Universal Blackness

Quote of the Month: Arthur Ashe

2011-11-16T12:56:00.001-08:00

"Racism is not an excuse to not do the best you can."

Leila Lopez of Angola is the New Miss Universe

2011-09-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

Another milestone in Black History. She represents herself and her country well and will make an excellent Miss Universe. I love our Black Queens!

In Remembrance of 911

2011-09-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

I remember this terrible day well. As a middle school English teacher, I consider it part of my responsibility to discuss the events of September 11th 2001 to them. The past several years the students actually saw what happened and could draw upon those memories. However, there are now students who were very young then and have no first hand accounts of what happened. So this year I am devoting about a week of teaching and discussion about 911 in my classes. Right now I am having them watch the documentary 911

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MALCOLM X

2011-05-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

It is a nice coincidence that my last post occurred on the birthday of Malcolm X. Much has been made of Malcolm thanks to the publicity of the recent book by the late writer Manning Marable. I will be honest and say that from what snippets I have read, I don't intend on buying it. To me it does not paint a true representation of Malcolm and all that he stood for. Malcolm's grandson agrees in an article from today's Amsterdam News and makes for good reading as he deflects several of the claims made in Marable's book.

Well, happy birthday 86th birthday Brother Malcolm.

I will end this post with one of Malcolm's quotes which brings to mind the speech that President Obama made today about the Middle East.

If you've studied the captives being caught by the American soldiers in South Vietnam, you'll find that these guerrillas are young people. Some of them are just children and some haven't reached their teens. Most are teenagers. It is the teenagers abroad, all over the world, who are actually involving themselves in the struggle to eliminate oppression and exploitation. In the Congo, the refugees point out that many of the Congolese revolutionaries, they shoot all the way down to seven years old - that's been reported in the press. Because the revolutionaries are children, young people. In these countries, the young people are the ones who most quickly identify with the struggle and the necessity to eliminate the evil conditions that exist. And here in this country, it has been my own observation that when you get into a conversation on racism and discrimination and segregation, you will find young people more incensed over it - they feel more filled with an urge to eliminate it."

AFTER A ONE YEAR HIATUS: MR.SHADOW IS BACK!!

2011-05-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

Well my dear friends it has been awhile since my last post. I swear that I didn't intend on letting an entire year pass. I don't intend to let that happen again. It feels good to get the writing juices flowing again and letting the blogosphere know of my thoughts and opinions. So in essence folks, Mr. Shadow 33 is back and he is rearing to go!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: MALCOLM X

2010-05-19T13:42:00.000-07:00

"You're not to be so blind with patriotism that you can't face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who does it or says it."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MALCOLM X

2010-05-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Brother Malcolm X would have turned 85 today had he still been with us in the physical sense. However, his spirit is very much alive and we as a people must continue in our own ways to push forward the the things that he believed in and essentially died for: the total equality of our people and the liberation of our people. If he were standing here I believe he would tell us that while we have come a long way and achieved much, there is still so much that we must do to help our people achive total lberation. Peace be with you and Sister Betty always Brother Malcolm.

BILL COSBY KEEPS ENTERTAINING AND SOLDIERS ON FOR WHAT HE BELIEVES IN

2010-05-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

I grew up with Bill Cosby during the time of his wonderful cartoon "Fat Albert" and of course the classic sitcom "The Cosby Show". These were much watch shows in my household . In fact, when the Cosby show ended after eight years in 1992, I was 18 and ready to go to college.

His accomplishments are legendary in an almost 50 year career but I equally adire him for the dedication he has always shown for education. He has long been an active participant and supporter of Civil Rights and marched and worked with many of its key leaders. He has not been afraid to speak out on issues pertaining to the Black community even when it is not appreciated and is criticized and mocked by others. No matter what personal issues have befallen him, he continues to speak out.

On the entertaining front, Mr. Cosby has just recently inked a deal with Jello with whom he made mant classic commercials in the past to direct and produce new material and will be part of a nationwide campaign by the brand. He appeared on the Tonight Show last night and did a complete stand up act sitting down and made note that it was completely clean material. Truly the mark of a master.

So I will continue to admire and support the eforts of Bill Cosby in trying to uplift our communities out of the negative mire. Do I agree with everything he says? No of course not but I appreciate his willingness to put the issues out there and can find much to agree with him.

Political Cartoon: Graduation By Bob Engleheart

2010-05-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

Rep. Maxine Waters Isues Lakeesha Alert For Mitrice Richardson

2010-05-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

I found this today from my colleague over at Electronic Village concerning the ongoing saga in the dissapearance of Mitrice Richardson, who has been missing since September of last year. My thanks go out to you my Brother.

From Electronic Village May 14, 2010:

Mitrice Richardson has been missing for over a year. The mainstream media doesn't appear to care. The Amber Alert system isn't working for this nubian sister ... so it is good to see that a Lakeesha Alert is being sent by U.S. Rep Maxine Waters (D-Los Angeles). Rep. Waters asked the Department of Justice to investigate the disappearance of Mitrice, who was released in September from the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station. [SOURCE]

Mitrice Richardson was arrested at Geoffrey's, a Malibu restaurant, for not paying an $89 dinner bill. Deputies who took the Cal State Fullerton graduate into custody described her as "coherent and rational," Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca told the Board of Supervisors in a letter.

Waters asked the Justice Department in a May 5 letter to investigate alleged civil rights violations by the deputies.

"I believe that Mitrice's civil rights were violated when she was arrested and then let go in the middle of the night without money, a phone or transportation," Waters said.

Steve Whitmore, a spokesman for the department, said that the deputies followed policy.

"We believe that everything was done right," he said, adding that Baca "obviously believes that nobody's civil rights have been violated."

Waters previously had asked the FBI to investigate the disappearance, but she said she was told by the agency that it does not probe adult missing persons.

Mitrice's 25th birthday was April 30th. Let's hope that she is found sooner rather than later. I encourage other bloggers to share the Lakeesha Alert for Mitrice Richardson with their blog readers!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVIE WONDER

2010-05-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

A very happy birthday goes out to Stevie Wonder who turns 60 today. In addition to being a all around musical genius and entertainer, he is also the owner of the only Black owned radio station that is left in Southern California; 102.3 KJLH. He has opened the door for so many others over the years and continues to do so. May the Creator continue to bless you as you continue your remarkable career.

TREMENDOUS THURSDAYS: AUTUMN ADKINS

2010-05-13T16:40:00.000-07:00

Black woman leads former whites-only Philly school

By KATHY MATHESON, Associated Press Writer

PHILADELPHIA – The private boarding school for underprivileged students now led by Autumn Adkins, who describes herself simply as "a black girl from Richmond, Virginia," would have excluded her in years past.

The one-time white boys-only institution in Philadelphia did not admit its first black student until 1968 — and that was only after numerous legal challenges, months of protests, a visit from Martin Luther King Jr. and a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court. Girls weren't allowed until 1984.

Girard College — a misnomer, as it serves first- through 12th-graders — has come a long way since being established by the richest man you never heard of. And as its newest president, the 37-year-old Adkins is determined to take it further, raising the school's profile by giving its students "a true 21st-century education."

"I have been really putting a lot of energy around making school exciting," Adkins said. "It needs to be engaging. I've said to several of my administrators, I don't want teachers wasting kids' time — they're young. It's just not fair."

Stephen Girard, a French-born sea captain, amassed a fortune through shipping, trading and banking after coming to Philadelphia in 1776. He helped the U.S. finance the War of 1812 and, when he died in 1831, was likely the wealthiest man in America.

Girard left about $6 million (approximately $146 million in today's money) to the city of Philadelphia, mostly to build and endow a tuition-free school for poor, fatherless white boys. The "college" opened in 1848 and, until now, had been run exclusively by white men. Its first president was Benjamin Franklin's great-grandson.

The school's overseers were not looking to make history after the most recent president retired. But they were bowled over by Adkins' enthusiasm, work ethic, rigorous standards and an impressive resume that includes degrees from the University of Virginia and Columbia University's Teachers College.

"She is highly intelligent, she is highly driven, she is extremely communicative," said Peter Shoemaker, chairman of the board of managers. "She has evolved a very clear vision for the school."

Raised in an upper-middle class Virginia suburb, Adkins' passion for education was inspired in part byteenage volunteer work in poor neighborhoods. She was struck by the narrow life experiences of the children there, and later wrote in a college application that she dreamed of starting a boarding school for underprivileged students.

Girard is the realization of that dream.

Following high-level posts at the elite Friends Seminary School in New York and Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., Adkins arrived last summer at Girard's 43-acre campus.

The school looks like a slice of New England in rough North Philadelphia: Students in blue and burgundy blazers stroll grassy quads amid stone buildings, playing fields and a soaring chapel. The grandly columned Founder's Hall — the original school building — was planned by Thomas Ustick Walter, who designed the dome of the U.S. Capitol.

Yet Girard's imposing walls and entrance gate became symbols of segregation when trustees refused to admit African-American students. Local activists picketed for months outside the school in 1965; King visited that August, declaring "the walls of segregation would come tumbling down." In 1968, they did.

Today, most of Girard's 620 students are black and half are female; all come from low-income families headed by a single parent or guardian. Students are selected based on an assessment test, family interview and, if older than first grade, an academic transcript.

Adkins — the descendant of a slave — believes Stephen Girard would support diversity and that the restrictions in his will, which she has read, simply reflect the era in which he lived.

The new civil rights struggle, she says, is to make urban education competitive with its suburban peer.

To that end, Adkins plans to broaden the curriculum, modernize the facilities and increase teacher salaries. She also wants to better prepare students for life outside the walls; while nearly all Girard students are accepted to college, less than half get a degree in six years, school officials say.

The school's $25 million annual budget comes almost entirely from the Girard estate's securities, real estate and mining investments, which suffered during the recession. Financial records show the trust's value dropped from $309 million in 2008 to $204 million last year, prompting Adkins to launch aggressive fundraising plans.

"I do have real concerns," Adkins said. "Will we be able to educate as many children as we should be?"

The new president is a vibrant presence on campus, doling out hugs, handshakes and banter. She hosts small groups of students at the president's house for "family" meals — a chance for Adkins to know them better, and to expose them to sit-down dinners they may not get at home.

"I've learned an enormous amount from the students," Adkins said. "They're interesting, they're thoughtful, they're inquisitive — they deserve the kind of education that complements that."

