THEGRIO.COM- An open letter to the Black preachers that meet with Trump

Check out this paragraph in the article: On the May call, Schnatter reportedly said the N-word while complaining that a legendary fast-food chain founder had used the word in the past without being subjected to public backlash. He also reflected on his childhood in Indiana, saying people used to drag African-Americans from trucks until they died, according to Forbes.

Many Americans celebrate July 4 as the nation’s Independence Day, but for many African Americans, Juneteenth is the holiday that celebrates freedom and emancipation from slavery. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862, with an effective date of January 1, 1863, however the official end of the Civil War was not until April 1865 two and a half years later. In light of the slow methods of communication and minimal number of Union troops to enforce Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, Texas slaves continued to live in bondage until June 18, 1865. 45 states and the District of Columbia have passed legislation to officially recognize Juneteenth. Today, many continue to work to pass legislation in Congress to establish Juneteenth Independence Day as a National Day of Observance.

 From The FACEBOOK PAGE of

Bill Cosby

May 3 at 8:12am · 

Official Statement From Camille O. Cosby

“We the people” are the first three words of our nation’s Constitution, but who were those people in 1787? Dr. Howard Zinn, the renowned, honest historian, states in his best-selling book, A People’s History of the United States: “The majority of the 55 men who framed the Constitution were men of wealth in land, slaves, manufacturing or shipping.” Clearly, most people were not included in that original draft of the Constitution; no women, Native Americans, poor white men; and, absolutely, no enslaved Africans.

What have the masses of people done who are treated as outcasts by “we the people”? They, through the purity of the unceasing human spirit, forced 27 amendments to the Constitution that have guaranteed fundamental rights to all people...finally doing what the framers should have done in 1787.

Now enters an American citizen, Bill Cosby. The overall media, with their frenzied, relentless demonization of him and unquestioning acceptance of accusers’ allegations without any attendant proof, have superseded the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, which guarantee due process and equal protection, and thereby eliminated the possibility of a fair trial and unbiased jury. Bill Cosby was labelled as guilty because the media and accusers said so... period. And the media ensured the dissemination of that propaganda by establishing barricades preventing the dissemination of the truth in violation of the protections of the First Amendment. Are the media now the people’s judges and juries?

Since when are all accusers truthful? History disproves that...for example, Emmett Till’s accuser immediately comes to mind. In 1955, she testified before a jury of white men in a Mississippi courtroom that a 14-year-old African American boy had sexually assaulted her, only to later admit several decades later in 2008 that her testimony was false. A more recent example
is the case of Darryl Hunt, an African American who in 1984 was wrongfully convicted for the rape and murder of a white woman, only to have DNA evidence establish in 1994 that he did not commit the crime. Nonetheless he was held in prison until 2004, serving almost twenty years behind bars, until the true rapist confessed to the crimes. These are just two of many tragic instances of our justice system utterly and routinely failing to protect African Americans falsely accused in so-called courts of law and the entirely unfair court of public opinion.

In the case of Bill Cosby, unproven accusations evolved into lynch mobs, who publicly and privately coerced cancellations of Bill Cosby’s scheduled performances; syndications of “The Cosby Show”; rescissions of honorary degrees and a vindictive attempt to close an exhibition of our collection of African American art in the Smithsonian Museum of African Art. Although the Smithsonian’s hierarchy did not capitulate, a disclaimer was posted on the exterior of that Museum. And all of that occurred before the trial even started.

The worst injustices, however, have been carried out in the Pennsylvania Montgomery County Courthouse. Three criminal charges, promised during an unethical campaign for the district attorney’s office, were filed against my husband...all based on what I believe to be a falsified account by the newly elected district attorney’s key witness. I firmly believe her recent testimony during trial was perjured; as was shown at trial, it was unsupported by any evidence and riddled with innumerable, dishonest contradictions. Moreover, Bill Cosby’s defense team introduced the testimony of a witness who confirmed that the district attorney’s witness admitted that she had not been sexually assaulted, but that she could say she was and get money ... which is exactly what she did.

I am publicly asking for a criminal investigation of that district attorney and his cohorts. This is a homogeneous group of exploitive and corrupt people, whose primary purpose is to advance themselves professionally and economically at the expense of Mr. Cosby’s life. If they can do this to Mr. Cosby, they can do so to anyone.

