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2015 Cadillac Escalade ESV

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Cadillac Escalade ESVBy Frank S. Washington

DETROIT – The seats in our 2015 Cadillac Escalade ESV were a little firm. But there was plenty of head room and the leg room was sufficient. We felt confident that two adults would be comfortable but three would be squeezed.
That was our observation about the third row seats of the Cadillac Escalade ESV. It only got better as we moved forward. The big sport-utility’s second row seats were captain’s chairs. Our only quibble was there was no center console for them. But they were heated. And the first row seats were cooled as well as heated and they provided a seating position that was as high as that of a full-size pickup truck.
A Cadillac Escalade ESV is bigger than a regular Escalade; you can call it the long-wheel-based version. That wheel-base is more than a foot, 14-inches, longer and its overall length is 20-inches longer than a regular Escalade which doubled the cargo space behind the third row.
It was a Cadillac, thus, the interior was outstanding. Real wood trim looked like they stripped the bark off a tree and then shaved a piece of wood off and put it in the Escalade.
The interior of our test vehicle was sheathed in chocolate brown leather that looked like it would be at home covering huge sofas or thick easy chairs.
Of course, there was the CUE system (Cadillac User Experience) with a new text to voice feature. Love it or hate it, the intuitive, proximity sensing, haptic capacitive system had a clean look, no buttons and it had a personality all its own. All contemporary Cadillacs are equipped with it and as we’ve tested several we’ve grown more comfortable with this system.
Some features on this Escalade were new. It had LED daytime running lights in the front. The third rows seats were power folding. And the second row seat backs flopped forward with the push of a button.
Of course, there was OnStar with features like automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation, monthly vehicle diagnostics and stolen vehicle assistance. And it had an in-house navigation system, Bluetooth, voice controls, satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot were amongst the equipment.
Amongst its other creature comforts were a head-up display, a smart key with remote start, power adjustable pedals, a 110 volt power outlet, 22-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a capless fueling system and a power liftgate.
It made sense that the Cadillac Escalade ESV had a rear vision camera, blind side alert, rear cross traffic alerts and a drive awareness package that featured lane departure warning.
Still, the most impressive thing about our Cadillac Escalade ESV was how it moved – effortlessly. We’re talking about a vehicle that weighed more than three-tons, 6,040 lbs. to be exact.
We had the four-wheel-drive version. Like all 2015 Cadillac Escalades, it was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 that made 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque at a not unreasonable 4,100 rpm.
Outfitted with cylinder deactivation, the Cadillac Escalade would use only four-cylinders when cruising at any speed, 20 mph or 80 mph. The system helped it attain a fuel rating of 14 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg combined. That might not sound like much but given its weight and the horsepower required to move it smoothly, it wasn’t bad.
Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain moved our Escalade smartly. It could get from zero to 60- mph in 5.98 seconds. That’s what Cadillac said and we didn’t quibble. The Escalade ESV even had a sport setting in the ride mode selector.
With a base price of $81,295 and $84,290 as tested, it is obvious that the 2015 Cadillac Escalade ESV is not for everyone. But for those who can afford it the Escalade ESV is an awfully luxurious package.

Frank S. Washington is editor of AboutThatCar.com.

IT’S VALENTINE’S DAY!

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ValentineLet ‘your’ Valentine know that ‘YOU’ care!

Put your thoughts on paper in the Birmingham Times.

Deadline is MONDAY February 9th – 5 p.m.

Cost is $.49 per word.

Call Jo at (205) 251-5158. Ext 17

Fathers Incorporated readies for National Save Our Sons Night on February 6th

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fathers_incorporated_save_our_sons_nightNationwide (BlackNews.com) — On Friday, February 6, 2015, the first annual NATIONAL SAVE OUR SONS NIGHT (NSOSN) will take place across the country. On this evening, various partners from faith-based, national and local nonprofits, and individual community members are hosting events to encourage and facilitate fathers spending more quality time with their sons. Currently there are 106 organizations in 59 cities registered to participate in support of the effort and facilitating activities to engage fathers/men and sons/boys.
“I am both humbled and excited that so many organizations from around the country have stepped up to the plate,” says Kenneth Braswell, Executive Director of Fathers Incorporated and founder of the campaign. “It is important that we set a new social image of black men and boys; one that shows them as loving, engaged and accountable.”
Fathers Incorporated (FI), a not-for-profit organization, serves as a leader in the promotion of Responsible Fatherhood and Mentoring. Its international, national, and local focus raises awareness about, and combats the impact of father absence. Fathers Incorporated works to change the current societal and cultural definition of family to include fathers.
For more information on National Save Ours Sons Night and to see a complete listing of both our partners and events, visit www.saveoursonsnight.com
To learn more about Fathers Incorporated, please visit www.fathersincorporated.com.