Sophomore Olayinka Lawal said when she first saw a picture of Adkins last year, she was most struck by the new president being young and female. That Adkins is black was almost an afterthought, Lawal said, coming as it did the same year Barack Obama became the nation's first African-American president.

"It just fit perfectly, it really did," she said. "It was like, wow, what a mirror!"

___

SWEEPING OUT THE JAZZ: LAKERS WIN SEMIFINAL SERIES 4-0

2010-05-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

This was a nice surprise and I am so glad to be wrong. As previously mentioned your humble blogger predicted that the Lakers would beat the Utah Jazz in five games. So the Lakers go on after their close victory on Saturday and beat them again pretty easily 111-96. Now the Lakers get a week's worth of rest while they prepare for the red hot Phoenix Suns. Oh and to those classless so called fans who kept heckling Dereck Fisher and wearing t-shirts saying "Fisher lied" because he chose to leave the team after a season to find the best medical facility for his then ailing daughter and happened to re-sign with the Lakers: You got what you deserved and I'm glad you got your asses whipped. Now on to the Suns and I predict victory in five games..yes I'm carrying it over from the previous series.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: LENA HORNE

2010-05-10T12:23:00.000-07:00

“My identity is very clear to me now. I am a black woman. I’m free. I no longer have to be a ‘credit.’ I don’t have to be a symbol to anybody; I don’t have to be a first to anybody. I don’t have to be an imitation of a white woman that Hollywood sort of hoped I’d become. I’m me, and I’m like nobody else.”

LEGENDARY ENTERTAINER LENA HORNE PASSES AWAY AT 92

2010-05-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

Lena Horne has died. A woman who exuded strength, grace and beauty while breaking down racial barriers in an almost fifty year career has gone on to be on the eternal stage. She was among the first Black performersx to sing with a white band and was included with the few Black performers to have a contract with a major studio in the 1940's. Her rendition of "Stormy Weather" from the all Black musical of the same thing is to me the definitive version of the song. She won a Tony award for her one woman show "The Lady and Her Music" in 1981. She was the embodiement of an entertainer, a singer, dancer and actor and excelling at them all.

Finally there was her activism and commitment to the cause of human and civil rights. She endured many indignities and attacks of racism for years such as scenes of her in movies being cut out due to pressure from the south. These only served to embolden her and she became a staunch supporter of the Civil rights movement. She suffered much but she blazed a trail for all of us to follow and we must always do our best to honor those like Dr. Dorothy Height and Benjamin Hooks who we recently lost as well as Ms. Horne.

Lena Horne

1917-2010

TREMENDOUS THURSDAYS: AMBASSADOR HARRY THOMAS JR.

2010-05-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

This is a new feature on this blog and is inspired by the Good News Tuesday segments by Ms. Symphony over at Essential Presence. The segment will highlight the achievements of African American and other Africans around the world in various areas.

The first feature is on the first Black Ambassador to the Philippines, Harry Thomas Jr.

From Phillipine News:

The first African American envoy to the Philippines, Harry K. Thomas, arrived here April 10. The U.S. Embassy said Thomas spent his time learning Tagalog while waiting for his confirmation to be approved. On March 19, the U.S. Senate voted to confirm his appointment.

Thomas first joined the Foreign Service in 1984 and previously served in the White House as director for South Asia at the National Security Council from 2001 to 2002. His last ambassadorial assignment was in Bangladesh from 2003 to 2005.A career diplomat, he served most recently as director general of the Foreign Service and director of Human Resources. His other postings included India, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Peru.

Thomas is from New York and speaks Spanish, Hindi, and Bangla.He is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and pursued further studies at Columbia University. He is married to a jazz singer Ericka Ovette. Thomas revealed his father was in the Philippines after World War II and that he had a great time with Filipinos.

He will replace Kristie Kenney -- the first female ambassador to the Philippines -- who is departing after four years.

2010-05-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Ahh,,another Laker victory. Yes the Jazz cut the Laker's 15 point lead to 4 in the fourth quarter but the Lakers fought them off to an eight point victory. Hey the Jazz will not stop playing so I can take this victory as a sign of victory for this series. Despite the 2-0 lead, I will stick to my prediction of the Lakers winning this series in five games.

NEW FASHION FOR LAKER STAR

2010-05-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

I had to put this up after I spotted this in a yahoo article and yes your eyes do not decieve you, that is Kobe Bryant dressed in all white. He is featured in an article in the L.A. Times Magazine from this past sunday. All I can say is....ummh, ummh,... I guess he's starting a new fashion trend.

LAKERS WIN GAME 1 AGAINST THE JAZZ 104-99

2010-05-03T13:44:00.000-07:00

O.K. I am glad that the Lakers squeezed out a game 1 victory against Utah for a 1-0 series lead. However, I did not like the team squandering a 14 point lead and falling behind by four points in the fourth quarter. Despite this I had no doubt that the Lakers would win but do they have to do it this way? The reserves need to stop fooling around and play like they are supposed to and not lose leads in games. I also don't like that Andrew Bynum is injured again. I think after they win the title again...yes I said it!!... that the Lakers have to make some serious moves in the offseason. As for this series, Lakers in five games.

HAPPY EARTH DAY: 40 YEARS

2010-04-22T11:29:00.000-07:00

Let us use this day as a springboard to taking care of this planet every day. So strive to recycle and conserve so that we can leave this world in a much better shape for the next generations.

CIVIL RIGHTS WARRIOR AND PIONEER DR. DOROTHY HEIGHT DIES

2010-04-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

Just on the heels of the passing of former NAACP head Benjamin Hooks, another warrior in the continuing struggle for human and civil rights, Dr. Dorothy Height has passed on.

IN MEMORIAM: HIP HOP ICON GURU FROM GANG STARR

2010-04-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

One of Hip Hop's royalty has passed on due to complications of cancer. May he be well and performing with the other great performs on the other side. Rest well Keith Elam aka :"GURU"

LAKERS WIN GAME 1 AGAINST THE THUNDER 87-79

2010-04-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well the game started off great and then ended on a ho-hum level. Yes, it is a victory and of course the Lakers will take it. However, they are going to have to play much better. This should have been a victory in the double digit area. Anyway, as a fan I look forward to much better playing from Kobe, Pau, D Fish and big Andrew Bynum on tuesday and get a 2-0 lead in this series.

DAUGHTER IS A SUCCESS AFTER THE ORDEAL OF LOSING HER MOTHER IN THE BOMBING

2010-04-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

Found this today on Yahoo and had to post it. This story about Dion Thomas who lost her mother in the Oklahoma City bombing and the grief and soul searching she had to do in the aftermath. She drifted in and out while she tried to find her way after the loss of her mother. Her grades once in the A's and B's, slipped to D's and F's as she struggled to cope.

She eventually went into the Army and found stability and purpose. Today she is a college graduate working on getting an advanced degree in speech pathology. Sometimes we have to find the good in the world so we are not overwhelmed with the negative.

Dion's grandmother put it simply; "Out of evil there is good...and she found some good."

15th ANNIVERSARY OF THE OKLAHOMA CITY BOMBING

2010-04-19T15:20:00.000-07:00

I"m sure that many of you can remember the day of this horrific and cowardly homegrown terrorist attack on the Alfred P. Murrah federal building in Oklahoma City back in 1995. I was in college then and remember being glued to one of the screens in the student lounge absolutely stunned at the aftermath and of all of the innocent men, women and children who lost their lives. Considering the atmosphere that this country is in, we would do well to remember the havoc and destruction that Timothy McVeigh unleashed upon this country. I know he has been dead for several years know but If there is any kind of cosmic and divine justice, he is experiencing an eternal and cruel punishment in the afterlife.

Speaking of him, MSNBC will air "The McVeigh Tapes" tonight at 9pm est and 6pm pst hosted by Rachel Maddow.

WELCOME TO THE NEW & REVISED UNIVERSAL BLACKNESS

2010-04-19T14:47:00.000-07:00

I have been tinkering with changing the template for this blog for a while and settled on this one. Expect some more revisions and changes to help make this a blog that is interesting and worthwhile for my fellow bloggers out there. So please, enjoy!

POST # 300: HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY

2010-03-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

TIGER'S BACK!

2010-03-16T13:41:00.000-07:00

Well it happened sooner than I expected but the best damn golfer in the world,Tiger Woods is going back on the green to reclaim his title. What a better tournament to do this in than the Masters. Of course the PGA head honchos must be dancing in the aisles now that the most popular golfer is coming back. Ratings were dismal in the Tigerless tournaments and the possibility of a Masters tournament without him spelled a ratings disaster. They don't have to worry about that anymore.

Now I know we are several weeks later after Tiger's press conference, which I might add I thought was honest and heartfelt. He did not shirk from the responsibility he has for the affairs that he had outside of his marriage and vowed to become a better individual. I am totally convinced of this and for others to question it to me seems absurd. Most of those trying to drive a stake in Tiger don't have the guts to go in front of the cameras and be viewed by billions of people around the world and talk about what he did wrong. Especially clowns like Steven A. Smith who absolutely threw Tiger under the bus on Larry King Live and was posing as some sort of arbiter of moral values and tastes. I even saw a post by my fellow blogger and Laker fan Professor Tracey take shots at Tiger. I strongly disagreed with her post on this matter on her site. As far as I know, infidelity is not a crime. He didn't kill anyone nor did he steal from anyone. Whetever happens is between Tiger and his wife.

In any case Tiger will start winning again, the sponsers will come back and many will forget the drama that started Thanksgiving weekend and reached a creschendo on that day in February. Go ahead Tiger, live your life and kick butt on the golf course.

ESTATE OF MICHEAL JACKSON SIGNS BIGGEST RECORDING DEAL IN HISTORY

2010-03-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

Man the talent, genius and legend of Brother Micheal Jackson continues to endure. His estate just completed a deal with Sony for a reported $250 million. That's the biggest contract ever beating Jay Z's record of $150. Its a shame he didn't live to see this but at least his children will be well taken care of. I could only hope that when I pass away that my family will be well taken care off like this. This ensures that Micheal's legacy will continue to grow.

Obama gives away $1.4M Nobel prize

2010-03-11T16:40:00.000-08:00

From the Associated Press

I know I have said this before but I love that this man is our President. This is true compassion at work.

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama plans to donate the $1.4 million from his Nobel Peace Prize to helping students, veterans' families and survivors of Haiti's earthquake, among others, drawing attention to organizations he said "do extraordinary work."