How much longer will we, the majority of the people, tolerate judicial, executive, legislative, media and corporate abuses of power? We, the majority of the people, must make America what it has declared itself to be....a democracy...not to be destroyed by vicious, lying, self-absorbed paradigms of evilness.

Once again, an innocent person has been found guilty based on an unthinking, unquestioning, unconstitutional frenzy propagated by the media and allowed to play out in a supposed court of law. This is mob justice, not real justice. This tragedy must be undone not just for Bill Cosby, but for the country.

I wish to thank the witnesses who courageously came forward at trial to testify as to the truth, as well as those witnesses who would have done so but for the judge preventing them from testifying. Someday the truth will prevail, it always does.

Camille Cosby

A Texas charter school network has apologized for an assignment asking students to list positive aspects of slavery.

The battle over the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) repeal of net neutrality rules is entering a new phase, with opponents of the move launching efforts to preserve the Obama-era consumer protections.

The Trump administration takes its first big step toward stricter work requirements for food stamps .....(read article)

The President has repeatedly argued that he’s done more than any other recent president. That’s not true, as measured by the amount of legislation he’s been able to sign. It is true, though, that 45 has undone a lot of things that were put into place by his predecessors.

Click here to see the list!

#STAYWOKE

Washington Post - Fact Checker: Analysis President Trump has made 1,628 false or misleading claims over 298 days

Check out this story from the Washington Post. The President  has repeatedly argued that he’s done more than any other recent president. That’s not true, as measured by the amount of legislation he’s been able to sign. It is true, though, that he has undone a lot of things that were put into place by his predecessors, including President Barack Obama.

Since Jan. 20, 45’s administration has  undone or uprooted rules, policies and tools that predated his time in office. Click this link to see the full list

Reuters reports that the water crisis in Flint, Michigan focused national attention on the dangers of lead exposure, and over the past year Reuters has found more than 3,400 neighborhoods across the United States where childhood lead poisoning rates are at least twice as high as Flint’s. Now the President  is pushing for steep budget cuts that experts say could cause more children, not fewer, to suffer the lifelong effects of lead exposure.

North Korea says the U.S. is pushing the situation on the Korean peninsula 'to the brink of war' as an American naval fleet nears the region. As Pyongyang prepares for a huge celebration on Saturday, the world watches on to see if a nuclear test could be imminent.

Self described White supremacist Dylann Roof’s videotaped confession after killing nine people at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, SC last year seemed to stun the courtroom. Prosecutors said Roof sat in the church basement for about a half-hour with nine members of the church before opening fire in an attempt to start a race war. The defense suggested that Roof should be spared the death penalty.

What’s Your Take? Do you support the death penalty for Dylann Roof?

A HUGE thank you to Everyone for all of the birthday wishes .I really felt the love.Thank You,Thank You ,Thank You!

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Under intense public and political pressure, Charlotte police officials on Saturday released dashboard and body camera recordings in the fatal police shooting of Keith Lamont Scott, whose death has prompted large and sometimes violent protests here. For the first time, Police Chief Kerr Putney said Mr. Scott was in possession of both marijuana and a handgun, which he said raised a safety issue officers felt compelled to confront.

There are 469 U.S. Congressional seats up for election this November. Many Americans reportedly cannot name their Congressman/woman and are unaware of their legislative record. How about you?

Do you know the names of the Congressional candidates in your district up for election on November 8th? Have they earned your vote?

President Barack Obama delivers remarks in Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington, DC 9/17/16 The CBCF Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) is the leading policy conference on issues impacting African Americans and the global black community. Thought leaders, legislators and concerned citizens engage on economic development, civil and social justice, public health and education issues. More than 9,000 people attend 70 public policy forums and much more. Join subject experts, industry leaders, elected officials and citizen activists to explore today’s issues from an African-American perspective

The last three verses of the “Star Spangled Banner are usually omitted in performances.

O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light, What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming, Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming? And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there, O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep, As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses? Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam, In full glory reflected now shines in the stream, ’Tis the star-spangled banner—O long may it wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore, That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion A home and a Country should leave us no more? Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave, And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O thus be it ever when freemen shall stand Between their lov’d home and the war’s desolation! Blest with vict’ry and peace may the heav’n rescued land Praise the power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation! Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just, And this be our motto – “In God is our trust,” And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

CBS Chicago uncovered the 2013 incident where Rev. Catherine Brown says she was “treated like an animal.”