National Save Our Sons Events
Albany Police Department | Albany, NY | Feb 6th – 5:30pm – 8pm
The Albany Police Department, Macedonia Baptist Church and the Department of Recreation is hosting a Community Outreach and Resource event at the Arbor Hill Community Center. Activities, Food, Games and Giveaways for Fathers and Sons. For more information contact P.O. Pendelton (518) 888-5417 or P.O. Cancer at (518) 469-4646
Black Butterfly, Inc., The Barber Academy & Virtuous Entertainment | Louisville, KY | Feb 6th – 4-6pm

Black Butterfly Inc., The Barber Academy and Virtuous Entertainment have joined together with Fathers Incorporated’s 1st Annual “National Save Our Sons Night.  Their event takes place at the Westend School, 3628 Virginia Avenue from 4-6pm. This day will be full of speakers, entertainment, games, music, fun, and food. For more information or to volunteer for the Louisville event, contact Cheryl Ford at 502-387-0430 or cford393@yahoo.com
Big Dreamz, Inc. | Greenville, SC | March 14th – 10am – 1pm


Saving Our Boys-Greenville at the Long Branch Baptist Church, 28 Bolt Street in Greenville, SC. Program is for boys ages 8-21. Speakers include Kyle Greene, Craig King, Isaac Wilson and Curt Thomas. To register visit www.bigdreamzinc.com
Boys Day Out—Schenectady, NY—Feb 6th 5:30pm-7:30pm

Boys Day Out, in partnership with the Schenectady City School District, YMCA, Community Fathers, Inc. and other local partners is hosting an event to celebrate our community’s middle school boys and the men who have made a positive impact in their lives.  The event will take place at Mont Pleasant Middle School, 1121 Forest Road, Schenectady, NY 12303.  Activities, Food, Games and Giveaways.  For more information contact: Hector Ramirez (518) 227-7910 hramirez@thearchergroup.org OR Dennis Green (518) 708-1448 GreenD@Schenectady.k12.ny.us
Carrington Consulting | Stafford, VA | Feb 6th – 3:30pm & 7th – 1:30pm

Carrington Consulting is hosting a screening of the documentary “Spit’in Anger – Venom of a Fatherless Son.” The screening will take place at the Elite Images of Man Barbershop, 2608 Jeff. Davis Hwy, Stafford, VA. For more information call 540.300.1308
Center For Urban Families | Baltimore, MD | March 24-26th


The Center for Urban Families’ Practitioners Leadership Institute (PLI) is hosting 2015 PLI Summit “Pathways to Family Stability and Economic Success” taking place in Baltimore, MD on March 24-26, 2015 at the Lord Baltimore Hotel. Fathers Incorporated’s Executive Director and National Save Our Sons Night founder will serve as the Keynote Speaker. For more information, visit http://www.cfuf.org/PLI-Summit/
CSRA Fatherhood Collaboration | Augusta, GA | March 27th


CSRA Fatherhood Collaboration – March 27- will be hosting National Save Our Sons Night at Paine College Heal Complex. This is a collaborative effort from Augusta, Georgia’s massive mentoring network. The event will be interactive based. There will be 8-10 “interaction stations” that will include everything from creating gourmet sandwiches to Kung Fu Sparing. From finger painting to fencing. This event will be streamed live online. For more information: www.catalystleague.org or contact Daryl Rolle (706) 627-1387.
Fatherhood Initiative of Beaver County M.A.L.E.S. (Maturing, Achieving, Learning, Empowering Self!) | Aliquippa, PA | February 6th – 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Fatherhood Initiative of Beaver County and its mentees will attend a screening of “Selma” and on Monday February 9, we will discuss the impact of the Civil Rights Movement and the benefits we now enjoy today. For more Information contact Shon Owens (724) 378-2882 ext. 11 or Lispert Dowdell (724) 378-2882 ext. 40.
Fathers Incorporated | Brooklyn, NY | Feb 6th

Fathers Incorporated will accompany fathers and sons to see the Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Fathers Incorporated | Atlanta, GA | Feb 6th

Fathers Incorporated will accompany fathers and sons to see the Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors at the Phillips Arena.
Fayette County Fatherhood Intuitive (FCFI) | Lexington, KY | Feb 6th – 6-8pm