Obama is giving a total of $750,000 to six groups that help kids go to college. Fisher House, which provides housing for families with loved ones at Veterans Administration hospitals, will receive $250,000, the White House said Thursday. And the Clinton-Bush Haiti Fund, for which two former presidents are raising money to rebuild earthquake-ravaged Haiti, will receive $200,000.

"These organizations do extraordinary work in the United States and abroad helping students, veterans and countless others in need," Obama said in a statement. "I'm proud to support their work."

Obama was chosen for the Nobel award more for his aspirations and approach than his accomplishments thus far. The Nobel committee honored him for changing the tenor of international politics and for pursuing goals Obama says will require worldwide effort, such as nuclear disarmament and reversing global warming.

Obama himself was surprised by the award, and aides said at the time he would donate the cash prize to charity.

The Fisher House donation would help pay for three new homes at Bethesda Naval Hospital and Dover Air Force Base, where the bodies of Americans killed overseas are flown.

"It's work that needs to be done for these men and women who have served this nation so gallantly," Fisher House Foundation Chairman and CEO Kenneth Fisher said in an interview with The Associated Press. "It's a privilege to serve these men and women and these families because they give so much to this nation."

The funds for Haiti would go to the rebuilding effort led by former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. A Jan. 12 earthquake wrecked Haiti and killed an estimated 200,000 people, and the U.S. is playing an active role in rebuilding the country.

In addition, Obama plans to give $125,000 apiece to groups that help students go to college: College Summit, a national nonprofit that works with elementary and middle school students to boost college enrollment rates; the Posse Foundation, which gives full college scholarships to public school students who might be overlooked by traditional scholarship programs; United Negro College Fund; the Hispanic Scholarship Fund; the Appalachian Leadership and Education Foundation; and the American Indian College Fund.

And Obama is donating $100,000 to AfriCare, which funds HIV/AIDS programs, public health programs, water resource development and agriculture in 25 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. He will give $100,000 to the Central Asia Institute, which promotes education for girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Obama accepted his peace prize just days after announcing he was ramping up U.S. involvement in the war in Afghanistan.

FAREWELL TO RON BANKS

2010-03-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

I was truly saddened to hear of the passing of Ron Banks who was the founding members of one of my all time favorite singing groups the Dramatics, of an apparent heart attack this past Thursday.A man who possessed a beautiful singing voice, he will truly be missed. Farewell Ron Banks, I know that you are singing on the other side now. God bless you.

OSCAR COMMENTARY: VERY PRECIOUS?

2010-03-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

Well it was no big surprise while looking at the annual three hours plus event that is the Oscars that Monique won the Best Supporting Actress award for her portrayal of the monstrous mother in the movie "Precious". I have some misgivings about the film but I will save them until I watch the film. But the feeling I have and from what I have seen played out is that there are people who are against the film thinking it adds to the stereotyping of Black people and the ones who applaud the movie for putting a spotlight on the horrors of child abuse and incest (In the Black community and other communities) In deed there have been many in the Black community who endured these horror who found a catharsis and release with this film. Many were encouraged to talk about their ordeals for the first time after suffering in silence for many years.

Precious also won another Oscar in the Best adapted screenplay category. I'm honestly not mad at Monique and the other members of the cast. Being an actor myself I realize the challenge that comes with certain roles and for Her it was a purging of the demons of incest and abuse that she suffered from her own brother when she was a child. I salute her win on strong acting merits. However, I hope that somehow this will make possible other films that focus on more positive and uplifting subjects. I know many in the blog world will and have come down hard on this film and I will leave them to have at it. I chose to take this approach and hope for the better in the neverending quest to have full and wide ranging roles for whole of Black culture.

MARCH GREETINGS

2010-03-08T12:37:00.000-08:00

Well, another month is here and that gives ud nine more to go for this year. I am striving to get back into the blogging game on a more regular basis. I think this will be a very intersting month and I look forward to it.

QUOTE OF THE DAY # 2

2010-02-03T15:14:00.001-08:00

"If we accept and acquiesce in the face of discrimination, we accept the responsibility ourselves and allow those responsible to salve their conscience by believing that they have our acceptance and concurrence. We should, therefore, protest openly everything . . . that smacks of discrimination or slander."
Mary McLeod Bethune

QUOTE OF THE DAY # 1

2010-02-03T15:00:00.000-08:00

"If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated."

Carter G. Woodson

THREE LEADERS OF THE HATIAN WOMEN'S MOVEMENT DIE IN THE EARTHQUAKE

2010-02-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Myriam Merlet was one of the victims.

I just now found this out and it is indeed more tragedy added to a situation that shows now sign of ending. The connection of Haiti and the plight of its women are indirectly responsible for this blog. The young mother that was violently assualted and violated in the Dunbar Village atrocity is an immigrant from Haiti. So I have tried to keep abreast of the affairs of that country. This relates to the work that I have tried to do in assisting the brave women who constantly strive to help those who have been victims of rape and abuse.

The story is taken from the blog of the San Francisco Chronicle and is from January 20th.

WOMEN'S MOVEMENT LEADERS DIE IN HAITI EARTHQUAKE
by Jessica Ravitz
CNN

One returned to her Haitian roots, to give voice to women, honor their stories and shape their futures.

Another urged women to pack a courtroom in Haiti, where she succeeded in getting a guilty verdict against a man who battered his wife.

A third joined the others and helped change the law to make rape, long a political weapon in Haiti, a punishable crime.

Myriam Merlet, Magalie Marcelin and Anne Marie Coriolan, founders of three of the country’s most important advocacy organizations working on behalf of women and girls, are confirmed dead — victims of last week’s 7.0 earthquake.
And their deaths have left members of the women’s movement, Haitian and otherwise, reeling.

“Words are missing for me. I lost a large chunk of my personal, political and social life,” Carolle Charles wrote in an e-mail to colleagues. The Haitian-born sociology professor at Baruch College in New York is chair of Dwa Fanm (meaning “Women’s Rights” in Creole), a Brooklyn-based advocacy group. These women “were my friends, my colleagues and my associates. I cannot envision going to Haiti without seeing them.”

Myriam Merlet was until recently the chief of staff of Haiti’s Ministry for Gender and the Rights of Women, established in 1995, and still served as a top adviser. She died after being trapped beneath her collapsed Port-au-Prince home, Charles said. She was 53.

Merlet, an author as well as an activist, fled Haiti in the 1970s. She studied in Canada, steeping herself in economics, women’s issues, feminist theory and political sociology.

In the mid-1980s, she returned to her homeland. In “Walking on Fire: Haitian Women’s Stories of Survival and Resistance,” published in 2001, she contributed an essay, “The More People Dream,” in which she described what brought her back.

“While I was abroad I felt the need to find out who I was and where my soul was. I chose to be a Haitian woman,” she wrote. “We’re a country in which three-fourths of the people can’t read and don’t eat properly. I’m an integral part of the situation. I am not in Canada in a black ghetto, or an extraterrestrial from outer space. I am a Haitian woman. I don’t mean to say that I am responsible for the problems. But still, as a Haitian woman, I must make an effort so that all together we can extricate ourselves from them.”

She was a founder of Enfofamn, an organization that raises awareness about women through media, collects stories and works to honor their names. Among her efforts, she set out to get streets named after Haitian women who came before her, Charles said.

Dubbed a “Vagina Warrior,” she was remembered Tuesday by her friend Eve Ensler, the award-winning playwright and force behind V-Day, a global movement to end violence against women and girls.

“She was very bold,” said Ensler, who at Merlet’s insistence brought her play “The Vagina Monologues” to Haiti and helped establish safe houses for women in Port-au-Prince and Cap Haitien. “She had an incredible vision of what was possible for Haitian women, and she lifted their spirits. … And we had such a wonderful time. I remember her dancing in the streets of New Orleans and just being so alive.”

Magalie Marcelin, a lawyer and actress who appeared in films and on stage, established Kay Fanm, a women’s rights organization that deals with domestic violence, offers services and shelter to women and makes microcredits, or loans, available to women working in markets, said Charles, the chair of Dwa Fanm.

Charles remembered a visit to Haiti about two years ago when Marcelin, believed to be in her mid-50s, called seeking help. Hoping to deflect the political clout of a defendant in court, she asked for women to come out in droves and pack the courtroom. Charles watched as the man on trial was convicted for battering his wife.

Her death has been reported through various media outlets, and was confirmed to CNN by Carribbean Radio Television based in Port-au-Prince. Her own daughter helped dig her body out from rubble in the aftermath of the quake, Charles said she learned when she got the call from Marcelin’s cousin.

In an interview last year with the Haitian Times, Marcelin spoke of the image of a drum that adorned public awareness stickers.

“It’s very symbolic in the Haitian cultural imagination,” Marcelin said, according to the Haitian Times report. “The sound of the drum is the sound of freedom, it’s the sound of slaves breaking with slavery.”

With Merlet, Anne Marie Coriolan, 53, served as a top adviser to the women’s rights ministry.
Coriolan, who died when her boyfriend’s home collapsed, was the founder of Solidarite Fanm Ayisyen (Solidarity with Haitian Women, or SOFA), which Charles described as an advocacy and services organization.

Her daughter, Wani Thelusmon Coriolan, said in Haiti children bear only their father’s surname, but her mother insisted on keeping her maiden name and making sure her two children shared it, too.

“She said my dad was not the only one who created me. She was involved, too,” her 24-year-old daughter, who lives and is studying in Montreal, Quebec, said with a laugh.
Even though Wani and her brother no longer live in Haiti (he is in Paris, France), she said her mother was determined to make sure they were proud of their homeland.

“She loved her country. She never stopped believing in Haiti. She said that when you have a dream you have to fight for it,” Wani said. “She wanted women to have equal rights. She wanted women to hold their heads high.”

Coriolan was a political organizer who helped bring rape — “an instrument of terror and war,” Charles said — to the forefront of Haitian courts.
Before 2005, rapes in Haiti were treated as nothing more than “crimes of passion,” Charles explained. That changed because of the collective efforts of these women activists — and others they inspired.

With the three leaders gone, there is concern about the future of Haiti’s women and girls. Even with all that’s been achieved, the struggle for equality and against violence remains enormous.

The chaos that’s taken over the devastated nation heightens those worries, said Taina Bien-Aimé, the executive director of Equality Now, a human rights organization dedicated to women.
Before the disaster struck last week, a survey of Haitian women and girls showed an estimated 72 percent had been raped, according to study done by Kay Fanm. And at least 40 percent of the women surveyed were victims of domestic violence, Bien-Aimé said.

