the supreme court said on saturday texas can use their new voter identification law for the november election. a majority of the justices rejected an emergency request from the justice department and civil rights groups to prohibit the state from requiring voters to produce certain forms of photo identification to cast their ballots.
the law was struck down by a federal judge last week, but a federal appeals court put that ruling on hold. the judge found almost 600,000 voters - many of them black and latino - could be turned away at the polls because they lack acceptable identification. early voting in texas begins monday.
the supreme court's order was unsigned, as it typically is in these situations. justices ruth bader ginsburg, sonia sotomayor and elena kagan dissented. each of them said they would have left the district court decision in place.
the controversial law sets out seven forms of approved identification. the list includes concealed handgun licenses, but not college student id's, which are accepted in other states with similar legislative measures.
the 143-page opinion from u.s. district judge nelva gonzales ramos called the law an "unconstitutional burden on the right to vote." ramos also said the law is the equivalent of a poll tax: she found the republican-led texas legislature purposely discriminated against non-white voters.
ramos issued her ruling october 9. five days later, the fifth u.s. circuit court of appeals in new orleans put her decision on hold. they cited a 2006 supreme court opinion warning judges not to change the rules too close to election day.
the challengers in texas said the last time the supreme court allowed a voting law to be used in a subsequent election after it had been found unconstitutional was in 1982. that case from georgia involved an at-large election system which existed since 1911.
texas urged the supreme court to let the state enforce voter id at the polls in a court filing which took aim at the ruling by ramos, an appointee of president obama. attorney general greg abbott, a republican who's favored in the gubernatorial race, called ramos' findings "preposterous," accusing the judge of ignoring evidence favorable to the state.
the court intervened in three other disputes in recent weeks over republican-fueled restrictions on voter access. in wisconsin, the justices blocked a voter id law from being used in november. in north carolina and ohio, the justices allowed limits on early voting, provisional ballots and same-day registration to remain in, or take effect.
in june 2013, the court eliminated the heart of the voting rights act, which prevented texas and eight other states with histories of racial oppression from changing election laws without permission. critics of the texas measure said the new id requirement has not been used for congressional or senatorial elections, or a high-turnout statewide election for governor.
i am
- mark j. tuggle
- harlem, usa
- same-gender-loving contemporary descendant of enslaved africans. community activist, feminist, health educator, independent filmmaker, mentor, playwright, poet & spiritual being. featured at, in & on africana.com, afrikan poetry theatre, angel herald, bejata dot com, bet tonight with tavis smiley, blacklight online, black noir, brooklyn moon cafe, gmhc's barbershop, klmo-fm, lgbt community services center, longmoor productions, nuyorican poets cafe, our corner, poz, pulse, rolling out new york, rush arts gallery, saint veronica's church, schomburg center for research in black culture, sexplorations, the citizen, the new york times, the soundz bar, the trenton times, the village voice, upn news, uzuri, venus, vibe, wbai-fm, wnyc-fm & wqht-fm. volunteered with adodi, bailey house, inc., black men's xchange-new york, colorofchange.org, drug policy alliance, east harlem tutorial program, imagenation film & music festival, presente.org, save darfur coalition, the enough project, the osborne association, the sledge group & your black world. worked on films with maurice jamal & heather murphy. writing student of phil bertelsen & ed bullins. mjt975@msn.com.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Monday, October 06, 2014
Supreme Court decides not to review previously banned same-sex marriage rulings
the supreme court on monday chose not to review previously banned same-sex marriage rulings in indiana, oklahoma, utah, virginia and wisconsin. the court's historic decision came without explanation; delaying the need to determine the constitutionality of gay marriage in all 50 states.
clerks in marion county, indiana and dane county, wisconsin began issuing licenses to same-sex couples before noon. the u.s. court of appeals for the fourth circuit issued an order to allow same-sex marriages to begin in virginia at 1:00 pm. colorado, oklahoma and utah were expected to follow suit as soon as the 10th circuit court of appeals ordered the states to issue licenses.
virginia governor terry mcauliffe said, "this is a historic and long overdue moment for our commonwealth and our country." james esseks, a lawyer who heads the american civil liberties union's legal efforts concerning gay marriage said,"i'm blown away by this. it is a watershed moment for the entire country."
despite the court's surprising decision to not take federal action, there are challenges to same-sex marriage in every state. two appeals courts - in cincinnati, and san francisco - have heard challenges and could rule at any time. furthermore, the court may still take up the issue later in this term after more states weigh in.
in june 2013 the court struck down part of the defense of marriage act, which denied federal recognition of same-sex marriages performed in states where it was legal. their decision didn't rule on whether state bans were unconstitutional, but a number of federal court decisions have since ruled the reasoning of the opinion written by justice anthony kennedy commands such a finding.
the split in federal and state courts since last year's ruling in u.s. vs. windsor has been 40 to 2: state prohibitions violate the constitution's guarantees of due process and equal protection. the windsor case was decided on a five-to-four vote, with justices stephen g. breyer, ruth bader ginsburg, elena kagen and sonia sotomayor joining kennedy.
however, it only takes four votes to grant review of lower court decisions. as such, one of those who voted no in the windsor case - chief justice john g. roberts, jr., and justices samuel a. alito, jr., antonin scalia and clarence thomas - were unwilling to force the court to take up the issue of same-sex marriage now.
clerks in marion county, indiana and dane county, wisconsin began issuing licenses to same-sex couples before noon. the u.s. court of appeals for the fourth circuit issued an order to allow same-sex marriages to begin in virginia at 1:00 pm. colorado, oklahoma and utah were expected to follow suit as soon as the 10th circuit court of appeals ordered the states to issue licenses.
virginia governor terry mcauliffe said, "this is a historic and long overdue moment for our commonwealth and our country." james esseks, a lawyer who heads the american civil liberties union's legal efforts concerning gay marriage said,"i'm blown away by this. it is a watershed moment for the entire country."
despite the court's surprising decision to not take federal action, there are challenges to same-sex marriage in every state. two appeals courts - in cincinnati, and san francisco - have heard challenges and could rule at any time. furthermore, the court may still take up the issue later in this term after more states weigh in.
in june 2013 the court struck down part of the defense of marriage act, which denied federal recognition of same-sex marriages performed in states where it was legal. their decision didn't rule on whether state bans were unconstitutional, but a number of federal court decisions have since ruled the reasoning of the opinion written by justice anthony kennedy commands such a finding.
the split in federal and state courts since last year's ruling in u.s. vs. windsor has been 40 to 2: state prohibitions violate the constitution's guarantees of due process and equal protection. the windsor case was decided on a five-to-four vote, with justices stephen g. breyer, ruth bader ginsburg, elena kagen and sonia sotomayor joining kennedy.
however, it only takes four votes to grant review of lower court decisions. as such, one of those who voted no in the windsor case - chief justice john g. roberts, jr., and justices samuel a. alito, jr., antonin scalia and clarence thomas - were unwilling to force the court to take up the issue of same-sex marriage now.
Monday, September 29, 2014
California Signs Amended Sexual Assault Bill
california governor jerry brown will sign a bill to define when 'yes means yes,' and adopt requirements for colleges to follow when investigating sexual assault reports. the historic announcement on sunday makes california the first state in the nation to unequivocally protect students by changing the language and law of consent.
state lawmakers approved senate bill 967 by senator kevin de leon (d-la) last month, as states and universities across the country are under pressure to change how they handle rape allegations. campus sexual assault victims and women's advocacy groups delivered petitions to brown's office on september 16 demanding he sign the bill.
de leon said the progressive legislation begins a paradigm shift in how college campuses in california prevent and investigate sexual assaults. the familiar refrain of 'no means no,' is no longer the definition of consent - the new bill requires "an affirmative, conscious and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity."
"every student deserves a learning environment that is safe and healthy," de leon said in a statement sunday night. "the state of california will not allow schools to sweep rape cases under the rug. we've shifted the conversation regarding sexual assault to one of prevention, justice and healing," he said.
lawmakers say consent can be nonverbal, and universities with similar policies have outlined examples as a nod of the head or moving in closer to the person. the legislation says silence or lack of resistance does not constitute consent: someone who is asleep, drugged, drunk or unconscious cannot grant consent.
advocates for victims of sexual assault support the change as empowering. savannah badalich, ucla student and founder of the group 7000 in solidarity, welcomes the new legislation. badalich said, "this is amazing. it's going to educate an entire new generation of students on what consent is and what consent is not...that the absence of a no is not a yes."
the bill requires training for faculty reviewing complaints so victims are neither asked insensitive questions nor made to feel shameful when filing grievances. the bill also provides much needed access to counseling, health care and other resources.
sb 967 applies to all california postsecondary schools - public and private - receiving state money for student financial aid. the california state university and university of california systems are supporting the legislation; both adopted similar consent standards this year.
uc president janet napolitano recently announced the system will voluntarily establish an independent advocate to support sexual assault victims on every campus. an advocate office is a provision of the federal survivor outreach and support campus act proposed by u.s. senator barbara boxer and representative susan davis of san diego, both democrats.
state lawmakers approved senate bill 967 by senator kevin de leon (d-la) last month, as states and universities across the country are under pressure to change how they handle rape allegations. campus sexual assault victims and women's advocacy groups delivered petitions to brown's office on september 16 demanding he sign the bill.
de leon said the progressive legislation begins a paradigm shift in how college campuses in california prevent and investigate sexual assaults. the familiar refrain of 'no means no,' is no longer the definition of consent - the new bill requires "an affirmative, conscious and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity."
"every student deserves a learning environment that is safe and healthy," de leon said in a statement sunday night. "the state of california will not allow schools to sweep rape cases under the rug. we've shifted the conversation regarding sexual assault to one of prevention, justice and healing," he said.
lawmakers say consent can be nonverbal, and universities with similar policies have outlined examples as a nod of the head or moving in closer to the person. the legislation says silence or lack of resistance does not constitute consent: someone who is asleep, drugged, drunk or unconscious cannot grant consent.
advocates for victims of sexual assault support the change as empowering. savannah badalich, ucla student and founder of the group 7000 in solidarity, welcomes the new legislation. badalich said, "this is amazing. it's going to educate an entire new generation of students on what consent is and what consent is not...that the absence of a no is not a yes."
the bill requires training for faculty reviewing complaints so victims are neither asked insensitive questions nor made to feel shameful when filing grievances. the bill also provides much needed access to counseling, health care and other resources.
sb 967 applies to all california postsecondary schools - public and private - receiving state money for student financial aid. the california state university and university of california systems are supporting the legislation; both adopted similar consent standards this year.
uc president janet napolitano recently announced the system will voluntarily establish an independent advocate to support sexual assault victims on every campus. an advocate office is a provision of the federal survivor outreach and support campus act proposed by u.s. senator barbara boxer and representative susan davis of san diego, both democrats.
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Ferguson Police Ordered To Stop Wearing 'I Am Darren Wilson' Bracelets
the department of justice (doj) on friday ordered police officers in ferguson, missouri to stop wearing bracelets in solidarity with darren wilson, the white cop who last month shot and killed michael brown, an unarmed black male. the bracelets say, i am darren wilson.
christy lopez, deputy chief of the special litigation section of the justice department's civil rights division, wrote a letter on friday to ferguson police chief thomas jackson. lopez writes, "these bracelets reinforce the very 'us versus them' mentality that many residents of ferguson believe exists."
lopez admits in the two-page letter she's unclear if ferguson officers specifically are now or have been wearing the bracelets. additionally, she understands jackson agreed to prohibit officers from wearing the bracelets while in uniform and on duty, and to ensure other officers from local agencies will observe the prohibition.
the letter comes after residents told a doj official about the bracelets this week at a community meeting. they complained officers wore the bracelets tuesday while patrolling folks' protests over the tragic death of 18 year-old brown august 9. protesters demand wilson's arrest. the doj has been investigating the shooting, while a grand jury is deliberating about whether to charge wilson.
residents said officers patrolled the community without name tags, or with their names covered by black tape. lopez, in the letter, asked the embattled police chief to ensure officers will follow department policy and wear their name tags.
"allowing officers to remain anonymous when they interact with the public contributes to mistrust and undermines accountability," says lopez, in a separate letter to jackson, written on tuesday. that letter was released on friday. lopez further writes, "the failure to wear name plates conveys a message to community members that, through anonymity, officers may seek to act with impunity."
christy lopez, deputy chief of the special litigation section of the justice department's civil rights division, wrote a letter on friday to ferguson police chief thomas jackson. lopez writes, "these bracelets reinforce the very 'us versus them' mentality that many residents of ferguson believe exists."
lopez admits in the two-page letter she's unclear if ferguson officers specifically are now or have been wearing the bracelets. additionally, she understands jackson agreed to prohibit officers from wearing the bracelets while in uniform and on duty, and to ensure other officers from local agencies will observe the prohibition.
the letter comes after residents told a doj official about the bracelets this week at a community meeting. they complained officers wore the bracelets tuesday while patrolling folks' protests over the tragic death of 18 year-old brown august 9. protesters demand wilson's arrest. the doj has been investigating the shooting, while a grand jury is deliberating about whether to charge wilson.
residents said officers patrolled the community without name tags, or with their names covered by black tape. lopez, in the letter, asked the embattled police chief to ensure officers will follow department policy and wear their name tags.
"allowing officers to remain anonymous when they interact with the public contributes to mistrust and undermines accountability," says lopez, in a separate letter to jackson, written on tuesday. that letter was released on friday. lopez further writes, "the failure to wear name plates conveys a message to community members that, through anonymity, officers may seek to act with impunity."
Friday, September 26, 2014
Attorney General Eric Holder Announced He Will Resign Pending A Successor
attorney general eric holder announced his resignation on thursday at an emotional white house ceremony. president barack obama praised holder saying he did a "superb job," and mentioned holder will leave his post at the justice department once a successor is confirmed.
holder acknowledged his family and colleagues by saying, "i thank you all for joining me on a journey that now moves in another direction, but that will always be guided by the pursuit of justice and aimed at the north star."
holder, 63, also expressed gratitude for obama, whom he called his colleague adding, "but the bonds between us are much deeper than that. in good times and bad, in things personal and professional, you have been there for me. i am proud to call you my friend."
holder is the first black to hold the nation's top law enforcement position. he's been in the job for nearly six years, since obama began his (own historic) reign as commander-in-chief. if holder remains in the position in december, he would be the third longest-serving attorney general.
"i have loved the department of justice ever since as a young boy i watched robert kennedy prove during the civil rights movement how the department can - and must - always be a force for that which is right. i hope that i have done honor to the faith you placed in me, mr. president, and to the legacy of all those who served before me," said holder.
under holder, the department of justice (doj) sought to protect voters' rights, women's rights and lgbt rights. obama said holder helped lower the crime rate and incarceration rate by 10% in six years. the doj also encouraged judges to use discretion in sentencing low-level drug offenders, reduced the disparity between crack and powder cocaine penalties from 100-1 to 18-1, and eliminate "draconian" mandatory minimums.
holder made criminal justice reform his top priority in 2014. he went to ferguson, missouri last month after michael brown, an unarmed black male, was killed by a white police officer, darren wilson. holder wants to restore trust between law enforcement and black and brown communities. he plans to go to scranton, pennsylvania on friday, and complete his goal of visiting all 93 u.s. attorney's offices.
before he was sworn in as the 82nd attorney general in february 2009, holder served as president bill clinton's deputy attorney general, the first black to hold to hold that position. the columbia law school graduate was previously u.s. attorney for the district of columbia and served during ronald reagan's administration as an associate judge at the superior court of the district of columbia.
holder acknowledged his family and colleagues by saying, "i thank you all for joining me on a journey that now moves in another direction, but that will always be guided by the pursuit of justice and aimed at the north star."
holder, 63, also expressed gratitude for obama, whom he called his colleague adding, "but the bonds between us are much deeper than that. in good times and bad, in things personal and professional, you have been there for me. i am proud to call you my friend."
holder is the first black to hold the nation's top law enforcement position. he's been in the job for nearly six years, since obama began his (own historic) reign as commander-in-chief. if holder remains in the position in december, he would be the third longest-serving attorney general.
