word! Come see the play whether you know someone experiencing domestic/emotional abuse, in the situation yourself or don't know anyone at all, this play is very informative, have actual depth and quality! Below is the information for tickets/time and address of play. Hope to see you there!

Archie McNair Productions Presents "Love Doesn't Hurt" 
Sunday May 1st 2011 @ 6pm
27 West 127st Between Lenox and 7th Avenue
Ticket Info:  $30.00 Adults, Groups of 10 $25.00, Children $20.00, Senior Citizens $25.00
Note:  Tickets can be purchased @ the door on day of the show as well
Contact Number For Tickets:  646-270-3069

The Art Sound and Movement Launch!

Last night I had the opportunity to attend Blake Harvey (founder of the public relations company The Lawrence Blake Group) event which launched the Art.Sound Movement Program.  In the mix of teacher lay-offs and programs within the arts loosing significance, Blake Harvey teamed up with various painters/artists to solidify an event that will graciously give all proceeds to public schools in order to resurrect programs within the arts.  This event was constructed creatively, models dressed in sexy yet settle black outfits, strutted and displayed sketches, paintings and three dimensional art.  Simultaneously when I took photos, on lookers relaxed on soft cream leather couches drinking cocktails, taking photos or simply taking note of the art they may purchase.  It was a great turn out and I enjoyed every bit of this moment! To find out more information on the artists and purchasing pieces please contact Blake Harvey @ bharvey@lawrenceblake.com or the following numbers 206-339-1854 / 646-306-9898. Below you can preview last nights events!!! To view the entire gallery click the "view entire gallery" link.
VIEW ENTIRE GALLERY

JUDGMENT...HOW CLEAN IS YOUR SLATE (RANDOM THOUGHTS)

If you believe in God then as you know it is him who tests us against the vicious ways of the world, the decisions we make to either overcome adversity or give in, to do the right thing or make the wrong moves for gratification. The devil remains busy, he brain washes people in believing they are God themselves!
I have witness the chronic drinker talk slander against the person that takes a sip, the player or playette that calls themselves testing the whore-hood of an individual when they themselves aren't to any avail in quality of having someone with quality their damn selves! The individual with hands up high praising the lord, nose turned up because you’re not sitting up in church when God is everywhere and you can talk to him at any time, any place. At 18yrs old I briefly joined an organization called "The Church of Christ" that basically wanted me to turn against my family even if it met leaving them, pass judgment on people as a hobby and to conform on their terms! They were extremely controlling and forceful with religion, being I didn't cooperate and decided to leave this organization these very people would see me on campus or on the streets and would pass by me like they never knew me, yet these were supposed to be people in tune with God!? ..besides the organization I have seen judgmental church going individuals that are the very ones committing adultery, in the strip clubs, whipping their spouse’s behinds but yet think church will save them, only genuine prayer and progress will prevail. I have seen people destroy their own friendships/family bonds over the most petty situations when in the past these very people crapped all over their relationships but their friend/family never left because they knew the art of forgiveness!   I have seen people stray away from their peers due to discovering that person live a different lifestyle out of what society views as the norm, I feel like this different strokes for different folks and if you’re not harming me then knock yourself out! Funny thing the very people that stray away have done some out the box, wild scandalous things in their life.  No sin is better than the other and people need to realize that! Judgment has been passed on me as I hear what is  wrong with me and how I should correct this that and the other, all I could do is smirk because in the back of my mind I am thinking you are not perfect yourself with your self-righteous behind. In reality none of are perfect and if someone says that they are it is just their EGO talking smack! People point the finger saying how Sandra, Nelson, Nicole should live their life!? SERIOUSLY WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR OWN LIFE IS YOUR SLATE POLISHED CLEAN?!? Judgment is not in our hands but Gods and in actuality most of what people judge is often incorrect and divides up into two subcategories misjudgment and/or assumption.
I am not addressing anything new and I'm not saying the whole world is right so that's why you shouldn't pass judgment I am saying don't pass it because it's God's job! The whole world is imperfect and we all have dirt underneath our nails, therefore we can't afford to have such nerve! As I said throughout this whole article that this is Gods business to handle.  I wrote this article to have you as the reader think...maybe I will change a few minds from romancing judgment, and there will always be the ones that will hold to their guns!  My suggestion is to take an intense gaze in the rear view of your own life and see how you can upgrade your own situations instead of living to criticize people.  Judgment, is your slate clean?

