Press Release-April 18, 2010

Councilman’s Second Book Hits Shelves

-Taking Sides: Clashing Views in State & Local Government available from McGraw Hill

GUTHRIE-As City Councilman for Guthrie Ward I, John Wood, Ph.D. brought a unique perspective to his latest book, "Taking Sides: Clashing Views in State and Local Government."

Wood also works as a political science professor at Rose State College. His interest in local issues led him to develop the class, State and Local Government. His search for an engaging and relevant textbook ended with him developing his own.

“I use books from the Taking Sides series in my other classes. I asked McGraw-Hill if they had one for state and local politics. They didn’t, but ask me to write one for them,” said Wood.

Wood plans to use the book in class next year. Nearly 100 college professors throughout the country have also expressed interest in the book.

“I found other Taking Sides volumes to be great tools to get students really engaged with the course information. I hope this book encourages students to become more active in their communities.”

The book examines both sides of 19 issues relates to local government. The book is divided into sections on governors; intergovernmental relations; courts, police and corrections; state legislators; suburbs, cities and schools; and state and local policymaking. Topics range from “Should the Pentagon Take over the National Guard During Disasters?” to “Is Property Tax an Appropriate Revenue Source for State and Local Governments?”

Wood donated a copy of the book to the Guthrie Public Library, and it is also available through many online book retailers.

You can learn more about John Wood’s state and local government activities at his website
WoodforGuthrie.blogspot.com.

Each Taking Sides volume presents current controversial issues in a debate-style format designed to stimulate student interest and develop critical thinking skills. Each issue is framed with a summary, introduction and postscript or challenge questions. Learn more about the series at www.McGraw-Hill.com.

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