"i have loved the department of justice ever since as a young boy i watched robert kennedy prove during the civil rights movement how the department can - and must - always be a force for that which is right. i hope that i have done honor to the faith you placed in me, mr. president, and to the legacy of all those who served before me," said holder.
under holder, the department of justice (doj) sought to protect voters' rights, women's rights and lgbt rights. obama said holder helped lower the crime rate and incarceration rate by 10% in six years. the doj also encouraged judges to use discretion in sentencing low-level drug offenders, reduced the disparity between crack and powder cocaine penalties from 100-1 to 18-1, and eliminate "draconian" mandatory minimums.
holder made criminal justice reform his top priority in 2014. he went to ferguson, missouri last month after michael brown, an unarmed black male, was killed by a white police officer, darren wilson. holder wants to restore trust between law enforcement and black and brown communities. he plans to go to scranton, pennsylvania on friday, and complete his goal of visiting all 93 u.s. attorney's offices.
before he was sworn in as the 82nd attorney general in february 2009, holder served as president bill clinton's deputy attorney general, the first black to hold to hold that position. the columbia law school graduate was previously u.s. attorney for the district of columbia and served during ronald reagan's administration as an associate judge at the superior court of the district of columbia.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Georgia's Incarceration Rate for Blacks drops 20% in five years
the incarceration rate among blacks in georgia dropped by 20% in five years. the change signals a shift in their approach to sentencing and offender treatment. driven to cut costs and improve outcomes, lawmakers increasingly reject tough-on-crime models which once defined the state.
instead, they're adopting public health-based solutions, including treatment centers for drug addicts and inmates with mental illness, as well as accountability courts offering alternatives to incarceration for offenders working to experience drug-free living and optimum mental health.
georgia's progressive reforms have improved outcomes for offenders of all ethnic groups. in fact, they've cut the state's overall incarceration rate by 15% since 2009, which is both remarkable and historic considering the state's dark past with black prisoners.
though blacks are currently over-represented in georgia prisons - making up more than 60% of the state population but less than 32% of the overall state population - the encouraging decline affirms success towards fair sentencing practices and outcomes.
instead, they're adopting public health-based solutions, including treatment centers for drug addicts and inmates with mental illness, as well as accountability courts offering alternatives to incarceration for offenders working to experience drug-free living and optimum mental health.
georgia's progressive reforms have improved outcomes for offenders of all ethnic groups. in fact, they've cut the state's overall incarceration rate by 15% since 2009, which is both remarkable and historic considering the state's dark past with black prisoners.
though blacks are currently over-represented in georgia prisons - making up more than 60% of the state population but less than 32% of the overall state population - the encouraging decline affirms success towards fair sentencing practices and outcomes.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
National Organization of Women President demands NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Resign Imnmediately
the national organization for women (now) president terry o'neill wants national football league (nfl) commissioner roger goodell to resign effective immediately. goodell held a hotly anticipated press conference on friday to address the maligned league's current stance on domestic violence issues.
goodell, in the almost 45-minute conference, admitted he 'made a mistake in the ray rice matter' and was 'sorry' for it. goodell asserted he would not resign, but would hire a personal conduct committee, before the 2015 super bowl, to establish a policy of higher standards and moral integrity. goodell also promised greater transparency in the league's handling of such issues in the future.
but o'neill questions goodell's leadership qualities. she said, "glaringly absent from mr. goodell's remarks is a commitment to conduct an independent investigation into all of the incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking on his watch. roger goodell's steadfast refusal to broach these questions speaks a lot louder than his formulaic mea culpas and repeated promises that he's going to do better."
o'neill said, "now continues to demand that he resign and that his successor appoint a thorough, independent investigator with full authority to unpack all relevant aspects of the nfl's response to incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking, and to make serious recommendations for change. the time for half measures and pr feints is long past. roger goodell must go."
goodell, in the almost 45-minute conference, admitted he 'made a mistake in the ray rice matter' and was 'sorry' for it. goodell asserted he would not resign, but would hire a personal conduct committee, before the 2015 super bowl, to establish a policy of higher standards and moral integrity. goodell also promised greater transparency in the league's handling of such issues in the future.
but o'neill questions goodell's leadership qualities. she said, "glaringly absent from mr. goodell's remarks is a commitment to conduct an independent investigation into all of the incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking on his watch. roger goodell's steadfast refusal to broach these questions speaks a lot louder than his formulaic mea culpas and repeated promises that he's going to do better."
o'neill said, "now continues to demand that he resign and that his successor appoint a thorough, independent investigator with full authority to unpack all relevant aspects of the nfl's response to incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking, and to make serious recommendations for change. the time for half measures and pr feints is long past. roger goodell must go."
Friday, September 19, 2014
Procter & Gamble Withdraws Breast Cancer Initiatives with the NFL
october is breast cancer month. during the last several years, the national football league (nfl) has become a popular supporter and powerful institution to effectively highlight the need for ongoing awareness, education and treatment of breast cancer.
nfl players across the league proudly wear pink shoes, pink socks, pink wristbands, and use pink towels. the field and footballs are adorned with the cause's pink ribbon, the coin used for the opening toss is pink, and fans can buy pink nfl gear to support breast cancer.
but after several incidents of domestic violence and sexual assault involving nfl players - among them jonathan dwyer, greg hardy, ray mcdonald and ray rice - procter & gamble, a major sponsor who planned to partner with the nfl, has planned to pull out of their "significant league-wide" campaign for breast cancer awareness month.
the campaign, sponsored through the company's crest brand, was going to include "multiple players" on each of the league's 32 teams. one player would be deemed an official "ambassador" of the initiative. players would have worn pink mouth guards and interacted with fans on social media as part of the campaign.
the selected players were recently informed the prospective campaign has been cancelled. also, procter & gamble informed the players money slated to be contributed to cancer charities as part of the campaign would still be donated, even though no campaign is forthcoming.
pepsi & company, on thursday, became the latest sponsor to publicly express their displeasure with the nfl and its peripatetic approach to domestic violence cases and sexual assault issues with players. other sponsors voicing their concerns publicly include anheuser-busch, campbell soup company, mcdonald's, verizon and visa.
nfl players across the league proudly wear pink shoes, pink socks, pink wristbands, and use pink towels. the field and footballs are adorned with the cause's pink ribbon, the coin used for the opening toss is pink, and fans can buy pink nfl gear to support breast cancer.
but after several incidents of domestic violence and sexual assault involving nfl players - among them jonathan dwyer, greg hardy, ray mcdonald and ray rice - procter & gamble, a major sponsor who planned to partner with the nfl, has planned to pull out of their "significant league-wide" campaign for breast cancer awareness month.
the campaign, sponsored through the company's crest brand, was going to include "multiple players" on each of the league's 32 teams. one player would be deemed an official "ambassador" of the initiative. players would have worn pink mouth guards and interacted with fans on social media as part of the campaign.
the selected players were recently informed the prospective campaign has been cancelled. also, procter & gamble informed the players money slated to be contributed to cancer charities as part of the campaign would still be donated, even though no campaign is forthcoming.
pepsi & company, on thursday, became the latest sponsor to publicly express their displeasure with the nfl and its peripatetic approach to domestic violence cases and sexual assault issues with players. other sponsors voicing their concerns publicly include anheuser-busch, campbell soup company, mcdonald's, verizon and visa.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Phoenix Mercury Wins 2014 WNBA Title
the phoenix mercury defeated the chicago sky 87-82 on friday to win the 2014 wnba title. phoenix swept the sky in three games, earning the franchise a third championship. the detroit shock also have three titles. but the houston comets own a record four titles.
all-star guard diana taurasi was named most valuable player for the second time in her illustrious career. she became the wnba all-time playoff leader in scoring. taurasi scored 24 points, as did their all-star forward candice dupree. the mercury clinched without all-star center 6'8" brittany griner, who sat on the bench after suffering an eye injury in the second game.
taurasi has three wins in the ncaa, olympics and wnba. she said, "college ones feel great because when you're in college you're really in a family atmosphere with people that are my friends for life. olympics is for your country. you wear that flag and there's no other feeling like that. and then, the wnba is the best competition in the world. so when you're champions here, you're champions. you've earned it."
phoenix finished the regular season with 29 wins - the most in wnba history. the mercury won their last 20 games at home. their 18.3 points per game margin is the third best in playoff history. dewana bonner and penny taylor averaged double figures in the finals. phoenix's high-powered offense led the league in scoring during the regular season.
chicago, led by all-star forward elena delle donne and all-star center sylvia fowles, reached the wnba finals for the first time in the team's short history. dubbed the comeback kids for their faith, grit and perseverance, the sky won both their first playoff game - and playoff series - in their first year reaching the playoffs.
all-star guard diana taurasi was named most valuable player for the second time in her illustrious career. she became the wnba all-time playoff leader in scoring. taurasi scored 24 points, as did their all-star forward candice dupree. the mercury clinched without all-star center 6'8" brittany griner, who sat on the bench after suffering an eye injury in the second game.
taurasi has three wins in the ncaa, olympics and wnba. she said, "college ones feel great because when you're in college you're really in a family atmosphere with people that are my friends for life. olympics is for your country. you wear that flag and there's no other feeling like that. and then, the wnba is the best competition in the world. so when you're champions here, you're champions. you've earned it."
phoenix finished the regular season with 29 wins - the most in wnba history. the mercury won their last 20 games at home. their 18.3 points per game margin is the third best in playoff history. dewana bonner and penny taylor averaged double figures in the finals. phoenix's high-powered offense led the league in scoring during the regular season.
chicago, led by all-star forward elena delle donne and all-star center sylvia fowles, reached the wnba finals for the first time in the team's short history. dubbed the comeback kids for their faith, grit and perseverance, the sky won both their first playoff game - and playoff series - in their first year reaching the playoffs.
Tuesday, September 09, 2014
2014 U.S. Open Tennis Tournament Champions
listed below are the male and female champions of the 2014 u.s. open tennis tournament:
men's singles - marin cilic, croatia.
women's singles - serena williams, united states.
men's doubles - bob bryan & mike bryan, united states.
women's doubles - ekaterina makarova & elena vesnina, russia.
mixed doubles - sonia mirza, india & bruno soares, brazil.
junior boys singles - omar jasika, australia.
junior girls singles - marie bouzkova, czech republic.
junior boys doubles - omar jasika, australia & naoki nakagawa, japan.
junior girls doubles - ipek soylu, turkey & jil belen teichmann, switzerland.
men's champions doubles - pat cash, australia & todd martin, united states.
women's champions doubles - martina navratilova, united states & jana novotna, czech republic.
exhibition doubles - james blake, united states & john mcenroe, united states.
men's collegiate invitational - marcos giron, united states.
women's collegiate invitational - jamie loeb, united states.
men's singles - marin cilic, croatia.
women's singles - serena williams, united states.
men's doubles - bob bryan & mike bryan, united states.
women's doubles - ekaterina makarova & elena vesnina, russia.
mixed doubles - sonia mirza, india & bruno soares, brazil.
junior boys singles - omar jasika, australia.
junior girls singles - marie bouzkova, czech republic.
junior boys doubles - omar jasika, australia & naoki nakagawa, japan.
junior girls doubles - ipek soylu, turkey & jil belen teichmann, switzerland.
men's champions doubles - pat cash, australia & todd martin, united states.
women's champions doubles - martina navratilova, united states & jana novotna, czech republic.
exhibition doubles - james blake, united states & john mcenroe, united states.
men's collegiate invitational - marcos giron, united states.
women's collegiate invitational - jamie loeb, united states.
Monday, September 08, 2014
Cincinnati Bengals Re-sign Devon Still to financially support his daughter's cancer
the cincinnati bengals recently cut defensive tackle devon still from their roster. he understood, and harbored no animosity towards the team. but in the spirit of compassion, still was reassigned to the bengals' practice squad in order for him to pay for his daughter's cancer treatments.
as a practice squad player, the 25 year-old still will be paid $6,300 per week in salary, as well as much needed medical insurance. his beautiful four year-old daughter, leah, has stage four pediatric cancer. she was diagnosed in june.
still told abc news, "i completely understand where the bengals were coming from when they cut me because i couldn't give football 100% right now. they could have washed their hands with me and said they didn't care what i was going through off the field...it's like a blessing in disguise."
being on the practice squad also means still won't have to travel as much as other players. he'll have more time to spend with his daughter before and/or after her chemotherapy sessions. still said, "we're going to go to battle with cancer. she's willing to put up a fight to beat it."
as a practice squad player, the 25 year-old still will be paid $6,300 per week in salary, as well as much needed medical insurance. his beautiful four year-old daughter, leah, has stage four pediatric cancer. she was diagnosed in june.
still told abc news, "i completely understand where the bengals were coming from when they cut me because i couldn't give football 100% right now. they could have washed their hands with me and said they didn't care what i was going through off the field...it's like a blessing in disguise."
being on the practice squad also means still won't have to travel as much as other players. he'll have more time to spend with his daughter before and/or after her chemotherapy sessions. still said, "we're going to go to battle with cancer. she's willing to put up a fight to beat it."
Saturday, August 30, 2014
2014 WNBA Year-End Awards
the 2014 wnba year-end awards celebrates the women best exemplifying the athletic integrity of the league. the following women and their impressive achievements showcasing the wnba at its finest are listed below:
most valuable player: maya moore, minnesota lynx.
defensive player of the year: brittney griner, phoenix mercury.
rookie of the year: chiney ogwumike, connecticut sun.
most improved player of the year: skyar diggins, tulsa shock.
sixth woman of the year: allie quigley, chicago sky.
coach of the year: sandy brondello, phoenix mercury.
sportswoman of the year: becky hammon, san antonio stars.
most valuable player: maya moore, minnesota lynx.
defensive player of the year: brittney griner, phoenix mercury.
rookie of the year: chiney ogwumike, connecticut sun.
most improved player of the year: skyar diggins, tulsa shock.
sixth woman of the year: allie quigley, chicago sky.
coach of the year: sandy brondello, phoenix mercury.
sportswoman of the year: becky hammon, san antonio stars.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
NFL Suspends Josh Gordon for One Year
on wednesday the nfl upheld the 16-game suspension of cleveland browns all-pro wide receiver josh brown for violating the league's substance abuse policy. brown is a repeat offender, yet appealed the earlier ruling, hoping it would be reduced so he could play this season.
but the league announced arbitrator harold henderson supported gordon's year-long suspension for marijuana use. gordon, who was subject to more frequent testing, will begin serving his sentence immediately. he's not allowed to practice with the team, attend meetings or other club functions. the league said, "his eligibility for reinstatement will be determined following the 2014 season."
gordon said, "i'd like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the cleveland browns organization and our fans. i am very disappointed that the nfl and its hearing office didn't exercise better discretion and judgment in my case. i would like to sincerely thank the people who have been incredibly supportive of me during this challenging time, including my family, my agent, my union, my legal team, and the cleveland browns staff."
browns general manager ray farmer said, "while we may have strong feelings on the timing and the process of this decision, we have also consistently communicated that we will focus on what we can control in our day to day approach. right now that is preparing our team for the 2014 season and at the same time, supporting josh however we are able under nfl guidelines during his suspension."
the gifted 23 year-old led all players with 1,646 receiving yards and 18.9 yards per catch last season. he caught a team-high 87 passes - nine for touchdowns. gordon was highly productive, despite being banned the first two games for a failed drug test. it was his second known violation as a pro: gordon said he had inadvertently taken codeine contained in a prescription cough syrup. he also failed three drug tests in college for marijuana use.
gordon hired attorney maurice suh to represent him at the appeal hearing. suh, whom successfully gotten a suspension reduced for seahawks all-pro cornerback richard sherman, argued gordon tested positive for marijuana due to secondhand smoke. gordon's representatives also said test results of his samples were inconsistent, and should be thrown out.
while he's out, gordon must pass drug tests, comply with treatment, and apply for reinstatement with commissioner roger goodell before he plays again. if he stays clean, its possible he could return within a year. recently, gordon posted an instagram of himself catching a pass on the practice field from their rookie quarterback johnny manziel. the caption reads, "only place i can find peace."
but the league announced arbitrator harold henderson supported gordon's year-long suspension for marijuana use. gordon, who was subject to more frequent testing, will begin serving his sentence immediately. he's not allowed to practice with the team, attend meetings or other club functions. the league said, "his eligibility for reinstatement will be determined following the 2014 season."
gordon said, "i'd like to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the cleveland browns organization and our fans. i am very disappointed that the nfl and its hearing office didn't exercise better discretion and judgment in my case. i would like to sincerely thank the people who have been incredibly supportive of me during this challenging time, including my family, my agent, my union, my legal team, and the cleveland browns staff."
browns general manager ray farmer said, "while we may have strong feelings on the timing and the process of this decision, we have also consistently communicated that we will focus on what we can control in our day to day approach. right now that is preparing our team for the 2014 season and at the same time, supporting josh however we are able under nfl guidelines during his suspension."
the gifted 23 year-old led all players with 1,646 receiving yards and 18.9 yards per catch last season. he caught a team-high 87 passes - nine for touchdowns. gordon was highly productive, despite being banned the first two games for a failed drug test. it was his second known violation as a pro: gordon said he had inadvertently taken codeine contained in a prescription cough syrup. he also failed three drug tests in college for marijuana use.
gordon hired attorney maurice suh to represent him at the appeal hearing. suh, whom successfully gotten a suspension reduced for seahawks all-pro cornerback richard sherman, argued gordon tested positive for marijuana due to secondhand smoke. gordon's representatives also said test results of his samples were inconsistent, and should be thrown out.
while he's out, gordon must pass drug tests, comply with treatment, and apply for reinstatement with commissioner roger goodell before he plays again. if he stays clean, its possible he could return within a year. recently, gordon posted an instagram of himself catching a pass on the practice field from their rookie quarterback johnny manziel. the caption reads, "only place i can find peace."