And humanitarian emergencies have been linked to increased violence and exploitation in the past, she said.

“From where we stand,” Bien-Aimé wrote in an e-mail, “the most critical and urgent issue is what, if any, contingencies the relief/humanitarian agencies are putting in place not only to ensure that women have easy access to food, water and medical care, but to guarantee their protection.”

Concerned women in the New York area plan to gather Wednesday to strategize their next steps, Ensler said.

And while they will certainly keep mourning, she and the others are hopeful that Haitian women, inspired by these fallen heros and leaders, will forge ahead — keeping their fight and legacies alive.

God bless these brave and fierce warriors. We must take the time to mourn and then to move on with the work they were doing when they were called to the other side. I am convinced that they would want this.

HUMAN PREDATORS LURKING IN THE RUINS FOR HAITI'S CHILDREN

2010-01-28T13:52:00.000-08:00

This just angers me to no end. Those that have followed this blog for the past two and half years knows that stories dealing with violence towards women and children really inflame my passion to do something to fight against it. After all it was the horrific incident at Dunbar Village that was the impetus for creating this blog in the first place.

Our brothers and sisters in Haiti continue to surfer in the aftermath of horrible earthquake of about two weeks ago. As if there wasn't enough to deal with, now there is the problem of human predators prowling the ravaged streets looking for children, many who have lost their parents, to take and exploit.

"Mia Pean's heart sank last week when she saw the Toyota pickup truck cruising the debris-cluttered streets of Leogagne, ground zero for the earthquake that has devastated Haiti. Each time the driver saw a child - especially a young teen - he would stick his head out of the window and shout, "Manje, manje," Creole for "eat." Pean says she watched the hungry kids, four or five at a time, hop into the back of the pickup, which then disappeared. "I saw the same man again a few days later in Carrefour," a poor suburb of Port-au-Prince, says Pean. "I asked him, 'What are you doing with all those children?' He said, 'Don't worry, we're going to put them in safe homes.' Then he drove off."

But Pean, a Haitian-American emergency consultant for the Andrew Young Foundation, doubts that altruism is the motive of the pickup driver, and others like him, who are now prowling Haiti's streets. The quake that has killed 150,000 people has left thousands of children orphaned, and vulnerable to being preyed upon by child traffickers and Haiti's shameful tradition of keeping child slaves known as restaveks. "I really fear," says Pean, "that most of the kids you see being picked up on the streets in Haiti right now are going to become restaveks or victims of sexual trafficking." Time Magazine article on Haiti. Read more here

Something must be done about this. We have to do something to protect and shelter these poor chidren from those evil people who would seek to enslave and exploit them.

IN MEMORIAM: TEDDY PENDERGRASS

2010-01-14T15:24:00.000-08:00

Man, the Teddy Bear, the icon of silky R&B soul music made his transition Wednesday at a Philadelphia hospital, he was 59. This one hurts because I grew up with this man's music and played it quite frequently. My slow jam collection that I would play for a date was not complete unless it included several of his classics, The Whole Town's Laughing at Me, Close the Door, Come Go With Me, Love TKO, Feel the Fire and my personal favorite Turn out the Lights. His work the Blue Notes should not be overlooked either and it presents a package of the complete singer that others who want to get into the business should emulate. I mean just for the standing room ladies only concerts alone will keep him in the hall of fame.

Farewell, Teddy and may your journey to the other side be as pleasurable as the timeless music you gave us.

HAITI DEVASTATED AFTER MASSIVE EARTHQUAKE

2010-01-14T15:18:00.001-08:00

Well now to the bad news. Of course I refer to the massive 7.0 earthquake in Haiti and the devastation and death that it leaves in its wake. We have to help our Hatian brothers and sisters as much as we can. As Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu said, "we must do to things, pray and pay." I plan on finding the apprpriate site and donating funds to the rescue effort as soon as possible. My prayers go out to the Hatian people who have already suffered already and know have to deal with this horrible tragedy that has befallen their country.

MY PERSONAL BIRTHDAY GREETING

2010-01-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

On the 3rd of this month I began my birthday celebration that will last the whole year! Yes, your humble blogger turned 36 and intends on living everyday of it. So please don't let the date fool you, I am still accepting birthday greetings, cards and gifts. Happy Birthday to me!!

First Post of the New Year

2010-01-14T13:05:00.000-08:00

Yes dear world Mr. Shadow has returned! I know that we are already 14 days into the year that is 2010 but I belive in celebrating the whole year and not just a day or two. So happy tidings and good vibrations to all of you all year long and beyond.

MR. SHADOW'S CATCH UP REPORT AGAIN

2009-11-10T13:06:00.000-08:00

Wow! This fall has certainly been an extremely busy one for this humble blogger. My Doctorate classes have picked up and hopefully will be over by December. Then its on to the Dissertation blocks.

Well that was a good feeling for my Angels until they ran into the Yankee wall and were sent home. Football season is at its halfway point and my Raiders still suck. To me the teams to beat are Indianapolis, New England, Pittsburgh and New Orleans.

Basketball season is finally here and the Lakers recieved their championship rings and has gone on to post a 6-1 record without Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. Another battle testing road awaits my team but in the end the Lakers will again come out on top. Yes, all you haters the Lakers will remain as NBA champions.

The Health Care Reform package passed the House on Saturday which is good. The bad is the last minute bullshit Abortion prohibiting package that was included with it. Just like chauvanistic men to want to control the reproductive rights of women. The timing comes as the twenty-fifth(or is it twenty-sixth?) anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade ruling that legalized abortion.

My thoughts and prayers go to the loved ones of the brave U.S. soldiers who lost their lives in the tragic shooting at Fort Hood.

ANGELS WIN A.L. WEST TITLE

2009-09-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

A fine performance from the Angels. I have a feeling they will go far this year. Freeway series against the Dodgers? One can hope. The tribute the team did in honor of their fallen teammate Nick Adenheart was sincere and touching.

A SICK SENSE OF HUMOR ON DISPLAY

2009-09-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

Some people have no sense of decency or honor. This is what an amusement park in Cincinatti calls a joke. Someone there had the bright idea to have an exhibit reanacting the tragic murder/suicide of Steve McNair that happened this past summer. I hope his wife and kids don't see this but I have a feeling they will.

IN MEMORIAM: TONY AWARD WINNING ACTOR ZAKES MOKAE DIES

2009-09-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

From the Associated Press

September 16, 2009

Zakes Mokae dies at 75; Tony-winning South African actor

He was best-known for his work with playwright Athol Fugard in apartheid dramas such as 'The Blood Knot' and 'Master Harold . . . and the Boys.'

Read more on this great actor and his life.

A DEGREE OF JUSTICE: DUNBAR RAPIST SENTENCED ON ALL 13 COUNTS

2009-09-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

Good, I hope that's omly the start of this punk's journey into hell. As Ms. Gina put it:

"Now the need to arrest all of the remaining participants.
I hope they exhibit SOME remorse at sentencing if that’s possible. All the better to start naming names."

I think some time in prison should ensure that. Get the rest of those "beasts and get them off the streets!

MORE DUNBAR VILLAGE TESTIMONY VIA WOAD PART 2

2009-09-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

From What About Our Daughters September 17th:

The Palm Beach post actually has audio of the victim’s testimony from Thursday in the trial of Jakarius Taylor. They also have audio from her testimony in Walker and Poindexter’s trials as well. I’m not going to listen to it, but it is there for those who feel the need.

Avion Lawson rebutted Taylor’s defense that Taylor just happened to be around and was there to convince his friend to leave when Taylor tripped and his penis fell out of his pants. Whatever!
Avion said they went to that apartment that night for one reason:

But while Marie and her son testified that the youths demanded money, Lawson said his friends had only one thing on their mind: “We’re going to get some.”
Two others – 20-year-old Tommy Poindexter and 18-year-old Nathan Walker – were convicted last month. They face life in prison. Two others Lawson said participated in the attack haven’t been charged.

Assistant State Attorney Craig Williams asked Lawson the question that has haunted many: “Did you guys care about what happened to Marie?”
“Guess not,” Lawson answered in a monotone. “They started it.”
“How about you? Did you care?” Williams continued.
“After it was over with, yeah, I thought about it.” Palm Beach Post.

In addition Taylor was identified as the person to hold a gun on the 12 year old son and hit him over the head. Lawson also said that Taylor searched for a lighter to set the mother and son on fire.

This Goddamn Taylor needs an eternal ass whupping. This little snot must think he's invincible. What kind of monster does what he did? I hope the put his ass in general population and let the other inmates tear his skinny rear up.

INFORMATION ON THE SECOND DUNBAR VILLAGE TRIAL PART 1

2009-09-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

I was checking Ms. Gina's blog and came upon news of the second trial for those "beasts" that brutally gang raped a mother and beat her son in West Palm Beach over two years ago. She covers it better than I can and so I will showcase what she wrote:

From What About Our Daughters September 16th

Second Dunbar Village Trial Underway:
Why are Melvin Young, Augustus Fontaine still Running Loose?

Well this one snuck up on me. The last of the Dunbar Villag Trials began yesterday.
Blame Tommy Poindexter. Blame Avion Lawson.

But don’t blame Jakaris Taylor, a youth who played sports and went to church but was drawn into the brutal gang rape of a 35-year-old Dunbar Village woman out of the love of a friend and the fear of another youth who had long terrorized the poverty-wracked housing project. Palm Beach Post

Oh yeah RIIIIGHT! Oh it gets BETTER and BETTER:
So, he went to the apartment, hoping to persuade Lawson, whom he often called his “brother,” to leave, Haddad said.

Instead, Taylor stood and watched while the Lawson and at least four other young men repeatedly raped the woman, ultimately forcing her to perform oral sex on her 12-year-old son.
When he tried to leave, Haddad said, Poindexter taunted him.
“What about you? What about you little bro’? You ain’t never done it before?” Haddad said, quoting Poindexter.

Fearing Poindexter, known as “Crazy Tommy,” would turn one of the two guns he was holding on him, Taylor approached the woman for oral sex. He “simulated a sex act” hoping it would show Poindexter and the other boys in the room that he was on their team, Haddad said.
Well if that’s what he is admitting to, then he should stay on their “team” and serve the next 45 years in the cell next to his “team mates.” Lawson is expected to testify again. The Palm Beach Post has video of his testimony in the first trial.

This looks like the same strategy as the first two, the “I was there, but I didn’t do as much evil as everybody else.” In a sense they are throwing themselves on the mercy of the jury.
Meanwhile two others implicated in the attack are running around free; Melvin Young, Augustus Fontaine.