We all know the frontrunners for the Democratic and Republican Presidential nomnations ,but did you know that a large crowd of candidates are also vying for those nominations. Plus there are LOTS of likely third party and independent 2016 hopefuls..Please click the link  to view an updated list of those running , or thinking of running -- regardless of party, ballot status, or chances of winning .

Check out two posts referenced during our  February 17th show.Please share your comments and opinions!

Here is the link to the Michelle Alexander post in "The Nation"

Tim Murphy's take on the Bernie Sanders campaign

In this week's address, the President offered his condolences to the families and community of the victims of the San Bernardino shooting. He recognized the possibility that the two attackers may have been radicalized, a reminder to all of us that we need to work together to prevent people from falling victim to attempts by extremist organizations to encourage violence. The President called on Congress to close the loophole that allows people on the No-Fly list to purchase guns, a simple and logical step that would make it harder for potential terrorists to acquire weapons. And he reminded us that we cannot accept mass shootings like this one as routine in our country, and emphasized that above all else, his priority is the safety and security of the American people.

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.Find me on Twitter @coffeeblacksip and Like my Facebook page

Newly released video has revealed the dying moments of an African-American active-duty soldier who checked himself into the El Paso, Texas, county jail for a two-day sentence for driving under the influence, and died while in custody in 2012.

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Riley B. King (September 16, 1925 – May 14, 2015), known by his stage name B.B. King, was an American blues singer, songwriter and guitarist. Rolling Stone ranked King number 6 on its 2011 list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time (previously ranked number 3 in the 2003 edition of the same list).[2] He was ranked No. 17 in Gibson's "Top 50 Guitarists of All Time"

 Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Day?

 An Oklahoma reserve sheriff's deputy accused of fatally shooting a man he says he meant to subdue with a Taser pleaded not guilty today to a charge of second-degree manslaughter. At the hearing, the judge granted Robert Bates permission to go to the Bahamas for a family vacation. Attorneys for the victim Eric Harris stated that the  deputy  was not certified on the .357-magnum revolver he fired, and the personal weapon was not on the Tulsa sheriff's list of approved firearms.

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Bringing you the latest in sports, celebrity, and entertainment news!

Bringing you the latest in sports, celebrity, and entertainment news!

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel plans to honor the Jackie Robinson West Little League players after they lost their national title over violations of geographic-boundary rules.
The players were stripped of the title they won last summer, because team officials were found to have violated a rule setting geographic boundaries within which teams must find their players.

What’s Your Take? How do you feel about the decision of Little League International to strip the Jackie Robinson West team of its title?

Morning light, silken dreams take flight
As the darkness gives way to the dawn
You’ve survived, now your moment has arrived
Now your dream has finally been born

Black butterfly, sail across the waters
Tell your sons and daughters what the struggle brings
Black butterfly, set the skies on fire
Rise up even higher so the ageless winds of time can catch your wings

While you slept the promise was unkept
But your faith was as sure as the stars
Now you’re free and the world has come to see
Just how proud and beautiful you are

Black butterfly, sail across the waters
Tell your sons and daughters what the struggle brings
Black butterfly, set the skies on fire
Rise up even higher so the wind can catch your wings

Let the current lift your heart and send it soaring
Write your timeless message clear across the skies
So that all of us can read it and remember when we heed it
That a dream conceived in truth can never die, butterfly

'Cause now you’re free and the world has come to see
Just how proud and beautiful you are

Black butterfly, sail across the waters
Tell your sons and your daughters what the struggle brings
Black butterfly, set the skies, set them on fire
Rise up even higher so the ageless winds of time can catch your wings
Fly butterfly, yeah, yeah

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Remarks by President Barack Obama at the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday comparing the barbaric actions of ISIS to those of medieval Christian crusaders have drawn ire from his critics on the right.Speaking about ISIS, Obama said, “Lest we get on our high horse and think this is unique to some other place, remember that during the Crusades and the Inquisition people committed terrible deeds in the name of Christ.”He added, “In our home country, slavery and Jim Crow all too often was justified in the name of Christ.”

What’s Your Take on the President’s comments?

