Losing three rhymes with... (click the pic)
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Say That!
"Hey gay-tors! Having fun trying to argue over the interent? Its like florida sports and the special olympics... evens if you win you are still retarded...." -- Some poster on ESPN.com
Hilarious! LOLLLLL!
Hilarious! LOLLLLL!
Monday, October 29, 2007
BAW: Commentary: With All The Reasons Teens Have for Abstaining from Sex, Possible Prison Shouldn’t Be Among Them
BAW: Commentary: With All The Reasons Teens Have for Abstaining from Sex, Possible Prison Shouldn’t Be Among Them: "There are plenty of reasons to discourage teenagers from sexual activity – STDs, unwanted pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, the risk to emotional health. The possibility of spending 10 years in prison should not be one of them. Georgia has finally gotten that but only after one young man had paid an exceptionally heavy price for the lesson. No one can argue that Genarlow Wilson did a stupid and low-down thing when he was 17 and had sex with a couple of girls who joined him and his buddies at a local motel for a New Year’s Eve party. A girl his age had intercourse with him on the bathroom floor. Then a 15-year-old offered oral sex. It does not strain reason to imagine that a 17-year-old boy, flush with testosterone, would accept. When the adults have done their job best, our manchild has the presence of mind, the judgment and the morals to say “no” when approached so casually with such a consequential proposition. If we’ve done it good enough, they at least feel bad about what they’ve done and bad that they took advantage of a young girl who, for perhaps many reasons, was too pitiful to stop herself. "
Black radio hosts call for national economic boycott | ajc.com
Black radio hosts call for national economic boycott ajc.com: "A contingent of black radio talk-show hosts are calling for a national economic boycott Friday to protest what they consider racial and economic injustices across the country. Attorney Warren Ballentine, who hosts a morning drive talk show that appears locally on WAMJ-FM, is urging people to not spend any money Friday"
My response:
Ummm...I got to go Starbucks EVERY morning. Is there another way to show I'm down for the cause?
No, I'm kidding...kinda. Ya'll know that Starbucks coffee be calling you like crack was calling Pooky in New Jack City.
Anyway, I understand the premise for the boycott. I just don't think it's going to do a whole lot of good. What difference does it make if we wait to spend money one more day. Either way the money will be spent. I think something else needs to be done. At least he's trying to do something though.
My response:
Ummm...I got to go Starbucks EVERY morning. Is there another way to show I'm down for the cause?
No, I'm kidding...kinda. Ya'll know that Starbucks coffee be calling you like crack was calling Pooky in New Jack City.
Anyway, I understand the premise for the boycott. I just don't think it's going to do a whole lot of good. What difference does it make if we wait to spend money one more day. Either way the money will be spent. I think something else needs to be done. At least he's trying to do something though.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Genarlow is free!
Georgia Supreme Court ordered the releae of Genarlow Wilson m: "the Douglas County teenager who has been serving a controversial 10-year sentence for consensual oral sex. The court's 4-3 decision upholds a Monroe County judge's ruling that the sentence constituted cruel and unusual punishment under both the Georgia and U.S. constitutions."
The majority opinion said the sentence appeared to be "grossly disproportionate" to the teenager's crime and noted that it was out of step with current law.
Wilson was expected to be released Friday afternoon from Al Burruss Correctional Training Facility in Monroe County, where he has been held since late 2005, according to his lawyer.
Wilson was convicted in April 2005 of aggravated child molestation for having oral sex with a 15-year-old girl at a 2003 New Year's Eve party in a hotel room. He was 17 at the time.
My response:
I cried like a baby when I saw this headline. I'm still crying. God does answer prayer. Now, before you ultra conservatives get all indignant, consider this. I am in no way saying that Genarlow should have been doing what he did that night. What I am saying is that he should not have had to serve a ten year prison sentence for it.
All kinds of questions are running through my mind. Like, why is a fifteen year old girl in a hotel room anyway? Where were her parents?
Anyway, I'm so happy for Wilson and his family. The question I have for him is "What will you do with your freedom?"
The majority opinion said the sentence appeared to be "grossly disproportionate" to the teenager's crime and noted that it was out of step with current law.
Wilson was expected to be released Friday afternoon from Al Burruss Correctional Training Facility in Monroe County, where he has been held since late 2005, according to his lawyer.
Wilson was convicted in April 2005 of aggravated child molestation for having oral sex with a 15-year-old girl at a 2003 New Year's Eve party in a hotel room. He was 17 at the time.
My response:
I cried like a baby when I saw this headline. I'm still crying. God does answer prayer. Now, before you ultra conservatives get all indignant, consider this. I am in no way saying that Genarlow should have been doing what he did that night. What I am saying is that he should not have had to serve a ten year prison sentence for it.
All kinds of questions are running through my mind. Like, why is a fifteen year old girl in a hotel room anyway? Where were her parents?
Anyway, I'm so happy for Wilson and his family. The question I have for him is "What will you do with your freedom?"
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Sag in Louisiana...I dare you!
BAW: Eighth Louisiana Town Prohibits Saggy Pants: "With a councilman saying underwear 'is called underwear for a reason,' another Cajun-country town has banned saggy pants from its streets. The ordinance, passed unanimously Monday by the Port Allen City Council, requires pants to be secured at the waist so they do not fall below the hips, expose underwear or create indecent exposure. Violators could be fined $25 to $250 for a first offense, and $250 to $500 for repeat offenses."
Protestor painted in 'blood' accosts Condoleezza Rice
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"Alright, girl, you betta go'on."A woman with her hands plainted blood red accosts Condoleezza Rice: at the US Congress Wednesday, shouting 'war criminal' before being hauled away by Capitol security.
Desiree Farooz accosted Rice ahead of her appearance at a House of Representatives hearing on US foreign policy, waving her hands just centimeters (inches) from the diplomat's face inside the committee meeting room as television cameras captured the confrontation. '
The blood of millions of Iraqis is on your hands,' Farooz shouted, before police wrestled her away. Several other people, members of the anti-war activist group Code Pink, were subsequently ejected from the room. "
My response:
This is what Angela Whittier says about it:
"Look at the picture, right? Condi does not look the least bit uncomfortable by this. Actually she looks like she's saying 'You must not know 'bout me. Bring it, B*%#^.'
I'm not a Condi fan but I have to give her props for looking the woman straight in the eye and not even blinking."
Desiree Farooz accosted Rice ahead of her appearance at a House of Representatives hearing on US foreign policy, waving her hands just centimeters (inches) from the diplomat's face inside the committee meeting room as television cameras captured the confrontation. '
The blood of millions of Iraqis is on your hands,' Farooz shouted, before police wrestled her away. Several other people, members of the anti-war activist group Code Pink, were subsequently ejected from the room. "
My response:
This is what Angela Whittier says about it:
"Look at the picture, right? Condi does not look the least bit uncomfortable by this. Actually she looks like she's saying 'You must not know 'bout me. Bring it, B*%#^.'
I'm not a Condi fan but I have to give her props for looking the woman straight in the eye and not even blinking."
Florida NAACP conducting investigation
Tallahassee, FL.: "The Florida NAACP will conduct its own investigation to decide if civil-rights violations occurred in the death of Martin Lee Anderson and will share its findings and conclusions with federal investigators."
Okay...
Okay...
Hart is leaving FSU
Tallahassee, FL.: "Florida State University director of athletics Dave Hart [held] a press conference today at 4 p.m. to announce a 'mutually acceptable and amicable separation agreement with the university.'"
"Mutually acceptable and amicable separation?"
Um huh...
"Mutually acceptable and amicable separation?"
Um huh...
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Booker Rising --On the McClurkin controversy
Shay from Booker Rising: comments on the Donnie McClurkin/Obama controversy:
"My response: I didn't know Mr. McClurkin was a reverend, nor that he calls himself an ex-gay (although I'm not surprised about his gay history, because he always struck me as 'sweet'). Let's talk numbers. Gays are, at best, 2% of the total electorate. Blacks are 12% of the total electorate. While there are certainly people who are both gay and black, it is white gays by far who are leading the charge against this gospel tour. Sen. Obama losing the gay vote is politically irrelevant. However, Sen. Obama is in a big battle with Sen. Clinton for the black vote, which comprises the majority of the Democratic primary electorate in the state of South Carolina. This gospel tour - and the criticisms of it by (overwhelmingly white) gay activists - may actually help Sen. Obama with black voters, because he may rightly or wrongly be seen in some black quarters as defending black culture from gay folks."
My response to her response:
She said it much better than I could have.
"My response: I didn't know Mr. McClurkin was a reverend, nor that he calls himself an ex-gay (although I'm not surprised about his gay history, because he always struck me as 'sweet'). Let's talk numbers. Gays are, at best, 2% of the total electorate. Blacks are 12% of the total electorate. While there are certainly people who are both gay and black, it is white gays by far who are leading the charge against this gospel tour. Sen. Obama losing the gay vote is politically irrelevant. However, Sen. Obama is in a big battle with Sen. Clinton for the black vote, which comprises the majority of the Democratic primary electorate in the state of South Carolina. This gospel tour - and the criticisms of it by (overwhelmingly white) gay activists - may actually help Sen. Obama with black voters, because he may rightly or wrongly be seen in some black quarters as defending black culture from gay folks."
My response to her response:
She said it much better than I could have.
BAW: HL. Joyner passes at 89
BAW: HL. Joyner passes at 89: "Hercules L. Joyner, 89, passed away Sunday in his Dallas home. A native of Plant City, FL, Joyner is father of Tom Joyner, the nationally syndicated radio personality, and Albert Joyner, owner of McDonald’s franchises in Jackson, MS."