Go Green For Fashion (Article/Photo Recap)

On Friday March 11th 2011 The Lawrence Blake Group, Inocente Tequila,The Green Salsa Company, and a list of other sponsors came together to produce "Go Green for Fashion" held at Greenhouse NYC. This event showcased the talent of fashion designers whom specialize in the broad spectrum of Eco friendly/organic fashion. Wondering what organic fashion is exactly? It consist of cotton, bambo, wool, etc., which is free from chemicals. Designs that draped the runway included clothing designer Lauren Rae Levy, scarf designer Alexandra Taylor, and accessories designer Holly Slayton. The evening was kissed with performances by Shilpa Narayan, Nick Moran and The Elitists. Jason Christopher Peters the designer from Tyra Bank's "Stylista" even dropped by for the evening events! I attended this event as one of the press below you can find a preview of the pictures. Make sure you hit "Like" on our facebook page and spread the word!
VIEW ALL PHOTOS

Please Donate Towards Surviving Family of Bronx Woman/Child Murdered by Husband

In the wake of  Wednesday's tragedy of 30yr old Kety Sanchez being stabbed to death by her husband whom later set the family’s apartment on fire killing their baby girl in the process I would like to inform you that Ms. Sanchez also has a son.  The son survived this horrific tragedy; however he is traumatized this little boy lost his mother and his baby sister!   Please if you would like to donate The Family Life Academy Charter School is accepting checks made payable at the following address:

Hernandez Family Donations
C/O Family Life Academy Charter School
14 West 170th Street
Bronx, NY 10452

The school is collecting all of the money and cutting the family one check.

Domestic Violence and Emotional Abuse..Do you value your life or self worth?

Tonight I was viewing the news and to my devastation saw  that a 30yr old woman in the Tremont section of the bronx was stabbed to death by her husband.  Things went from fatal to a house of burning horror when this man proceeded to set the whole apartment on fire, this resulted in their baby girl only a few months old parishing in the flames!  The abuser have the audiacity to still be alive in critical condition, sorry to sound cold but it is what it is in my feelings..The issue of domestic violence has become redundant, an immunity , something overlooked by the victims associates, friends, neighbors, strangers even over looked by the victim themselves.  People as a whole don't care  long as it's not them!  Emotional abuse in my opinion is right up there with domestic violence. At times your so in love with that person that you allow them to play mind games with you, say harsh things, cheat. Allowing them to do that shows your self esteem hit an all time low.. Do your know your self worth?  I am writing this blog to  address both sides of abuse, how to run like the wind if you find yourself in a physical situation  or emotionally abusive situation and if your not in neither how you can help a person in need to the best of your extent.

No relationship is perfect and relationships take work, you really do have to put in that work for longevity! There is a difference between a relationship that bumps head maybe a lil' and an unhealthy relationship. I'm not going in any particular order with both issues but saying what's on my mind as it comes..I would never call myself a certified expert, but I'm not a person on the outside looking in and have no shame when I tell everyone that I was in a unhealthy relationship.  It consist of a lot of mind games, feeling unimportant, unloved, lies and despite I wasn't getting my ass whipped on a regular bases but I had my share of physical scars and a swelling on my inner cheek that made me talk with a lisp,  all I could do was be vocal about how I should be treated, how I need respect and physically defend myself. Once upon a time my esteem was at an all time low and as I reflect on the whole situation why did I put myself in unnecessary drama? why did I whale to this man to change, why did I take him back three different times when he attacked me.. he is who he is! Our relationship ended abruptly on his end, his cheating ways he found someone new, someone that actually befriended me to betray me.. ha! I look deeply into it and realized he did me a favor, but at the same time I was scared of how my blind mind worked, had the relationship con't could I have been that Bronx woman that died?! Fortunately I live and learned and know my self worth!