Still, the victim testified that 10 men assaulted her. Lawson identified six: Poindexter, Walker, Jakaris Taylor, Melvin Young, Augustus Fontaine and himself. Taylor goes on trial next month. Why haven’t West Palm Beach police arrested Young and Fontaine? Law enforcement officials say only that it’s an ongoing investigation. It had better be. For those who were there on June 18, 2007, with Poindexter, Walker and Lawson, the truth still awaits. And all of those who were there should face it. Palm Beach Post

You know it still shocks and agers me when I read about what these "beasts" did to this poor mother and her son and the criminals try to make excuses and the weak ass "I was just there defense. Yet these punks didn't have the decency to help the woman as she was repeatedly violated in her apartment. As far as I'm concerned just grab all of these bastards and throw them out into the desert. They deserve the worst kind of hell that can be devised with Dante's vision being the entry level.

KANYE WEST'S PUNK ASS MOMENT

2009-09-18T16:37:00.000-07:00

After several days I know this has been done to death but I had to put my five cents in. The title says it all. I showed this to my students this week and the majority of them agreed that it was totally disrespectful what he did. I personally think he hasn't apologized enough. Besides, what if this is simply publicity for his upcoming album? Grow up Kanye and do right your mother who you know would have tore you a new one. Thats why you froze up on Leno. Get it together.

NIA LONG IN RECENT PETA AD

2009-09-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

Well Ms. Long at this moment you have me not liking fur all that much. A very creative ad, stylishly done.

A SISTA WHO CLEANS UP ROYALLY

2009-09-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

I caught this today via Yahoo and found it on the Washington Post. Fascinating story and is a reminder that Black Women have been rulers and royalty for centuries and have pretty much done a good job.

Secretary by Day, Royalty by Night
Embassy Worker Remotely Rules a Ghanaian Town

By Paul SchwartzmanWashington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, September 16, 2009

The king folds her own laundry, chauffeurs herself around Washington in a 1992 Honda and answers her own phone. Her boss's phone, too.

Peggielene Bartels lives in Silver Spring and works as a secretary. When she steps off an airplane in Ghana on Thursday, arriving in the coastal town her family has controlled for half a century, she will be royalty -- with a driver, a chef and an eight-bedroom palace, albeit one in need of repairs she will help finance herself.

"I'm a big-time king, you know," said Bartels, seated at her desk at the Ghanaian embassy just off Van Ness Street NW, where she has worked for almost 30 years.

Read more about this unique royal leader here.

BACK IN THE SADDLE

2009-09-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been anything but boring for your humble blogger. Gettting adjusted to the new year of school and engaging in the final stretch of my doctorate classes have taken much of my time. I just rceived my personal computer at work so this should signal the start of at least a post a week from me. Ah its good to be back and I have a lot to make up and to say.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

2009-08-04T23:12:00.000-07:00

May you be blessed with 48 more years sir.

MR. SHADOW'S MONTHLY CATCH UP

2009-07-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

So much has happened in the last month that I have to do another of my CATCH UP posts.
Going back to the week of June 25th Ed McMahon and Farrah Fawcett passed away and of course I was saddened because I watched both of them on television growing up. Then of course Micheal Jackson passes on and the music and cultural world hasn't been the same since. I went and stocked up on MJ cd's and watched much of the coverage. However it wasn't until I watched the beautiful memorial service that it sunk in that Brother Michael was gone from this plane of existence. He will be missed. Unfortunately the frenzy suroounding his death and the his will and fortune will go on for some time.

Had a nice 4th of July and was enjoying watching MJ videos with some friends when I hear about the death of Steve McNair. Later on it is revealed that it was a murder suicide with his mistress pulling the trigger on him and then herself. A tragedy anyway you want to put it. His wife is left a widow and three sons to raise while constantly hearing the talk about her husband's infidelity. This just goes to show that the choices you make can and will have consequences. Steve McNair made the wrong choice and it ultimately cost him his life, a life that should have continued.

Oh a shout out to Richard Jefferson, thanks for further damaging the image of Black men by weaseling out of getting married by sending the intended bride a text. A text! Come on, at least have the guts to tell her in person, like a man!

The NAACP celebrated its 100 anniversary. While I remain a critic of this organization, I honor all of the work that it has done to help advance the cause of human and civil rights in this country. President Obama's speech on the last night was simply riveting. I could see that he was filled with the spirit as he wound up and ended his speech. It certainly inspired me.

To me health care is a simple matter: make it available for everyone in America. I support a single payer health care but Realize that the public option is the next best thing. I pray that the President pushes this through.

Over here in California it seems we are at the mercy of a block head of a Governor and his Republican associates who are damaging our great state. There is a budget compromise but surprise!! It consists of budget cuts and no tax increases. I mean should I be surprised that Ahnold would so strongly come to the defense of his rich fat cat buddies while the rest of us suffer?

Everyone who fancies him/herself a journalist or simply a viewer of the news should bow their heads in a moment of silence with the passing of Walter Cronkite. The man throughout most of the 92 years he spent on this earth, particularly the years he spent as an anchor for nearly 20 years on CBS breathed journalistic integrity. He was even keeled in his reporting and did his best to keep emotion out of it. He viewed his job as presenting the facts/news to the American people and letting us decide.(Unlike what Fixed..Fox news says but doesn't do) This lead him to being called the "Most Trusted Man in America" and he did not take this honor lightly. Just look at the highlights of his breaking the news about President Kennedy's death and the death of Dr. King's death. You see him on the verge of breaking down but collects himself and continues his report.
That is true journalism ladies and gentlemen and we should honor this man for being the very embodiement of it. Farewell Mr. Cronkite, God speed.

AND THAT'S THE WAY IT IS

ON THE DUNBAR VILLAGE ATROCITY: TWO YEARS LATER

2009-07-07T23:20:00.000-07:00

I am furious with myself for not properly writing as I have in many instances since starting this blog about the horrifying event that led to its creation: The Dunbar Village Atrocity. I have been extremely busy with my Doctorate classes and the end of the school year where I teach and other activities that I was simply exhausted. However, I don't excuse myself for missing the remembrance of a crime so horrifying, so savage, so evil that I have not been the same since. It is something that will be imprinted in my mind for as long as I live and I will do alll that I can as a teacher and in other fields to prevent other Dunbar Villages from happening.

In that spirit I would like to share an excellent post from who I consider a mentor, Gina McCauley and her blog What About Our Daughters. She gets straight to the point as always:

From June 18th 2009
Dunbar Village Two Years Later

"Two years ago today, in West Palm Beach Florida ten masked men and boys invaded the home of a Black mother and child and committed crimes against humanity and nature:

[Today] marks the 2-year anniversary of the gang rape of a 35-year-old mother who was forced to have sex with her 12-year-old son in West Palm Beach’s Dunbar Village housing project. Their attackers held them at gunpoint for three hours, then poured alcohol, nail polish remover and ammonia on the woman in an attempt to destroy evidence. They poured cleaning solution in her son’s eyes. The only reason they didn’t set the pair on fire, the woman told police, was because they couldn’t find a lighter. Palm Beach Post

Now one of the defendants who previously plead guilty to the crime is attempting to force prosecutors to enforce his plea agreement:

One of four young men charged in the gang rape of a mother and her 12-year-old son in a West Palm Beach public housing complex is accusing the state of backing out of a plea deal.

Tommy Lee Poindexter, 20, confessed his involvement in the Dunbar Village attack and gave authorities information on at least three murders, according to a defense motion.
The Palm Beach County Public Defender’s Office filed the motion late last week on Poindexter’s behalf asking a court to compel the State Attorney’s Office “to perform its side of the agreement.”

Public Defender Carey Haughwout says the deal calls for Poindexter to receive a 25-year prison sentence in exchange for his truthful testimony about his involvement in the case plus information he had about three other homicides. SOURCE

Now you know the world is upside down when people are demanding that you let them have a 25-year sentence.

The trial is set for August 18th of this year. We [ by "we" I mean "I"] am debating whether we (all of us) should hire a freelance journalist to be our eyes and ears in the courtroom for the trial(s). I’ll share more after Blogging While Brown is over, but to those of you emailing me saying you want to “help” this might be a way to do that."

THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS 2009 NBA CHAMPIONS

2009-06-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

Let's do it again next year!!

KOBE BRYANT: 2009 NBA BILL RUSSELL FINALS MVP

2009-06-15T14:14:00.000-07:00

THE LAKERS WIN GAME 5 AND THE NBA CHAMPIONSHIP IN KICK ASS FASHION

2009-06-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

Wow it has finally happened. My Lakers have captured the NBA Championship after a seven year absence. Yes, dear readers your humble blogger Mr. Shadow is happy but I am going to show restraint in my celebration...... not!!

So yes dear Laker haters the Chapionship Lakers are back and will be on the scene for several years.

This is just the beginning and that should make the other NBA teams give pause and prepare for next season.

Yes Kobe can win a championship without Shaq!! Now can we move on?

Yes Kobe is a great player and should at least be mentioned as being in the NBA top ten.

Trevor Ariza came of age and Lamar Odom proved his worth, Pau Gasol continued to show his

prowess by exhibiting quiet strength.

Phil Jackson is the best coach in NBA history bar none end of discussion. I know that Red Aurebach is stomping his feet on the other side, but it is what it is. Best coach of all time: Phil Jackson.

The Lakers are back on top, as it should be. Go Lakers!!

LAKERS WIN IN KICK ASS FASHION

2009-06-05T12:20:00.001-07:00

Well, I knew the Lakers would win game one of the NBA Finals but I didn't expect them to kick the ass of the Orlando Magic 100-75. If the Lakers continue to play like this and if Orlando doesn't play better then the Lakers could very well sweep this series.

OUR MAN IN CAIRO: THE PRESIDENT PRESENTS AMERICA'S VIEW IN FRONT OF THE MUSLIM WORLD

2009-06-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

The President gave an extrordinary speech in Cairo that was broadcast pretty much to the Muslim world. He was there obviously to repair the 8 years damage done by Bush, Chaney & co. and present America's dedication to forging a new and peaceful relationship with the Islamic world. When he used the Islamic word for peace, the crowd applauded and they would continue to throughout his 55 minute speech.

I love that this man is President of the United States. When I see him in his element I am heartened that he will eventually accomplish all of the goals he set for himself as President.