In support and endorsement of Fathers Incorporated’s 1st Annual “National Save Our Sons Night, FCFI and several other community agents will have  an opening reception & dynamic program, followed by a community discussion for men, fathers, sons, and others who work with young men in our communities. Program will include local performer and activist, Devine Carama; Poet-Laureate,  Frank X Walker; Actor/Artist Patrick J. Mitchell; and Sisters and Supporters Working Against Gun Violence (SWAG); and others. The additional local goal is to take this opportunity to catalyze and form an ongoing coalition of local and regional programs/projects, resources, & initiatives interested in male empowerment that will be poised to respond and prevent as opposed to react and protest.  This initial event will be at William Wells Brown Community Center. For more information contact dcozart@lexlf.org or (859) 277-3087.
Furthering Fathering Corporation | Brooklyn, NY | February 6th – 6:30pm – 9:00pm

Furthering Fathering in conjunction with The Sabaoth Group will host Father & Son Game Night at 774 Rockaway Ave in Brooklyn.  Enjoy an evening of pool, ping pong, video games and board games in the heart of Brownsville, Brooklyn. Refreshments – provided More information & registration visit; www.furtheringfathering.org
Furthering Fathering Corporation | McDonough, GA | February 5th – 3:30pm – 4:30pm


Thanks to Mr. C. Hightower, affording the opportunity to partner and speak with the “Distinguished Gentlemen of Luella High School” promoting an image of positive manhood with leadership and service. The topic of discussion is “picturing a special future”. Event to take place at Luella High School. More information & registration visit; www.furtheringfathering.org
Greater Hartford Alliance of Black Social Workers | Hartford, CT | Feb 6th – 5:30pm – 9pm

The Greater Hartford Alliance of Black Social Workers, in association with other invested parties is organizing a showing of the movie “Selma” for fathers/men and their sons/boys to attend.  The event is scheduled from 5:30pm until 9pm.
K.I.N.G. | National | Feb 5th – 12:30 pm

K.I.N.G. is hosting a National Prayer Call on February 5th at 12:30 pm (eastern). The call will be hosted by Chris Broussard and guest speaker will be Corey Williams. The call in number is (712) 432-0075 Access Code 514320
Mission: St. Louis | St. Louis, MO | Feb 6th – 5:30 – 7:30pm

“Mission: St. Louis” (a faith-based non-profit in St. Louis, MO) will be holding a game night for the “National Save Our Sons” event that is limited to our Job and Leadership Training Program participants (ex-con men and their sons) at our headquarters on 2/6/15 at 5:30pm-7:30pm. The address for “Mission: St. Louis” is: 4366 Manchester Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110. The contact person is J.S. Westbrook and he can be reached at: james.westbrook@missionstl.org for more information.
NC State University | Raleigh, NC | Feb 18th – 5:30 – 7:30pm

A screening of Fathers Incorporated’s “Spit’in Anger” and talk by Dr Jeffrey K. Shears of UNC-G and NC AT will discuss the impact of fatherlessness on children’s development, the community and the family. The event will talk place in the Caldwell Lounge.
Pack & Troop 263 | Queens, NY | Feb 6th – 7pm

Pack & Troop 263 we are hosting an open house for fathers and sons, or mothers looking for a positive program that teaches leadership to boys age 6 to 13 in the Pack and young men ages 14 to 18 in our Troop. Pack & Troop 263 is the largest Boy Scout of color in Queens NY. To learn more about Pack & Troop 263 visit our website: www.troop263ny.org or call 718.557.1929 Scouting is one of the oldest mentoring programs for boys. The open house is taking place at 206-14 100th Avenue, Queens.
Pennie Murray | Frisco, TX | Feb 5th – 6pm – 8:30pm

In Support of the National Save Our Sons Night, award-winning executive trainer, author and speaker Pennie Murray is hosting her popular snack and learn “Giving Myself Permission: My Journey, My Way event. Join them for Wings, Drinks and an engaging discussion. Thursday, February 5th, 6pm – 8:30pm at the Holiday Inn Express Frisco, 3400 Parkwood Blvd, Frisco, TX. For more information go to www.penniemurray.com
Rada Film Group (American Promise) | National | Feb 6th

The American Promise campaign recently released the Promise Tracker app. The goal of the app is to serve as a support device that contains information and habits that you can adopt to encourage your child’s academic success. On February 6, as a part of Save Our Sons Night, we encourage you, parents and caregivers, to commit to adopting ONE habit that will lead to your son’s child social, emotional or academic success. You can download the Promise Tracker from the iTunes store and Google Play. Once you have a habit selected, encourage your community to do the same. Share you habit on socialmedia using #promisetracker & #saveoursons.
Links to download:


https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/promise-tracker/id861215249?mt=8

https://play.google.com/stor/ap/details?id=com.phonegap.promise_tracker&hl=en
Restoration for Liberia Organization | Gainesville, GA | Feb 6th – 6:30pm – 9:30pm