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show. Find me on Twitter @coffeeblacksip

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show..Find me on Twitter @coffeeblacksip

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Former New York Gov. Mario Cuomo -- who rose from the Depression-era streets of Queens to serve three times as governor and whose passionate keynote address at the 1984 Democratic political convention vaulted him onto the national political scene -- died Thursday. He was 82.

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Hours after prosecutors said there would be no charges against a Ferguson police officer, police had to use tear gas to break up protesters. Michelle Miller reports from the streets of Ferguson, Mo.

In this week’s address, the President laid out the steps he took this past week to fix our broken immigration system. Enacted within his legal authority, the President’s plan focuses on cracking down on illegal immigration at the border; deporting felons, not families; and accountability through criminal background checks and taxes.

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Tanya Free and Friends Rewards Program

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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14 states reportedly offer straight-ticket voting. Straight-ticket voting (also called straight-party voting) allows voters to choose a party’s entire slate of candidates with just a single ballot marking. In 2012, a solid majority – 56 percent – of North Carolina voters marked one box on their ballots to indicate their choices in more than a dozen races, from governor to county commissioner. Critics of straight-ticket voting believe it encourages voters to cast ballots without being fully knowledgeable about the candidates.

What’s Your Take? Does straight ticket voting undermine the political system?

In this week’s address, President Obama reiterated his comprehensive and sustained counter-terrorism strategy to degrade and ultimately destroy the terrorist group ISIL.

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Jon Stewart's take on Ferguson. Any Questions?

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The Washington Post's Wesley Lowery and social media users captured video of protests and clashes with police in Ferguson, Mo., on Tuesday. It was the third day of rallies for Michael Brown, an unarmed teen fatally shot by a police officer on Saturday. (Sarah Parnass and Wesley Lowery/The Washington Post

Watch KARG Argus Radio's I am Mike Brown Live from Ferguson, MO on Livestream.com.

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President Barack Obama declared Friday that a surface-to-air missile shot down a Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777 with almost 300 people aboard Thursday in Eastern Ukraine. The President noted that the rebels got weapons and training from Russia and had previously shot down a government aircraft, including a claimed strike of a fighter jet. Some have speculated that the strike could have been a Ukrainian military mistake or a Russian-assisted rebel attack.

What’s Your Take? Do you think Russian President Vladimir Putin will use his power to end the escalating violence in Ukraine? What steps if any should the US take in response to the escalating violence?

UNBELIEVABLE 

In this week's address, the President recapped his visits with folks who have written him letters about their own American stories -- their successes and struggles. While Congressional Republicans are blocking meaningful measures that would strengthen the middle class, the President continues looking for ways to grow the economy and expand opportunity for more hardworking Americans.

To create workplaces that are thriving and competitive in today's global economy, we must make full use of the talented pool of American workers. The White House Summit on Working Families focused on strategies to ensure all members of our society have equal access to high-quality jobs. Of particular significance is the increasingly important role of women as breadwinners in working families. Topics included key issues such as workplace flexibility, equal pay, workplace discrimination, worker retention and promotion, opportunities for low-wage workers, elder care, childcare, and early childhood education.

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May We Help You? Radio Spotlight Shows of the Week

Listen Live @ HERE 7pm Tonight @ TanyaFree.com and LIVE365.com. Listen on the go on your mobile device Download the LIVE365 App

Off The Vine with Benita and Terricina

This show is about "Wines of Summer". Learn the best wines that pair with cookout foods and what we are drinking that's refreshing and helps to fight the summer heat.

May We Help You ? Radio Tribute to Maya Angelou

Listen to two of the hottest shows from MWHY Radio on Tanya Free and Friends Radio tonight @ 7pm EDT

Click Image To Listen Live!

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www.thesipwithcoffeeblack.com

Published on May 20, 2014

Robert Reich explains why we should raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour

In this week’s address, the President underscores the importance of ensuring equal pay for equal work and highlights the steps his Administration has taken to expand opportunity and narrow the pay gap that exists between men and women.
 

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Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
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Happy Valentines Day from all of us here at TanyaFree.com and Tanya Free and Friends Radio!

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In this week's address, the President discusses the goals he laid out in the State of the Union address to expand opportunity for all so that every American can get ahead and have a shot at creating a better life for their kids.

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Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week? ReyTime sits in for Coffee Black this week!

Have You Had Your "Sip" For The Week?