"Known for his dry wit and gentle ways, ‘Pops’, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, graduated from Florida A&M College with B.S. in Chemistry. While at Florida A&M, Joyner pledged with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and became an avid golfer. In later years, ‘The Herc’ Golf Tournament was named after him.
After he enrolled in the program to become a Tuskegee Airman, he decided to switch from a military career and instead became an accountant, later spending much of his career working for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Tuskegee.
Joyner was the only child of Dr. Oscar Albert and Ruth Griffin Joyner, and married the late Frances Dumas, a graduate of Tennessee State University.
To share his passion for black colleges, Joyner was an active member of the Tom Joyner Foundation, created by his son in 1998 with the sole mission to help keep students enrolled in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)."
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made on H.L. Joyner’s behalf to the Tom Joyner Foundation, P.O Box 630495, Irving, TX 75063.
I am so sorry for your loss, Tom. Our prayers are with you. May God give you strength in this difficult time.
"Known for his dry wit and gentle ways, ‘Pops’, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, graduated from Florida A&M College with B.S. in Chemistry. While at Florida A&M, Joyner pledged with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and became an avid golfer. In later years, ‘The Herc’ Golf Tournament was named after him.
After he enrolled in the program to become a Tuskegee Airman, he decided to switch from a military career and instead became an accountant, later spending much of his career working for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Tuskegee.
Joyner was the only child of Dr. Oscar Albert and Ruth Griffin Joyner, and married the late Frances Dumas, a graduate of Tennessee State University.
To share his passion for black colleges, Joyner was an active member of the Tom Joyner Foundation, created by his son in 1998 with the sole mission to help keep students enrolled in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)."
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made on H.L. Joyner’s behalf to the Tom Joyner Foundation, P.O Box 630495, Irving, TX 75063.
I am so sorry for your loss, Tom. Our prayers are with you. May God give you strength in this difficult time.
Police Officer 'Shocked' Over Criticism
BAW: Police Officer 'Shocked' Over Criticism: "A police officer who resigned last month amid an uproar over homemade Web videos disparaging blacks, Jews and other minorities said she's shocked that some labeled her a racist. 'I've never been a racist, it's not in my heart,' Susan Purtee told Columbus television station WBNS. In videos posted on YouTube.com, Purtee and her sister refer to blacks, Jews, Cubans and illegal immigrants as 'filthy' and accuse Jews of abusing their positions within the media and entertainment industries. Purtee, a 15-year patrol officer, was initially reassigned to a desk job in late August after the videos came to light and were condemned by city officials. She announced her resignation Sept. 14. Her sister, Barbara Gordon-Bell of Parkland, Fla., said the two were just having fun but also made the videos to reveal the truth about America."
"In the television interview, Purtee said she stood by her remarks, though maybe she could have softened them.
"You try to do something you think is good for America, and you try to warn people that you're taken advantage of by the media, and then someone turns around and they go to the lowest level and try to say you're a racist," Purtee said. "It was a shock, it never entered our minds."
My response.
She is stupid and her sister is too.
"In the television interview, Purtee said she stood by her remarks, though maybe she could have softened them.
"You try to do something you think is good for America, and you try to warn people that you're taken advantage of by the media, and then someone turns around and they go to the lowest level and try to say you're a racist," Purtee said. "It was a shock, it never entered our minds."
My response.
She is stupid and her sister is too.
Obama urged to drop Donnie McClurkin from tour
BAW: Obama urged to drop Donnie McClurkin from tour: "A gay rights group has urged Barack Obama to cut ties with a gospel singer who it says spreads false information about homosexuality being a choice. Donnie McClurkin is among several gospel singers scheduled to raise money for the Illinois senator and Democratic presidential candidate at a concert in South Carolina this weekend. McClurkin has drawn attention from gay rights activists for his views on homosexuality. 'I don't believe that it is the intention of God,' McClurkin said Monday in a telephone interview. 'Sexuality, everything is a matter of choice.' McClurkin said he does not believe in discriminating against homosexuals. 'What people do in their bedrooms and who they are as human beings are two different things,' he said."
"In a statement, Obama said he believes gays and lesbians are "our brothers and sisters" and should be afforded the same respect, dignity and rights granted all other citizens.
"I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country," Obama said. "I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as president of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."
The statement did not say whether McClurkin will still perform on the tour.
My response:
If Obama caves to these demands, he is through. He's already viewed as too liberal by some people. This will be the nail in the coffin.
This is another reason why I left the Democratic party. While I disagree with homosexuality, I do not believe in discriminating against gays and lesbians. That, however, does not mean that I have to buy into your agenda. Live your life any way you want to. I don't have to approve of it, I don't have to like it, I don't have to support it and I have a right to say so.
"In a statement, Obama said he believes gays and lesbians are "our brothers and sisters" and should be afforded the same respect, dignity and rights granted all other citizens.
"I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country," Obama said. "I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as president of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division."
The statement did not say whether McClurkin will still perform on the tour.
My response:
If Obama caves to these demands, he is through. He's already viewed as too liberal by some people. This will be the nail in the coffin.
This is another reason why I left the Democratic party. While I disagree with homosexuality, I do not believe in discriminating against gays and lesbians. That, however, does not mean that I have to buy into your agenda. Live your life any way you want to. I don't have to approve of it, I don't have to like it, I don't have to support it and I have a right to say so.
Protestors will march on Tuesday
Tallahassee, FL.: "More than 1,000 people are expected to march on the U.S. courthouse in Tallahassee on Tuesday, to lobby for federal civil-rights charges against those acquitted in the Martin Lee Anderson trial. The march is being organized by the NAACP and is expected to draw participants from all over the state."
My response:
I'm not going to say what I want to say but I will say this. Some of these so called Civil Rights organizations are nothing more than publicity seekers. When the cameras are off, so are they. I'll be with the marchers in spirit.
My response:
I'm not going to say what I want to say but I will say this. Some of these so called Civil Rights organizations are nothing more than publicity seekers. When the cameras are off, so are they. I'll be with the marchers in spirit.
Comments on the ridiculous benching of Xavier Lee
These are some comments left on Tallahasese.com regarding the benching Xavier Lee.
"I knew it!!! When I left the stadium Saturday I knew they were going to pull X. It's really hard not to view this in another light, when you look at the QB history. Drew is nothing but an upgrade of Chris Rix! They gave Drew two seasons to make mistakes... but X only gets a few games, that's a bunch of crap. You can not blame this all on X, our defense should still be running stadiums right now. Now Drew is going to come in Saturday looking like the answer, when we all know he is not. I agree with 'gusigoo'... Carr looks like he's just going through the motions. If you don't want to play sit on the bench. We need him and Cody to step up and catch the dang ball 150% of the time. X... keep your head up! All things work for the good of those... (you know the rest)." -- nolechic4life
"You have got to be kidding? Putting in Drew, when he has already proven that he cannot handle the job is crazy!!! Xavier needs as many chances as Drew had. I admit things could have been better on Saturday, but putting Drew back in for this Saturday, we might as well all stay home..." -- ethermond
"Coach Bowden what is next? Who will step in for Drew, when he is inconsisten[t] which you know will happen...Will you admit that he is like you did with the X-man? So three games is all a QB should get now, to prove how he can help to the team? This was not the case for Rix or Drew in the beginning, oh I forgot this is not the real issue...." -- madmack59
The natives are restless in Tallahassee and the coaches are idiots.
"I knew it!!! When I left the stadium Saturday I knew they were going to pull X. It's really hard not to view this in another light, when you look at the QB history. Drew is nothing but an upgrade of Chris Rix! They gave Drew two seasons to make mistakes... but X only gets a few games, that's a bunch of crap. You can not blame this all on X, our defense should still be running stadiums right now. Now Drew is going to come in Saturday looking like the answer, when we all know he is not. I agree with 'gusigoo'... Carr looks like he's just going through the motions. If you don't want to play sit on the bench. We need him and Cody to step up and catch the dang ball 150% of the time. X... keep your head up! All things work for the good of those... (you know the rest)." -- nolechic4life
"You have got to be kidding? Putting in Drew, when he has already proven that he cannot handle the job is crazy!!! Xavier needs as many chances as Drew had. I admit things could have been better on Saturday, but putting Drew back in for this Saturday, we might as well all stay home..." -- ethermond
"Coach Bowden what is next? Who will step in for Drew, when he is inconsisten[t] which you know will happen...Will you admit that he is like you did with the X-man? So three games is all a QB should get now, to prove how he can help to the team? This was not the case for Rix or Drew in the beginning, oh I forgot this is not the real issue...." -- madmack59
The natives are restless in Tallahassee and the coaches are idiots.
Xavier...Please transfer
Bowden Benches Lee - Tallahassee, FL.: "It came as no surprise that Lee was demoted today. FSU coach Bobby Bowden made the move official, revealing Drew Weatherford will start against Duke on Saturday."
"Lee had four turnovers and skidded his final three passes into the grass in FSU's 37-29 loss to Miami on Saturday. FSU offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher said there's no plan to get Lee work against the Blue Devils but insisted that the redshirt junior remains important to the team."
My response:
I really hate Florida State right now and I hope they know that recruits are watching and their parents are too. I wouldn't send my son to FSU right now for anything in the world.
Can the coaches bench themselves?
Xavier, keep your head up...and transfer.
"Lee had four turnovers and skidded his final three passes into the grass in FSU's 37-29 loss to Miami on Saturday. FSU offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher said there's no plan to get Lee work against the Blue Devils but insisted that the redshirt junior remains important to the team."
My response:
I really hate Florida State right now and I hope they know that recruits are watching and their parents are too. I wouldn't send my son to FSU right now for anything in the world.