On February 6th (National Save Our Sons Night) Restoration for Liberia Organization is hosting Community Outreach Dinner for Fathers/Son at the Fair Street Neighborhood Community Center, 715 Fair Street, Gainesville, GA from 6:30-9:30pm. Looking for young men to speak out and encourage our sons. Prizes and games. For more information contact Dr. Gregory Farngalo at 678-571-0008 or 770-534-5750 or email: desquire07@att.net
Seeds of a Father | Springfield, Massachusetts | February 6th, 2015


Seeds of a Father, Kevin Green in support of the National Save Our Sons Night, in association with lyricist Kyreem Tabar founder of the Wake Up Movement will present to Duggan Expeditionary Learning Magnet School,  “Volley against Violence”. Part one will include a impactful gathering addressing the effects of violence in our community at 1015 Wilbraham Road in Springfield at 8am and Part two will be an opportunity to build positive social relations between sons, fathers, families and school faculty through games of volleyball (time to be announced). For more information contact Kevin Green at 413.246.6962 or kevingreen.soaf@gmail.com
Strengthening Our Sons, Inc. | Orlando, FL | Feb 6th – 6-8pm


Strengthening Our Sons will be hosting a meet and greet for all new Mentors and Mentees, then a Mentors & Mentees basketball game followed by dinner in support of Save Our Sons Night.  For more information call 407-814-4435 or call Tammie Holt at Tammie.Holt@Strengtheningourson.org
STRIVE New York / Fatherhood Program | New York, NY | Feb 6th – 6pm


STRIVE NEW YORK will be hosting a Father/Son Basketball Game in support of National Save Our Sons Night at the El Faro Beacon/SCAN; 2351 1st Avenue, Manhattan. For more information contact Martha Marquez at 646.335.0835 or mmarquez@striveinternational.org
Texas Family Engagement Conference | Houston, TX | Feb 4th & 5th

F.A.C.E. Specialists is hosting the Texas Family Engagement Conference at the University of Houston on Feb 4th and 5th. Fathers Incorporated’s Kenneth Braswell will be speaking on “Engaging Men of Color: Is it Really Possible? Register at http://texasengagement.eventbrite.com
The Good Men Project | TwitterChat | Wednesday, Feb 4th –  9pm EST

“Real Lessons on Special Education and African American Boys,” a Twitter Chat hosted by The Good Men Project featuring guest Roosevelt Mitchell III, M.ED. A #GoodMenChat co-hosted by GMP contributor Nicole Franklin and LittleBrotherFilm.com.
The School District of Philadelphia F.A.M.I.L.Y Head Start Male Involvement Group | Philadelphia, Pa | Feb 7th – 9:30 a.m -1:30 p.m.

The School District of Philadelphia F.A.M.I.L.Y Head Start Male Involvement Group will be hosting a “Save Our Sons Day” mini symposium on Saturday, February 7, 2015 with fathers, male role models, mentors & young men. Sessions will be provided on Dressing for Success, Legal Assistance and The Million Men Pledge. The day will culminate with an adult/youth activity. This event will take place at Pratt Early Childhood Center, 2200 N. 22nd Street. Philadelphia, Pa 19132. Refreshments will be provided. For more information about “Save Our Sons Day”  Please Contact : Denota Watson @ 215-400-6212 / 215-684-1669 or De’Wayne Drummond @ 215-400-5619 ddrummond@philasd.org
Thomas Mentor Leadership Academy | Durham, NC | Feb 16th – 6:45pm


Thomas Mentor Leadership Academy will partner with the Samaritan Men’s Ministry of Union Baptist Church to discuss the importance of Fathers in the lives of their children and recruit men to be mentors. Location: Union Baptist Church, 904 North Roxboro, St., Durham, NC 27704, Event will take place on Monday, February 16th in the Chapel. For more information contact the Thomas Mentor Leadership Academy or call 919-794-6107
Transform Agency, LLC. | Burlington, NJ | Mar 7th – 10am


Men’s Prayer Gathering featuring Tracy Martin (Father of Trayvon Martin), Rev Corry Jones and Rev Kimani Davis at the Tabernacle Baptist Church; 150 E. 2nd Street, Burlington, NJ. For more information visit www.tabernacle-burlington.org or call 609-386-4785
University of Houston & The Texas Engagement Conference | Houston, TX | Feb 4th