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Black Male Teen Killed by White Male Police Officer Sparks Outrage in Ferguson, MO
michael brown, an unarmed black teenager, was fatally shot by a white, male police officer saturday in ferguson, missouri. according to two men who witnessed the murder, brown had his hands raised when the officer approached him with his weapon drawn and fired repeatedly.
the fbi opened an investigation on monday into the tragic death of the 18 year-old brown. ferguson is a 21,000 resident suburb of st. louis, and nearly 70% black. authorities were vague about what led to the shooting. investigators have refused to publicly disclose the race of the officer, who is now on administrative leave.
phillip walker said he was on the porch of an apartment complex overlooking the scene when he heard a shot and saw a white officer with brown on the street. walker told the associated press brown "was giving up in the sense of raising his arms and being subdued." he said the officer "had his gun raised and started shooting...stood over him and shot him."
dorian johnson told walb-tv he and brown were walking home from a convenience store when a police officer told them to get out of the street and onto the sidewalk. johnson said they kept walking, and he believes this prompted the officer to confront them once more after getting out of his car.
johnson said the first time the officer fired, he and brown got scared and ran away. johnson said, "he shot again, and once my friend felt that shot, he turned around and put his hands in the air, and he started to get down. but the officer still approached with his weapon drawn and fired more shots. we wasn't causing harm to nobody. we had no weapons at all."
brown's father, michael brown, visited the shooting site monday afternoon. he abruptly left after gunshots rang out a block away. brown's mother, lesley mcspadden, said she did not understand why police did not subdue her son with a club or stun gun. she said, "i would like to see him go to jail with the death penalty."
the killing drew criticism, ire and pain from some civil rights leaders. they immediately referred to the 2012 racially charged shooting in florida of 17 year-old trayvon martin - an unarmed black male - by george zimmerman, who was acquitted of murder charges by a predominantly white jury under the state's controversial stand your ground laws.
brown's family planned to speak publicly later monday with their attorney, benjamin crump, who also represented the martin family. john gaskin, who serves on both the st. louis county and national boards of directors for the naacp, said the group was "outraged because yet again a young african-american man has been killed by law enforcement."
the fbi opened an investigation on monday into the tragic death of the 18 year-old brown. ferguson is a 21,000 resident suburb of st. louis, and nearly 70% black. authorities were vague about what led to the shooting. investigators have refused to publicly disclose the race of the officer, who is now on administrative leave.
phillip walker said he was on the porch of an apartment complex overlooking the scene when he heard a shot and saw a white officer with brown on the street. walker told the associated press brown "was giving up in the sense of raising his arms and being subdued." he said the officer "had his gun raised and started shooting...stood over him and shot him."
dorian johnson told walb-tv he and brown were walking home from a convenience store when a police officer told them to get out of the street and onto the sidewalk. johnson said they kept walking, and he believes this prompted the officer to confront them once more after getting out of his car.
johnson said the first time the officer fired, he and brown got scared and ran away. johnson said, "he shot again, and once my friend felt that shot, he turned around and put his hands in the air, and he started to get down. but the officer still approached with his weapon drawn and fired more shots. we wasn't causing harm to nobody. we had no weapons at all."
brown's father, michael brown, visited the shooting site monday afternoon. he abruptly left after gunshots rang out a block away. brown's mother, lesley mcspadden, said she did not understand why police did not subdue her son with a club or stun gun. she said, "i would like to see him go to jail with the death penalty."
the killing drew criticism, ire and pain from some civil rights leaders. they immediately referred to the 2012 racially charged shooting in florida of 17 year-old trayvon martin - an unarmed black male - by george zimmerman, who was acquitted of murder charges by a predominantly white jury under the state's controversial stand your ground laws.
brown's family planned to speak publicly later monday with their attorney, benjamin crump, who also represented the martin family. john gaskin, who serves on both the st. louis county and national boards of directors for the naacp, said the group was "outraged because yet again a young african-american man has been killed by law enforcement."
Saturday, August 02, 2014
Recent Study Highlights Racial Disparities in New York City Prosecutions
at the request of manhattan district attorney cyrus r. vance, jr., the vera institute of justice partnered on a two-year national institute of justice study on the relationship between prosecutorial decision-making and racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
analyzing 222,542 cases resolved in 2010-2011, the 251-page report reveals blacks and latinos were at a disadvantage relative to whites in three key stages of criminal cases (pretrial detention, plea bargaining and incarceration sentence), but not in two (case acceptance and case dismissal). in fact, whites were less likely than blacks and latinos to have their cases dismissed.
authors nancy r. andiloro and besiki luka said, "this finding raises the question of whether having higher dismissal rates for defendants of color should be viewed as an indicator of leniency, or simply serve as a mechanism for declining to prosecute cases that could have been rejected at screening."
the starkest disparities were found in the prosecution of misdemeanor drug offenses. blacks were 27% more likely and latinos were 18% more likely to receive a custodial sentence offer than similarly situated white defendants. surprisingly, prior arrest record was more influential on sentence offers than prior sentence history, in accordance with this office's plea guidelines.
both authors recommend revising these guidelines. they said if the current guidelines were "based on poor sentences - as opposed to prior arrest - much of the difference between black and white, and latino and white defendants would have disappeared, at least in misdemeanor cases."
the new york times reports the study prompted the manhattan district attorney to request implicit bias training for his assistant prosecutors. the times' editorial board commends vance for inviting this analysis of his office. echoing the vera authors, they urge him to "reduce prosecutors' emphasis on prior arrests and work with his staff to accept fewer cases in the first place."
in brooklyn, the district attorney's office will stop prosecuting low-level marijuana cases, in an attempt to improve the administration of justice and put the office's resources to better use. district attorney kenneth p. thompson said - in a confidential memo - the policy was set up to keep nonviolent people, "and especially young people of color," out of the criminal justice system.
possession of marijuana is still illegal in the state, and brooklyn is the only borough to issue this policy. those arrested in brooklyn will undergo a case-by-case review and only those with no, or minimal criminal records, will qualify under the policy.
analyzing 222,542 cases resolved in 2010-2011, the 251-page report reveals blacks and latinos were at a disadvantage relative to whites in three key stages of criminal cases (pretrial detention, plea bargaining and incarceration sentence), but not in two (case acceptance and case dismissal). in fact, whites were less likely than blacks and latinos to have their cases dismissed.
authors nancy r. andiloro and besiki luka said, "this finding raises the question of whether having higher dismissal rates for defendants of color should be viewed as an indicator of leniency, or simply serve as a mechanism for declining to prosecute cases that could have been rejected at screening."
the starkest disparities were found in the prosecution of misdemeanor drug offenses. blacks were 27% more likely and latinos were 18% more likely to receive a custodial sentence offer than similarly situated white defendants. surprisingly, prior arrest record was more influential on sentence offers than prior sentence history, in accordance with this office's plea guidelines.
both authors recommend revising these guidelines. they said if the current guidelines were "based on poor sentences - as opposed to prior arrest - much of the difference between black and white, and latino and white defendants would have disappeared, at least in misdemeanor cases."
the new york times reports the study prompted the manhattan district attorney to request implicit bias training for his assistant prosecutors. the times' editorial board commends vance for inviting this analysis of his office. echoing the vera authors, they urge him to "reduce prosecutors' emphasis on prior arrests and work with his staff to accept fewer cases in the first place."
in brooklyn, the district attorney's office will stop prosecuting low-level marijuana cases, in an attempt to improve the administration of justice and put the office's resources to better use. district attorney kenneth p. thompson said - in a confidential memo - the policy was set up to keep nonviolent people, "and especially young people of color," out of the criminal justice system.
possession of marijuana is still illegal in the state, and brooklyn is the only borough to issue this policy. those arrested in brooklyn will undergo a case-by-case review and only those with no, or minimal criminal records, will qualify under the policy.
Friday, July 25, 2014
New Publication Acclaims Prison Population Reduction Without Harming Public Safety
the sentencing project works for a fair and effective u.s. justice system by addressing unjust racial disparities and practices, advocating for alternatives to incarceration and promoting reforms in sentencing policy.
their recent publication: fewer prisoners, less crime - a tale of three states, profiles the success of california, new jersey and new york. each of these states have reduced their prison population by about 25%, while seeing their prospective crime rates generally decline at a faster pace than the national average.
some of the book's key findings include:
* new jersey and new york led the nation by reducing their prison population by 26% between 1999 and 2012, while the nationwide state prison population increased by 10%.
* california downsized its prison population by 23% between 2006 and 2012. during this period, the nationwide state prison population decreased by just 1%.
* during their periods of decarceration, violent crimes fell at a greater rate in these three states than they did nationwide. between 1999-2012, new york and new jersey's violent crime rate fell by 31% and 30% respectively, while the national rate decreased by 26%. between 2006-2012, california's violent crime rate drop of 21% exceeded the national decline of 21%.
* between 1999-2012, new york's property crime rate fell by 29% and new jersey's by 31%, compared to the national decline of 24%. between 2006-2012, california's property crime drop of 13% was slightly lower than the national reduction of 15%.
these astounding prison population reductions result from complimentary changes in policy and practice designed to reduce admissions to prison and lengths of stay.
each of these states' experiences affirm criminal justice policies - not crime rates - are the prime drivers of changes in prison populations. they also prove society can effectively reduce prison populations without harming public safety.
their recent publication: fewer prisoners, less crime - a tale of three states, profiles the success of california, new jersey and new york. each of these states have reduced their prison population by about 25%, while seeing their prospective crime rates generally decline at a faster pace than the national average.
some of the book's key findings include:
* new jersey and new york led the nation by reducing their prison population by 26% between 1999 and 2012, while the nationwide state prison population increased by 10%.
* california downsized its prison population by 23% between 2006 and 2012. during this period, the nationwide state prison population decreased by just 1%.
* during their periods of decarceration, violent crimes fell at a greater rate in these three states than they did nationwide. between 1999-2012, new york and new jersey's violent crime rate fell by 31% and 30% respectively, while the national rate decreased by 26%. between 2006-2012, california's violent crime rate drop of 21% exceeded the national decline of 21%.
* between 1999-2012, new york's property crime rate fell by 29% and new jersey's by 31%, compared to the national decline of 24%. between 2006-2012, california's property crime drop of 13% was slightly lower than the national reduction of 15%.
these astounding prison population reductions result from complimentary changes in policy and practice designed to reduce admissions to prison and lengths of stay.
each of these states' experiences affirm criminal justice policies - not crime rates - are the prime drivers of changes in prison populations. they also prove society can effectively reduce prison populations without harming public safety.
Monday, July 21, 2014
A Stressful Day With MTA
last friday i was headed to queens to meet some friends around noon. i swiped my reduced fare, unlimited metro, ready to board the b train downtown. but there was a message which read: see agent. the agent informed me the card was cancelled. puzzled and embarrassed, I asked why. he suggested I phone customer service.
I felt like florida after losing james on good times - damn, damn, damn...
normally i'd demand an explanation; as if i were innocent. at the beginning of this month, i noticed a $35 overdraft fee on my bank statement. yet there was no creditor listed. i quickly called to seek a refund. three days they returned the money. shortly thereafter, i received a notice from my bank stating mta was unable to charge $56 from my savings for my card.
this is (only) the second time i've been penalized by mta for neglecting to have money in my savings account. when i got the card i set up the agreement online. i don't drive and use the card regularly, but not daily. sometimes more than six weeks or two months go by without mta replenishing $56 for the monthly half-fare card.
initially i thought the card was cancelled because of the expiration date. however i realized i needed to make amends. i waited almost 15 minutes (!) to speak with a person, to no avail. i called again later, waiting almost ten minutes with the same result. finally, exasperated and worried about my future travel security, i called and spoke with someone who gave me three options.
1) mail the card in for a replacement card; 2) get a temporary card from a bus or subway agent; 3) come in to the office for a replacement card. sigh. i was tempted to ask her: can i buy a vowel? but she may have neither understood nor appreciated my daytime talk show reference at 5:15 pm on a friday afternoon. i couldn't bear going the weekend and not have some answers.
i got to the lower manhattan office around 8:45 am. there were about 25 people waiting outside. i surrendered my sense of entitlement and terminal uniqueness one prayer at a time. surprisingly, the line moved swiftly, as did my intolerance with people who don't speak english, forget why they're standing in line at 8:45 am, or lack adequate identification.
the customer service agent, a pleasant, older black man, informed me i could get a replacement card in the mail if i pay mta $81.27. they were also charging me $25.00 for the error. he said the card would be mailed in about three weeks, and i could use a temporary card until then.
he also suggested i "get out of the system and use a regular card like you used to." although he was looking at a computer screen and had access to my past, i felt violated. how do you, specifically you, know i once used a regular card? why do you want me to opt out of the system? i'm a customer, not a professional athlete.
my cynicism, distrust and resentment with authority began to resurface. clearly this would benefit the bureaucracy, one well documented with historical cash flow problems. he said i could pay $25.27 and simply put money on a temporary card whenever i needed to. and, they would mail me, in about three weeks, a replacement card with no money on it.
i just wanted them to take the $56 out of my savings account while i was at the office. can't they just push a button or something? i have $60.88 in the account, but i couldn't negotiate because i left my debit card at home. i didn't think i would need it. i thought they would give me a replacement card, like the agent said on friday. she said it would probably take about 15 minutes. she was wrong.
i don't like her right now.
i felt manipulated into doing what he wanted. the stress, worry and uncertainty began to overwhelm my sleepy brain. i became uber-conscious of the other people in line waiting to be served and didn't want this ordeal to go on much longer. I wanted to act like an adult, but felt like a child trying to make a grown up decision.
i thought if i only paid them $25.27 i'd have more cash to hold me over until my reparations check arrives. what's the big deal about the inconvenience of putting money on a card from time to time? besides, i need to address my laziness and procrastination issues anyway. i resigned myself to a couple of weeks of walking more and riding less. i told him to cancel the account.
as i went home to get a money order, i started to feel like i fell for the banana and the tail pipe. (note: if you haven't seen beverly hills cop, that joke will probably elude you. and that's okay). i reflected on the day's events and decided to follow my instinct and trust my spirit. even if his intentions were sincere, i was not going to let him influence my choices.
i returned in about 90 minutes with a money order for $81.27. i wanted to resolve this issue with the same agent. i did, yet he seemed disappointed i changed my mind about closing my account. he also admitted he kept my paperwork nearby just in case. he said he was confused about how to handle the situation but nonetheless offered to have the new card sent by fed ex no later than friday.
whew.
on my way out, i noticed a buddy sitting in the waiting area. he gave me a hug and probably sensed my distraught look. i told him the situation from start to finish. his compassionate ear, quiet reassurance and warm smile genuinely comforted me. but when he put a $10 bill in my hand, i was ready to cry. the kindness of god's angels continue to feed my spirit and restore my faith in humanity.