Can the coaches bench themselves?
Xavier, keep your head up...and transfer.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
FSU needs to repent.
The Florida State University football team, coaches and athletic director need to go on a 40 day fast and Chief Osceola needs to do a rain dance because clearly they have made God mad.
We lost today. To Miami. No further comment.
We lost today. To Miami. No further comment.
Flavor Flav is a fraud...and he's ugly
The baby is cute though
Yuck! I mean Flav. Not the baby. She's as cute as she can beI don't blame Sister Patterson for not wanting her daughter to be with Flavor Flav. I wouldn't want my daughter with that beast either. He is clearly just using these women and they are silly enough to let him. In the first two seasons of the Flavor of Love we were pulling for Flav's ugly behind. We believed him when he said he just wanted to find someone who was there for him.
Ummm....Flav. NOBODY IS THERE FOR YOU BOO BOO. You can't rap. You're old. You're not handsome..shoot, you just ugly. And I wouldn't even say anything about you if you were not playing with people's hearts.
According to Deelishis, Flav is already engaged to the mother of his 7th child. The woman approached her at the party after that ridiculous roast and allegedly said, "I want you to know I read Sister 2 Sister magazine and I'm not a one night stand...I'm Flav's fiancee and we're going to be married."
Ewww.
The lady went on to tell Deelishis that she and Flav had been together for years and Deelishis would never have him.
Well, good. I don't know why she or any of them even wanted him.
Deelishis said that since she met Flav's 7th baby mama that she realizes that she saw her walking around on the set of the show. She thought the lady was a part of the production crew. The entire show was a lie.
Surprise. Surprise.
Ummm....Flav. NOBODY IS THERE FOR YOU BOO BOO. You can't rap. You're old. You're not handsome..shoot, you just ugly. And I wouldn't even say anything about you if you were not playing with people's hearts.
According to Deelishis, Flav is already engaged to the mother of his 7th child. The woman approached her at the party after that ridiculous roast and allegedly said, "I want you to know I read Sister 2 Sister magazine and I'm not a one night stand...I'm Flav's fiancee and we're going to be married."
Ewww.
The lady went on to tell Deelishis that she and Flav had been together for years and Deelishis would never have him.
Well, good. I don't know why she or any of them even wanted him.
Deelishis said that since she met Flav's 7th baby mama that she realizes that she saw her walking around on the set of the show. She thought the lady was a part of the production crew. The entire show was a lie.
Surprise. Surprise.
If you need a reason to go see "Why Did I Get Married"....
You need to see it for the sexiness that is Lamman Rucker. Good God have mercy! If sexy was a sin he'd go straight to hell. And check out his crackspa--- I mean Myspace page too. http://www.myspace.com/lammanrucker
Senseless sexiness. Shaking my head while a single tear falls....LOLOL. Jesus.
Commentary: Why is the GOP scared of black voters? - CNN.com
Commentary: Why is the GOP scared of black voters? - CNN.com: "The GOP as a whole is completely scared of black voters, and the actions by the front-runners for the party's 2008 nomination show they are continuing the same silly political games the party has played for years. Oh, don't bother tossing out the appointments of Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice as secretary of state by Bush. Yes, they are African-American. But I'm speaking of the party. Ever since Richard Nixon ran for the White House, the GOP has run on a 'Southern Strategy,' meant to alienate blacks in an effort to garner white voters. They've worked the strategy to perfection. When he was head of the Republican National Committee, Ken Mehlman apologized for that strategy as he sought to make inroads among black voters. Republicans will tell you they are the party of Abraham Lincoln, who signed the Emancipation Proclamation, but their outreach efforts to black voters are lacking."
I liked this one too. Roland Martin is a genius as far as I'm concerned.
I liked this one too. Roland Martin is a genius as far as I'm concerned.
Obama has to wake up says Roland Martin
Commentary: Barack Obama's black wakeup call - CNN.com: "If the advisers around Sen. Barack Obama want to continue to delude themselves into thinking they have lots of time for black voters to get around to figuring out their candidate's record on issues they care about, then the latest CNN poll surely must be the kind of slap in the face to bring them back to reality."
According to the CNN poll, Clinton leads Obama among black registered Democrats, 57 percent to 33 percent. Black women are backing Clinton to the tune of 68 percent compared with 25 percent for Obama. Black men favor Obama 46 percent to 42 percent for Clinton. The poll has a margin of error of plus-or-minus 6.5 percent.
On multiple occasions when I've interviewed him, Obama has reassured folks that his track record speaks for itself. He says with Clinton being on the national stage for 15 years, she has longevity. But he said he's confident black voters will come around the more they know about what he has done. That's nice and sounds good, but what the Obama campaign has clearly refused to recognize is that black voters are emotional, and you must speak to their core in order to reach them.
Obama has at times spoken passionately about issues blacks care about -- the war, education, civil rights, social justice issues -- but all too often he has avoided engaging in a way that touches the consciousness of black voters. Voters have told me that he's sometimes sterile and not offering the kind of passion they desire.
But there are other reasons why black voters have been ambivalent about an Obama candidacy, and it's clearly having an affect on him being able to build momentum to challenge Clinton.
Read the rest of the commentary by clicking the link. It's a good read and I really like Roland Martin.
According to the CNN poll, Clinton leads Obama among black registered Democrats, 57 percent to 33 percent. Black women are backing Clinton to the tune of 68 percent compared with 25 percent for Obama. Black men favor Obama 46 percent to 42 percent for Clinton. The poll has a margin of error of plus-or-minus 6.5 percent.
On multiple occasions when I've interviewed him, Obama has reassured folks that his track record speaks for itself. He says with Clinton being on the national stage for 15 years, she has longevity. But he said he's confident black voters will come around the more they know about what he has done. That's nice and sounds good, but what the Obama campaign has clearly refused to recognize is that black voters are emotional, and you must speak to their core in order to reach them.
Obama has at times spoken passionately about issues blacks care about -- the war, education, civil rights, social justice issues -- but all too often he has avoided engaging in a way that touches the consciousness of black voters. Voters have told me that he's sometimes sterile and not offering the kind of passion they desire.
But there are other reasons why black voters have been ambivalent about an Obama candidacy, and it's clearly having an affect on him being able to build momentum to challenge Clinton.
Read the rest of the commentary by clicking the link. It's a good read and I really like Roland Martin.
T.I. wants out of jail
MUSIC NEWS: T.I. Proposes Release Terms: "Lawyers for T.I. have asked that the rap star be released on a $2.2 million bond backed by his record label, record executives and the equity in both of his homes. They've also proposed that the rap star be on house arrrest with 24-hour monitoring. They presented the package to U.S. Magistrate Alan Baverman today in the Richard B. Russell Federal Building and Courthouse in Atlanta. According to CNN reporter Rusty Dornin, both Atlantic Records' CEO Lyor Cohen and Chairman Craig Kallman appeared in court to back the embattled rap star, pledging their financial support. "
My response:
I just have to tell you that I am so mad at T.I. right now. Seriously. I'm mad at him because I like most of his music. Some of his tracks have wayyy too much cursing in them for me. I really thought he had more sense than this.
Clifford, let me tell you something. You need to get it together. Leave some of those people alone that you are hanging with and surround yourself with people who have some sense. You are too talented, too gifted, and yes, too intelligent to get caught up in this foolishness. It's time to get smart.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Martinez steps down
Sen. Mel Martinez resigned today as the head of the Republican National Committee.
'It was my goal as general chairman to lead the party as it established the structure and raised the resources necessary to support our presidential candidate and ensure Republican victories next November,' he said in a statement today. 'I believe we have accomplished those goals.
My response:
Um huh. Mel stepped down because the Republicans are about to get the snot beat out of them in the Presidential election and he doesn't want to take the heat. I don't blame him.
The Republican candidates are absolutely horrible. And some of you will disagree with this statement, but I'd vote for Bush again over any of the current frontrunners. That being said, I like Obama, but I think Hillary is going to take it. Speak on it.
'It was my goal as general chairman to lead the party as it established the structure and raised the resources necessary to support our presidential candidate and ensure Republican victories next November,' he said in a statement today. 'I believe we have accomplished those goals.
My response:
Um huh. Mel stepped down because the Republicans are about to get the snot beat out of them in the Presidential election and he doesn't want to take the heat. I don't blame him.
The Republican candidates are absolutely horrible. And some of you will disagree with this statement, but I'd vote for Bush again over any of the current frontrunners. That being said, I like Obama, but I think Hillary is going to take it. Speak on it.
Say That!
Booker Rising: "'Thus, lawyers have secured the right of topless dancers to perform, but have banished prayer from public life. They have won the right for indigents to take over public spaces, even our children’s libraries, and for the mentally ill to live on streets and shout obscenities at passersby. Legal advocates have guaranteed the right of students to be ignorant by opposing competency tests, and ignored their brazen possession and use of weapons in school. '
— Janice Rogers Brown, federal judge and conservative Republican"
— Janice Rogers Brown, federal judge and conservative Republican"
Say That!
Responding to claims that he's a distant relative of Vice President Dick Cheney, Senator Barack Obama exclaimed: "I don't want to be invited to the family hunting party."
'Race row' Nobel winner suspended
"Nobel laureate biologist James Watson was suspended Friday from his longtime post at a research laboratory and canceled his planned British book tour after controversial comments that black people are not as intelligent as white people."
Watson, 79, an American who won the 1962 Nobel prize for his role in discovering the double-helix structure of DNA, apologized Thursday for his remarks -- but not before London's Science Museum canceled his talk there, planned for Friday evening.
The museum said Watson's words had "gone beyond the point of acceptable debate.
The museum said Watson's words had "gone beyond the point of acceptable debate.