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

The Fritz Pollard Alliance, an influential group that promotes diversity and job equality in the NFL, called on players Thursday to stop using the N-word on the field after highly publicized incidents involving the Miami Dolphins and Washington Redskins.

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Don Yelton, a local GOP official in North Carolina, has been forced to resign following an appearance this week on "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" in which he made a series of racially charged remarks.

Watch the video and share your comments and opinions here on TanyaFree.com.

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It's all in a name or is it? Watch the video and share your comments and opinions here on TanyaFree.com.

Have You Had Your "SIP" for the Week?

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President Obama follows up on his speech to the nation on Tuesday and describes the possibility for a diplomatic solution in Syria, partially because of the credible threat of U.S. military force.

The Common Core State Standards initiative seeks to set a uniform standard for grades K-12, to ensure kids all over the nation reach the same minimum level of learning.

What’s Your Take? Is a National Common Core educational standard a good idea?

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President Obama said Monday that he has not decided whether he will order a strike on Syria without congressional support — and he's not certain he'll win a vote on a resolution to authorize military action.He also expressed wariness about a new Russian proposal — "welcomed" by Syria's foreign minister — to have Damascus turn over its chemical weapons to international inspectors.

"I think you have to take it with a grain of salt initially," he said. “This represents a potentially positive development. We are gonna run this to ground."

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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President Barack Obama said he will seek authorization from Congress before launching any military action against the Syrian regime.

Making a forceful case to answer a "crime against conscience," Secretary of State John Kerry declared Friday that the U.S. had a moral obligation to punish Syria for using chemical weapons — painting a ghastly portrait of twitching bodies, victims foaming at the mouth and row upon row of children gassed to death.

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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Please check out this commentary from our friend Baye Kambui! 

Add a new rule to the List of Things a Brother Must Never Do to Avoid Being Profiled as a Criminal or Shot Like Trayvon Martin – don’t do pull ups on building scaffolds after dark.

True story.

It was past 10 o’clock p.m. earlier this year and I was walking north on Greenwich Street between Rector and Albany Streets in New York City, headed home. I saw a horizontal pole in the building scaffolding on the east side of the street and as part part of my fitness habit, I knocked out a set of pull-ups. Just when I finished my set, a stocky 40-plus white guy with dark hair and a mustache walked out of an open shop and walked in the same direction I took. . I somewhat discounted the glare he gave me since he can’t possibly think I was doing pull-ups until I found a prospective robbery victim, yet I walked slower than my usual pace since I thought walking near him would create unnecessary alarm.

My precaution didn’t stop what happened next – Stocky Guy quickly puts his hand in his black leather jacket as if he had a gun and began to back away from me toward the street.  His glare went nowhere, but his nervousness was equally prominent.

It’s amazing how the human brain calculates data in real time. I sensed there was a non-trivial probability that I was about to become a shooting victim for doing pull ups while on the way home and I had to concurrently assess the imminence of this threat – i.e., does Stocky Guy really have a gun; does he appear ready to use the supposed gun; are there any signs that he’s drawing weapon at that moment; what are my options for handling this situation. His backing away to create additional space between him and me can be a good or bad event as I reasoned on the spot since retreating can signal a lack of willingness to confront me, or can mean he’s ready to shoot but wants to make sure I’m not close enough to grab his supposed weapon. My computed odds that he had a weapon and that I was facing real danger: unknown – 50%.

I was aware of our close proximity to the 9/11 Memorial which meant there were security cameras all over the place as well as police officers at least 60-70 yards away. Not to mention the residents who live on the upper floors of the street.

Armed with this data I initiated my calculated course of action: “Easy Bro,” I said with my hands raised while continuing my northward direction and creating distance between us. “I’m just walking home.” My voice was calm as usual and I wasn’t the least bit nervous.

“You’re about to get f*****g shot, sneaking up on me like that,” was his angry response.

Time to lunch the next step in my plan which was to quickly draw attention to this situation: “NO ONE IS TRYING TO SNEAK UP ON YOU,” I said loudly while moving further away from him.

Stocky Guy said nothing else and quickly crossed Greenwich, disappearing on Carlisle Street,  headed west.

I never expressed anger or sadness during or immediately following the incident. I walked past a police car that was positioned to guard the 9/11 memorial as well as two foot patrol officers on the corner of West and Albany Streets without any thought about reporting what I just went through.

Thinking about that night made me recall the previous times I experienced having guns drawn on me.