I view people in emotionally abusive relationships, some friends were smart enough to get out others esteem is so low that all they can say is "I have been with this person for X amount of years and  no one can possibly treat me better than him/her".. that very person that cause them so much anger, self doubt..pain! To all the women and men out there in these emotionally abusive relationships whereas your partner plays mind games to get what they want  or try to make you accept b.s, stomps on your esteem by snapping on your looks, cheats  anything that makes you far removed from your positive elements... then dammit it's time to leave! Remember it's rare that people change, however you can change the situation by encountering a new man or woman!  Note there is someone out there that can treat you better! In unhealthy relationships the bad is out weighing the good..anything negative in abundance can't possibly be a realistic mind set of thinking this individual is God sent to you, think about it!

In physical abuse signs are there and you should be alert and not overlook things. If your fortunate enough not to be a current victim of abuse or in this situation and need to wake up..be aware of the signs, even if  you see it as subtle emotional abuse it can develop into physical abuse:
a)when  a partner blows up your phone, arguing you down about your whereabouts every few mins or hour
b)isolate you from friends and family
c)grabbing your arm to control you
d) hiding belongings such as cell phones, phones, keys to the house anything that separates you from communication with others and keys to allow you to go out
e) literally snatching the phone right out your hand to monitor your calls
d) threatening to leave you..even worst threatening to kill you
And of course flat out physical abuse without subtle signs, that are loud as the brightest colors in the world. The abuser mindset derives from their insecurities or need for control..even both! The abuser wants their way and feel the only way they will get it is through the fist or weapons.  Sometimes abuse is not one sided sometime both partners are mutually doing a "Kill Bill" tango dance.  I heard of people seeking help to make physically abusive relationships work, but in my opinion it is best for the individuals to work on themselves and separate from each other period! God willing they will change about time they move on to the next person, because as you know people don't change most of the time!

I have watched the news over the years and seen people murdered by their exes or current bf's, gf's.  The best advice I can give is to choose your mate wisely and look out for subtle signs so you can nip it in the bud quick before a psycho catch crazy feelings and harm you!  I know it's even harder when when it's not nipped in the bud  whereas to the point your living with that person and feel you have no way out...talk to family members, friends, minister do what you have to do to leave!  You fear being homeless, maybe kids are in the equation it's hard but with God's will there is a way..you may temporarily fall on your behind or not at all but at least you will see another day and with determination you will rise to your feet after you have fallen.
Emotional hurt, physical hurt is not love in a relationship..leave!  If your not in this situation and see what's going on with a victim don't act blind help in any way you can! Here is a site that lists various abuse sites where you can make donations and get help:
http://www.datehookup.com/content-organizations-dedicated-to-fighting-abuse.htm

Reflection on Diane Ravitch's visit to I.S. 89 Parents Across America Forum

On February 7^th, 2011 I attended The Parents Across America Educational Forum in which the keynote speaker was Dr. Diane Ravitch.  In the past my knowledge of Ms. Ravitch was extremely limited I heard the name and knew this person is a force to be reckon with in the educational system, but it wasn’t until interacting with my own Professor that I gained further insight on Ms. Ravitch.  I had researched Ms. Ravitch extensively online and discovered that she is an education historian, was the secretary of education in the Bush and Clinton administration and was Adjunct Professor of History and Education at Teachers College, Columbia University.  Dr. Ravitch also has a number of books out, her latest “The Death of An American School: How testing and choice undermine education”. This woman has worn many hats within education, too bad she is not NYC’s School chancellor instead of our current nyc chancellor Cathie Black!