Click the link to read the rest. Whatever.
UpdateFlorida: Black children more likely to be punished in school
Black children more likely to be punished in school: " Black students in Florida's public schools have been punished far more often than their white or Hispanic classmates and in numbers disproportionate to their population. Black elementary students, for example, made up 54 percent of the elementary students issued out-of-school suspensions in the 2005-06 school year, but only 23 percent of the public school population, according to figures from the Florida Department of Education. Hispanic and white students, on the other hand, were issued suspensions -- both the in-school and out-of-school type -- in numbers that were proportionate to their populations, or far smaller. The same racial discrepancies occurred in the state's middle and high schools. Black students were handed out punishments in numbers disproportionate to their population. Data shows similar discrepancies occurred in 2003 and 2004. Black students in Florida's public schools have been punished far more often than their white or Hispanic classmates and in numbers disproportionate to their population. Black elementary students, for example, made up 54 percent of the elementary students issued out-of-school suspensions in the 2005-06 school year, but only 23 percent of the public school population, according to figures from the Florida Department of Education. Hispanic and white students, on the other hand, were issued suspensions -- both the in-school and out-of-school type -- in numbers that were proportionate to their populations, or far smaller. The same racial discrepancies occurred in the state's middle and high schools. Black students were handed out punishments in numbers disproportionate to their population. Data shows similar discrepancies occurred in 2003 and 2004."
Ummm...no comment for now. I may say something I don't need to say right now.
Ummm...no comment for now. I may say something I don't need to say right now.
Wachovia Bank sues Vick over business loan | ajc.com
Now, this ain't nothing but the devil:
Wachovia Bank sues Vick over business loan ajc.com: "Wachovia Bank has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that Falcons quarterback Michael Vick has defaulted on a $1.3 million loan for a wine store. According to the suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Atlanta on Oct. 2, the bank loaned Vick, partner Gerald Frank Jenkins and Atlantic Wine & Package LLC the money on May 23, 2006, and that a default exists 'when a material adverse change has occurred in the business or prospects of Defendant Vick, financial or otherwise, as determined bythe bank in its sole discretion.'"
The Falcons want to get $20 million from him. His daddy want a million. Now Wachovia wants $1.3 mil. Okay. Good luck with that.
Mike, I still say that everything is going to be all right. Not everybody is against you. some of us don't give a damn about those dogs. We are more concerned with people. Don't do this mess again, though.
Wachovia Bank sues Vick over business loan ajc.com: "Wachovia Bank has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that Falcons quarterback Michael Vick has defaulted on a $1.3 million loan for a wine store. According to the suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Atlanta on Oct. 2, the bank loaned Vick, partner Gerald Frank Jenkins and Atlantic Wine & Package LLC the money on May 23, 2006, and that a default exists 'when a material adverse change has occurred in the business or prospects of Defendant Vick, financial or otherwise, as determined bythe bank in its sole discretion.'"
The Falcons want to get $20 million from him. His daddy want a million. Now Wachovia wants $1.3 mil. Okay. Good luck with that.
Mike, I still say that everything is going to be all right. Not everybody is against you. some of us don't give a damn about those dogs. We are more concerned with people. Don't do this mess again, though.
Harrington is back on the bench...dang
Harrington voices his disappointment ajc.com: "A day after being replaced as the Falcons starting quarterback in favor of Byron Leftwich, Joey Harrington spoke his mind. He's hurt. He doesn't think he deserved to be benched. He could care less if he's viewed as a player who can't cut it as a starter in the NFL. Is it tough? Yeah. It's awful,' Harrington said Thursday. 'It's terrible. Every week I sit here and I pour every ounce of effort I have into this team. And to be sitting here at 1-5 and to be replaced is a difficult thing to deal with. But it's something I've dealt with before."
Poor Joey. Bless he little heart. I feel for him and I honestly don't think Byron Leftwich big, slow behind will do any better. I was so glad when the Jaguars let him go that I became a fan again. Falcons, get it together before I get to the ATL.
Poor Joey. Bless he little heart. I feel for him and I honestly don't think Byron Leftwich big, slow behind will do any better. I was so glad when the Jaguars let him go that I became a fan again. Falcons, get it together before I get to the ATL.
BAW: Party Invite Creates Furor, Dialogue on Color Divide
Party Invite Creates Furor, Dialogue on Color Divide: "Yasmine Toney describes herself as a 'dark-skinned sista.' So when she heard about a recent club promotion in Detroit, allowing all-night free admission to black women with fair or light skin, she was incensed. 'It's offensive,' Toney said. 'It continues a negative stereotype.' 'I'm perceived to be aggressive, assertive, attitude-having ... a lot of things, because my complexion is darker,' said the 24-year-old receptionist. The party was canceled last week after its promoter, who is black, received dozens of complaints. But for Toney and other black women, the issue reopened old, deep wounds as word of the party spread through the Internet."
How black women are viewed -- and treat each other -- depending on the hue of their skin, eye color, and the length and grade of their hair has long been a point of contention for many in the black community.
Many women with lighter skin frequently are accused of believing they are better than those with darker complexions. Many women with brown or dark-brown complexions complain that they too often are not treated as well socially or professionally as those with fairer skin.
"I think they get to slide in a little easier," Toney, who is pursuing a master's degree in counseling, said of women with lighter skin. "They are assumed to be passive and nice and sweet. I feel I have to do a little bit more. Number one, I'm black. Number two, I'm dark and I have short hair."
Interesting.
How black women are viewed -- and treat each other -- depending on the hue of their skin, eye color, and the length and grade of their hair has long been a point of contention for many in the black community.
Many women with lighter skin frequently are accused of believing they are better than those with darker complexions. Many women with brown or dark-brown complexions complain that they too often are not treated as well socially or professionally as those with fairer skin.
"I think they get to slide in a little easier," Toney, who is pursuing a master's degree in counseling, said of women with lighter skin. "They are assumed to be passive and nice and sweet. I feel I have to do a little bit more. Number one, I'm black. Number two, I'm dark and I have short hair."
Interesting.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Jacksonville.com: Metro: Story: 2 children saved from blaze at apartment
2 children saved from blaze at apartment: "Jacksonville firefighters said that when they went into a burning apartment to save lives Tuesday night, they didn't expect to see someone trying to take a child's life right in front of them. But after fire Capt. Steve Boudreau and firefighter David Spencer got inside a bedroom barricaded with furniture, they said they found a father crushing his 2-year-old daughter on the floor. They said in Times-Union interviews Wednesday that, with air masks and other firefighting gear strapped on, they wrestled the man and rescued the toddler from his grip. Once outside, rescuers got the 2-year-old breathing again and took her to Shands Jacksonville hospital. Police said she was in critical condition Wednesday, but fire officials said her condition improved and they'd been told she would make it. Police identified the attacker as Johnnie Everette Young and charged him with arson and domestic battery as they waited to see if the child survived. "
I'm just shakin' my head....
Confederate flag controversy
WCTV Page: "The Sons of Confederate Veterans say it has held monthly meetings at the Golden Corral for nearly two years. Members say they hang a small confederate flag as part of their meeting ceremony. 'There have been groups that have misused it. The Sons of Confederate Veterans, The United ___ of the Confederacy truly regret that. We wish that these other groups had never touched our flag,' said Bob Hurst with The Sons of Confederate Veterans. The group says the flag symbolizes southern heritage and it is their way of showing appreciation to their ancestors. Members say the people who said it was offensive used this as a way to get attention. "
My response:
Um huh...
No, seriously. I don't give a rip about that stupid flag. White people have a right to fly their flag as much as we have a right to fly ours. As a people, we have far more important things to concern ourselves with. Let's focus on the fact that our children still score lower than white kids on standardized tests . Let's focus on the fact that black women, myself included, are carrying the load and we're tired. Let's focus on eliminating black on black crime, or better yet, crime period. "F" that flag.
My response:
Um huh...
No, seriously. I don't give a rip about that stupid flag. White people have a right to fly their flag as much as we have a right to fly ours. As a people, we have far more important things to concern ourselves with. Let's focus on the fact that our children still score lower than white kids on standardized tests . Let's focus on the fact that black women, myself included, are carrying the load and we're tired. Let's focus on eliminating black on black crime, or better yet, crime period. "F" that flag.
The feds met with the Student Coalition for Justice.
Tallahassee, FL.: "Nine members from the Student Coalition for Justice met with federal officials Wednesday about an ongoing civil-rights investigation into the death of Panama City teen Martin Lee Anderson. The students said the meeting went well, but they remained unsure what their next move will be."
T.I. adds high-profile lawyers to defense team
T.I. adds high-profile lawyers to defense team ajc.com: "gun charges brought against him after his arrest last weekend in a sting at a midtown Atlanta parking lot. While a grand jury indicted T.I. on three federal charges Wednesday, lawyer Ed Garland said he and his longtime partner Don Samuel will be working with the rapper's other two hires: Steve Sadow and Dwight Thomas."
I need to hurry up and take the bar. I'm comin' T.I.!
I need to hurry up and take the bar. I'm comin' T.I.!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Duval County School Superintendent Is Out of There
Duval County Superintendent Special Meeting Blog: "The vote was 6-1, with Kris Barnes -- the one board member who has always expressed the need for the superintendent and the board to mend their issues -- casting the dissenting vote. Here is the official roll call: Voting for termination: Chairwoman Vicki Drake, Vice Chairwoman Betty Burney, Brenda Priestly Jackson, Nancy Broner, Tommy Hazouri, Martha Barrett Against termination: Kris Barnes"
My response:
I don't know enough about the situation to make an intelligent, informed comment so I'll leave it alone. But I will say this. I have a special disdain for the Duval County School system as a whole. I personally think they are all a bunch of idiots so who knows what the real situation is. It is this school system and others like them that led me to make the decision to become a Republican.