IN MEMORIAM: KOKO TAYLOR

2009-06-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

Those gritty but powerful vocals, indeed those were the trademark of Koko Taylor who passed away yesterday at the age 80. She was known as "The Queen of the Blues" and throughout her over 40 years of recording music, it was a title that was well earned. My favorite song from her was her first hit,"Wang Dang Doodle".

I bid you a respectful farewell your majesty. May your music continue to shake our bodies and soul in rhythm forever more.

IN MEMORIAM: DAVID CARRADINE

2009-06-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

I was saddened to hear about the death of David Carradine who starred in the classic television series "Kung Fu" in the 70's. As a child I religiously watched the series in syndication and loved Carradine's performance as a Shaolin Monk wandering around in the Old West helping those in need. His character was sort of a cross of Martin Luther King Jr. and a hardened warrior who only fought when there was no other option. The series was years ahead of its time and spawned countless imitators, even Carradine reprised the character several times and starred in a 90's syndicated series "Kung Fu: The Next Generation" playing the grandson of the original character.

However many people will remember his powerful performance in Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill" playing the leader of an assassination squad who eventually has a showdown with his former lover (Uma Thurman). The character was pretty much the opposite of his "Kung Fu" character, the dark side of him in fact. In Carradine's hands the character was a fully developed and fascinating person who you couldn't help regretting his eventual demise at the end of the movie.

I am not going to delve into the controversy about how Mr. Carradine died, I prefer to look at his life as one that was well lived and to enjoy the great work that he left behind.

Take care David Carradine see you on the other side.

MEMORIAL DAY 2009

2009-05-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

We must always remember and honor the ultimate sacrifices made by the women and men in our armed forces. Always remember and put it in its proper perspective.

I humbly salute and give blessings to them all.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

2009-05-19T23:02:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MALCOLM X

2009-05-19T22:55:00.001-07:00

Brother Malcolm X would have turned 85 today. As I think about the life of this great man, I wonder what he would think about what is happening today. I know that he would be proud of President Obama but he would be dismayed at the many ills that plague Blacks in this country. The school dropout rate, the violence against Black women by Black men, the AIDS crisis against Black women in this country and in Africa and the perpetual Black on Black violence. He would be telling us to keep pushing and always strive to do better. Which indeed is what we as a people must do.

Happy birthday Malcolm.

LAKERS WIN GAME ONE OVER NUGGETS

2009-05-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

Lakers 105-Nuggets 103

Whew, was that a close one! The Lakers definetely squeaked by on this one. Prepare for a battle because this series could go all seven. I hope not but since I'm not predicting this time I will leave it at that. Go Lakers!

BASKETBALL GREAT AND JAZZ MUSICIAN PASSES ON

2009-05-19T22:25:00.000-07:00

I had to start off with this story. Last Friday former NBA player and popular jazz musician Wayman Tisdale passed away after a two year battle with cancer. It was a battle that resulted in Tisdale having to have one of his legs amputated below the knee. Yet through it all, he never lost he optimism and his zest for life which was amplified by the smile he always seemed to have.

Farewell Wayman Tisdale, I know that you are giving one heck of a concert on the other side.

IN MEMORIAM: ERNIE BARNES

2009-05-04T16:29:00.001-07:00

Those wonderful paintings, that unmistakeable style that left no doubt that you were looking at yet another masterpiece from the legendary painter Ernie Barnes. A painter for over 40 years, Mr. Barnes passed away last week at the age of 70. However like all of the great artists, he will continue to live on through his work. Farewell Mr. Barnes, your work still stirs the spiritual heavens.

IN MEMORIAM: JACK KEMP

2009-05-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

I truly was impressed by this man. A decent man who wanted to help those who truly needed it. A man who was truly "colorblind" in the sense that it truly didn't matter to him what ethnicity you were, you were a person first. I wish that there were more Republicans like Mr. Kemp who even though you disagreed on some issues, found more to agree upon. An open minded Republican, wow learn this lesson Republicans. Learn from the life of this great man and maybe you can salvage the soul of your party.

Michel Martin of NPR news wrote an excellent article on Jack Kemp today that is really worth reading.

IN MEMORIAM:LAS VEGAS ENTERTAINER DANNY GANS

2009-05-04T15:49:00.000-07:00

I never got to see Danny Gans perform live in Las Vegas and that is to my eternal regret. What I have seen of him speaks to a man who what endless talent and lived life to the fullest doing what he loved. A toast to you Mr. Gans, I know that you are entertaining them on the other side.

IN MEMORIAM: BEATRICE ARTHUR

2009-05-04T15:47:00.000-07:00

Forever a Golden Girl

1922-2009

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: THE 100TH DAY

2009-04-29T14:55:00.001-07:00

The pride I felt when this man was elected our leader is still intact and he has been moving at a blistering pace as he works to solve our prblems here and abroad.

Keeping this short but to the point about the first 1oo days of President Obama's presidency, Mr. Shadow's quick capsule review: Damn Good. An A-

FIRST SCULPTURE OF BLACK WOMAN IN U.S. IS UNVEALED

2009-04-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

From the L.A. Times: April 28, 2009

First Lady Michelle Obama helped unveil Los Angeles artist Artis Lane's new sculpture in Washington, D.C. today. Lane's latest work is a bronze bust of Sojourner Truth, a former slave and women's rights activist that is the first sculpture of a black woman in the U.S. capital.
For more on Lane and her work, see: "L.A. Artist's 'Truth' to Be Unveiled."

Photo: Artis Lane holds a small version of the Capitol bust. Truth “personified women’s rights, equal rights... the struggling and understanding that was taken away from us because of slavery,” she said.Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times

AND FINALLY TO MY LAKERS

2009-04-29T12:33:00.001-07:00

Well, they did it and for the first time Mr. Shadow's sports prediction came true! The only problems I see are for Andrew Bynum to get his head and heart into the game and for the Lakers to STOP LOSING DOUBLE DIGIT LEADS!!

Well at least they get about a month's rest while they wait for the winner of the Houston Portland series. I'm hoping its Houston.

CHAUNCEY BILLUPS WINS THE NBA GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

2009-04-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

Much respect to a great player on and off the court. As it should be.

AN ASS KICKIING BY ANY OTHER NAME

2009-04-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Nuggets 121- Hornets 63

You know that is just embarassing to the game of basketball. In addition New Orleans had the nerve to give up and take the ass kicking in front of their fans. I wonder if the wives and girlriends of the Hornets players locked them out of the bedroom and made them sleep on the couch after that debacle.

LAKERS WIN GAME ONE OVER JAZZ

2009-04-20T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well the journey of redemption for the Lakers finally got underway yesterday and by the looks of it, they should have no great problems with the Utah Jazz. They are a scrappy team and will fight you till the end but the Lakers just have too many weapons to lose. The series should go to the Lakers in five games but I'm hoping they sweep. I will admit to a fear that the Lakers will get complacent and let the Jazz back in the game like they did in the second half. However, I'm going to remain positive and look for them to not only build a large lead but keep it.

Yes, I have the Lakers winning the championship of course and since Boston has a serious case of "We don't have KG for the playoffs", they will beat LeBron and the Cavaliers in 6 games.

As Mike Baisden would say, "Yeah I said it!"

MR. SHADOW'S RETURN

2009-04-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

You know it has been an adjustment for me in terms of not being able to contribute more to this blog. When I started blogging in November of 2007, I started blazing out of the gates. I generally contributed a series of posts for at least 5 days a week. This year has been more difficult in a way because life as it often does has a way of getting you to focus on things that are more important at the time.

This past spring break was especially difficult because I had intended to use much of it on this blog but I caught a real bad sinus infection which pretty much had me at home for much of the break.

Well I have resolved to write posts for this blog for 2 0r 3 times at least for the forseeable future so we will see how it goes for this humble blogger.

UC SAN DIEGO GOOFS IT

2009-04-01T12:50:00.000-07:00

If only this were really an April fools joke. All I can say to the young ones is to stay tough and keep at it.

Oops! UCSD Sends Acceptance E-mail to Wrong List University Fails Basic Math, Gives Rejectees Hope
By ERIC S. PAGE
Updated 11:32 AM PDT, Wed, Apr 1, 2009

UC San Diego -- a school for the smart ones, supposedly -- mistakenly congratulated nearly 29,000 applicants on their acceptance, according to university officials.

From mermaids to flying pigs check out these pictures of off-beat, interesting happenings from around the world.

Earlier this month, about 17,000 students were offered admission for the fall, leaving nearly 29,000 hopefuls out in the cold.

But on Tuesday, the school's communications office said an e-mail was sent Monday afternoon to all 46,377 students who applied for admission -- including the 29,000 rejects -- welcoming them to the campus.

A half-hour later, school officials said, they realized their mistake. Almost two hours after the first note went out, a second e-mail was sent, apologizing to 28,889 freshmen applicants for the mistake.

"No member of this department is more acutely aware of the emotional roller-coaster that this could cause for our applicants," Assistant Vice Chancellor Mae W. Brown said.

An anonymous parent told the Los Angeles Times it was a "colossal screw-up."
Similar incidents have happened at other schools -- including Cornell in the recent past, the paper reported -- but the UCSD incident was the biggest "screw-up."

ARE BLACK CONSERVATIVES IN TROUBLE?

2009-03-04T13:51:00.000-08:00

From Black Prof

Right and Wrong
by Sherrilyn Ifill

"Conservative commentator Bill Bennett famously (and arrogantly) summed up the significance of Barack Obama’s win last November as the end of “excuses” for blacks. Although Bennett, as a white right-wing talking head prone to inflammatory racial commentary may have been an inappropriate and certainly ill-timed messenger of this bromide, his statement was not far off from what many black people have been saying among our family members, and in our community centers and churches since November. Days after the election a black analyst in the Washington Post seemed to unconsciously parrot Bennett when she declared that, “African-Americans just entered the ‘no-excuses’ zone.” Black comics joked that blacks could no longer claim that we are being held back by “the man,” when with a black man in the White House we technically are “the man.” The widely accepted understanding of this sentiment is that traditional black civil rights thinking – which focuses on dismantling systematic racial inequity as the principal means of improving the economic, educational and social condition of African Americans – has been rendered obsolete by Obama’s presidency.