Like the time I was passing through North Carolina as a college student on my way back to New York with three friends. The car I was riding in received its second flat tire that evening. Two friends were left in the car while another friend and I took a long walk north on Interstate 95 in search of a gas station – he carried the damaged tire while I carried a crobar. I walked a few feet in front of the friend until I realized he was no longer right behind me. I turned around and saw him talking to a state trooper in a patrol car with no flashing lights. I walked toward the trooper and friend thinking that we now have a ride to the gas station when the friend began to scream at me to drop the crobar. Mind you the trooper said nothing at this point. When I had a clear view of the officer he was still in his car with his gun pointed directly at me from his window while telling me it was a good thing my friend gave me the warning since “you never know out here.”

Like the time I was 15 years old walking through Central Park in search of a possibly rained-out high school football team picnic when cop in his vehicle drove parallel to my vector, got out of his car and drew his gun, using his car door as a shield. Before I knew it, additional cops surrounded me with guns drawn. My supposed crime? A black man, whose description did not match mine, snatched a woman’s purse.

Like the time I met two friends in New Brunswick, New Jersey one Saturday night to hang out. We were passing through the town of Elizabeth when our car, a Jaguar, was trailed by a police car for no more than a half-mile. Without surprise we were pulled over by the officers – guns drawn of course – with additional officers joining the traffic stop. Their inquiry included our providing a complete account of the places we planned to visit that evening, along with corresponding times. “Brake light malfunction” is the official reason for why we were stopped.

Like the time I learned that driving a rental car 46 miles per hour in a 35 mpg zone somewhere between Fort Lauderdale and Miami can earn the experience of a police gun briefly pointed at you.

I haven’t covered the times I was pulled over for various reasons by police officers  - sans drawn weapons – or the times I may have been a target for undercover officers. What would you think when a twenty-something year old white guy almost suddenly wants to buy you a drink in a trendy lounge on Chrystie Street to talk about Italian mobsters and famous hit jobs that occurred before he was born – two topics you never offered a clue that you were  ever interested in discussing? In any case, I didn’t sense a good outcome from that conversation so I quickly exited.

In the aggregate, I was struck by how my emotions had been removed from these incidents. However,  coupling my experiences with US Justice Department statistics several years ago that show how people of African descent are twice more likely than white Americans to be stopped by police, and how these stops are three times more likely to result in the use of force by police officers made me feel more like a member of a hunted species as opposed to being an ephemeral “person of interest” in the eyes of the law. I don’t imagine that antelopes, gazelles or other animals make heavy emotional expenditures in their past encounters with hunters as much as they focus on the moment they live in and how they will survive it.

Even even as an adult, my parents still inspect the clothes I wear when I visit them and they will quickly suggest changes that they think will attract less attention from police officers. In their calculus of probable frightening events, the chances I may be shot by members of the criminal or law enforcement clans carry equal weight. Wearing pants that sag has never been my style. Besides my lack of desire to wear a virtual utility belt, I also don’t carry my smartphone in a belt holster for reasons obvious to most members of The Hunted. I learned that making adjustments to my car dashboard while near a toll booth makes me a more prominent target as was the case twice when approaching the Hugh Carey Tunnel in Brooklyn. I try not to carry many bags, particularly large ones, after dark. I don’t have a police record, nor have I ever been arrested. Despite my background or adjustments made to my appearance, I can’t seem to cast away my “Hunted Species” status.

I watched the film Fruitvale Station last Friday and witnessed my typically calm and steady demeanor give way to heaves and tears. I’m still not sure why I was crying but while I may have seen a part of myself and my personal experiences on screen, I certainly made a connection between film subject Oscar Grant’s death at the hands of Bay Area police officers with the lives of Sean Bell, Randolph Evans, Amadou Diallo, Clifford Glover as well as many other people of African descent who died from state-issued bullets or by those of self-appointed deputies.

Perhaps the tears were a necessary reminder of my own humanity…

song currently stuck in my head: “back home” – yusef lateef

Follow Baye on Twitter @kambui

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

Florida State Senator Dwight Bullard joined us on The Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show yesterday. The Senator sent a letter to Governor Rick Scott urging him to pardon Marissa Alexander, a Floridian and mother facing a mandatory minimum sentence that should have been avoided under the current Stand Your Ground law.