My response:
I don't know enough about the situation to make an intelligent, informed comment so I'll leave it alone. But I will say this. I have a special disdain for the Duval County School system as a whole. I personally think they are all a bunch of idiots so who knows what the real situation is. It is this school system and others like them that led me to make the decision to become a Republican.
Xavier knows what HE did wrong...please
Nolesports.com: "Quarterback Xavier Lee's mistakes lead to questions. But what's reassuring to Florida State offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher is that Lee has consistently come up with the right answers. “He comes off probably 95 to 98 percent of the time and understands what he did wrong, why he did it wrong,” Fisher said Monday."
My response:
So it was all on Xavier, huh? It wasn't on O-line? It wasn't on the stupid penalties? It wasn't on the coaching staff for taking him out of the game at a time when we could have and should have scored. I ain't studdin' FSU. They make me sick right now.
My response:
So it was all on Xavier, huh? It wasn't on O-line? It wasn't on the stupid penalties? It wasn't on the coaching staff for taking him out of the game at a time when we could have and should have scored. I ain't studdin' FSU. They make me sick right now.
Bills, Bills, Bills
Bynum's $4.5M home to be auctioned for taxes ajc.com: "Evangelist Juanita Bynum's $4.5 million South Georgia compound is scheduled to be auctioned off next month for non-payment of property taxes, officials said. Ware County tax commissioner Steve Barnard filed a lien against the 23.6-acre property owned by Juanita Bynum Ministries on June 7, citing failure to pay $32,007.56 in 2006 property tax."
I hear this song playing in my head. "Can you pay my bills, can you pay my telephone bill, do you pay my authomobile if you do then maybe we can chill...I don't think you do, sooooooooo you and me are through....do do do do doo doo"
Help 'em Lord.
I hear this song playing in my head. "Can you pay my bills, can you pay my telephone bill, do you pay my authomobile if you do then maybe we can chill...I don't think you do, sooooooooo you and me are through....do do do do doo doo"
Help 'em Lord.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Say That!
"You kill a dog and go to jail, you kill a little black boy and nothing happens."
-- Ben Crump, attorney for Martin Lee Anderson's parents.
I must confess, my faith is shaken
There is so much mess going on in the world and in the church that I no longer know what I believe. Do we baptize in Jesus's name or do we have to say "In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost? Is baptism even necessary? Am I cursed if I don't tithe? Am I blessed if I do?
I am sick. Sick, sick, sick of religious people. They are mean, judgmental, self righteous hypocrites and I'm telling you I don't believe in church anymore.
But I do believe in God. Why?
As a little girl, I attended a small sanctified church. They used to sing this song:
Well, let me tell you he's real....real....Jesus is real to me.
Oh yes, He gives me the victory
You can't make me doubt Him
I know too much about Him
That is why I love him so
He's so real to me
He's made Himself real to me. He kept me when I thought I was losing my mind. I went through life feeling unloved and unloveable. He's made ways and opened doors. He blessed in the face of my enemies. He's answered my prayers and some He didn't. It all turned out to be a blessing My daughter almost died...Doctors said she wouldn't live through the night but she's still alive and gettin' on my nerves.
Lawd, I feel like preaching. ( I used to pastor a church by the way).
That's why I don't argue with folks about God. He can't be explained. He has to be experienced.
Sadly, these days, the last place I go to experience God is church. But no matter how turned off I am to religion, I still seek relationship with God. My faith in church folks is shaken, but not my faith in God.
So I want to encourage all those who read this post. In the face of all the mess that we see and hear every day, losing faith is understandable. Just don't lose your faith in God.
I am sick. Sick, sick, sick of religious people. They are mean, judgmental, self righteous hypocrites and I'm telling you I don't believe in church anymore.
But I do believe in God. Why?
As a little girl, I attended a small sanctified church. They used to sing this song:
Well, let me tell you he's real....real....Jesus is real to me.
Oh yes, He gives me the victory
You can't make me doubt Him
I know too much about Him
That is why I love him so
He's so real to me
He's made Himself real to me. He kept me when I thought I was losing my mind. I went through life feeling unloved and unloveable. He's made ways and opened doors. He blessed in the face of my enemies. He's answered my prayers and some He didn't. It all turned out to be a blessing My daughter almost died...Doctors said she wouldn't live through the night but she's still alive and gettin' on my nerves.
Lawd, I feel like preaching. ( I used to pastor a church by the way).
That's why I don't argue with folks about God. He can't be explained. He has to be experienced.
Sadly, these days, the last place I go to experience God is church. But no matter how turned off I am to religion, I still seek relationship with God. My faith in church folks is shaken, but not my faith in God.
So I want to encourage all those who read this post. In the face of all the mess that we see and hear every day, losing faith is understandable. Just don't lose your faith in God.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Let the Hater's Hate On
Apparently, some film critics were not feeling Mr. Perry's "Why Did I Get Married?" Which is why I pay them absolutely no attention because they don't know what good movies are.
"Married" is No. 1 movie at the box office. According to AccessAtlanta: "More than just Atlantans dig a Tyler Perry movie. His latest relationship comedy “Why Did I Get Married?” finished No. 1 at the box office in North America over the weekend, amassing an estimated $21.5 million, according to Boxofficemojo.com."
Do your thang, Tyler Perry. The movie was awesome! Receive the love. Ignore the hate.
"Married" is No. 1 movie at the box office. According to AccessAtlanta: "More than just Atlantans dig a Tyler Perry movie. His latest relationship comedy “Why Did I Get Married?” finished No. 1 at the box office in North America over the weekend, amassing an estimated $21.5 million, according to Boxofficemojo.com."
Do your thang, Tyler Perry. The movie was awesome! Receive the love. Ignore the hate.
Say That!
"The more I reflected on what was happening, the more it astonished me. As a child of the Deep South, I'd grown up fearing the lynch mobs of the Ku Klux Klan; as an adult, I was starting to wonder if I'd been afraid of the wrong white people all along. My worst fears had come to pass not in Georgia, but in Washington, D.C., where I was being pursued not by bigots in white robes but by left-wing zealots draped in flowing sanctimony. For all the fear I'd known as a boy in Savannah, this was the first time I'd found myself at the mercy of people who would do whatever they could to hurt me - and institutions that had once prided themselves on bring segregation and its abuses to an end were aiding and abetting in the assault. Hypersensitive civil rights leaders who saw racism around every corner fell silent when my liberal enemies sneered that I was unqualfied to sit on the Court; editors and reporters who claimed to be objective substituted a pretense of balance for true fariness, presenting outrageous, wholly unsupported allegation side by side with spluttering denials. The implausible was now being treated more favorably than the obvious."
- Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, conservative Republican, in his memoir My Grandfather's Son
- Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, conservative Republican, in his memoir My Grandfather's Son
For black women Clinton-Obama poses a quandary: Times Argus Online
For black women Clinton-Obama poses a quandary: Times Argus Online: "We always love Hillary because we love her husband,' Vereen said. Then she paused. Much of the chitchat in her shop is about whether a woman could or should be president. 'A man is supposed to be the head,' she said. 'I feel like the Lord has put man first, and I believe in the Bible.'"
My response:
Are you serious? Are there really people who still think like that? My intention was to take this post in a completely different direction, but I had to comment. I'm not going to get into a theological debate but I'll say this. People need to get an understanding of the Bible and the God of the Bible. This kind of stuff makes me sick.
My response:
Are you serious? Are there really people who still think like that? My intention was to take this post in a completely different direction, but I had to comment. I'm not going to get into a theological debate but I'll say this. People need to get an understanding of the Bible and the God of the Bible. This kind of stuff makes me sick.
What's Really Happening?
I tried not to say anything. I said I wouldn't comment. I've never been able to keep my mouth closed so why do it now?
Something is wrong with my beloved 'Noles. It leads me to ask the unthinkable. Is Bobby Bowden a racist?
I ask this question because I can not for the life of me understand why Drew Weatherford was sent into the game against Wake Forrest on Thursday night. Xavier did a good job in the first half and even with the interception that led to his being benched for a series, Drew''s insertion was unwarranted and baffling.
Nothing against Drew. I like him. He's a personable young man, but he had no business being allowed to go into the game. This is pure speculation, but if X, who had the hot hand, had been allowed to go in when Drew was sent in, we may have scored and perhaps even won the game. Instead, we went three and out.
Now, there were other issues. Number 98 ticked me off so bad I wanted to reach through the tv and bench him myself. He kept two crucial drives alive for Wake Forrest when they were about to have to turn it over. Dumb.
Then there was Greg Carr, whom I happen to like a lot, but in my opinion he was the one at fault for the interception. He let that little midget #2 get behind him. (Nothing against #2. The young man is good. He just made me mad when he caught a ball that was clearly meant for Carr).
Anyway, it seems to be that the coaches are looking for any reason they can find to bench Xavier. I don't know what the problem is. Did X make somebody mad? Can he read the play book? Are the boosters pressuring Bobby to play Drew? What is it? I'm looking for any explanation other than the one that so many say it is. I know God fearing Bobby Bowden can not be against playing a black quarterback.
Somebody tell me what it is.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
What You Know About 'Dat
Atlanta rapper T.I. arrested on weapons charges AccessAtlanta: "where he won two awards, including best CD of the year. He spent it in Atlanta City Jail, awaiting a first appearance in federal court sometime this afternoon. If convicted of the two felonies -- possession of three unregistered machine guns and two silencers, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon -- Harris, 27, can face up to 10 years in federal prison, said Dwight Thomas, one of two defending lawyers him."