I felt like florida after losing james on good times - damn, damn, damn...
normally i'd demand an explanation; as if i were innocent. at the beginning of this month, i noticed a $35 overdraft fee on my bank statement. yet there was no creditor listed. i quickly called to seek a refund. three days they returned the money. shortly thereafter, i received a notice from my bank stating mta was unable to charge $56 from my savings for my card.
this is (only) the second time i've been penalized by mta for neglecting to have money in my savings account. when i got the card i set up the agreement online. i don't drive and use the card regularly, but not daily. sometimes more than six weeks or two months go by without mta replenishing $56 for the monthly half-fare card.
initially i thought the card was cancelled because of the expiration date. however i realized i needed to make amends. i waited almost 15 minutes (!) to speak with a person, to no avail. i called again later, waiting almost ten minutes with the same result. finally, exasperated and worried about my future travel security, i called and spoke with someone who gave me three options.
1) mail the card in for a replacement card; 2) get a temporary card from a bus or subway agent; 3) come in to the office for a replacement card. sigh. i was tempted to ask her: can i buy a vowel? but she may have neither understood nor appreciated my daytime talk show reference at 5:15 pm on a friday afternoon. i couldn't bear going the weekend and not have some answers.
i got to the lower manhattan office around 8:45 am. there were about 25 people waiting outside. i surrendered my sense of entitlement and terminal uniqueness one prayer at a time. surprisingly, the line moved swiftly, as did my intolerance with people who don't speak english, forget why they're standing in line at 8:45 am, or lack adequate identification.
the customer service agent, a pleasant, older black man, informed me i could get a replacement card in the mail if i pay mta $81.27. they were also charging me $25.00 for the error. he said the card would be mailed in about three weeks, and i could use a temporary card until then.
he also suggested i "get out of the system and use a regular card like you used to." although he was looking at a computer screen and had access to my past, i felt violated. how do you, specifically you, know i once used a regular card? why do you want me to opt out of the system? i'm a customer, not a professional athlete.
my cynicism, distrust and resentment with authority began to resurface. clearly this would benefit the bureaucracy, one well documented with historical cash flow problems. he said i could pay $25.27 and simply put money on a temporary card whenever i needed to. and, they would mail me, in about three weeks, a replacement card with no money on it.
i just wanted them to take the $56 out of my savings account while i was at the office. can't they just push a button or something? i have $60.88 in the account, but i couldn't negotiate because i left my debit card at home. i didn't think i would need it. i thought they would give me a replacement card, like the agent said on friday. she said it would probably take about 15 minutes. she was wrong.
i don't like her right now.
i felt manipulated into doing what he wanted. the stress, worry and uncertainty began to overwhelm my sleepy brain. i became uber-conscious of the other people in line waiting to be served and didn't want this ordeal to go on much longer. I wanted to act like an adult, but felt like a child trying to make a grown up decision.
i thought if i only paid them $25.27 i'd have more cash to hold me over until my reparations check arrives. what's the big deal about the inconvenience of putting money on a card from time to time? besides, i need to address my laziness and procrastination issues anyway. i resigned myself to a couple of weeks of walking more and riding less. i told him to cancel the account.
as i went home to get a money order, i started to feel like i fell for the banana and the tail pipe. (note: if you haven't seen beverly hills cop, that joke will probably elude you. and that's okay). i reflected on the day's events and decided to follow my instinct and trust my spirit. even if his intentions were sincere, i was not going to let him influence my choices.
i returned in about 90 minutes with a money order for $81.27. i wanted to resolve this issue with the same agent. i did, yet he seemed disappointed i changed my mind about closing my account. he also admitted he kept my paperwork nearby just in case. he said he was confused about how to handle the situation but nonetheless offered to have the new card sent by fed ex no later than friday.
whew.
on my way out, i noticed a buddy sitting in the waiting area. he gave me a hug and probably sensed my distraught look. i told him the situation from start to finish. his compassionate ear, quiet reassurance and warm smile genuinely comforted me. but when he put a $10 bill in my hand, i was ready to cry. the kindness of god's angels continue to feed my spirit and restore my faith in humanity.
Wednesday, July 09, 2014
Rand Paul Seeks to Restore Voting Rights in Federal Elections
kentucky senator rand paul has introduced a bill which restores voting rights in federal elections to those convicted of non-violent felonies. this initiative is the newest addition to a series of criminal justice reforms backed by paul.
paul has supported legislation to scale back mandatory minimum sentencing for those convicted of drug offenses. he also supports various other reforms, including reclassifying some felony drug offenses as misdemeanors.
speaking on meet the press last sunday, paul said, "if we're the party of family values and keeping families together, and the party believes in redemption and second chances, we should be for letting people have the right to vote back."
voting rights advocates have praised the recent legal proposals made by paul. but human rights advocates prefer legislation introduced by senator ben cardin, which would extend voting rights to those convicted of any felony upon leaving prison.
paul is a staunch conservative, yet he drew some right-wing criticism. roger clegg, ceo of the center for equal opportunity, a conservative think tank focusing on race and ethnicity, strongly disagrees with paul's views. clegg said, "paul has shown himself to be someone who does not take the constitution seriously."
paul says re-enfranchising people convicted of non-violent felonies would help reduce current racial disparities. at present, nearly eight percent of the black population cannot vote. similarly, under two percent of the non-black population cannot vote.
"there's a racial outcome to the war on drugs. three out of four people in prison for non-violent drug offenses are black and brown. white kids are using drugs at the same rate black kids are," paul said.
paul has supported legislation to scale back mandatory minimum sentencing for those convicted of drug offenses. he also supports various other reforms, including reclassifying some felony drug offenses as misdemeanors.
speaking on meet the press last sunday, paul said, "if we're the party of family values and keeping families together, and the party believes in redemption and second chances, we should be for letting people have the right to vote back."
voting rights advocates have praised the recent legal proposals made by paul. but human rights advocates prefer legislation introduced by senator ben cardin, which would extend voting rights to those convicted of any felony upon leaving prison.
paul is a staunch conservative, yet he drew some right-wing criticism. roger clegg, ceo of the center for equal opportunity, a conservative think tank focusing on race and ethnicity, strongly disagrees with paul's views. clegg said, "paul has shown himself to be someone who does not take the constitution seriously."
paul says re-enfranchising people convicted of non-violent felonies would help reduce current racial disparities. at present, nearly eight percent of the black population cannot vote. similarly, under two percent of the non-black population cannot vote.
"there's a racial outcome to the war on drugs. three out of four people in prison for non-violent drug offenses are black and brown. white kids are using drugs at the same rate black kids are," paul said.
Sunday, July 06, 2014
Petra Kvitova and Novak Djokovic Win 2014 Wimbledon Singles Titles
petra kvitova of the czech republic dominated eugenie bouchard of canada 6-3, 6-0 to capture the 2014 wimbledon singles crown. kvitova won her first and only major singles title at the all-england club in 2011. the 24 year-old lefty was brilliant from start to finish. she never let bouchard gain any rhythm and claimed her second major in 55 minutes.
kvitova plays better on grass than any other surface. her career record at wimbledon is 26-5, which give her an .839 winning percentage. her winning percentage at the other three major is .667. at all the other events kvitova's winning percentage is .681. she remains the only player born in the 1990s to win a major singles title.
after the match, kvitova was surprised at the high level of her tennis. she said, "this is the best tournament for me. i mean, a few shots was really incredible, and i really couldn't believe that i made it actually. i said, oh my god, this is good." bouchard said, "for sure, she was on. we know that when she's on, she's very tough to beat. especially on this surface." kvitova finished with 28 winners.
the previous time a runner-up won only three games in the wimbledon final was 1992, when steffi graf beat monica seles. before that, it last happened in 1983, when martina navratilova - another czech lefty - beat andrea jeager. kvitova was thrilled to have navratilova, the nine-time wimbledon champion, present her with the prestigious trophy.
novak djokovic of serbia defeated roger federer of switzerland 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 5-7, 6-4 to win the 2014 wimbledon singles championship. djokovic also emerged victorious at the all-england club in 2011. he now has seven major singles titles and regained the #1 ranking he lost to rafael nadal of spain last year.
most of the centre court crowd of about 15,000 cheered raucously for the iconic federer. but the personable 27 year-old djokovic continued to believe in himself and play high quality tennis, despite his career setbacks. he lost his past three major finals, and five of his last six, including against nadal last month at the french open, and to andy murray last year at wimbledon.
djokovic said during the on-court ceremony, "it was a great match to be part of. he's a magnificent champion and a great example of a great athlete and great role model for many kids." djokovic then addressed federer directly and said, "i respect your career and everything you have done. thank you for letting me win." federer said, "it was close, you know. novak deserved it at the end, clearly, but it was extremely close."
boris becker, the three-time wimbledon champion who began coaching djokovic this season was relieved. becker said, "it could've gone either way in the fifth set." his old rival as a player, stefan edberg, a two-time wimbledon champion, now works with federer. djokovic later dedicated this victory to his pregnant fiancée "and our future baby," and to jelena gencic, his first tennis coach, who died last year.
kvitova plays better on grass than any other surface. her career record at wimbledon is 26-5, which give her an .839 winning percentage. her winning percentage at the other three major is .667. at all the other events kvitova's winning percentage is .681. she remains the only player born in the 1990s to win a major singles title.
after the match, kvitova was surprised at the high level of her tennis. she said, "this is the best tournament for me. i mean, a few shots was really incredible, and i really couldn't believe that i made it actually. i said, oh my god, this is good." bouchard said, "for sure, she was on. we know that when she's on, she's very tough to beat. especially on this surface." kvitova finished with 28 winners.
the previous time a runner-up won only three games in the wimbledon final was 1992, when steffi graf beat monica seles. before that, it last happened in 1983, when martina navratilova - another czech lefty - beat andrea jeager. kvitova was thrilled to have navratilova, the nine-time wimbledon champion, present her with the prestigious trophy.
novak djokovic of serbia defeated roger federer of switzerland 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 5-7, 6-4 to win the 2014 wimbledon singles championship. djokovic also emerged victorious at the all-england club in 2011. he now has seven major singles titles and regained the #1 ranking he lost to rafael nadal of spain last year.
most of the centre court crowd of about 15,000 cheered raucously for the iconic federer. but the personable 27 year-old djokovic continued to believe in himself and play high quality tennis, despite his career setbacks. he lost his past three major finals, and five of his last six, including against nadal last month at the french open, and to andy murray last year at wimbledon.
djokovic said during the on-court ceremony, "it was a great match to be part of. he's a magnificent champion and a great example of a great athlete and great role model for many kids." djokovic then addressed federer directly and said, "i respect your career and everything you have done. thank you for letting me win." federer said, "it was close, you know. novak deserved it at the end, clearly, but it was extremely close."
boris becker, the three-time wimbledon champion who began coaching djokovic this season was relieved. becker said, "it could've gone either way in the fifth set." his old rival as a player, stefan edberg, a two-time wimbledon champion, now works with federer. djokovic later dedicated this victory to his pregnant fiancée "and our future baby," and to jelena gencic, his first tennis coach, who died last year.
Saturday, July 05, 2014
Protesters and supporters of immigration clash in California small town
demonstrators in murietta, california waited hours on friday for buses full of undocumented immigrants who may not arrive. there were chants, and at least one physical fight, between opponents of an expected transfer of undocumented immigrants and those who showed up to support them. one woman fainted from heat exhaustion; it was over 90 degrees.
"we need to stop these busloads of illegals," said liz herger, who was one of about 75 protesters opposing the expected transfer. "we are an economically depressed area and we already don't have jobs...who's gonna take care of them? we're not going to," herger said. three women and two men were arrested throughout the course of the day, police said.
protesters on both sides showed up after customs and border protection said it may transfer undocumented immigrants from overburdened facilities in texas to murietta every three days. the last time they tried to make a transfer was tuesday.
murietta, a town of about 103,000 people nearly 80 miles southeast of los angeles, became a flashpoint in the immigration crisis after protesters on tuesday blocked the road to an intake facility. they subsequently prevented three buses carrying about 140 migrants from getting through. the buses eventually turned around and went to another facility.
the controversial transfer is part of a federal plan to relieve texas facilities overwhelmed with over 50,000 unaccompanied children who poured across the border since october. a crowd supporting the migrants shouted at protesters across country roads. chants of "usa, go home," and "stop breaking the law," were met with "refugees are not illegal," "racists! racists!" and, "si si puede!" which means, yes we can, in english.
"this country is based on immigration and I cannot believe how kids aren't being welcomed. it blows my mind," said osvaldo delgado, of mexican descent. his parents came to the u.s. legally. delgado said, "they're fleeing for their lives." it isn't clear if - and/or when - the next attempt to transfer undocumented immigrants to the murietta facility will be made.
"we need to stop these busloads of illegals," said liz herger, who was one of about 75 protesters opposing the expected transfer. "we are an economically depressed area and we already don't have jobs...who's gonna take care of them? we're not going to," herger said. three women and two men were arrested throughout the course of the day, police said.
protesters on both sides showed up after customs and border protection said it may transfer undocumented immigrants from overburdened facilities in texas to murietta every three days. the last time they tried to make a transfer was tuesday.
murietta, a town of about 103,000 people nearly 80 miles southeast of los angeles, became a flashpoint in the immigration crisis after protesters on tuesday blocked the road to an intake facility. they subsequently prevented three buses carrying about 140 migrants from getting through. the buses eventually turned around and went to another facility.
the controversial transfer is part of a federal plan to relieve texas facilities overwhelmed with over 50,000 unaccompanied children who poured across the border since october. a crowd supporting the migrants shouted at protesters across country roads. chants of "usa, go home," and "stop breaking the law," were met with "refugees are not illegal," "racists! racists!" and, "si si puede!" which means, yes we can, in english.
"this country is based on immigration and I cannot believe how kids aren't being welcomed. it blows my mind," said osvaldo delgado, of mexican descent. his parents came to the u.s. legally. delgado said, "they're fleeing for their lives." it isn't clear if - and/or when - the next attempt to transfer undocumented immigrants to the murietta facility will be made.