“This is a complete and utter outrage,” Senator Bullard stated. “How can a mother who previously had no criminal record, living in fear for her life, and shooting no one, get a 20-year sentence and the gunman of a 17 year-old child goes completely free!”

Marissa Alexander shot a weapon in her home August of 2010 during a heated dispute with her then-husband Rico Gray. Gray has a documented case of domestic abuse. Alexander says that the shot fired was a warning shot and was not intended to harm anyone.  A judge ruled that Alexander was not eligible to use stand your ground as a defense because he saw Alexander as the aggressor.

Ms. Alexander currently faces 20 years in prison for discharging a weapon under the controversial 10-20-Life law which has mandatory minimum sentencing requirements. Under current state law the governor’s office has the authority to pardon those who have been sentenced in a court of law.

CONTACT

Sean Nixon
Nixon.sean@flsenate.gov
(305) 815-8417 for more information

Call Governor Scott's office @ 850 717 9337 to support the pardon of Marissa Alexander

Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

 Watch President Obama's statement about Trayvon Martin and the verdict of the court trial that followed the Florida teenager's death.

Have You Had Your "SIP" for the week?

President Obama discusses how a large, bipartisan majority in the Senate voted to pass comprehensive immigration reform, which would add a big boost to our economy, strengthen Social Security, and modernize our legal immigration system to make it more consistent with our value. He calls on Congress to pass this commonsense bill quickly so that we can fix our broken immigration system and keep America strong for years to come.

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

An officer shot and killed a Southern California man's dog after it jumped from an open car window and lunged at officers who were taking the Rottweiler's owner into custody on suspicion of interfering with a SWAT stand-off. This video shows Rosby walking his dog Max  along a sidewalk and recording officers on his cell phone. Another man who was also apparently recording the police incident was standing just a few feet away from Rosby, but he was not approached by officers.
Officers stared at Rosby for several seconds and began walking toward him. Rosby placed his dog into his car and, as officers approached, turned around and put his hands behind his back. Rosby's attorney, said his client was targeted because he had a pending lawsuit against the Hawthorne Police Department. Rosby alleged that police beat him without cause.

What’s Your Take?

Thanks to Scotty Reid of the Black Talk Radio News for sharing this story with us.

View more videos at: http://nbclosangeles.com.

President Barack Obama & First Lady Michelle Obama visit Gorée Island off the coast of Senegal and tour the Masion des Esclaves (House of Slaves) Museum. For roughly three hundred years until the mid-1840s, countless men, women and children from Africa were kidnapped from their homes and communities and brought to this island to be sold as slaves. Narrated by the First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

Tanya Free and Friends Are A Proud Sponsor Of Jazz On The Grass!

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

I would like to thank all of our friends who joined us last night in Richmond for "Lights Out" at Famous Brown's!

Today Tanya Free and Friends are happy to join Buster  Nelson from State Farm Insurance in sponsorship of  Jazz on the Grass  River Riverfront Plaza in  Fredericksburg,VA

Join us tonight for Lights Out!

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The man who claims to be the whistleblower behind the revelation that the National Security Agency is gathering troves of data on individuals' telephone and internet use stepped forward on Sunday.

A social experiment is conducted in a park. Three people try to steal a bike out in the open. First, a white teenager. Then, a black one. Finally, a young blond tries her luck. Does anyone try to stop them?

Watch the video of the First Lady taking care of business!

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Have You Had Your "SIP" for the Week?

A Prince William County man says he was suspected by Walmart security of possibly kidnapping his three young daughters -- all because they aren't the same race.

DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

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Have you had Your "SIP" for the Week?

Have You Had Your Sip For The Week?

Unacceptable under any circumstances!

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

The Dedication Ceremony of the George W. Bush Library and Museum

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

TIME's Joe Klein explains why politics, from gun control to immigration, shouldn't be part of our reaction to the Boston tragedy.

Boston bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, an American citizen, won't be treated as an enemy combatant as some Republican members of Congress had suggested, the White House said Monday."He will not be treated as an enemy combatant," White House spokesman Jay Carney said. "We will prosecute this terrorist through our civilian system of justice. Under U.S. law, United States citizens cannot be tried in military commissions."