My response:
I like Clifford. I really do, but honestly, it was just a matter of time and it's sad because I look at him and I listen to him and the boy has a gift. He just doesn't know how to use it. Dang. I'm looking for something to happen to David Banner next.
My response:
I like Clifford. I really do, but honestly, it was just a matter of time and it's sad because I look at him and I listen to him and the boy has a gift. He just doesn't know how to use it. Dang. I'm looking for something to happen to David Banner next.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Wise angers board with call for member's ouster
Wise angers board with call for member's ouster: "Duval County schools Superintendent Joseph Wise on Friday publicly called for School Board member Brenda Priestly Jackson to resign, claiming that she does not live in the district she represents.
My response:
I reserve comment at this time but the letter is below.
Ms. Brenda Priestly Jackson
5089 Andrew Robinson Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32209
Dear Ms. Priestly Jackson:
I write this letter with profound sadness, and with deep regret. In recent months, you have exhibited behaviors that have been both divisive and destructive, and your actions have substantively eroded the community confidence in the School Board and in this district. What troubles me more, however, is the impact your conduct has had on our ability to meet the needs of our children; your behaviors have begun to demonstrate a contempt for the rules by which we live, and for the taxpayers who support the work we do.
I thought long and hard before writing this, but last evening I received information thatndependent of your behaviors in recent monthseaves me as secretary to the Board no alternative but to request your resignation from the Duval County School Board.
I have received data evidencing that you do not reside within the nominating district within which you have claimed to reside.[1] It appears you have not resided there in some timepparently even before your last election. Under FL Statute 1001.38, your resignation is required for this statutory violation alone.
But this statutory violation is not an isolated issue. Nor is it the sole basis of the request for your resignation. In the period I have been superintendent, I have attempted to accommodate aberrant behaviors in an effort to prevent disruption affecting our students and teachers, and to ensure a stability I felt was crucial if we were to achieve genuine reform in this District to benefit kids. I realize now that this accommodation was a mistake. In sum, here are some of the additional reasons I am compelled to request your resignation from the Duval County School Board:
1. You have attempted to use your position to influence the placement of your husband, an employee of the district, into a position of higher pay and apparent status for which he was not best qualified. You subsequently persisted in repeated reprisals following my refusal to honor your wishes relating to the employment of your husband; this conduct continues, and includes inexplicable false assertions that I am a racist, claims that I have targeted your husband for retribution because of your statements directed at me personally, and assertions that I have engaged in some sort of impropriety by remaining on the boards of nonprofit organizations.
2. You attempted to use your position to circumvent the school choice/magnet program by directing staffnd then meo place two of your children in magnet schools for which there are extensive wait lists, and for which you had failed in any manner to comply with rules governing placement. You stated that you were exercising your oard member prerogative. When it was explained to you that what you soughtolely because of your position and status as a Board memberould not be equitably provided, you alleged members of the District senior staff had been shown the favoritism you were seeking. Inexplicably, when an investigation of your allegation was initiated, you expressly and in writing refused to cooperate. This defiance on the matter was troubling, and telling.
3. You continue to refuse to reimburse the school district for taxpayer funds you expended to subsidize your family vacation. On June 20, 2007, you elected to drive rather than fly to attend a School Board-related function in New York City; you acknowledge you took your family and billed the school district for two hotel rooms a night in Florence, South Carolina and a suite in Piscataway, New Jersey. Despite the Office of General Counsel letter to you of July 31, 2007, explaining the requirement that you reimburse the school district, you have to date refused to provide the reimbursement.
I can provide additional examples of these aberrant behaviors if you sense providing more would in any manner assist you.
When you and fellow Board members voted unanimously to hire me, we discussed how we as a team would work together: targets would be set, and the Board would hold me accountable for ultimately reaching those targets. I was led to believe that you trusted my judgment, and that the primary reason you hired me was to exercise that judgment. Since my refusal to yield to your personal wishes shortly after arriving here, I have been obligated to sustain repeated and inexplicable behaviors on your part; behaviors, I must now acknowledge, that are radically interfering with my obligation to do the work I have been retained to do for the children and employees of this District.
As in every contract, there is an implied duty imposed upon each party to act in good faith. Brenda, regrettably, we have reached a point where I can no longer remain silent about your breach of that duty. Your behaviors, initially disturbing and distracting, are now something more: they are destructive. And they can no longer be ignored if the work, necessary to make a difference in our kidslives, is to get done. Respectfully, I submit this letter as a formal request for your resignation from the Duval County School Board; it is necessary if we are to restore Board and employeesfocus on meeting our studentsneeds.
Sincerely,
Joseph Wise
Superintendent
plezWorld: Clarence Thomas - The Bitter Justice
plezWorld: Clarence Thomas - The Bitter Justice
Once again, I am borrowing from plezWorld because I echo his feelings.
I also want to take this opportunity to apologize to Uncle ClarenceThomas because I was one of the ones who protested his confirmation. At the time I was President of the FSU Chapter of the NAACP. I was interviewed on CNN and I vehemently denounced Clarence Thomas. I did what they told me to do. I believed the people who said they had Black America's interest at heart. I was wrong.
This is why I stress to black people all the time to think for themselves. Don't hop on a bandwagon just because some so called black leader tells you to.
Once again, I am borrowing from plezWorld because I echo his feelings.
I also want to take this opportunity to apologize to Uncle ClarenceThomas because I was one of the ones who protested his confirmation. At the time I was President of the FSU Chapter of the NAACP. I was interviewed on CNN and I vehemently denounced Clarence Thomas. I did what they told me to do. I believed the people who said they had Black America's interest at heart. I was wrong.
This is why I stress to black people all the time to think for themselves. Don't hop on a bandwagon just because some so called black leader tells you to.
THINK FOR YOURSELF!
Get all the facts and make an informed decision about the positions you take.
Once again, Uncle Clarence. I apologize. This time, the Uncle before your name is used affectionately.
Once again, Uncle Clarence. I apologize. This time, the Uncle before your name is used affectionately.
BAW: After Subpoena, Columbia Turns Over Security Tapes
After Subpoena, Columbia Turns Over Security Tapes: "The graduate school where a noose was found on the door of a black professor agreed Thursday to turn over security videotape, but police were dismayed that they had to get a subpoena to acquire the evidence."
Mychal Bell of the `Jena 6' Back in Jail | ajc.com
Mychal Bell of the `Jena 6' Back in Jail ajc.com: "Mychal Bell, 17, was unexpectedly sent back to prison on Thursday after going to juvenile court in central Louisiana's LaSalle Parish for what he expected to be a routine hearing, Carol Powell Lexing, one of his attorneys said. Instead, state District Judge J.P. Mauffrey Jr. decided Bell had violated probation and sentenced him to 18 months in jail on two counts of simple battery and two counts of criminal destruction of property, Lexing said. 'This matter was unrelated to the December 2006 event at Jena High School, and that case was not even mentioned in the court proceedings,' District Attorney Reed Walters said Friday."
Where are the Great African American Authors
LaShelle Turner, a student writes: "Something is inherently wrong with the publishing industry when former hip hop video star, Karrine Steffans, is the most interviewed and talked about African American author this year. This woman, who has made a career of telling lurid details of her intimate life with hip hop celebrities, has been on every major syndicated black radio program in the country.
Her first book, Video Vixen, became a bestseller and her second book, The Vixen Diaries, is gathering even more press. She even made it to the modern day pinnacle of author success; she was on Oprah. Are we so used to salacious gossip that it has become literature? Do we want these types of books to represent the model of a bestselling black author?
Karrine Steffans represents the reality for many black authors in today’s publishing industry. There are few great examples of African American literary authors on bookstore shelves. Most chain bookstores are filled with books by black authors who write tales of lust, sex, drugs and more sex.
Steffans’s books started a new genre of books, the Hip Hop Tattle Tell. Since the debut of her first book, many have followed her recipe for book selling success. Carmen Bryan’s It’s no Secret told her story of becoming a hip-hop baby mama. Tarsha Jones’s Meet Ms. Jones tells of her sexual conquests of rap stars, being a DJ is the side story. Even Terry McMillan’s ex-husband Jonathan Plummer has made his debut as an author. His book, Balancing Act, is a thinly veiled fiction version of his very public divorce from McMillan. No doubt ghostwriters are writing most of these books. It is hard to learn sentence structure and cohesion between all the bed hopping and chasing celebrities.
Note to all struggling black authors trying to get a publishing deal: Forget sending out queries and taking creative writing workshops, just go sleep with a few black celebrities and remember to take good notes."
My response:
She said it all. Nothing to add.
Her first book, Video Vixen, became a bestseller and her second book, The Vixen Diaries, is gathering even more press. She even made it to the modern day pinnacle of author success; she was on Oprah. Are we so used to salacious gossip that it has become literature? Do we want these types of books to represent the model of a bestselling black author?
Karrine Steffans represents the reality for many black authors in today’s publishing industry. There are few great examples of African American literary authors on bookstore shelves. Most chain bookstores are filled with books by black authors who write tales of lust, sex, drugs and more sex.
Steffans’s books started a new genre of books, the Hip Hop Tattle Tell. Since the debut of her first book, many have followed her recipe for book selling success. Carmen Bryan’s It’s no Secret told her story of becoming a hip-hop baby mama. Tarsha Jones’s Meet Ms. Jones tells of her sexual conquests of rap stars, being a DJ is the side story. Even Terry McMillan’s ex-husband Jonathan Plummer has made his debut as an author. His book, Balancing Act, is a thinly veiled fiction version of his very public divorce from McMillan. No doubt ghostwriters are writing most of these books. It is hard to learn sentence structure and cohesion between all the bed hopping and chasing celebrities.