The Texas Engagement Conference is pleased to announce the addition of a FREE private screening of the documentary “Spit’in Anger”: Understanding young Men of Color from fatherless communities — on February 4th at 4:00pm. A discussion with the producer will follow the screening. Effective family engagement begins with an understanding of communities and their struggles. “Spit’in Anger” helps viewers inform their engagement strategies by understanding the nuanced trauma faced by many men of color and fatherless communities.  University of Houston – University Center, Heights Room #224, 4100 University Drive, 77004 Time: 4:00-4:45 (Screening), 4:45-5:30 (Discussion)
Urban Colors Arts and Mentoring | Denver, CO | Feb 6th @ 5:30pm

Urban Colors in association with Emanuel Place of Refuge Church will a accompany fathers and sons to see the Movie Selma and hold a round table dinner at Applebee’s Restaurant where we will have a discussion about the importance of fathers, families and community in children’s development. For more information visit www.urbancolors.org or emaildmeeks@urbancolors.org

Freedom to Marry Debuts Alabama TV Ad Ahead of Marriages Commencing on Feb. 9

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Freedom to MarryNEW YORK – Following two recent rulings striking down Alabama’s ban on marriage for gay couples and last week’s sideshow drama by Chief Justice Roy Moore, Freedom to Marry began airing a TV ad across Alabama calling for respect for all families. The ad airs as many anticipate the possible start of marriages in the state beginning February 9.
“Our ad keeps the spotlight on what’s at the heart of the Alabama marriage cases, as well as similar cases now before the U.S. Supreme Court: love, commitment, family, and equality under the law,” said Evan Wolfson, president of Freedom to Marry. “Alabama’s federal judge – appointed by George W. Bush – joined a dozen other Republican-appointed judges in recent months, and 60 state and federal courts, in holding that marriage bans are unconstitutional. And how can you not be touched by Jessica and Chi’s heartfelt desire for the state they love and live in to respect their family and treat them as what they are – married? Alabama, like all of America, is ready for the freedom to marry.”
 The ad features a lesbian couple, Jessica and Chi Peoples, and their daughter, Nailah, who live in Birmingham.
 The ad can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/yOe9dWbjd3Y. In addition, the ad will be running online across Alabama from Feb. 1-8.
 Last week, Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore responded to the marriage ruling claiming that marriage is a basic foundation but that “the destruction of that institution is upon us by federal courts.”
 A transcript follows of the thirty-second spot.

Chi Peoples: “I can’t imagine anyone loving a person as much as I love my wife. Alabama does not recognize our marriage. Everyone wants to believe that if you do what you’re supposed to do your family will be taken care of. But we don’t have that safeguard – that every child can feel good about the home they come from. Isn’t that what matters?”

Shot 18 Times

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jessieDenver police officers shot and killed 17-year old Latina Jessie Hernandez as she drove a car full of her teenage friends. They shot her 18 times, then cuffed her hands behind her back and roughly dragged her limp body into the street, where she died.
Denver Police Department has a problem — shooting at a moving vehicle is against department policy, but their officers have done so four times in the last seven months, killing two people and injuring three.
But it doesn’t stop there. Denver Police Department has a history of excessive force and bullying tactics that have left many dead or injured, and that have cost the city of Denver millions of dollars in legal settlements.
According to Denver police, Jessie was driving a stolen car at the time, and that Jessie didn’t stop the car when they told her to. But that doesn’t excuse shooting at a car full of teen girls.
It seems clear that Denver Police Department has exhibited a pattern of violating people’s civil rights. By increasing national scrutiny on Denver’s history of police violence, your petition signature can encourage the Department of Justice to step in and investigate Jessie’s death.
Will you call on Attorney General Eric Holder to launch a civil rights investigation of Denver Police Department and Jessie Hernandez’s shooting death?
A federal investigation is important — if the Justice Department discovers a pattern or practice of civil rights violations, it has the authority to take over the Denver Police Department and enforce important reforms that will protect the civil rights of all citizens.
Jessie Hernandez’s mother has also called for a federal investigation. In a statement, she said, “We are aware of the DPD’s history of conducting lengthy and fruitless investigations that serve only to exonerate its officers. We are dismayed that the DPD has already defended the actions of the officers and blamed our daughter for her own death, even while admitting they have very little information.”
Police and their apologists have tried to take the heat off of themselves by focusing on Jessie’s own criminal background. But it seems clear to Jessie’s friends, family, and community that she should not be dead right now.
Will you call on Attorney General Eric Holder to launch a civil rights investigation of Denver Police Department and Jessie Hernandez’s shooting death?
Thanks and ¡Adelante!
Mariana, Arturo, Erica, Erick, Luis, and the Presente.org team
P.S. Will you donate $5 to support our work? We rely on contributions from people like you to see campaigns like this through.