Monday, June 30, 2014
New York's Highest Court Says No To Fracking
the court of appeals in albany on monday upheld rulings allowing individual towns and cities to act using a principle known as home rule, under which they can vote to keep away industries they deem as threats to common resources. in the case of fracking, this can mean air and water, even if state and federal laws say otherwise.
the 5-2 decision applies specifically to challenges to bans in the upstate towns of dryden and middlefield, but means bans passed in about 170 other new york communities are also immune to similar challenges. the state now waits for new york governor andrew cuomo to decide on whether to life the moratorium on fracking, in place since july 2008.
governor cuomo said he first needs to see the results of a health impact review his office undertook in 2012. but now, even if he does decide to welcome frackers into the state, individual communities officially have a legal way to opt out - and, if enough do, the gas and oil industry could decide new york is no longer worth their while.
the majority opinion was written by associate judge victoria graffeo, who said, "these appeals are not about whether hydrofracking is beneficial or detrimental to the economy, environment or energy needs of new york, and we pass no judgment on its merits. these are major policy questions for the coordinate branches of government to resolve."
graffeo also said, "the discrete issue before us, and the only one we resolve today, whether the state legislature eliminated the home rule capacity of municipalities to pass zoning laws that exclude oil, gas and hydrofracking activities in order to preserve the existing character of their communities."
john armstrong of frack action and new yorkers against fracking said in a statement, "we applaud the court for once again affirming the right of new yorkers to ban fracking and its toxic effects from their communities. as chief judge lippman said, you don't bulldoze over the voice of the people."
armstrong further commented, "but water and contaminations don't stop at local boundaries, and governor cuomo must ban fracking statewide to protect our health and homes from the arrogant and inherently harmful fracking industry."
the 5-2 decision applies specifically to challenges to bans in the upstate towns of dryden and middlefield, but means bans passed in about 170 other new york communities are also immune to similar challenges. the state now waits for new york governor andrew cuomo to decide on whether to life the moratorium on fracking, in place since july 2008.
governor cuomo said he first needs to see the results of a health impact review his office undertook in 2012. but now, even if he does decide to welcome frackers into the state, individual communities officially have a legal way to opt out - and, if enough do, the gas and oil industry could decide new york is no longer worth their while.
the majority opinion was written by associate judge victoria graffeo, who said, "these appeals are not about whether hydrofracking is beneficial or detrimental to the economy, environment or energy needs of new york, and we pass no judgment on its merits. these are major policy questions for the coordinate branches of government to resolve."
graffeo also said, "the discrete issue before us, and the only one we resolve today, whether the state legislature eliminated the home rule capacity of municipalities to pass zoning laws that exclude oil, gas and hydrofracking activities in order to preserve the existing character of their communities."
john armstrong of frack action and new yorkers against fracking said in a statement, "we applaud the court for once again affirming the right of new yorkers to ban fracking and its toxic effects from their communities. as chief judge lippman said, you don't bulldoze over the voice of the people."
armstrong further commented, "but water and contaminations don't stop at local boundaries, and governor cuomo must ban fracking statewide to protect our health and homes from the arrogant and inherently harmful fracking industry."
Friday, June 20, 2014
Five Men Wrongly Convicted to Receive $40 Million Settlement from NYC
five men wrongly convicted, and later exonerated, of brutally raping a female jogger in central park in 1989 were awarded a $40 million settlement from new york city. the attack became known as the central park jogger case. it made national headlines, polarized communities and raised concerns about racism in the criminal justice system.
the five men, all black and latino, were between age 14-16 when they confessed after lengthy police interrogations. antron mccray, kevin richardson, raymond santana, korey wise and yusef salaam each soon recanted, insisting they were coerced by nypd officers under duress, exhaustion and fear. in 2002, matias reyes confessed to the crime: dna tied him to the rape.
the jogger, trisha meili, a 28 year-old white investment banker, nearly died, was severely traumatized and has no memory of the experience. the settlement requires approval from the city's comptroller, and from deborah batts, the federal judge in manhattan who presided over the case, which polarized the nation at the time.
jonathan moore, one of the lawyers for the men, declined to comment. a spokeswoman for the city's law department also declined to comment, citing pending litigation. the deal comes six months after mayor bill de blasio, who called for a settlement, took office. his predecessor, michael bloomberg, resisted settling the case, with city lawyers repeatedly saying the convictions withstood legal scrutiny regardless of whether they were later vacated.
an internal review by the manhattan district attorney's office, which moved to throw out the convictions in 2002, found the boys' original confessions included "troubling discrepancies." a judge vacated the convictions. by then, however, all five had been released from prison after serving between five and 13 years.
the five men sued the city in 2003 for wrongful conviction and violation of their civil rights. they sought $250 million in damages. the lawsuit gained renewed attention in 2012, when the critically-acclaimed documentary filmmaker ken burns released, "central park five." burns' film cast the men as victims of racial tension, and a rush to judgment by the city.
the five men, all black and latino, were between age 14-16 when they confessed after lengthy police interrogations. antron mccray, kevin richardson, raymond santana, korey wise and yusef salaam each soon recanted, insisting they were coerced by nypd officers under duress, exhaustion and fear. in 2002, matias reyes confessed to the crime: dna tied him to the rape.
the jogger, trisha meili, a 28 year-old white investment banker, nearly died, was severely traumatized and has no memory of the experience. the settlement requires approval from the city's comptroller, and from deborah batts, the federal judge in manhattan who presided over the case, which polarized the nation at the time.
jonathan moore, one of the lawyers for the men, declined to comment. a spokeswoman for the city's law department also declined to comment, citing pending litigation. the deal comes six months after mayor bill de blasio, who called for a settlement, took office. his predecessor, michael bloomberg, resisted settling the case, with city lawyers repeatedly saying the convictions withstood legal scrutiny regardless of whether they were later vacated.
an internal review by the manhattan district attorney's office, which moved to throw out the convictions in 2002, found the boys' original confessions included "troubling discrepancies." a judge vacated the convictions. by then, however, all five had been released from prison after serving between five and 13 years.
the five men sued the city in 2003 for wrongful conviction and violation of their civil rights. they sought $250 million in damages. the lawsuit gained renewed attention in 2012, when the critically-acclaimed documentary filmmaker ken burns released, "central park five." burns' film cast the men as victims of racial tension, and a rush to judgment by the city.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Spurs dominate Heat for 2014 NBA Title
the san antonio spurs defeated the miami heat 104-87 at home on sunday to win the 2014 nba championship. the spurs played brilliantly and dominated in all facets of the game, winning the series four games to one. they won their fifth title in franchise history, avenging last year's game seven loss to the defending champions in south beach.
san antonio forward kawhi leonard was named mvp. the 22 year-old leonard averaged 18 points on 61% shooting. he also had 6.4 rebounds, 1.6 steals and several key blocked shots in the last three games of the series. leonard is the youngest finals mvp since duncan in 1999. the soft-spoken leonard said afterwards, "right now, it's just surreal to me. i have a great group of guys behind me."
spurs coach gregg popovich is currently the longest tenured coach in professional sports. popovich opened up the offense three years ago, turning a methodical half court unit into a team which thrives on relentless ball movement, savvy interior passing and three-point shooting. he won his third coach of the year award, led them to a league-best 62 wins - and a desired rematch with miami.
popovich said of their turning point in last year's finals, "i've said many times, a day didn't go by where i didn't think about game six..so i think, just in general, for the group to have the fortitude that they showed to get back to this spot, i think speaks volumes about how they're constituted and what kind of fiber they have."
tim duncan, manu ginobli and tony parker became the winningest trio in nba history. they have teamed for 117 postseason victories, breaking the old record set by kareem abdul-jabbar, michael cooper and magic johnson of the los angeles lakers in the late 80's. duncan said, "it makes last year ok." parker said, "we wanted to redeem ourselves. i'm just glad we were able to do that."
the spurs erased an early 16-point deficit in the first quarter. their defensive intensity went up a notch and the heat lost their offensive rhythm. san antonio lost game two by two points at home, but won three consecutive games by a total of 57 points. they denied the heat their quest for a third straight championship. miami's impressive fourth straight finals equaled the celtics run from 1984-1987.
san antonio shot 52.6% from the floor against miami, a finals record in the open shot clock era. the spurs averaged 105.6 points per game, the most since the lakers beat the nets in 2002. all four wins against the heat were by 15 or more points, and they also won 12 games by 15 or more points, another league playoff record.
15 years after winning their first title in 1999, when duncan was in his second season, the spurs remain the nba's model organization: they succeed in a small market, win 50 or more games regularly, and rarely benefit from high draft picks. san antonio found players overseas (or in other organizations) who affirm the spurs' selfless spirit.
"you showed the world how beautiful this game is," said commissioner adam silver during the postgame award ceremony. heat coach erik spoelstra said, "they played exquisite basketball this series and in particular these last three games and they are the better team. there's no other way to say it."
lebron james, who finished game five with 31 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and two blocks said, "we had a great first quarter, but from that point on they were the better team, and that's why they're the champions in 2014." the spurs won four titles in nine years - but their last came in 2007. as such, foreigner's "feels like the first time" was an appropriate song choice after the final buzzer.
san antonio forward kawhi leonard was named mvp. the 22 year-old leonard averaged 18 points on 61% shooting. he also had 6.4 rebounds, 1.6 steals and several key blocked shots in the last three games of the series. leonard is the youngest finals mvp since duncan in 1999. the soft-spoken leonard said afterwards, "right now, it's just surreal to me. i have a great group of guys behind me."
spurs coach gregg popovich is currently the longest tenured coach in professional sports. popovich opened up the offense three years ago, turning a methodical half court unit into a team which thrives on relentless ball movement, savvy interior passing and three-point shooting. he won his third coach of the year award, led them to a league-best 62 wins - and a desired rematch with miami.
popovich said of their turning point in last year's finals, "i've said many times, a day didn't go by where i didn't think about game six..so i think, just in general, for the group to have the fortitude that they showed to get back to this spot, i think speaks volumes about how they're constituted and what kind of fiber they have."
tim duncan, manu ginobli and tony parker became the winningest trio in nba history. they have teamed for 117 postseason victories, breaking the old record set by kareem abdul-jabbar, michael cooper and magic johnson of the los angeles lakers in the late 80's. duncan said, "it makes last year ok." parker said, "we wanted to redeem ourselves. i'm just glad we were able to do that."
the spurs erased an early 16-point deficit in the first quarter. their defensive intensity went up a notch and the heat lost their offensive rhythm. san antonio lost game two by two points at home, but won three consecutive games by a total of 57 points. they denied the heat their quest for a third straight championship. miami's impressive fourth straight finals equaled the celtics run from 1984-1987.
san antonio shot 52.6% from the floor against miami, a finals record in the open shot clock era. the spurs averaged 105.6 points per game, the most since the lakers beat the nets in 2002. all four wins against the heat were by 15 or more points, and they also won 12 games by 15 or more points, another league playoff record.
15 years after winning their first title in 1999, when duncan was in his second season, the spurs remain the nba's model organization: they succeed in a small market, win 50 or more games regularly, and rarely benefit from high draft picks. san antonio found players overseas (or in other organizations) who affirm the spurs' selfless spirit.
"you showed the world how beautiful this game is," said commissioner adam silver during the postgame award ceremony. heat coach erik spoelstra said, "they played exquisite basketball this series and in particular these last three games and they are the better team. there's no other way to say it."
lebron james, who finished game five with 31 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and two blocks said, "we had a great first quarter, but from that point on they were the better team, and that's why they're the champions in 2014." the spurs won four titles in nine years - but their last came in 2007. as such, foreigner's "feels like the first time" was an appropriate song choice after the final buzzer.
Friday, June 13, 2014
Ruby Dee Makes Transition at 91
actress, activist and author ruby dee made transition on wednesday. she was 91 years old. born ruby ann wallace on 10/27/22, dee's family moved to the village of harlem (in new york city) from her native cleveland during the height of the harlem renaissance.
dee attended hunter college and, there, embraced her love of the theater. she performed in various shakespearean productions, and in the play, south pacific. dee also studied at the american negro theatre, where she met her future husband ossie davis. their soulful partnership was cultivated working together on a tour of anna lucasta.
dee became a pioneer for black female artists. she was the first black woman to have lead roles at the american shakepseare festival. dee's many stage awards include the obie award for her role in athol fugard's boesman and lena; a drama desk award for her performance in alice childress' wedding band; and an ace award for her work in eugene o'neill's long day's journey into night.
dee's remarkable talent landed her roles in over 50 films. she was featured in a raisin in the sun (1961), uptight (1968), buck and the preacher (1972) and do the right thing (1989). she also appeared in many tv productions, including roots: the next generation (1979). dee garnered seven emmy nominations - winning in 1991 for her outstanding performance in decoration day.
in 2008, at age 85, dee received an oscar nomination: best supporting actress for her role in american gangster. she told the associated press she never felt snubbed by the academy for not being nominated before. dee said, "i didn't have the kind of talent or personality that kept me dreaming about hollywood. they don't hire little colored girls to do this or that. after i got that in my head, i took another direction."
dee and davis were equally active in the civil rights movement. dee was a member of the congress of racial equality, naacp, southern christian leadership conference and student nonviolent coordinating committee. dee and davis eulogized their friend, malcolm x, at his funeral in 1965, and his widow, betty shabazz, at hers in 1997. they also traveled to lagos, nigeria as goodwill ambassadors.
their marriage of 57 years culturally affirmed black love, integrity and success. davis made transition in 2005. in the book, with ossie & ruby: in this life together, the iconic couple shared tales of acting, activism, marriage and parenting (they had two daughters and one son).
dee and davis were honored together for their artistic achievements. they were inducted into the naacp image awards hall of fame in 1989, received the national medal of arts in 1995 and the screen actors guild's life achievement award in 2000.
dee attended hunter college and, there, embraced her love of the theater. she performed in various shakespearean productions, and in the play, south pacific. dee also studied at the american negro theatre, where she met her future husband ossie davis. their soulful partnership was cultivated working together on a tour of anna lucasta.
dee became a pioneer for black female artists. she was the first black woman to have lead roles at the american shakepseare festival. dee's many stage awards include the obie award for her role in athol fugard's boesman and lena; a drama desk award for her performance in alice childress' wedding band; and an ace award for her work in eugene o'neill's long day's journey into night.
dee's remarkable talent landed her roles in over 50 films. she was featured in a raisin in the sun (1961), uptight (1968), buck and the preacher (1972) and do the right thing (1989). she also appeared in many tv productions, including roots: the next generation (1979). dee garnered seven emmy nominations - winning in 1991 for her outstanding performance in decoration day.
in 2008, at age 85, dee received an oscar nomination: best supporting actress for her role in american gangster. she told the associated press she never felt snubbed by the academy for not being nominated before. dee said, "i didn't have the kind of talent or personality that kept me dreaming about hollywood. they don't hire little colored girls to do this or that. after i got that in my head, i took another direction."
dee and davis were equally active in the civil rights movement. dee was a member of the congress of racial equality, naacp, southern christian leadership conference and student nonviolent coordinating committee. dee and davis eulogized their friend, malcolm x, at his funeral in 1965, and his widow, betty shabazz, at hers in 1997. they also traveled to lagos, nigeria as goodwill ambassadors.
their marriage of 57 years culturally affirmed black love, integrity and success. davis made transition in 2005. in the book, with ossie & ruby: in this life together, the iconic couple shared tales of acting, activism, marriage and parenting (they had two daughters and one son).
dee and davis were honored together for their artistic achievements. they were inducted into the naacp image awards hall of fame in 1989, received the national medal of arts in 1995 and the screen actors guild's life achievement award in 2000.