Note to all struggling black authors trying to get a publishing deal: Forget sending out queries and taking creative writing workshops, just go sleep with a few black celebrities and remember to take good notes."
My response:
She said it all. Nothing to add.
Federal authorities to review Anderson case
There is still hope for justice in the case of Martin Lee Anderson, a young man who was murdered in a Florida boot camp last year. A group of black state legislators are calling for federal intervention.
Click here for the story: http://tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071013/CAPITOLNEWS/710130333/1010
Click here for the story: http://tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071013/CAPITOLNEWS/710130333/1010
Friday, October 12, 2007
Jury takes 90 minutes to clear boot-camp defendants
An all-white jury found all defendants not guilty in the death of Martin Lee Anderson after 90 minutes of deliberations here today.
Anderson's mother, Gina Jones, stormed out the courtroom after the final verdict was read.
"I can't see my son no more, but everybody sees their family!" Jones shouted.
Six jurors cleared the seven former Bay County juvenile boot camp drill instructors and a camp nurse not responsible for the 14-year-old boy's death. They were seen on a video kicking, kneeing and punching the boy, but the defense proved he died from a benign blood disorder, sickle-cell trait, not by the guards' actions.
The case has been racially charged since five of the defendants were white, two black and one Asian.
"You kill a dog and go to jail, you kill a little black boy and nothing happens," said Ben Crump, attorney for Anderson's parents.
Jurors in the case were escorted out by sheriff deputies as they entered their vehicles, and were given escorts by deputies driving patrol cars.
A number of defense attorneys appeared on Court TV following the verdict, and Bay County Circuit Judge Michael Overstreet, who presided over the case, watched from a chair in the courtroom on a television, sometimes laughing at the commentary.
The three Hillsborough County prosecutors who tried the case left immediately after the verdict.
Defense attorneys were more than happy to give media interviews.
Hoot Crawford, who represented Henry McFadden Jr., said the prosecution's witnesses hurt their own case.
"Two experts having conflicting testimony," Crawford said. "Their witnesses killed them."
The prosecution had one medical examiner testify Anderson died from suffocation, while another disagreed and said the boy died from lack of oxygen.
My response:
This is bull! I am honestly in tears right now. I can't believe this.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Martin Lee Anderson's Father Removed From Court
The father of Martin Lee Anderson was banned from the trial in the death of his 14-year-old son Wednesday.
Bay County Circuit Judge Michael Overstreet said he had warned he'd remove anyone who made noise during testimony, and after a sidebar requested by defense attorney Waylon Graham, he told four people in one row to leave and not come back.
"If you interrupt this trial during this court proceeding, I'm going to remove you," Overstreet said.
Of the four removed, one was Robert Anderson, Martin Lee Anderson's father.
"We hadn't said nothing," said Robert Anderson, in the parking lot of the boot camp where his son was the day before he died. "That's why I didn't want the trial in Bay County."
The Panama City teen died Jan. 6, the day after drill instructors at the camp punched, kneed and dragged him around the boot camp. Seven drill instructors and a camp nurse are charged with felony aggravated manslaughter of a child and face up to 30 years in prison if convicted.
The courtroom is mostly segregated by race and victim's or defendants' family. Five of the defendants are white, two are black and one is Asian. Anderson was black.
Last week during the testimony of Hillsborough County medical examiner Dr. Vernard Adams, who said Anderson died because drill instructors suffocated him, defendants' family and supporters let out a gasp, to which Overstreet gave a warning, but no one was removed.
On Tuesday Graham, attorney for former drill instructor Charles Helms Jr., told defendants' family and friends to wait for the other side to leave during a recess so there won't be any problems.
Graham said he had heard people on the side where the jury sits, and who mostly have ties to the victim, making noise during some testimony. Today he put someone to sit on that side and listen for noise.
During the testimony of former drill instructor Henry McFadden Jr., Graham interrupted and asked Overstreet for a sidebar with the attorneys after he had received a note.
"We've heard it for several days," said Graham, after an interview with Court TV. "We had people sitting there listening for it. . . .The problem is they're sitting next to the jury."
Asked if he was disturbed that Anderson's father was banned from the trial, Graham said, "I'm sorry about that, but you have to keep quiet in a trial."
Supporters of Robert Anderson said they were quiet before they were asked to leave and the reason was deeper than just making noise.
"The testimony was not in their favor so they needed a distraction," said Gerald Bryant, cousin of Robert Anderson. "It's called growing up black in Bay County."
Bay County Circuit Judge Michael Overstreet said he had warned he'd remove anyone who made noise during testimony, and after a sidebar requested by defense attorney Waylon Graham, he told four people in one row to leave and not come back.
"If you interrupt this trial during this court proceeding, I'm going to remove you," Overstreet said.
Of the four removed, one was Robert Anderson, Martin Lee Anderson's father.
"We hadn't said nothing," said Robert Anderson, in the parking lot of the boot camp where his son was the day before he died. "That's why I didn't want the trial in Bay County."
The Panama City teen died Jan. 6, the day after drill instructors at the camp punched, kneed and dragged him around the boot camp. Seven drill instructors and a camp nurse are charged with felony aggravated manslaughter of a child and face up to 30 years in prison if convicted.
The courtroom is mostly segregated by race and victim's or defendants' family. Five of the defendants are white, two are black and one is Asian. Anderson was black.
Last week during the testimony of Hillsborough County medical examiner Dr. Vernard Adams, who said Anderson died because drill instructors suffocated him, defendants' family and supporters let out a gasp, to which Overstreet gave a warning, but no one was removed.
On Tuesday Graham, attorney for former drill instructor Charles Helms Jr., told defendants' family and friends to wait for the other side to leave during a recess so there won't be any problems.
Graham said he had heard people on the side where the jury sits, and who mostly have ties to the victim, making noise during some testimony. Today he put someone to sit on that side and listen for noise.
During the testimony of former drill instructor Henry McFadden Jr., Graham interrupted and asked Overstreet for a sidebar with the attorneys after he had received a note.
"We've heard it for several days," said Graham, after an interview with Court TV. "We had people sitting there listening for it. . . .The problem is they're sitting next to the jury."
Asked if he was disturbed that Anderson's father was banned from the trial, Graham said, "I'm sorry about that, but you have to keep quiet in a trial."
Supporters of Robert Anderson said they were quiet before they were asked to leave and the reason was deeper than just making noise.
"The testimony was not in their favor so they needed a distraction," said Gerald Bryant, cousin of Robert Anderson. "It's called growing up black in Bay County."
Officer Sues Family of baby who Nearly Drowned
People are just greedy. Greedy I tell you.
"In January, 1-year-old Joey Cosmillo wandered into the backyard and fell into the family pool. When his mother hauled him out, he wasn't breathing. Rescuers were able to bring him back to life, but he suffered severe brain damage and cannot walk, talk or even swallow.
Now, his family faces another burden: One of the rescuers, Casselberry police Sgt. Andrea Eichhorn, is suing, alleging the family left a puddle of water on the floor that afternoon, causing her to slip and fall."
I'm just shaking my head...
"In January, 1-year-old Joey Cosmillo wandered into the backyard and fell into the family pool. When his mother hauled him out, he wasn't breathing. Rescuers were able to bring him back to life, but he suffered severe brain damage and cannot walk, talk or even swallow.
Now, his family faces another burden: One of the rescuers, Casselberry police Sgt. Andrea Eichhorn, is suing, alleging the family left a puddle of water on the floor that afternoon, causing her to slip and fall."
I'm just shaking my head...
Farewell, President Sliger. Thanks for the Memories
I remember Bernie Sliger. He was the President of Florida State University for a number of years. The University grew tremendously under his leadership. He was such a warm person. He had an ice cream social at his home every year. That event was one of the things that made me fall in love with Florida State. I've spoken with him on several occasions. He passed away today. He will be missed.
Lee's Priorities In The Right Place
So XL missed practiced yesterday because he was meeting with a professor to make up work. Hmmm....I'd say he's got his priorities straight. http://www.nolesports.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071010/FSU03/710100359
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Teammate Responsible for the Set Up
You know what? People are absolutely crazy.
Prosecutors won't charge Jacksonville University running back Rudell Small after teammate Cecil Coltrane admitted planting more than 20 grams of marijuana in Small's dorm room, authorities said Thursday.
Are you kidding me?
So Coltrane couldn't just work hard and go after the position with his talent? No, that's too much like right. But, at least this isn't as bad as the back up punter stabbing the starting punter for his position. It's still crazy though.
Click on the link (above) and read it for yourself.
Okay...that link is not working so click here.http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2007/10/04/jacksonville_plot_1005.html
Prosecutors won't charge Jacksonville University running back Rudell Small after teammate Cecil Coltrane admitted planting more than 20 grams of marijuana in Small's dorm room, authorities said Thursday.
Are you kidding me?
So Coltrane couldn't just work hard and go after the position with his talent? No, that's too much like right. But, at least this isn't as bad as the back up punter stabbing the starting punter for his position. It's still crazy though.
Click on the link (above) and read it for yourself.
Okay...that link is not working so click here.http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/stories/2007/10/04/jacksonville_plot_1005.html
Civil Rights Betrayed
According to Walter E. Williams, predominately black public schools are out of control.
Well, duh!
I'm not making fun of him, I'm simply pointing out that he is stating the very obvious.