Congresswoman Waters Welcomes Jamaican Prime Minister

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Ranking Member of House Financial Services Committee, welcomed Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller at a reception on Capitol Hill hosted by Congresswoman Waters, Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman, Congressman G.K. Butterfield and New York Congresswoman, Yvette Clarke.
Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who is of Jamaican descent, delivered remarks at the reception, which was attended by Mr. David Lipton, First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF); Francisco Palmieri, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Caribbean and Central America in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs and other members of the Jamaican Delegation, including the Honorable Dr. Stephen Vasciannie, Jamaican Ambassador to the U.S. and; Lorna Johnson, Honorary Consul of the Consulate of Jamaica in Los Angeles.
During the reception, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller thanked Congresswoman Waters and members of the CBC Task Force, including Representatives Charles Rangel, Sheila Jackson Lee, Yvette Clarke, and Gregory Meeks for their vocal advocacy in support of Jamaica, during Jamaica’s negotiations with the IMF. These negotiations culminated in the IMF’s approval of $923.3 million arrangement under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for Jamaica on May 1, 2013. “I really want to thank you,” said Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller. “Had it not been for you, we would not be where we are today. We will never forget the Black Caucus and your contribution to the Jamaican economy.”
Congresswoman Waters commended Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller for her commitment to the people of Jamaica. “The Prime Minister is profoundly concerned for the people of Jamaica: its businesspeople, workers, children and families,” said Congresswoman Waters. “It was because of her passion that we decided to do everything within our power as Members of Congress to make certain that Jamaica got the assistance that it needed from the IMF.”
Congresswoman Waters also congratulated Jamaican officials on the country’s sustained economic growth and job creation that prompted IMF’s Deputy Managing Director Min Zhu to describe the nation’s economic transformation as “miraculous,” during a High Level Caribbean Financial Forum at Montego Bay in October 2014, according to Jamaican news sources. In December, the Executive Board of the IMF completed its sixth review of Jamaica’s economic performance, subsequently approving a   $62 million disbursement under the arrangement supported by the EFF.
“I applaud Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, Finance Minister Peter Phillips, and Governor of the Bank of Jamaica Brian Wynter for their determination to turn around the Jamaican economy,” said Congresswoman Waters. “The unemployment rate in Jamaica decreased to 13.8 percent in July 2014 from 15.4 percent just a year earlier, and due to Jamaica’s significant structural reforms the country’s fiscal performance is predicted to meet all IMF targets.”

Funds Pour In For Detroit Man Who Walks 21 Miles To, From Work

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James-RobertsonBy Associated Press

DETROIT (AP) — Hundreds of people have contributed tens of thousands of dollars to help a Detroit man who says he typically walks 21 miles to get to and from work.
The Detroit Free Press (http://on.freep.com/1yujefU ) reports that James Robertson rides buses part of the way to and from his factory job in suburban Rochester Hills, but because they don’t cover the whole route, he ends up walking about 8 miles before his shift starts at 2 p.m. and 13 more when it’s over at 10. Lately, he’s been getting occasional rides from a banker who passed him walking every day and finally asked what he was doing.
After the newspaper wrote about the 56-year-old’s situation over the weekend, multiple people started crowdfunding efforts to help him buy a car and pay for insurance. Some have offered to drive him for free and others have offered to buy or give him cars.
Robertson began making the daily trek to the factory where he molds parts after his car stopped working ten years ago and bus service was cut back. He’s had perfect attendance for more than 12 years.
“I set our attendance standard by this man,” said Todd Wilson, plant manager at Schain Mold & Engineering. “I say, if this man can get here, walking all those miles through snow and rain, well I’ll tell you, I have people in Pontiac 10 minutes away and they say they can’t get here — bull!”
Evan Leedy, a 19-year-old student at Wayne State University, read the story and started a GoFundMe site with the goal of raising $5,000. As of Monday evening, he had raised more than $90,000.
Robertson said he was flattered by the attention and amazed strangers would step in to help.
Asked about a federal program newly available through Detroit’s bus system that might pick him up at home and drop him off at his job, Robertson said, “I’d rather they spent that money on a 24-hour bus system, not on some little bus for me. This city needs buses going 24/7. You can tell the City Council and mayor I said that.”