But in the months since Obama’s election, little attention has been directed at the possibility that Obama’s ascension has thrown another traditional black school of thought into potential obsolescence: black conservatism. I’ve been fascinated by the dearth of statements by black conservatives (and the directionless rambling of the few that have offered some reflections) on the meaning of the Obama presidency. I speak of course of Ward Connerly, Justice Clarence Thomas and Shelby Steele, among others – those who, as Chris Rock bitingly put it years ago, have “devoted their lives to making sure the white man gets a break.” I began thinking of Obama’s presidency as a blow to black conservatives when I was on the Mall on Inauguration Day. I was surprised that when Justice Thomas appeared on the screen of the jumbotron, taking his place along with other Supreme Court justices on the dais, he elicited nary a boo, a hiss or even a sarcastic comment from the normally vocal liberal crowd around me. It was as though Obama’s inauguration was, in and of itself, answer to all of Thomas’ tirades against affirmative action.

Because whatever you think of the merits going forward of affirmative action, and other traditional civil rights strategies, there can be no doubt that Obama’s presidency would not have been possible without the successes and groundwork laid by those earlier efforts. In fact, the election of Barack Obama as president is, in many ways, the ultimate vindication of the Civil Rights Movement. Neither the legal marriage of his parents in 50 states, nor the ability of Obama and his wife to attend Ivy League schools, or to live in their tony Chicago neighborhood, or Obama’s ability to garner white votes, would be possible without the civil rights struggles that brought us the desegregation of universities and K-12 schools, the end of racially restrictive housing covenants, the abolition of anti-miscegenation laws, and the crown jewel of the civil rights movement – the Voting Rights Act. And the list goes on and on – all brought to us by the activism and litigation of civil rights icons regularly derided by black conservatives. The ironic piece de la resistance, of course, is the 1984 and 1988 breakthrough presidential runs of Jesse Jackson – one of the leaders Justice Thomas was presumably referring to when he once derided civil rights activists who just “bitch and moan and whine.” Jackson’s transcendent run in ’84 and especially in ’88 literally prepared the ground which ultimately bore the fruit of Obama’s win, demonstrating the power of grassroots organizing in a presidential primary run, and accustoming white voters to the possibility of a black president.

It’s an interesting conundrum for black conservatives. President Obama is a hard leader to caricature. He speaks of personal responsibility often, and he’s no liberal. But his full embrace of an African American identity, his start as a community organizer and civil rights lawyer on the Southside of Chicago, his extraordinary race speech in Philadelphia last year – even his beautiful and proud black wife, his passionate ballplaying and his embrace by and of hip/hop stars, collectively represent a challenge to black conservatives who have made their meat and potatoes pigeonholing civil rights lawyers as hustlers and who have worn their status as outsiders from the mainstream black community as a badge of honor, and a mark of intellectual independence.

I suspect that the challenge for black conservatives is deeply personal as well. Over the past year Obama’s walk has demonstrated, for example, that the “high-tech lynching for uppity blacks” that Justice Thomas revisited in his bitter memoir last year may be a thing of the mind, and that a cool confidence in your own integrity is a better response to the slings and arrows that come against you, than a white-lipped tirade against your detractors. If the rabble-rousing, rhyming of Jesse seems a bit passé, then certainly the affirmative action –obsessed, civil rights bashing of Ward and Clarence and Shelby is also out-of-touch. Maybe that’s why Shelby Steele’s post-election commentary has seemed to reek of sour grapes and impotent frustration at what he calls the “national obsession” with the racial significance of Obama’s win. In fact, Dr. Steele sounds uncomfortably close to his left doppelgangers when he warns that Obama’s win will not lead us into “true post-racialism.” So what does black conservatism offer us now, and who is prepared to make a compelling case for the continued relevance of black conservative thought? Newly-elected Republican National Committee chair Michael Steele’s (no relation to Shelby) incoherent debut demonstrates that he’s not up to the task of becoming the political pop culture carrier for the kind of intellectual vision of personal responsibility, limited government and self-reliance touted by Thomas, et al.

Yes, it’s “no excuses” time for blacks – those on the left and on the right. But civil rights leaders can at least boast that President Obama is their movement grandchild, even as they are challenged to recalibrate their goals and strategies in light of Obama’s success. Black conservatives must struggle even harder to assert their continued relevance, and have very little to show for their decades of resistance to the very activism that made Obama’s presidency possible."

PRESIDENT TALKS TRASH WITH FAN

2009-03-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

Isn't it wonderful that we have a President who is so laid back and confident that he can go to a basketball game? Then be so down to earth that he can get into a good natured round of trash talking with an opposing fan? I believe that are country is in good hands people.

MR. SHADOW'S CATCH UP REPORT

2009-03-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

Well my dear readers I am back once again. I have come to the realization that due to my currently heavy schedule I will not be able to blog as heavily as the previous year. Hence the first of many "Catch up Reports" which will be done in the manner of one who is getting up to date on things.

With no further adieu, here we go:

So, Rhianna has accepted Chris Brown back. Personally I will pray for her to wake up and for Chris to get some intervention...of an ass whipping variety. When will our Black males realize that hitting a woman is NOT acceptable under ANY circumstances. It is not a show of strength but of weakness. It doesn't matter if she started it, you do not hit her! To those Black women who blame the victim, wake up. It is never the woman's fault and if you are in a relationship with someone like that then know that he is not a man but a punk! Get out of the relationship before it gets worse and ends in your getting seriously injured or killed. Please wake up.

Loved Steve Harvey's radio show this morning. He went on a much needed rant against the whole Chris/Rhianna story and called on all women to reject males who are that way and admonishing abusers as "punk asses". Amen to that and by the way please go out and read Steve's book. I plan to.

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President Obama has been in office almost 40 days now and in my opinion is doing just fine. But can we stop falling for the ruse of how is Obama doing? He hasn't been in office a year let alone 4, give the man some space! I don't remember them being all on Clinton or Bush in their early days.

Is it just me but everytime I see our President I feel so damn proud and inspired! We will disagree with him but let us always do so out of respect.

I think the stimulus package will do just fine despite the negative intentions of the "cry baby" Republicans. Personally, I hope the Republicans keep on with their negativity and stone walling and do until they are gone out of existence.

So let that fat, oxycotin taking, tub o' lard Rush "Limp"baugh wish Obama to fail all he likes. Let them elect that clown Michael Steele as the head of the RNC as a Negro front. Is there anyone that truly thinks that the Republicans actually take this man seriously??

It will all fail and Obama will win in the end but let us not forget to do our part to help him and in turn our country. We must do all that we can to help lift ourselves and others to higher goals. The President can't and shoulden't do it alone. We must shoulder our own weight.

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I really love to watch Venus and Serena Williams reassert their dominance over the women's tennis world.

Oh, and watch out white golf world, Tiger's Back and he's coming for you!! Please know that he will take his crown back.

************************************************************************************
Well, that is all for now. More to come later.

A SAFE, SPRITUAL AND HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO EVERYONE

2009-02-14T15:31:00.001-08:00

" Wrapped in the Arms of Heaven"

Toni Taylor

THE STORY JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER: COACH OF OVERSCORING TEAM IS FIRED

2009-01-26T12:43:00.000-08:00

The saga of the team that ran up the score on another Christian Basketball team 100-0 has been fired after refusing to apologize for his team's poor sportsmanship in the debacle. Well, frankly he should be fired for not setting a better example to his players and as a representative for the school. I don't think it's the Christian thing to do to continue to beat your opponent when they are down. The score was 59-0 at half time, I don't think there was a chance for the other team to come back from that. Anyway good riddance to him, the school and players will be betrter off in the long run.

RICHARD PARSONS TO THE RESCUE: BECOMES THE CHAIRMAN OF CITIGROUP

2009-01-26T11:23:00.000-08:00

Many people first became aware of successful business executive Richard Parsons through his participation in the excellent HBO documentary "The Black List", which showcased notable African Americans in various careers discussing themselves and the state of Blacks in this country.

Parsons was formerly the chairman of AOL Time Warner and navigated the company through several crises until retiring last year. He was and I presume still is an economic advisor to President Barack Obama. Now he takes on the challenge of saving Citigroup with his selection as chairman to one of the giant companies that had to be bailed out by Congress.

I think that Richard Parsons will succeed in his new post. This is a guy who likes a challenge and will do what it takes to overcome it. Good fortune to you Mr. Parsons.

MOTHER OF QUINTUPLETS TALE OF LOVE AND STRUGGLE

2009-01-23T15:52:00.000-08:00

From the Washington Post:

Five Time the Fears
Husband Overseas, Quintuplets' Mother Overwhelmed by Demands, Expenses

By William Wan
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, January 23, 2009

"There are days when life for Adwai Malual looks like an endless wheel. Already she has lived through much: growing up in Sudan as war tore apart her homeland, discovering in the midst of it that she was pregnant, coming to this strange land of America.

Then, weeks later, she gave birth to quintuplets.

Now, in a small, crowded apartment in Laurel nearly two months after the babies' delivery, Malual's life is dominated by another kind of chaos. It begins every day at 3 a.m., as she wakes up to take over feeding duties from her mother, visiting from Sudan. One by one, she tends to her five babies in 40-minute shifts. By the time she has changed the last one's diaper, the first is crying for food again. And so it goes for 12 hours straight, until she hands them off to her mother so she can sleep for a little while before waking do it all again. "

FOLLOW UP TO YESTERDAY'S STORY: TEAM REGRETS THE WAY THAT THEY WON

2009-01-23T15:17:00.000-08:00

For those of you that didn't read my post yesterday here is the deal: a high school women's basketball the other day beat a team 100-0. No I didn't mistype, the score was 100-0. This type of playing is uncalled for in athletics and the school has been rightfully put to task for what happened. Now they say they regret how they played and won the game, and so they should.

A LESSON IN TRUE COMPETITION

2009-01-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

I caught this story via Yahoo and instantly thought of including it as a lesson for my students. There is definately the need for us to teach our children about healthy competition in sports activities. Read more of this story here.

IT HAS FINALLY COME TO PASS: WELCOME PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

2009-01-20T12:32:00.000-08:00

Well my friends, history has become real. Barack Obama is now the 44th President of the United States. This goes to show the great strides that we as a people have made in the history of this country. This is indeed a major step in the ongoing march towards progress. This is a day that I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life.I know that the ancestors are celebrating and looking over at us from the heavens.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR. KING

2009-01-15T21:51:00.001-08:00

SPECIAL REPORT: IN MEMORIAM: RICARDO MONTALBAN 1920-2009

2009-01-14T17:24:00.000-08:00

I was about to log off for the day when I heard the sad news that the legendary actor Ricardo Montalban has died at the age of 88. I grew up watching Mr. Montalban's unforgettable portrayal of Mr. Roarke on the television series "Fantasy Island" and always marveled at the cool but powerful character he presented week after week. He was a traiblazer in fighting to get Latinos more positive portrayals on film and television. I also can't forget the scene stealing performance as the villianous Khan in the original "Star Trek" and reprised it in the movie "The Wrath of Khan"

Farewell to a great artist, gentleman and above all a wonderful human being.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! MY FIRST POST FOR 2009!