Sunday, June 08, 2014
Maria Sharapova and Rafael Nadal Win 2014 French Open Singles Titles
maria sharapova of russia defeated simona halep of romania 6-4, 6-7, 6-4 to win her second french open championship in three years. sharapova now has five major singles titles. she emerged triumphant at wimbledon in 2004, the u.s. open in 2006 and the australian open in 2008.
their highly competitive match was the first women's roland garros final to go three sets in 13 years. both women showcased explosive offensive shotmaking, lengthy baseline exchanges and tremendous defensive play for three hours and two minutes. sharapova improved her ranking from #7 to #5. halep, in her first major singles final, is now world #3.
sharapova said, "this is the toughest grand slam final i've ever played." its not her favorite surface, but she's 54-4 with seven titles on clay since 2012. sharapova said, "if somebody had told me at some stage in my career, that i'd have more roland garros titles than any other grand slam, i'd probably go get drunk, or tell them to get drunk. one or the other."
rafael nadal of spain defeated novak djokovic of serbia 3-6, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4 to win his ninth french open singles championship, and fifth in a row, both records. the world #1 now has 14 major singles titles, equaling american pete sampras for second best all-time. roger federer of switzerland has 17 career major titles.
nadal leads world #2 djokovic 23-19 in their unheralded rivalry among men historically. nadal is 6-0 against djokovic at roland garros, beating djokovic in the 2012 final and 2013 semi-finals. afterwards nadal said, "sorry for him today. i think he deserves to win this tournament. i am sure he will do it in the future."
their physically demanding battle lasted three hours and 30 minutes. dueling in 80 degrees under a clear blue sky both men were resilient. but once again, nadal - the king of clay - reigned supreme. his french open record is 66-1. since losing to robin soderling in the fourth round in 2009, nadal has 35 consecutive wins. nadal said, "for me, playing here in roland garros is just unforgettable, forever."
their highly competitive match was the first women's roland garros final to go three sets in 13 years. both women showcased explosive offensive shotmaking, lengthy baseline exchanges and tremendous defensive play for three hours and two minutes. sharapova improved her ranking from #7 to #5. halep, in her first major singles final, is now world #3.
sharapova said, "this is the toughest grand slam final i've ever played." its not her favorite surface, but she's 54-4 with seven titles on clay since 2012. sharapova said, "if somebody had told me at some stage in my career, that i'd have more roland garros titles than any other grand slam, i'd probably go get drunk, or tell them to get drunk. one or the other."
rafael nadal of spain defeated novak djokovic of serbia 3-6, 7-5, 6-2, 6-4 to win his ninth french open singles championship, and fifth in a row, both records. the world #1 now has 14 major singles titles, equaling american pete sampras for second best all-time. roger federer of switzerland has 17 career major titles.
nadal leads world #2 djokovic 23-19 in their unheralded rivalry among men historically. nadal is 6-0 against djokovic at roland garros, beating djokovic in the 2012 final and 2013 semi-finals. afterwards nadal said, "sorry for him today. i think he deserves to win this tournament. i am sure he will do it in the future."
their physically demanding battle lasted three hours and 30 minutes. dueling in 80 degrees under a clear blue sky both men were resilient. but once again, nadal - the king of clay - reigned supreme. his french open record is 66-1. since losing to robin soderling in the fourth round in 2009, nadal has 35 consecutive wins. nadal said, "for me, playing here in roland garros is just unforgettable, forever."
Thursday, June 05, 2014
2014 All-NBA Teams
on Wednesday the 2014 all-nba teams were announced. listed below are the honorees:
First Team______________________________________
Center: Joakim Noah, Chicago Bulls
Forward: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder
Forward: LeBron James, Miami Heat
Guard: Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers
Guard: James Harden, Houston Rockets
Second Team____________________________________
Center: Dwight Howard, Houston Rockets
Forward: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers
Forward: Kevin Love, Minnesota Timberwolves
Guard: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
Guard: Tony Parker, San Antonio Spurs
Third Team_____________________________________
Center: Al Jefferson, Charlotte Bobcats
Forward: LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland TrailBlazers
Forward: Paul George, Indiana Pacers
Guard: Goran Dragic, Phoenix Suns
Guard: Damian Lillard, Portland TrailBlazers
First Team______________________________________
Center: Joakim Noah, Chicago Bulls
Forward: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder
Forward: LeBron James, Miami Heat
Guard: Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers
Guard: James Harden, Houston Rockets
Second Team____________________________________
Center: Dwight Howard, Houston Rockets
Forward: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers
Forward: Kevin Love, Minnesota Timberwolves
Guard: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
Guard: Tony Parker, San Antonio Spurs
Third Team_____________________________________
Center: Al Jefferson, Charlotte Bobcats
Forward: LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland TrailBlazers
Forward: Paul George, Indiana Pacers
Guard: Goran Dragic, Phoenix Suns
Guard: Damian Lillard, Portland TrailBlazers
Friday, May 30, 2014
Dr. Maya Angelou Makes Transition at 86
dr. maya angelou made transition at her home in winston-salem, north carolina on wednesday. she was 86. "she lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. she was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace," said her son, guy b. johnson.
grammy-award winner.
honorary national book award.
national medal of arts.
presidential medal of freedom.
tony-award nominee.
actress. brilliant. compassionate. dancer.
energetic. filmmaker. generous.
humble. inspirational. joyful. kind.
loving. mother. nurturing.
orator. poet. singer. teacher.
unique. vibrant. wise.
grammy-award winner.
honorary national book award.
national medal of arts.
presidential medal of freedom.
tony-award nominee.
actress. brilliant. compassionate. dancer.
energetic. filmmaker. generous.
humble. inspirational. joyful. kind.
loving. mother. nurturing.
orator. poet. singer. teacher.
unique. vibrant. wise.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
New Hampshire Police Commissioner Resigns After Calling Obama 'N' Word
robert copeland resigned on sunday after he admitted using the 'n' word to describe president obama. the 82 year-old police commissioner of wolfeboro, new hampshire was re-elected in march. but his controversial remarks drew national attention: sparking impassioned debates in this resort town of 6,300 on the shore of lake winnipesaukee.
board of selectmen chair linda murray said, "the town is pleased. this gives us the opportunity to move on. we are a very accepting community that really takes care of each other." town manager david owen told wbz-tv, "it's about time. he needed to do it sooner to avoid the fallout we've had."
at a meeting last week, copeland defiantly sat with his arms folded. over 100 residents there pushed for his ouster and rejected his comments, saying he didn't speak for the town - or its people. copeland used the slur and an obscenity at a restaurant last march. a resident, jane o'toole, overheard him and complained to town officials after learning he was a police commissioner.
o'toole said copeland's views are within his first amendment rights. but she felt he couldn't "serve the community without prejudice." in april, copeland sent an e-mail to two other commissioners which was forwarded to o'toole. copeland said, "i believe i did the use 'n' word in reference to the current occupant of the white house. for this i do not apologize. he meets and exceeds my criteria for such."
ernie bauer, a 64 year-old carpenter (who was) at the meeting said, "i thought it was disgusting, and the way he justified it, it was even more disgusting. it was disgusting 50 years ago." o'toole said, "i feel it was the right thing for him to do to stop this incredible train that had been blowing through our town. i'm thrilled. the people of wolfeboro have stood up and said that this is not acceptable."
mitt romney, the 2012 gop presidential nominee and former governor of massachusetts owns a home in wolfeboro. he called for copeland's withdrawal, saying, "the vile epithet used and confirmed by the commissioner has no place in our community." police chief stuart chase said copeland's slur was "not indicative of the posture of this department. we treat everyone with dignity and respect."
about 20 black people live in wolfeboro, in the scenic lakes region of new hampshire. the uber conservative state is 94% white and one percent black. their police department employs 12 full-time officers - all white. town officials also said they were appalled by copeland's remarks, but were powerless to remove an elected official.
jamie murray wasn't surprised to hear racist comments: her biracial son faced similar taunts. she said, "it also gave me an understanding as to why the children think it's ok. when you're held in office, and you decide to become an elected official, you represent something higher than your own standards and your own things, and you need to stand up for the community in which you serve."
board of selectmen chair linda murray said, "the town is pleased. this gives us the opportunity to move on. we are a very accepting community that really takes care of each other." town manager david owen told wbz-tv, "it's about time. he needed to do it sooner to avoid the fallout we've had."
at a meeting last week, copeland defiantly sat with his arms folded. over 100 residents there pushed for his ouster and rejected his comments, saying he didn't speak for the town - or its people. copeland used the slur and an obscenity at a restaurant last march. a resident, jane o'toole, overheard him and complained to town officials after learning he was a police commissioner.
o'toole said copeland's views are within his first amendment rights. but she felt he couldn't "serve the community without prejudice." in april, copeland sent an e-mail to two other commissioners which was forwarded to o'toole. copeland said, "i believe i did the use 'n' word in reference to the current occupant of the white house. for this i do not apologize. he meets and exceeds my criteria for such."
ernie bauer, a 64 year-old carpenter (who was) at the meeting said, "i thought it was disgusting, and the way he justified it, it was even more disgusting. it was disgusting 50 years ago." o'toole said, "i feel it was the right thing for him to do to stop this incredible train that had been blowing through our town. i'm thrilled. the people of wolfeboro have stood up and said that this is not acceptable."
mitt romney, the 2012 gop presidential nominee and former governor of massachusetts owns a home in wolfeboro. he called for copeland's withdrawal, saying, "the vile epithet used and confirmed by the commissioner has no place in our community." police chief stuart chase said copeland's slur was "not indicative of the posture of this department. we treat everyone with dignity and respect."
about 20 black people live in wolfeboro, in the scenic lakes region of new hampshire. the uber conservative state is 94% white and one percent black. their police department employs 12 full-time officers - all white. town officials also said they were appalled by copeland's remarks, but were powerless to remove an elected official.
jamie murray wasn't surprised to hear racist comments: her biracial son faced similar taunts. she said, "it also gave me an understanding as to why the children think it's ok. when you're held in office, and you decide to become an elected official, you represent something higher than your own standards and your own things, and you need to stand up for the community in which you serve."
Sunday, May 11, 2014
First Lady Michelle Obama weighs in on kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls
first lady michelle obama criticized the horrific kidnapping about four weeks ago of over 300 nigerian schoolgirls, which has since captured global attention. obama called their captivity "an unconscionable act by grown men attempting to snuff out the aspirations of young girls."
obama took over the president's weekly radio and internet address on the eve of mother's day. she said on saturday both she and the commander-in-chief are "outraged and heartbroken" over the april 15 abduction of the girls from their dormitory.
"in these girls, barack and i see our own daughters," obama said, referring to malia, 15, and sasha, 12. "we see their hopes, their dreams and we can only imagine the anguish their parents are feeling right now," she said. what happened in nigeria is not an isolated incident, obama said, but is "a story we see every day as girls around the world risk their lives to pursue their ambitions."
the first lady mentioned the case of malala yousafzai, the pakistani teenager whom survived being shot in the head as she traveled to school in 2012. malala has become an outspoken advocate for the rights of all girls to get an education - the same message obama delivered in her first solo address to the nation.
obama noted more than 65 million girls around the world do not attend school, despite the fact women who are educated earn more money and engender healthier families. obama said, "when more girls attend secondary school, that boots their country's entire economy...so education is truly a girl's best chance for a bright future, not just for herself, but for her family and her nation."
the first lady asked the u.s. to pray for the girls' safe return. obama said, "this unconscionable act was committed by a terrorist group determined to keep these girls from getting an education. let us hold their families in our hearts during this very difficult time, and let us show just a fraction of their courage in fighting to give every girl on this planet the education that is her birthright."
the nigerian's government inability to rescue the girls nearly a month after they were kidnapped by the boko haram organization has sparked international outrage, including community protests and social media campaigns. the first lady posted a photo on her twitter account holding a sign reading #bringbackourgirls.
a number of countries, including the u..s, sent teams of technical experts to assist the nigerian government's search efforts. president obama said this week the u.s. will do everything to help nigeria find the missing girls. authorities said over 300 girls were abducted from their school in the country's remote northeast. 53 girls escaped and 276 remain captive.
obama took over the president's weekly radio and internet address on the eve of mother's day. she said on saturday both she and the commander-in-chief are "outraged and heartbroken" over the april 15 abduction of the girls from their dormitory.
"in these girls, barack and i see our own daughters," obama said, referring to malia, 15, and sasha, 12. "we see their hopes, their dreams and we can only imagine the anguish their parents are feeling right now," she said. what happened in nigeria is not an isolated incident, obama said, but is "a story we see every day as girls around the world risk their lives to pursue their ambitions."
the first lady mentioned the case of malala yousafzai, the pakistani teenager whom survived being shot in the head as she traveled to school in 2012. malala has become an outspoken advocate for the rights of all girls to get an education - the same message obama delivered in her first solo address to the nation.
obama noted more than 65 million girls around the world do not attend school, despite the fact women who are educated earn more money and engender healthier families. obama said, "when more girls attend secondary school, that boots their country's entire economy...so education is truly a girl's best chance for a bright future, not just for herself, but for her family and her nation."
the first lady asked the u.s. to pray for the girls' safe return. obama said, "this unconscionable act was committed by a terrorist group determined to keep these girls from getting an education. let us hold their families in our hearts during this very difficult time, and let us show just a fraction of their courage in fighting to give every girl on this planet the education that is her birthright."
the nigerian's government inability to rescue the girls nearly a month after they were kidnapped by the boko haram organization has sparked international outrage, including community protests and social media campaigns. the first lady posted a photo on her twitter account holding a sign reading #bringbackourgirls.
a number of countries, including the u..s, sent teams of technical experts to assist the nigerian government's search efforts. president obama said this week the u.s. will do everything to help nigeria find the missing girls. authorities said over 300 girls were abducted from their school in the country's remote northeast. 53 girls escaped and 276 remain captive.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
2014 NBA Year-End Performance Awards
listed below are the kia performace awards for the 2014 nba season:
most valuable player: kevin durant, oklahoma city thunder
rookie of the year: michael carter-williams, philadelphia 76ers
defensive player of the year: joakim noah, chicago bulls
sixth man of the year: jamal crawford, los angeles clippers
most improved player: goran dragic, phoenix suns
coach of the year: gregg popovich, san antonio spurs
executive of the year: r.c. buford, san antonio spurs
most valuable player: kevin durant, oklahoma city thunder
rookie of the year: michael carter-williams, philadelphia 76ers
defensive player of the year: joakim noah, chicago bulls
sixth man of the year: jamal crawford, los angeles clippers
most improved player: goran dragic, phoenix suns
coach of the year: gregg popovich, san antonio spurs
executive of the year: r.c. buford, san antonio spurs
Friday, May 09, 2014
Iowa Supreme Court questions whether all felonies should lead to disenfranchisement
last month, iowa officials disclosed at least 12 iowa voters were incorrectly disenfranchised during the 2012 presidential election. this situation happened as the result of errors in the state's list of individuals ineligible to vote due to a felony conviction.
the 12 iowans were flagged when they registered at polling stations and cast provisional ballots to be counted if they proved eligibility, but those ballots were later rejected. the ap stated the state's announcement "shows that elections and court officials have struggled to track voter eligibility due to record-keeping errors."
the des moines register reports an iowa state supreme court ruling has thrown into question the state's policy of disenfranchising all individuals with felony convictions. last month, the court ruled a second operating-while-intoxicated conviction did not bar former state senator tony bisignano from running for public office because he had not committed an "infamous crime." the chief justice's ruling also stated the court needs to determine whether all felonies necessarily constitute infamous crimes.
despite the high court's ruling, the state will continue to treat all felonies as infamous crimes. a spokesperson for the secretary of state's office said, "at this time, the secretary of state's office will continue to treat all felonies as barring an individual from voting or holding office unless a restoration of rights has been received by the governor."
in addition, a black hawk county prosecutor has announced she will pursue pending cases against individuals accused of voting illegally, even though the ruling "makes it unclear whether they lost their voting rights in the first place."
the 12 iowans were flagged when they registered at polling stations and cast provisional ballots to be counted if they proved eligibility, but those ballots were later rejected. the ap stated the state's announcement "shows that elections and court officials have struggled to track voter eligibility due to record-keeping errors."
the des moines register reports an iowa state supreme court ruling has thrown into question the state's policy of disenfranchising all individuals with felony convictions. last month, the court ruled a second operating-while-intoxicated conviction did not bar former state senator tony bisignano from running for public office because he had not committed an "infamous crime." the chief justice's ruling also stated the court needs to determine whether all felonies necessarily constitute infamous crimes.
despite the high court's ruling, the state will continue to treat all felonies as infamous crimes. a spokesperson for the secretary of state's office said, "at this time, the secretary of state's office will continue to treat all felonies as barring an individual from voting or holding office unless a restoration of rights has been received by the governor."
in addition, a black hawk county prosecutor has announced she will pursue pending cases against individuals accused of voting illegally, even though the ruling "makes it unclear whether they lost their voting rights in the first place."
