Concludes that leaders and editors in communities in a more pluralistic region are more likely to perceive greater impact of nonlocal government and business agencies on local development projects than are leaders and editors of communities in less pluralistic regions. (FL)

While other studies of local efforts to promote small town growth have generally shown negative results, this study of 88 small northwestern Michigan towns during the 1970s focused on external ties and contacts of local influentials and tended to support the growth machine hypothesis. Extensive metropolitan contacts increased population/program…

Addresses problems, such as the relationship of needs to the availability of services, encountered by rural officials in conducting needs assessments of community services and notes their implications for policy makers. (SB)

As students of change, professional home economists need to know how the game is played and what the prizes are. (Editor)

Criteria for the selection of nonprofessionals for community mental health services are discussed. (BY)

Argues that while past analyses of local decision-making processes have been valuable, methods used may not have been appropriate to obtain valid data on subjective impressions of community leadership structure. Suggests a methodological strategy using a cognitive mapping procedure. (Author/JOW)

Based on a review of neighborhood and institutional studies, four propositions are constructed regarding the conditions needed for viability of urban neighborhoods. Attention is focused on shared social networks and formal organizations. (Author/RLV)

Examined the linkage between experiential educational programs that emphasize civic engagement and the activities of local governmental and nonprofit organizations. While leaders of governments and organizations have only irregular contacts with higher education programs that might encourage civic engagement, and leaders perceive a diverse range…

Asserts that recent riots in British cities are indicators of the failure of Western community development to engage ethnic minority communities. Questions the effectiveness of efforts based on inadequate understanding of communities and cultures. Suggests that rioting may be a means of seeking decision-making voice among disempowered communities.…

Constituents, seen as only average information sources, are the primary influence on both state and federal legislators. If principals worked with superintendents (as community leaders) and school board members (as highly regarded local officials), educator teams could significantly shape state and national educational policy. (MLH)

Interviews with two Oklahoma educators involved in community education for Native Americans stress the importance of developing community leaders, understanding cultural differences, preserving cultural heritage, and co-existing with mainstream culture. (SK)

Maxine Waller describes how concern for the children of Ivanhoe (Virginia) led her to become president of the Civic League. The Civic League has mobilized the town to renovate buildings and create a riverside park, promoted business ventures, and sponsored adult education classes and an oral history project. (SV)

Profiles four American Indians of Oklahoma who strove to preserve their languages and traditions and pass them on to future generations: Kiowa grandmother and educator Evalu Ware Russell, Cherokee minister Sam Hider, Kialegee (Muskogee Creek) elder James Wesley, and Choctaw leader Charley Jones. (SV)

Preparing every student to make knowledgeable career choices through academic rigor and work-based learning experiences requires a systematic, comprehensive and community-wide effort. Schools cannot truly prepare their students for productive and rewarding careers in an academic vacuum. Engaging business and community leaders, who may someday hire…