2009-01-14T16:17:00.000-08:00

Hello my fellow family in the blogosphere, Mr. Shadow is back and is primed and ready for 20o9! Yes, I know that we are already 14 days into the new year but why stop during the first few initial days? It is the New Year so I am going to celebrate it as often as possible. I hope that yours has been blessed and positive.

So once again, Happy New Year!

AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS IN THE L.A. SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP

2008-12-18T15:56:00.000-08:00

From the L.A. Watts Times article by Chico Norwood:

On the heels of David L. Brewer’s announced departure from the superintendent post at the Los Angeles Unified School District, a coalition of African American leaders are demanding a meeting with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and the LAUSD Board of Trustees.
The group last week also insisted that the African American community be involved in the selection of the next superintendent and that a task force be developed to specifically address the needs of black students.

The board voted Dec. 16 to hire Ramon C. Cortines with a three-year contract. Cortines was appointed the interim superintendent when Brewer announced his resignation. Brewer is expected to depart by the end of this year.
At a press conference held Dec. 11 on the steps of Dorsey High School, the group said they have come together not to focus on the Brewer’s future departure, but to shine the light on how black students are faring in the LAUSD.

“Our focus is on the decades of failed education that has resulted in African American students dropping out of school at a higher rate than every other ethnic group … on the clearly evident disparities in the quality of education between our minority inner-city schools and the welfare of white suburban schools,” said Eric Lee, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference-Los Angeles executive director who led the group.

In response to the leaders’ request, the mayor’s office has reached out to Blair Taylor, president of the Los Angeles Urban League, to set up a meeting, a spokesperson told the L.A. Watts Times.
“I look forward to meeting with this group of community leaders to discuss the issues affecting African American students and all children in LAUSD,” Villaraigosa said in a statement. “This is exactly the kind of community involvement and engagement that is needed across the city to fundamentally reform public education in Los Angeles.”
The percentage of students who pass the High School English Exit Exam in California is lower for blacks — at 40 percent — than for whites — at 77 percent, according to statistics distributed by Lee, who has held regular townhall meetings on the achievement gap and the inequality of education between black and white students.
The statistics, taken from the State of Black California Report 2007, also revealed that the four-year high school dropout rate is higher for blacks — at 22 percent — compared to 8 percent for whites and that blacks have the highest high school dropout rates in Los Angeles.
Lee said that one of the major driving forces behind the gap is the teacher-quality gap that exists within the school system.

“You will find that in our inner-city schools, overwhelmingly, we have first- and second-year teachers, non-credential teachers — plus a 60 percent turnover rate within the inner city schools — compared to a tenure of 10 to 15 years of teachers who have master’s (degrees) and Ph.D.s in the suburban schools,” he said. “We have to talk about stability and the quality of education. We can’t create a stable educational environment and quality education until we address the issue of teacher inequality within our schools.”

Numerous research studies have shown that the quality of teachers is the single most important contributor to student achievement, according to Education Trust West.
The trust says that more than 40 of the 50 largest school districts in California spend significantly less on teacher salaries in schools serving the highest percentage of poor and minority students. The trust added that the spending gap has a dramatic impact on a student’s academic career and a devastating affect on the resources available to minority and inner-city schools.

“If schools in the inner cities have the highest needs and those categorical funds that are designed to improve the quality of education in our inner-(city) schools are not following the student, but are in fact going into the suburban schools where the higher salaries are, that’s an injustice and inequity that we have to deal with,” Lee said. “We hope that our task force will be able to bring light to that and bring reform to that type of system.”

Blair Taylor, president of the Los Angeles Urban League, said there needs to be not only stability in the classroom but stability at the top.
“The number one priority of the school board and the community needs to create and project stability at the top of the L. A. Unified School District in the aftermath of Superintendent Brewer,” he said. “There needs to be a cohesive bottom-up approach to building unity around the next superintendent, and the need to create a bottom-up approach to building a strategy to address the needs of the groups most underperforming in this district, of which African Americans are unfortunately leading the way.”

School Board Member Margurite LaMotte said she was disillusioned by the “antics that resulted in the demise of Brewer’s superintendency.” She welcomed the group’s involvement.
“I am so happy that we will have intervention and monitoring from the group standing behind me. We’ve got to be cohesive; we’ve got to be collaborative,” said LaMotte, who added that she will work to continue some of the programs Brewer started, such as increasing the number of all-male classes in the district. “We cannot divide. We must stand together as a community and, although I serve all students as I have said before, I’m unashamedly an African American.”
In a statement released Dec. 17, LaMotte voiced support for Cortines’ new future role as superintendent.

“While some of my constituents and I still have concerns about Superintendent Brewer’s leaving LAUSD, with this global economic crisis, our own budget crisis, and in the interest of moving the District’s agenda progressively forward for all stakeholders, especially students, I voted affirmatively for now Superintendent-elect Cortines,” LaMotte said. “My vote represents my hope for this district to concertedly focus on the education of all students, especially those who are most underserved and have special needs. We must all continue to know that our students can learn and be successful.”

Lee said the next step will be for the coalition to meet and lay out their educational agenda in more detail.

Political Cartoon of the Day

2008-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

PURCHASE NO! THE RAPE DOCUMENTARY

2008-12-16T16:37:00.000-08:00

From Ebony Intuition:

Winner of an audience choice award and a juried award at the San Diego Women Film Festival, NO! also explores how rape is used as a weapon of homophobia.

Since its official release in 2006, NO! has been screened and distributed to racially and ethnically diverse audiences at film festivals, community centers, colleges/universities, high schools, correctional facilities, rape crisis centers, battered women’s shelters, and conferences throughout the United States, in Italy, Spain, Rwanda, Kenya, Nepal, South Africa, Hungary, Jordan, Burkina Faso, Peru, Mexico, and Brazil.

Click here to PURCHASE

“If the Black community in the Americas and in the world would save itself, it must complete the work this film begins.“~Alice Walker, Pulitzer Prize Winning Author

“…As a rape survivor, I’ve been having trouble expressing my thoughts and fears about what happened to me. The courage of the women in [NO!] to speak out is a new inspiration. I’m telling my friends and colleagues about your film, as I think it’s imperative for women and men of all backgrounds to see it and increase their understanding about violence against women.”
~Cecilia, Chicago, Illinois

MR. OBAMA'S SCHOOL VISIT

2008-12-16T14:28:00.001-08:00

Predident elect Obama presented his choice to be the next Education Secretary; Arne Duncan st a press conferemce held at a school academy in Chicago. From what I read of him Duncan is a an excellent choice for the post having achieved great turnaround as the Chicago Superintendent of schools and he and Obama know each other well. I also like that he seems to be fair to the teacher's union and talks to them with an open faith.

I like that our future President made the press conference brief and spent more time with the children answering their questions. This impresses me even more about Obama and I am impressed enough about this man. Our country will be in safe and competent hands with our future President.

DUCK DUCK BUSH!!

2008-12-15T17:25:00.000-08:00

Boy oh boy was that a sight to behold! My mother and I were laughing uncontrollably when we saw it. Nice to know that he has some quickness in him but then he has been ducking, bobbing and weaving from the truth for so long that I shoulden't be surprised. The expression on his face showed that he had no idea why the Iraqi reporter threw not one but two shoes at him. Clueless as usual.

Well Mr. Bush, that act is the ultimate sign of disrespect that one can make against someone in the Muslim culture. The shoes that were thrown at you represented the anger, frustration, sadness and hatred for you and what you have done to his country.

Still don't get it Mr. Clueless? Well you invaded a sovereign country over false evidence that Saddam has something to do with 911 and that there were weapons of mass destruction there. Five years later there are thousands of brave men and women who have died because of those lies. Thousands of dead and maimed Iraqi men, women and children because of those lies. The presence of Al Queada and other terroist groups that have a steady crop of recruits to draw from because of the destruction and death that your lies and force have done to Iraq.

I could go on but I think that is enough. However if you really want to see how others view you Mr. Bush, then go to the MSNBC website and look up the section form the Tuesday December 9th edition of Countdown With Keith Olberman. Maybe you will finally get a clue.

BYE BYE LARRY

2008-12-15T17:20:00.000-08:00

I was surprised by the news that Larry Elder left KABC radio last Friday. Maybe the powers that be simply grew tired of him. Now I'm not an Elder lover but he got me to thinking on certain issues, particularly education and some social issues. No crying here because I know that he will bounce back somewhere. Till next time Larry, and try not to piss off the majority of Blacks in the meantime.

RAINY DAYS IN CAIFORNIA

2008-12-15T16:14:00.000-08:00

Ah the rain! If I didn't have to go to work today I would love it. Why? Well you try driving on the L.A. freeways in torrential rain while having to be on alert for some idiot who is driving like it is still dry outside.

I will love the rain when I go to sleep and it lulls me to dreamland.

MR. SHADOW'S 1ST ANNUAL ETERNAL HOUSE NEGRO AWARD GOES TO...

2008-12-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

Yes that's right, good ol' Uncle Clarence Thomas gets the award. I mean in the 17 years he has been in the public eye, he has done so much to undermine the gains that African-Americans have made in this country the past several decades.

However, the latest act by Uncle Clarence has proven to me that beyond a shadow of a doubt that he has accepted his role of a House Negro to the end of his days. When that Obama hating nut out of New Jersey tried to put his laughable motion of having him invalidaded as President because he isn't a natural born citizen(Last I heard, Hawaii was still a state) he took it to one Supreme Court Justice(I don't recall which one) who is white. Well, the white justice rejected it outright but guess who agreed to place it for consideration? That's right good ol' Clarence agreed to put the claim in for consideration. The white man rejected it but the "Black in skin color only" Thomas took it without hesitation.

What a disgrace! In fact he is a disgrace to any race!

I hope your proud of yourself Clarence, I guess you are so here is the Eternal House Negro award for you. As my boy the Field Negro would say, "That's House Negro Behavior." I could not agree more.

P.S. I just read to my delight that the Supreme Court turned down the motion to review Obama's eligibility. Boy that sure made you look like a stand up guy for considering the motion right Clarence?