Thursday, May 08, 2014
Nigerians in America share concerns about the kindnapped Nigerian hgh school girls
nigerians in the united states are educating, organizing and praying for the safe return of the nearly 300 nigerian school girls still missing after Islamic extremists yanked them from school in broad daylight three weeks ago.
many nigerians are grateful for the attention this tragedy has brought. they hope it will finally lead to the downfall of boko haram, the merciless terrorist group who proudly claimed responsibility for the odious kidnappings.
onaedo achebe, 21, told abcnews.com she fears for her family's lives in nigeria if unrest in the country spirals into civil war. said achebe, "this didn't start with the abduction of the girls." the tampa, florida woman has urged followers on social media to sign online petitions demanding world leaders to act swiftly and decisively.
achebe said, "if something happens in america, obama comes up the next minute to address the nation. you know something is going to be done - people feel safe. you don't feel safe in nigeria. you don't know who's going to come to your house, where there are suicide bombers. there's no security, no guarantee of life."
achebe moved to the u.s. from nigeria in 2010. she said, "in nigeria, you're either really, really rich or really, really poor. there's no middle class. the government doesn't help. if there is a war, they can afford to take private jets and leave the country. they don't care about the poor people. unless other organizations and countries get involved, they're not going to do anything to help these girls."
laolu akande, executive director of the christian association of nigerian-americans shared identical views with abcnews.com. akande said, "this is not a new issue. in a sense we are glad the whole world is focusing on this now. we hope the u.s. government helps us. the nigerian government by itself is helpless. we need this help."
akande, whose parents and in-laws are still in nigeria, said nigerians in the u.s. are terrified for their families back home. he said, "the whole world can relate to a girl being abducted. nigerians here are worried." akande led a rally in new york city on tuesday to raise awareness of the missing girls and boko haram. a similar rally was held in washington, d.c.
olawunmi awobajo, a 55 year-old nigerian immigrant and single mother of two in brooklyn, echoed akande. "someone told me a couple days ago. i was stunned. i don't even know what to say. this is sickening," she said. awobajo urged the u.s. and british governments to help. she said, "nigeria was colonized 54 years ago. let them take nigeria back again. we're not up to the task. kids are suffering in nigeria. no one can carry a job."
supporters worldwide are rallying on social media, using the hashtag #bringbackourgirls. akande said some nigerian-americans have blacked out their profile photo on facebook until the girls are returned safely. he also said the christian association of Nigerian-americans is raising funds for the families whose children are still missing - and whose homes were bombed by boko haram.
achebe criticized the mild response from nigeria's first lady. achebe said, "i was so embarrassed. she wasn't even speaking proper english. she wasn't addressing the people with respect. she was so rude. she doesn't care about the feelings of people whose children have been kidnapped. all she cares about is her husband's government is in jeopardy."
many nigerians are grateful for the attention this tragedy has brought. they hope it will finally lead to the downfall of boko haram, the merciless terrorist group who proudly claimed responsibility for the odious kidnappings.
onaedo achebe, 21, told abcnews.com she fears for her family's lives in nigeria if unrest in the country spirals into civil war. said achebe, "this didn't start with the abduction of the girls." the tampa, florida woman has urged followers on social media to sign online petitions demanding world leaders to act swiftly and decisively.
achebe said, "if something happens in america, obama comes up the next minute to address the nation. you know something is going to be done - people feel safe. you don't feel safe in nigeria. you don't know who's going to come to your house, where there are suicide bombers. there's no security, no guarantee of life."
achebe moved to the u.s. from nigeria in 2010. she said, "in nigeria, you're either really, really rich or really, really poor. there's no middle class. the government doesn't help. if there is a war, they can afford to take private jets and leave the country. they don't care about the poor people. unless other organizations and countries get involved, they're not going to do anything to help these girls."
laolu akande, executive director of the christian association of nigerian-americans shared identical views with abcnews.com. akande said, "this is not a new issue. in a sense we are glad the whole world is focusing on this now. we hope the u.s. government helps us. the nigerian government by itself is helpless. we need this help."
akande, whose parents and in-laws are still in nigeria, said nigerians in the u.s. are terrified for their families back home. he said, "the whole world can relate to a girl being abducted. nigerians here are worried." akande led a rally in new york city on tuesday to raise awareness of the missing girls and boko haram. a similar rally was held in washington, d.c.
olawunmi awobajo, a 55 year-old nigerian immigrant and single mother of two in brooklyn, echoed akande. "someone told me a couple days ago. i was stunned. i don't even know what to say. this is sickening," she said. awobajo urged the u.s. and british governments to help. she said, "nigeria was colonized 54 years ago. let them take nigeria back again. we're not up to the task. kids are suffering in nigeria. no one can carry a job."
supporters worldwide are rallying on social media, using the hashtag #bringbackourgirls. akande said some nigerian-americans have blacked out their profile photo on facebook until the girls are returned safely. he also said the christian association of Nigerian-americans is raising funds for the families whose children are still missing - and whose homes were bombed by boko haram.
achebe criticized the mild response from nigeria's first lady. achebe said, "i was so embarrassed. she wasn't even speaking proper english. she wasn't addressing the people with respect. she was so rude. she doesn't care about the feelings of people whose children have been kidnapped. all she cares about is her husband's government is in jeopardy."
Monday, May 05, 2014
2014 NBA Playoffs: First Round Results
the 2014 nba playoffs showcased the most competitive first round series in nba history. five matchups went to a game seven - a record for any round: three of the winners prevailed at home, the other two won on the road. there were 14 four-point plays (most since 2003), and 15 games decided by three points or less.
jason kidd of the brooklyn nets became the first rookie coach in nba history to win game seven on the road. the oklahoma city thunder-memphis grizzlies showdown had four consecutive overtime games, which is another playoff record.
forward vince carter of the dallas mavericks and point guard damian lillard of the portland trail blazers hit game-winning three-pointers, both in front of their prospective home crowds. each thrilling shot came with less than one second left in the game.
listed below are the teams and their prospective results:
eastern conference
#1 indiana pacers defeat #8 atlanta hawks 4-3.
#2 miami heat defeat #7 charlotte bobcats 4-0.
#6 brooklyn nets defeat #3 toronto raptors 4-3.
#5 washington wizards defeat #4 chicago bulls 4-1.
western conference
#1 san antonio spurs defeat #8 dallas mavericks 4-3.
#2 oklahoma city thunder defeat #7 memphis grizzlies 4-3.
#3 los angeles clippers defeat #6 golden state warriors 4-3.
#5 portland trail blazers defeat #4 houston rockets 4-2.
jason kidd of the brooklyn nets became the first rookie coach in nba history to win game seven on the road. the oklahoma city thunder-memphis grizzlies showdown had four consecutive overtime games, which is another playoff record.
forward vince carter of the dallas mavericks and point guard damian lillard of the portland trail blazers hit game-winning three-pointers, both in front of their prospective home crowds. each thrilling shot came with less than one second left in the game.
listed below are the teams and their prospective results:
eastern conference
#1 indiana pacers defeat #8 atlanta hawks 4-3.
#2 miami heat defeat #7 charlotte bobcats 4-0.
#6 brooklyn nets defeat #3 toronto raptors 4-3.
#5 washington wizards defeat #4 chicago bulls 4-1.
western conference
#1 san antonio spurs defeat #8 dallas mavericks 4-3.
#2 oklahoma city thunder defeat #7 memphis grizzlies 4-3.
#3 los angeles clippers defeat #6 golden state warriors 4-3.
#5 portland trail blazers defeat #4 houston rockets 4-2.
Friday, May 02, 2014
Obama raises concerns about the recent botched executuon in Oklahoma
president barack obama on friday weighed in on the botched execution which took place earlier this week in oklahoma. "what happened in oklahoma is deeply troubling," obama said during a news conference at the white house.
clayton lockett was convicted of murder and numerous other charges after he and his accomplices attacked and sexually assaulted two teenage girls about 15 years ago. he was scheduled to be killed by lethal injection tuesday night. but the execution was halted after the vein used to insert the drugs collapsed. witnesses said lockett appeared to be in pain, and died of a heart attack shortly after.
obama said he believes there are certain crimes warranting the death penalty, including mass killings or the killing of children. yet, the way lockett died underscored his concerns about the death penalty. obama said, "this situation in oklahoma i think just highlights some of the significant problems there." he' also spoke about individuals sent to death row who later are found innocent.
the president said he would talk with attorney general eric holder and other officials to see what steps have been taken to deal with these problems. obama's comments, his first public remarks on the botched execution, came in response to a question during a news conference with german chancellor angela merkel in the rose garden.
earlier in the week, jay carney, the white house press secretary, said the execution had not been carried out humanely. the botched execution of lockett has also drawn significant criticism from death penalty opponents - as well as from the human rights office of the united nations, which opposes capital punishment.
clayton lockett was convicted of murder and numerous other charges after he and his accomplices attacked and sexually assaulted two teenage girls about 15 years ago. he was scheduled to be killed by lethal injection tuesday night. but the execution was halted after the vein used to insert the drugs collapsed. witnesses said lockett appeared to be in pain, and died of a heart attack shortly after.
obama said he believes there are certain crimes warranting the death penalty, including mass killings or the killing of children. yet, the way lockett died underscored his concerns about the death penalty. obama said, "this situation in oklahoma i think just highlights some of the significant problems there." he' also spoke about individuals sent to death row who later are found innocent.
the president said he would talk with attorney general eric holder and other officials to see what steps have been taken to deal with these problems. obama's comments, his first public remarks on the botched execution, came in response to a question during a news conference with german chancellor angela merkel in the rose garden.
earlier in the week, jay carney, the white house press secretary, said the execution had not been carried out humanely. the botched execution of lockett has also drawn significant criticism from death penalty opponents - as well as from the human rights office of the united nations, which opposes capital punishment.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
An Open Letter to fans from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after banning Clippers' owner for life
dear fans,
this afternoon i announced that, following the completion of a thorough investigation into an audio recording obtained by tmz, i banned Donald sterling for life from any association with the clippers or the nba, effective immediately. mr. sterling may not attend any games or practices, be present at any clippers office or facility, or participate in any business or player personnel decisions involving the team.
i also fined mr. sterling $2.5 million, the maximum amount allowed under the nba constitution. these funds will be donated to charitable organizations dedicated to anti-discrimination and tolerance efforts that will be jointly selected by the nba and its players association.
the views expressed by mr. sterling are deeply offensive and hurtful. i am extremely proud of this great league's diverse, respectful and inclusive culture, and we will not allow one individual's intolerant views to define us. let me be clear: mr. sterling's views have no place in the nba.
this had been a painful episode for all members of the nba family. i very much appreciate your understanding during this process. i also want to express my thanks and admiration to coach doc rivers, chris paul, and the entire clippers organization for their professionalism throughout this matter, and to chris and mayor kevin Johnson for their leadership and partnership on behalf of the players association.
and now i am eager to turn the spotlight back where it belongs: on the game we all love and on these thrilling playoffs, which have been some of the most exciting basketball I've seen in my 22 years with the league. i hope you enjoy the rest of the playoffs and the finals.
sincerely,
adam silver
this afternoon i announced that, following the completion of a thorough investigation into an audio recording obtained by tmz, i banned Donald sterling for life from any association with the clippers or the nba, effective immediately. mr. sterling may not attend any games or practices, be present at any clippers office or facility, or participate in any business or player personnel decisions involving the team.
i also fined mr. sterling $2.5 million, the maximum amount allowed under the nba constitution. these funds will be donated to charitable organizations dedicated to anti-discrimination and tolerance efforts that will be jointly selected by the nba and its players association.
the views expressed by mr. sterling are deeply offensive and hurtful. i am extremely proud of this great league's diverse, respectful and inclusive culture, and we will not allow one individual's intolerant views to define us. let me be clear: mr. sterling's views have no place in the nba.
this had been a painful episode for all members of the nba family. i very much appreciate your understanding during this process. i also want to express my thanks and admiration to coach doc rivers, chris paul, and the entire clippers organization for their professionalism throughout this matter, and to chris and mayor kevin Johnson for their leadership and partnership on behalf of the players association.
and now i am eager to turn the spotlight back where it belongs: on the game we all love and on these thrilling playoffs, which have been some of the most exciting basketball I've seen in my 22 years with the league. i hope you enjoy the rest of the playoffs and the finals.
sincerely,
adam silver
Monday, April 28, 2014
LA Clippers' Owner Donald Sterling: Racism amd Misogyny Unplugged
donald sterling owns the los angeles clippers. sadly, he also owns anti-black, anti-female and anti-latino worldviews. tmz sports and deadspin.com obtained audio of sterling making various oppressive remarks during a heated argument on april 9 with his mistress, v. stiviano, after she posted a photo on instagram posing with magic johnson.
sterling excoriated stiviano repeatedly. he said, "it bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that you're associating with black people. do you have to? you can sleep with black people, you can bring them in, you can do whatever you want. the little i ask you is not to promote it on that, and not bring them to my games. don't put him (magic) on an instagram for the world to have to see so they have to call me. and don't bring him to my games."
ironically, stiviano is black and mexican. apparently sterling was completely oblivious to her mixed cultural background. she has since taken the picture down but the audio went viral and everyone - including president obama while in malaysia - is talking about him. moreover, nba players, coaches and fans expect nba commissioner adam silver to discipline the embattled clippers owner swiftly and decisively.
the nba plans to hold a tuesday news conference to discuss their investigation into sterling's polarizing attitude. portions of the recordings were released this weekend by tmz and deadspin. silver's first step in the process was to authenticate sterling's voice on the tape. although the nba has not confirmed it, his wife has attributed the comments to him.
rochelle sterling, in a statement to kabc-tv in los angeles said, "our family is devastated by the racist comments made by my estranged husband. my children and i do not share these despicable views or prejudices. we will not let one man's small mindedness poison the spirit of the fans and accomplishments of the team in the city we love. we are doing everything in our power to stand by and support our clippers team."
sacramento mayor kevin johnson, the former nba all-star serving as an advisor to the nba players association, called it "a massive distraction" to the league. a few owners condemned sterling's remarks, including miami's mickey arison, washington's ted leonsis and, most notably, charlotte's michael jordan. said jordan, "i'm obviously disgusted that a fellow team owner could hold such sickening and offensive views. i'm confident that adam silver will make a full investigation and take appropriate action quickly."
silver replaced the retired nba commissioner david stern (after 30 years of exemplary service) february 1. and, this is his first job crisis. because silver works for the owners, its unclear what he legally can - and, will do. but after meeting with johnson on sunday he learned of five demands from the players' union:
1) sterling won't attend any nba games for the rest of the playoffs due to the "enormous distraction." 2) a full account of past allegations of discrimination by sterling and why the league never sanctioned him; 3) an explanation of the range of penalties the league could bring against sterling; 4) assurances the nba and the union will be partners in the investigation; 5) a decisive ruling.
sterling has a documented history of racist behavior. before his current stint as owner, he became rich as a realtor. he's been sued twice by the federal government for refusing to rent apartments to blacks and latinos. he was also sued for racial discrimination by elgin baylor, a former clippers executive. however, a jury shut down baylor's case.
the clippers lead the golden state warriors two games to one in the first round of the western conference playoffs. with about 20 minutes to go before game four, the clippers emerged from the tunnel, huddled together in center court and removed their jackets in unison. their uniforms were tucked inside out and they wore black socks and wristbands in a silent protest. the heat, trailblazers and warriors also wore black socks in a demonstration of brotherhood, outrage and solidarity.