     I entered PS/IS 89 where the forum was held, after doing my research finding it easy to find so much information on the world wide web and several YouTube showcasing this woman’s view of education, I knew that I was entering an insightful forum.  Dr. Ravitch emphasized the problems with charter schools; though at one time she was for them down the line she viewed them as one of the educational reforms that ultimately is not working to improve children’s learning. The recent layoffs in schools within nick has cause controversy (Diane Ravitch feels this strategy isn’t sufficient at all) crowded classrooms make it overwhelming for teachers to teach and students to learn due to less attention within the classroom.  Ms. Ravitch suggested reasonable limits on classroom size so teachers are overwhelm so children get attention they deserve.   Once a supporter of charter schools Ms. Ravitch feels it’s a waste in money, the goal of charter schools from what Ravitch explains is to drive public school education out of existence. This is done my privatizing schools and allowing entrepreneurs with no educational background to create these charter schools (charter schools was once known to help students with special needs and have them return back to their public school, however that has changed).  In the creation of charter schools to uphold a reputation for high scored by NCLB standards they have the power to kick low performing students out of charter schools and put them into public schools.  Ravitch also breaks down that out of the U.S as a whole only 14% of charter schools perform better than public schools 46% there was no difference and 37 % produced worst results.  Along with her dislike for charter schools Dr. Ravitch feels students are only trained to take high stakes test instead of receiving a nourishing education. In my opinion from what I interpret she is saying it’s like a make or break to keep public schools standing, how teachers and students will suffer the consequences she feels this NCLB reform for schools to be “100%” by 2014 is unrealistic. I too agreed on that, I feel it’s unrealistic also due to children’s learning abilities and their environment etc. Ms. Ravitch goes into the issue on poverty; the students less than sunny side of their neighborhood, food and nutrition and how this can effects a students learning.   Dr. Ravitch explains how it’s challenging to excel in ones education with these barriers in the child’s way, how some do overcome and excel despite these barrier but most do not.  As I listened to Diane she made a lot of sense, we are in 2011 now so here in my hometown of NYC, all over the U.S.  education within public schools have to be cleaned up 100% in only 3yrs or consequences are suffered with possible public school shut downs is crazy!

     Dr. Ravitch emphases that parents are the sleeping giants in regards to the whole debate of NCLB, charter schools and etc.  In the world of modern technology Diane suggests parent’s facebook, twitter and blog about the problems faced in education in the US today, to not give up on their children as well as others the parents have the real power and some don’t realize it they must fight for their children’s rights. Diane made so many good points in her speech and I learned a lot, even from how she pointed out how NYC made test easier, lower the standard passing grade so children can pass NYS test due to this threatening NCLB theory (In turn the student is not only receiving an education that isn’t nourishing and trained to learn high stakes testing lessons but they are dumbing down students intelligence as well!)I suggest anyone that wants to learn more about the educational system, current educators or future use this woman as a reference to learn what is going on in today’s educational system.   I am glad that I was able to attend this forum.

THOLLY.COM SITE LAUNCH AND UPCOMING MUSIC EVENTS

Check out the launch of makeup artist Taisha Hollensworth's official makeup site:

 http://www.thollymakeup.com/





Are you in the nyc area this March? Love live jazz music or curious to attend live jazz events? Then check out Freddy Fuego and his band!  Listed are his events venue links and Fuego's facebook and myspace links:

March 4th: First Fridays @ Bowery Poetry Club
                  308 Bowery
                  New York, NY
                  Start time: 10pm 
                  21+
               $10 cover  http://www.bowerypoetry.com/

March 9th: Fuego @ The People's Lounge
                   163 Allen Street
                   New York, NY
                   Start time: 9pm
                   $5 cover  http://www.peoplelounge.com/
Stay posted with Fuego's events on:  http://www.myspace.com/freddyfuego/shows
http://www.facebook.com/#!/freddyfuego

Check out the sultry r&b/jazz sounds of Alice Harris on March 18th if your in the nyc area @:
                 Recoup Lounge 210 Rivington Street
                 New York, NY
                 Start time:  8pm
                 http://www.recouploungenyc.com