"Much of what's seen today is a result of harebrained ideas and a tolerance for barbaric behavior. Kathleen Parker cited such an example in her May 16 syndicated column. The case concerned teacher Elizabeth Kandrac, who was routinely verbally abused by black students at Brentwood Middle School in North Charleston, S.C. A sample of the abusive language: white b----, white m-----f-----, white c---, white ho. Despite frequent complaints, school officials did nothing to stop the abuse. They told her this racially charged profanity was simply part of the students' culture, and if Kandrac couldn't handle the students' cursing, she was in the wrong school. Kandrac brought suit alleging a racially hostile work environment, and the school district settled out of court for $200,000.
People with such a tolerant mindset are in effect saying that blacks are not to be held to civilized standards of conduct and academic expectations that might be enforced for others. That's a disgusting and debilitating notion. I guarantee you that years ago, such nonsense would not have been tolerated, and a person making excuses for barbaric behavior by black students would have been considered a lunatic.
What has been allowed in predominantly black schools is nothing less than a betrayal of the struggle paid with blood, sweat and tears by previous generations to make possible the educational opportunities so long denied blacks that are being routinely squandered today. Blacks who lived through that struggle and are no longer with us wouldn't have believed such a betrayal possible.
There's enough blame to go around for each to have his share: students who are alien and hostile to the education process, parents who don't give a damn, and the education establishment and politicians who accommodate and excuse this tragedy of black education."
I could not agree more. Read the entire article here: https://http//www.townhall.com/Columnists/WalterEWilliams/2007/10/03/betrayal_of_the_civil_rights_struggle
Powell on Affirmative Action
"I have always supported affirmative action. I believe there is still a place for it. I spoke at the 1996 Republican convention in San Diego with my friend Ward Connerly [a black opponent of affirmative action] sitting in the audience. He had warned me that he would walk out if I made any reference to affirmative action. And when I did express my support for it, I looked right at him, and he didn’t move. Affirmative action is a concept that is probably not a growth industry. I’m glad it will eventually go away. But when I go to these inner-city neighborhoods, including across the street here in the Washington area, you can’t tell me these kids have the same opportunity that other kids have or that my kids have. Is it because they’re black that these kids are at a disadvantage? To some extent no, to some extent yes. We can’t deny it. Therefore, to the extent that we still believe it appropriate to provide some way of balancing the legacy of the past, I think we have an obligation to do so."
My response:
I don't think I'm really a conservative. I'm conservative on some issues and I'm certainly more conservative than many, perhaps even most, black people. But no matter how conservative a black person is, there is no reason based in common sense for opposing Affirmative Action. Ward Connerly makes me sick. Why didn't Colin Powell run for President?
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Say It Ain't So, 'Saiah. Say It Ain't So!
A jury ruled today that the New York Knicks coach sexually harassed a former top team executive, subjecting her to unwanted advances and a barrage of verbal insults, but also ruled he does not have to pay punitive damages. After an ugly, three-week trial, the ruling gives Thomas a partial victory in the $10 million lawsuit filed by Anucha Browne Sanders.The jury found that Madison Square Garden committed harassment against the woman, and ruled that she is entitled to punitive damages from MSG. U.S. District Judge Gerard E. Lynch called it an "imminently reasonable" verdict and said the jury will be asked to return later today to hear brief arguments on punitive damages.Ms. Browne Sanders, fired from her $260,000 a year job in 2006, sued Thomas and Madison Square Garden. Her case presented MSG as "Animal House" in sneakers, a place where nepotism, sexism, crude remarks and crass language were part of the culture. The former Northwestern University basketball star characterized Thomas as a foul-mouthed lout who initially berated her as a "b___h" and a "ho" before his anger gave way to unwanted sexual advances and encouraging her to visit him "off site."Thomas, who was hired in December 2003, denied all her allegations. Attorneys for Thomas and the Garden also portrayed Browne Sanders as incompetent and unable to adapt once the former NBA star player arrived as the Knicks' president.
No comment.
No comment.
Teachers Place Noose Around Kindergartner's Neck
Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007
By: Jackie Jones, BlackAmericaWeb.com
"One veteran teacher has been suspended and the future of three first-year teachers at Grambling University’s laboratory school is in question as university officials investigate an incident in which a noose was placed around a kindergarten student’s neck as part of an impromptu lesson on racism.
According to the university, the teachers said the children in a combined kindergarten-first grade class at Alma J. Brown Elementary School on the Grambling campus were asking questions about the Jena Six case in Louisiana, in which six black high school students were accused of attacking a white classmate after a series of skirmishes that began after a group of white students hung nooses from a tree on the campus.
Grambling President Horace Judson told CNN Tuesday morning that the instructors decided on the spur of the moment that the case presented a “teachable moment” and at recess put together an impromptu lesson about “non-violent demonstrations to challenge racism” as part of a mock rally.
The incident took place on Sept. 20, the same day that thousands of protesters rallied in Jena to challenge the arrests on adult charges of the six black students."
Ummm...I don't know how I feel about this story so I reserve comment.
By: Jackie Jones, BlackAmericaWeb.com
"One veteran teacher has been suspended and the future of three first-year teachers at Grambling University’s laboratory school is in question as university officials investigate an incident in which a noose was placed around a kindergarten student’s neck as part of an impromptu lesson on racism.
According to the university, the teachers said the children in a combined kindergarten-first grade class at Alma J. Brown Elementary School on the Grambling campus were asking questions about the Jena Six case in Louisiana, in which six black high school students were accused of attacking a white classmate after a series of skirmishes that began after a group of white students hung nooses from a tree on the campus.
Grambling President Horace Judson told CNN Tuesday morning that the instructors decided on the spur of the moment that the case presented a “teachable moment” and at recess put together an impromptu lesson about “non-violent demonstrations to challenge racism” as part of a mock rally.
The incident took place on Sept. 20, the same day that thousands of protesters rallied in Jena to challenge the arrests on adult charges of the six black students."
Ummm...I don't know how I feel about this story so I reserve comment.
Commentary from Black America Web -- Mychal Bell Owes A Lot of People
Date: Wednesday, October 03, 2007By:
Tonyaa Weathersbee, BlackAmericaWeb.com
I hope that Mychal Bell understands that just because a kindly black physician put up $45,000 for his bail doesn’t mean he’s debt-free.
He owes a lot of people. Himself included.
Unless you’ve been living in a cave with Bedouin sheepherders for the past three months, you know that Bell, 17, is one of the Jena Six. He and four other black teenagers were charged with attempted murder -- a charge that had them facing up to 20 years in prison -- for a schoolyard brawl in which they beat up a white teenager who, according to some reports, had taunted them racially.
The plight of Bell and his friends has become the flashpoint for what may evolve into a new civil rights movement; one that centers on equal justice as well as equal access. More than 20,000 protesters descended on Jena, La. last month to show their outrage over a punishment that clearly did not fit the crime -- the white teenager who was beaten up was treated and released from the hospital in time to attend a ring ceremony that night."
Tonyaa Weathersbee, BlackAmericaWeb.com
I hope that Mychal Bell understands that just because a kindly black physician put up $45,000 for his bail doesn’t mean he’s debt-free.
He owes a lot of people. Himself included.
Unless you’ve been living in a cave with Bedouin sheepherders for the past three months, you know that Bell, 17, is one of the Jena Six. He and four other black teenagers were charged with attempted murder -- a charge that had them facing up to 20 years in prison -- for a schoolyard brawl in which they beat up a white teenager who, according to some reports, had taunted them racially.
The plight of Bell and his friends has become the flashpoint for what may evolve into a new civil rights movement; one that centers on equal justice as well as equal access. More than 20,000 protesters descended on Jena, La. last month to show their outrage over a punishment that clearly did not fit the crime -- the white teenager who was beaten up was treated and released from the hospital in time to attend a ring ceremony that night."
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Lee is the Man
Xavier Lee is officially the starting QB for FSU. Before I get all happy I'll just wait and see how this plays out. They made him the starter last year and as soon as he made one mistake they pulled him. We'll see Jimbo Fisher. We'll see.
Gator Accused of Burglary
Apparently, Tony Joiner, the starting safety on the Florida Gators' football team was arrested and charged with burglary. Since Florida State haters love to call us "Creminoles" I couldn't wait to post this story to prove that Florida State players are not the only ones who get into trouble. http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3046053
But this is sad. Based on what I read, it seems like the young man simply made a bad decision and tried to correct it. I hope everything turns out alright for him.
But this is sad. Based on what I read, it seems like the young man simply made a bad decision and tried to correct it. I hope everything turns out alright for him.
Monday, October 1, 2007
The "X Man" is the Best Man
This was a good weekend in college football as far as I'm concerned. USF beat West Virginia. Colorado knocked off Oklahoma. Unbelievable. Florida State beat Alabama and almost as important to me, Florida lost! Yayyyy!!!
Florida State won largely and mostly because of the performance of Xavier Lee, or as he is affectionately known, the "X Man." All I have to say about that is... "It's about daggum time." The only question I have is, "What the heck took so long?"
I don't know why X didn't get his chance sooner. Some say, of course, racism. Some say he couldn't read the play book. That sounds a little suspect to me. Some say he ticked somebody off on the coaching staff. I say, they better be glad he's not my son becuase he would have transferred by now.
Make no mistake about it. I am not a Florida State fan. I have not jumped on the Seminole bandwagon. I am Florida State Alumni. Fans change their minds every time the wind blows. I don't have that option. I stick through good and bad. I love Florida State but I'm telling you, some of the decisions they made ticked me off so if I were a fan, I would have dumped Florida State two years ago.
But after Saturday night, I'm glad I stuck around and I'm extremely optimistic. I have nothing against Drew Weatherford. I actually think he's a stand up guy, but it's time to give X a chance. I think he is our best chance to make it back to Jacksonville this year. http://tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071001/FSU03/710010331
Xavier is FSU's Savior.
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