chris paul, the clippers' all-star point guard, shouted to his teammates before they ran out, "it's just us, only us. we're all we got." clippers head coach doc rivers was unhappy yet understood their protest. rivers said, "as much as this is about basketball, this is life. and our guys, they have family. they have friends. and they have cellphones. and i can't imagine how much they've been pulled on and talked to and what you should do and what you shouldn't do and what you should say."
airline virgin america, used car dealership chain carmax and the chumash casino resort said they've ended their sponsorships of the clippers due to sterling's racist views. two other sponsors, kia motors america and red bull, said they'll suspend their advertising and sponsorship activities with the team. another sponsor, state farm, said it "will be taking a pause in our relationship with the organization."
kia motors' suspension of ads and sponsorship does not affect its deal with clippers all-star forward blake griffin, who appears in commercials for the car company. similarly, the born to assist ad campaign featuring chris paul as himself, and a fictional, mustachioed insurance selling twin, cliff paul, will continue to run.
the naacp on sunday announced via twitter sterling will not be receiving a lifetime achievement award from the los angeles branch of the naacp. sterling had been slated to get the honor may 15 as part of the 100th anniversary celebration of the group's los angeles chapter. sterling was previously given an award by the same chapter.
hall of fame nba player magic johnson, who was referenced (along with los angeles dodgers all-star centerfielder matt kemp) on the audio, said on abc-tv sunday, "he's got to come down hard." los angeles lakers all-star guard kobe bryant on monday wrote on twitter, "he should not continue owning the clippers." kevin johnson said, "this is a defining moment for the league. this is a defining moment for the commissioner."
sterling excoriated stiviano repeatedly. he said, "it bothers me a lot that you want to broadcast that you're associating with black people. do you have to? you can sleep with black people, you can bring them in, you can do whatever you want. the little i ask you is not to promote it on that, and not bring them to my games. don't put him (magic) on an instagram for the world to have to see so they have to call me. and don't bring him to my games."
ironically, stiviano is black and mexican. apparently sterling was completely oblivious to her mixed cultural background. she has since taken the picture down but the audio went viral and everyone - including president obama while in malaysia - is talking about him. moreover, nba players, coaches and fans expect nba commissioner adam silver to discipline the embattled clippers owner swiftly and decisively.
the nba plans to hold a tuesday news conference to discuss their investigation into sterling's polarizing attitude. portions of the recordings were released this weekend by tmz and deadspin. silver's first step in the process was to authenticate sterling's voice on the tape. although the nba has not confirmed it, his wife has attributed the comments to him.
rochelle sterling, in a statement to kabc-tv in los angeles said, "our family is devastated by the racist comments made by my estranged husband. my children and i do not share these despicable views or prejudices. we will not let one man's small mindedness poison the spirit of the fans and accomplishments of the team in the city we love. we are doing everything in our power to stand by and support our clippers team."
sacramento mayor kevin johnson, the former nba all-star serving as an advisor to the nba players association, called it "a massive distraction" to the league. a few owners condemned sterling's remarks, including miami's mickey arison, washington's ted leonsis and, most notably, charlotte's michael jordan. said jordan, "i'm obviously disgusted that a fellow team owner could hold such sickening and offensive views. i'm confident that adam silver will make a full investigation and take appropriate action quickly."
silver replaced the retired nba commissioner david stern (after 30 years of exemplary service) february 1. and, this is his first job crisis. because silver works for the owners, its unclear what he legally can - and, will do. but after meeting with johnson on sunday he learned of five demands from the players' union:
1) sterling won't attend any nba games for the rest of the playoffs due to the "enormous distraction." 2) a full account of past allegations of discrimination by sterling and why the league never sanctioned him; 3) an explanation of the range of penalties the league could bring against sterling; 4) assurances the nba and the union will be partners in the investigation; 5) a decisive ruling.
sterling has a documented history of racist behavior. before his current stint as owner, he became rich as a realtor. he's been sued twice by the federal government for refusing to rent apartments to blacks and latinos. he was also sued for racial discrimination by elgin baylor, a former clippers executive. however, a jury shut down baylor's case.
the clippers lead the golden state warriors two games to one in the first round of the western conference playoffs. with about 20 minutes to go before game four, the clippers emerged from the tunnel, huddled together in center court and removed their jackets in unison. their uniforms were tucked inside out and they wore black socks and wristbands in a silent protest. the heat, trailblazers and warriors also wore black socks in a demonstration of brotherhood, outrage and solidarity.
chris paul, the clippers' all-star point guard, shouted to his teammates before they ran out, "it's just us, only us. we're all we got." clippers head coach doc rivers was unhappy yet understood their protest. rivers said, "as much as this is about basketball, this is life. and our guys, they have family. they have friends. and they have cellphones. and i can't imagine how much they've been pulled on and talked to and what you should do and what you shouldn't do and what you should say."
airline virgin america, used car dealership chain carmax and the chumash casino resort said they've ended their sponsorships of the clippers due to sterling's racist views. two other sponsors, kia motors america and red bull, said they'll suspend their advertising and sponsorship activities with the team. another sponsor, state farm, said it "will be taking a pause in our relationship with the organization."
kia motors' suspension of ads and sponsorship does not affect its deal with clippers all-star forward blake griffin, who appears in commercials for the car company. similarly, the born to assist ad campaign featuring chris paul as himself, and a fictional, mustachioed insurance selling twin, cliff paul, will continue to run.
the naacp on sunday announced via twitter sterling will not be receiving a lifetime achievement award from the los angeles branch of the naacp. sterling had been slated to get the honor may 15 as part of the 100th anniversary celebration of the group's los angeles chapter. sterling was previously given an award by the same chapter.
hall of fame nba player magic johnson, who was referenced (along with los angeles dodgers all-star centerfielder matt kemp) on the audio, said on abc-tv sunday, "he's got to come down hard." los angeles lakers all-star guard kobe bryant on monday wrote on twitter, "he should not continue owning the clippers." kevin johnson said, "this is a defining moment for the league. this is a defining moment for the commissioner."
Monday, April 14, 2014
The Recent Self-Disclosure of UMass Basketball Player Derrick Gordon
last week, university of massachusetts basketball player derrick gordon became the first division one male player to publicly self-identify as gay. his story was reported with great sensitivity by cyd zeigler of outsports magazine. in addition to the locker room teasing, zeigler noted, was a photograph of gordon and his boyfriend outside a gay bar in new jersey posted on instagram.
sadly, gordon admitted he considered leaving the sport he loves so passionately. uncomfortable in his own skin, he told his teammates he was straight, hoping their "snickers and snide remarks," would cease. but they didn't. some wouldn't shower with him. the sophomore guard, who averaged 9.4 points last season, avoided parties, stayed up nights crying and isolated - fearful of his sexuality being exposed.
gordon said, "most of the time when you see me on campus, i'm alone. i eat alone a lot. since the school year started in september i haven't been to one party. i'm always working out or lifting in my room. i do the same thing over and over every day. i feel like i can't be who i am or live my life. nobody should ever feel that way."
earlier this month, at his request, umass head coach derek kellogg called a team meeting. kellogg, in the spirit of support, told his team gordon was gay. however, gordon was not alone. he'd met some openly gay athletes and visited philadelphia, where he saw their comfort and happiness. in fact, two of the men were with him in the locker room as he shared his gay identity with his teammates.
as gordon poignantly shared his story of alienation, loneliness and shame, many of the men wept openly. later, one of the gay men said, "it was powerful for these players to see one of their brothers be so vulnerable. these are some inner-city kids, some rough, tough kids who derrick wants to be friends with. they understand who he is a little bit better now."
gordon now benefits from support outside the team. nba veteran and brooklyn nets forward jason collins - whom gordon credited with encouraging him when he came out a year ago - tweeted his praise for gordon. collins wrote, "i'm so proud @flash2gordon. another brave young man who is going to make it easier for so many others to live an authentic life. #courage.
the school, in a statement, is supportive. athletic director john mccutcheon said, "umass is proud to have derrick gordon as a member of our athletic family and to honor his courage and openness as a gay student-athlete. umass is committed to creating a welcoming climate where every student-athlete, coach and staff member can be true to themselves as they pursue their athletic, academic and professional goals."
sadly, gordon admitted he considered leaving the sport he loves so passionately. uncomfortable in his own skin, he told his teammates he was straight, hoping their "snickers and snide remarks," would cease. but they didn't. some wouldn't shower with him. the sophomore guard, who averaged 9.4 points last season, avoided parties, stayed up nights crying and isolated - fearful of his sexuality being exposed.
gordon said, "most of the time when you see me on campus, i'm alone. i eat alone a lot. since the school year started in september i haven't been to one party. i'm always working out or lifting in my room. i do the same thing over and over every day. i feel like i can't be who i am or live my life. nobody should ever feel that way."
earlier this month, at his request, umass head coach derek kellogg called a team meeting. kellogg, in the spirit of support, told his team gordon was gay. however, gordon was not alone. he'd met some openly gay athletes and visited philadelphia, where he saw their comfort and happiness. in fact, two of the men were with him in the locker room as he shared his gay identity with his teammates.
as gordon poignantly shared his story of alienation, loneliness and shame, many of the men wept openly. later, one of the gay men said, "it was powerful for these players to see one of their brothers be so vulnerable. these are some inner-city kids, some rough, tough kids who derrick wants to be friends with. they understand who he is a little bit better now."
gordon now benefits from support outside the team. nba veteran and brooklyn nets forward jason collins - whom gordon credited with encouraging him when he came out a year ago - tweeted his praise for gordon. collins wrote, "i'm so proud @flash2gordon. another brave young man who is going to make it easier for so many others to live an authentic life. #courage.
the school, in a statement, is supportive. athletic director john mccutcheon said, "umass is proud to have derrick gordon as a member of our athletic family and to honor his courage and openness as a gay student-athlete. umass is committed to creating a welcoming climate where every student-athlete, coach and staff member can be true to themselves as they pursue their athletic, academic and professional goals."
Wednesday, April 09, 2014
UCONN Men's and Women's Teams Win 2014 National Championship
the university of connecticut men's basketball team on monday defeated the university of kentucky 60-54 to win the national championship. the game was played in front of over 75,000 fans at the at&t stadium in arlington, texas. the huskies are now one of only six schools in ncaa history with four titles - all coming in the last 15 years.
uconn's all-american point guard shabazz napier was named most outstanding player. napier had 22 points, six rebounds and three assists. his teammate, sophomore guard ryan boatright was a defensive standout and scored 14 points. afterwards, napier said, "honestly, i want to get everybody's attention real quick. you're looking at the hungry huskies. ladies and gentleman, this is what happens when you banned us."
a short year ago uconn (32-8) was banned for poor grades. their longtime coach jim calhoun left 18 months ago due to health issues. after 20 years in the big east, the school moved to the american athletic conference. 40 year-old kevin ollie, nba journeyman, former huskies player and calhoun's former assistant coach, led his team to an improbable run in only his second year as head coach.
the university of connecticut women's basketball team on tuesday dominated notre dame 79-58 to win their record ninth championship. uconn (40-0) coach geno auriemma broke a tie with pat summit of tennessee for most all-time. played in nashville, tennessee, the historic contest pitted two undefeated teams in a title game for the first time in women's college basketball history.
ap player of the year, huskies' sophomore breanna stewart was named most outstanding player. she had 21 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks. stewart also won the award last year. their all-american center, stephanie dolson finished with 17 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists and four blocks. the 6'5 senior was pulled from the game with a minute left and gave her coach a big hug.
auriemma has never lost in a title game. his nine championships in just 20 years at the helm is unparalleled and unprecedented. his teams have featured star players like rebecca lobo, swin cash, diana taurasi, tina charles and maya moore. but its their hard word, integrity and passion which speaks to his value as one of the most successful coaches in the history of basketball - high school, college or nba.
uconn's all-american point guard shabazz napier was named most outstanding player. napier had 22 points, six rebounds and three assists. his teammate, sophomore guard ryan boatright was a defensive standout and scored 14 points. afterwards, napier said, "honestly, i want to get everybody's attention real quick. you're looking at the hungry huskies. ladies and gentleman, this is what happens when you banned us."
a short year ago uconn (32-8) was banned for poor grades. their longtime coach jim calhoun left 18 months ago due to health issues. after 20 years in the big east, the school moved to the american athletic conference. 40 year-old kevin ollie, nba journeyman, former huskies player and calhoun's former assistant coach, led his team to an improbable run in only his second year as head coach.
the university of connecticut women's basketball team on tuesday dominated notre dame 79-58 to win their record ninth championship. uconn (40-0) coach geno auriemma broke a tie with pat summit of tennessee for most all-time. played in nashville, tennessee, the historic contest pitted two undefeated teams in a title game for the first time in women's college basketball history.
ap player of the year, huskies' sophomore breanna stewart was named most outstanding player. she had 21 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks. stewart also won the award last year. their all-american center, stephanie dolson finished with 17 points, 16 rebounds, seven assists and four blocks. the 6'5 senior was pulled from the game with a minute left and gave her coach a big hug.
auriemma has never lost in a title game. his nine championships in just 20 years at the helm is unparalleled and unprecedented. his teams have featured star players like rebecca lobo, swin cash, diana taurasi, tina charles and maya moore. but its their hard word, integrity and passion which speaks to his value as one of the most successful coaches in the history of basketball - high school, college or nba.
Monday, April 07, 2014
Obama to sign executive orders closing wage gaps impacting race and gender
not long after he became the first bi-racial president of the united states, barack obama faced widespread criticism regarding his commitment to the plethora of issues facing black communities. on tuesday, president barack obama will sign two executive orders specifically designed to close wage gaps impacting an individual's race and gender.
one requires contractors doing business with the federal government to include race and gender information when reporting all compensation data. the other prohibits contractors with federal contracts from retaliating against employees who share compensation information. this is important, because in some instances, employees were unaware they were paid less than their peers, which is discriminatory.
in one of the highest-profile cases involving such discrimination, lilly ledbetter sued the goodyear tire and rubber company for paying her substantially less than male managers in the same role over her career with the company. she worked there over two decades.
in 2007, the supreme court ruled ledbetter missed the window for suing in the case because she hadn't filed her suit within 180 days of receiving her first paycheck. however, she didn't learn her male colleagues earned substantially more than she did until many years after the fact - which made it impossible for her to have adhered to such requirements.
the supreme court ruling against ledbetter would eventually lead to the passage of the lilly ledbetter fair pay act of 2009, the first bill obama signed into law after taking office. an amendment to the civil rights act, the statute resets the clock regarding fair-pay lawsuits. as a result, future plaintiffs aren't limited to the 180-day window.
many employers discourage and often prohibit employees from discussing their salaries and wages with one another. ledbetter worked for a private company: their personnel will not be directly affected by the executive orders. still, this action is a much needed step in amending historical wrongs among hard-working, law-abiding, tax-paying folks.
one requires contractors doing business with the federal government to include race and gender information when reporting all compensation data. the other prohibits contractors with federal contracts from retaliating against employees who share compensation information. this is important, because in some instances, employees were unaware they were paid less than their peers, which is discriminatory.
in one of the highest-profile cases involving such discrimination, lilly ledbetter sued the goodyear tire and rubber company for paying her substantially less than male managers in the same role over her career with the company. she worked there over two decades.
in 2007, the supreme court ruled ledbetter missed the window for suing in the case because she hadn't filed her suit within 180 days of receiving her first paycheck. however, she didn't learn her male colleagues earned substantially more than she did until many years after the fact - which made it impossible for her to have adhered to such requirements.
the supreme court ruling against ledbetter would eventually lead to the passage of the lilly ledbetter fair pay act of 2009, the first bill obama signed into law after taking office. an amendment to the civil rights act, the statute resets the clock regarding fair-pay lawsuits. as a result, future plaintiffs aren't limited to the 180-day window.
many employers discourage and often prohibit employees from discussing their salaries and wages with one another. ledbetter worked for a private company: their personnel will not be directly affected by the executive orders. still, this action is a much needed step in amending historical wrongs among hard-working, law-abiding, tax-paying folks.
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