I recently returned from a visit to Austin, Texas, whose slogan, “Keep Austin WEIRD,” is pure brilliance. Not only is it found on every product you’d ever want (or not), the concept attracts a diverse and interesting mix of people from all over the world. Our waiter was from Edinburgh (no slouch of a city), […]
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Every child should have a mentor
Monday, February 22, 2010I attend a program called Higher Achievement where I meet with a different mentor each night. I have three mentors. Ms. Amanda teaches me Math, Ms. Sarah teaches me Literature and Mr. Joe teaches me Seminar. Ms. Amanda allows us to talk to her about anything. Ms. Sarah is really kind and she is a […]
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Audacious idea: an overhaul of Black History Month
Monday, February 15, 2010In 1926, when Carter G. Woodson first advocated for “Black History Week,” not only were the contributions of African descendants ignored, but American history was deliberately whitewashed (pun intended). Those responsible for writing what we now accept as the popular history of this country whitewashed the contributions of people of color, whitewashed the white-supremacist aspect […]
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A neighborhood for the community…by the community
Monday, February 08, 2010Baltimore has a long history with successful planned communities. At the heart of each of these thoughtful, attractive, crafted developments (such as Sudbrook Park in Baltimore County, Roland Park, The Village of Cross Keys) is the intent that a careful layout of streets and amenities, and well-designed, attractive homes will foster a sense of neighborliness, […]
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A vibrant contemporary arts scene creates a vibrant city
Monday, February 01, 2010Across the country, cities are seeking ways to stimulate the economy, engage new residents, and restore robust cosmopolitan life. For me, one of the best ways to do this is through contemporary art. When we think about urban environments impacted by art and artists, what comes to mind? Chelsea on Manhattan’s West Side, the West […]
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Informal science education enhances classroom learning
Monday, January 25, 2010The chorus of proponents for increasing math and science education is getting larger and louder—and with good reason. Study after study indicates that as science and engineering (as well as almost every other part of our professional and personal lives) becomes more global, our students must have the education and skills to compete and to […]
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In tough times, we need fewer nonprofits
Monday, January 18, 2010Today there are 1,200 more nonprofits in Maryland than there were at the beginning of 2009. You might be thinking, “Great, in this tough economy, I’m glad that all these folks are starting charities to help people.” You may think it is super, but I think quite the opposite. There should be a moratorium on […]
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Project Hope
Monday, January 11, 2010A few years ago I mentored a young man who was 14 years old. He was in an alternative school, reading at a 2nd grade level, and performing math at a 4th grade level. The previous school year he had missed somewhere around 100 days of school for various reasons. He had a loose affiliation […]
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Turning our ideas into action
Monday, January 04, 2010For 2010, I’d like to challenge my fellow Audacious Ideas presenters with updating us with the progress (or not) towards their ideas’ implementation. We can all learn from what is actually working as well as what didn’t happen and why. I’m always intrigued by the brilliant ideas we often hear and how they either find […]