Court hears Nun’s Network’s religious freedom case

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NunsHHS mandate forces Catholic network to violate faith or pay crippling fines
Washington, D.C. – Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), the global Catholic television network founded by a cloistered nun, had its religious freedom case heard in court.
“The government is threatening a religious ministry with millions of dollars in fines for following its faith,” said Lori Windham, Senior Counsel of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty and lead attorney for EWTN. “Eternal Word Television Network spends all day every day expressing its Catholic beliefs worldwide in TV, radio, and print; it hosts daily masses at a shrine on its grounds, which are held by monks that live there. Yet the government says EWTN is not religious enough to have the freedom to practice what it preaches. That’s wrong.”
EWTN, the world’s largest religious media network, is challenging the government’s HHS mandate, which is forcing the Catholic network to violate its deeply held religious convictions or pay crippling IRS fines. Last July, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals granted emergency protection to EWTN. Today, the Court heard oral argument in this case because the government wants to remove that protection.
“From its beginning, EWTN has been dedicated to proclaiming and living out our Catholic faith,” said EWTN Chairman and CEO Michael P. Warsaw. “We are encouraged by today’s hearing and hopeful that the court will protect EWTN’s religious freedom and allow us to continue to practice what we broadcast to the world every day.”
Almost 34 years ago, Mother Angelica, a cloistered nun, founded a small television network in her monastery garage with a mission to spread the teachings of her Catholic faith. Today, EWTN has become the largest religious media network in the world, transmitting programming 24 hours a day to televisions in more than 238 million homes in more than 140 countries and territories. EWTN is also a religious shrine and pilgrimage site for millions of Catholics seeking daily Mass and worship. A Catholic network whose sole purpose is to spread the word of God, EWTN must fight for the right to remain faithful to the very Catholic message it advances.
“Religious ministries have been winning these challenges overwhelmingly. Most courts understand that the government can’t fine you for living your faith,” said Windham.
For more information or to arrange an interview with a Becket Fund attorney, please contact Emily Hardman at ehardman@becketfund.org or 202.349.7224.
The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty is a non-profit, public-interest law firm dedicated to protecting the free expression of all religious traditions. For over 20 years, it has defended clients of all faiths, including Buddhists, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Muslims, Native Americans, Sikhs, and Zoroastrians. Its recent cases include three major Supreme Court victories: the landmark ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, and the 9-0 rulings in Holt v. Hobbs and Hosanna-Tabor v. EEOC, the latter of which The Wall Street Journal called one of “the most important religious liberty cases in a half century.”

One Man’s Opinion

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Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr.
Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr.
Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr.

The Super Bowl Conversation
by Jesse J. Lewis, Sr.

The conversation today is whether or not the coach, Pete Carroll, of the Seattle Seahawks, made the right decision to pass the ball on the third down for one yard. According to all the surveys done on the Internet, 80 percent believe he made the wrong decision. Legendary Coach Paul Bryant of the University of Alabama stated on many occasions that bad things happen when the ball is in the air – you don’t know where it will come down or whose hands it will fall into. I am in the minority on this issue, I happen to think the coach made the right call.
Everybody expected the coach would run the ball. The thought process was if they passed, there was a chance for a touchdown. In the worst scenario it would be an incompletion and the clock would stop, giving them a chance to run the ball on the fourth down. But worse than that happened. The ball was intercepted. Those of you who saw the play are well aware of the fact that the pass that was thrown went through the receiver’s hands and should have been caught. Had the ball been caught, the coach of the Seattle Sea Hawks would be a hero today.
Instead, the intended receiver was pushed by Bryant of the New England Patriots, the interceptor, which should have been a penalty, which would have given the Seahawks a first and 10.

Here’s what they are saying

We can never stop talking about politics. Every week I will write an article about one of the Republicans lining up to run for president and give their comments. Here’s what Mike Huckabee is talking about:

People can be my friends who have lifestyles that are not necessarily my lifestyle. I don’t shut people out to my circle, out of my life because they have a different point of view,” Huckabee told a CNN reporter. He was supposed to be answering a question about whether he believes being gay is a choice. ” I don’t drink alcohol, but gosh – a lot of my friends, maybe most of them, do. You know, I don’t use profanity, but believe me, I’ve got a lot of friends who do. Some people really like classical music and ballet and opera  – it’s not my cup of tea.”
He also offered a nod to legislation that some conservatives have advocated on the national and state levels protecting businesses from discrimination claims for adhering to their owner’s religious views.
“I’d like to think that there’s room in America for people who have different points of view without screaming and shouting and wanting to shut their businesses down,” he said. “What worries me in this new environment we’re in, it’s not just that someone might disagree, they don’t want to argue with me, even take a different point of view. They want to close someone’s business down.”
Huckabee pointed to President Barack Obama’s 2008 opposition to same-sex marriage, but said there’s no chance he’ll ever drop his opposition to gay marriage.
“This is not a political issue. It’s a biblical issue. And as a biblical issue – unless I get a new version of the Scriptures, it’s really not my place to say, OK, I’m just going to evolve. It’s like asking someone who’s Jewish to start serving bacon-wrapped shrimp in their deli. We don’t want to do that – I mean, we’re not going to do that. Or like asking a Muslim to serve up something that is offensive to him or to have dogs in his backyard. We’re so sensitive to make sure we don’t offend certain religions, but then we act like Christians can’t have the convictions that they’ve had for 2,000 years.”
How many people do you suppose he managed to alienate from the Republican Party with these statements?
There’s an old saying that goes like this: Heap sees, few knows, heaps start, but few goes. This means there are a lot of Republicans who will try to run for president. There are only two actually running at the present time:  Jeb Bush, who came in 5th in the polls in Iowa, which does not mean anything, and Scott Walker.
Those who presently serve in the Senate who say they will run are not running: Ron Paul, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio. Because if they run for President they would have to give up their senate seats. They will get in the race to raise money and then get out.
email: jjlewis@birminghamtimes.com

Myths and Facts About Social Security

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EDT McTierBy Mahari A. McTier

Myth:  Social Security will provide most of the income you need in retirement.
Fact:  It’s likely that Social Security will provide a smaller portion of retirement income than you expect.
There’s no doubt about it – Social Security is an important source of retirement income for most Americans.  According to the Social Security Administration, more than nine out of 10 individuals age 65 and older receive Social Security benefits.
But it may be unwise to rely too heavily on Social Security, because to keep the system solvent, some changes will have to be made to it. The younger and the wealthier you are, the more likely these changes will affect you. But whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, keep in mind that Social Security was never meant to be the sole source of income for retirees. As President Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “The system is not intended as a substitute for private savings, pension plans, and insurance protection. It is, rather, intended as the foundation upon which these other forms of protection can be soundly built.”
No matter what the future holds for Social Security, focus on saving as much for retirement as possible. You can do so by contributing to tax-deferred vehicles such as IRA’s, 401(k)’s, and other employer sponsored plans, and by investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash value insurance contracts. When combined with your future Social Security benefits, your retirement savings and pension benefits can help ensure that you’ll have enough income to see you through retirement.

Myth:  Social Security is only a retirement program.
Fact:  Social Security also offers disability and survivor’s benefits.
With all the focus on retirement benefits, it’s easy to overlook the fact that Social Security also offers protection against long-term disability. And when you receive retirement or disability benefits, your family members may be able to receive benefits, too.
Another valuable source of support for your family is Social Security survivor’s insurance. If you were to die, certain members of your family, including your spouse, children, and dependent parents, may be eligible for monthly survivor’s benefits that can help replace lost income.
For specific information about the benefits you and your family members may receive, visit the SSA’s website at www.socialsecurity.gov, or call 800-772-1213 if you have questions.

Myth:  If you earn money after you retire, you’ll lose your Social Security benefit.
Fact:  Money you earn after you retire will only affect your Social Security benefit if you’re under full retirement age.
Once you reach full retirement age, you can earn as much as you want without affecting your Social Security retirement benefit. But if you’re under full retirement age, any income that you earn may affect the amount of benefit you receive:
•    If you’re under full retirement age, $1 in benefit will be withheld for every $2 you earn above a certain annual limit for 2015, that limit is $15,720.
•    In the year you reach full retirement age $1 in benefits will be withheld for every $3 you earn above a certain annual limit until the month you reach full retirement age.
Even if your monthly benefit is reduced in the short term due to your earnings, you’ll receive a higher monthly benefit later. That’s because the SSA recalculates your benefit when you reach full retirement age, and omits the months in which your benefit was reduced.

Myth:  Social Security benefits are not taxable.
Fact: You may have to pay taxes on your Social Security income, then your benefit generally isn’t taxable.  But if you earned income during the year (either from a job or self-employment) or had substantial investment income, then you might have to pay federal income tax on a portion of your benefit. Up to 85 percent of your benefit may be taxable, depending on your tax filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.) and the total amount of income you have.

(Mahari A. McTier is a Financial Advisor with Tier 1 Advisors. LLC and can be reached at maharimctier.tier1@gmail.com.)