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

President Barack Obama said at the conclusion of the Boston Marathon bombings manhunt on Friday night that "we've closed an important chapter in this tragedy."
After a day-long massive manhunt for one Boston Marathon bombing suspect that terrorized several cities and riveted a nation, there was shouting and applause on the streets of Watertown, Massachusetts.We are all appreciative of the efforts of the local, state and federal authorities and officials involved in  the apprehension of the second suspect in the Boston Marathon bombing.

 

Despite the fact that polls indicate that 90 percent of Americans are in support of background checks, the gun-buyer background check bill failed 54 to 46 in the Senate falling short of the 60 votes needed to break a filibuster. It also voted down other key measures and counterproposals, defeating a string of amendments in a series of procedural votes that likely doomed any major legislation to curb gun violence.
 

Take note of the majority of Republicans and 4 Democrats that neglected to vote on OUR  behalf - the 90 percent majority of the American people that have spoken.

 

President Barack Obama says the Senate's opposition to a bill that would have expanded background checks for gun buyers marks a "shameful day" in Washington

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

Two explosions occurred near the Boston Marathon finish line at 2:50 p.m. The race was diverted before being halted as police and fire crews swept the area. Another device was found, which was purposely detonated by Boston Police at Boylston Street. Another incident at JFK Library, which was thought to be a fourth-related incident, is now being considered as a fire-related issue by the Boston Police Department.  Two people are dead and at least 90 are injured. >>> This is a developing story. / Boston.com

This week’s address is delivered by Francine Wheeler, whose six year old son, Ben, was murdered alongside nineteen other children and six educators in Newtown, Connecticut, four months ago. Now, Francine – joined by her husband David – is asking the American people to help prevent this type of tragedy from happening to more families like hers.

Have You Had Your Sip For The Week?

Peace And Blessings To You On This Easter Sunday!

Imagine asking the same question a million times over. Watch Today's  WASSUP video and share your comments and opinions. 

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

A panel at the Conservative Political Action Committee on Republican minority outreach exploded into controversy on Friday afternoon, after an audience member defended slavery as good for African-Americans.

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

Robert Reich On Why Raising The Minimum Wage Is One Of The Smartest Things We Can Do. Watch today's WASSUP video and share your comments here on TanyaFree.com.

Have You Had Your "SIP" For The Week?

 Check out Melissa Harris Perry's take on the Real "Harlem Shake" 

In his weekly address, President Obama says that businesses have created jobs every month for three years straight – nearly 6.4 million altogether, and have added 246,000 new jobs in February. Watch the address here on TanyaFree.com
 

 'You are the worst excuse for a journalist I've ever seen.' That was Democratic Rep. Keith Ellison's  assessment of Sean Hannity ..

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In his weekly address, President Obama tells the American people that a series of harmful budget cuts—called the sequester—have taken effect because Congress failed to act. 

 PRESS RELEASE    

1549 Elvis Presley Boulevard Memphis, TN 38106

Do you play the lottery? How about a work or group lottery pool? There are some things that might just be best done alone and playing the lottery seems to be one of them. Just ask the eight employees in a court battle over a jackpot winning ticket. The purchaser of the ticket for the group claims the winning ticket is actually her ticket purchased separately and not the group’s pooled lottery ticket. Confused? Watch the video and post your comments.     

What do you think?  Who deserves the cash?

Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

President Obama urges Congress to stop the sequester -- the automatic cuts that threaten thousands of jobs and affect our national security from taking effect on March 1. Many Americans simply do not understand the sequester and how it may affect them.Looming crisis or political hype?Find out more about the sequester here on TanyaFree.com. Do you think Congress will or should stop these automatic cuts?

 NFL Greats  Join Celebrities To " DEMAND A PLAN" On End Gun Violence

Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

The Christopher Dorner case has resulted in emotions ranging from fear to outrage and even sympathy for Dorner. The former Los Angeles Police Department officer allegedly killed four people in revenge for his firing. Dorner’s Manifesto posted on FACEBOOK portrayed him as a victim of institutional racism that dared to cross the Blue Line to report a sergeant for brutality.

 

Money is tight for siblings Katie and Ryan Moi, but when they found $13,000 on the street, they still immediately decided to return the cash to its rightful owner.

Watch today's Good News "Wassup"video and share your comments here on TanyaFree.com!

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

 Another young victim falls prey to gun violence.A teen who performed at events for President Obama's inauguration was slain in Chicago this week, and her story is now part of the debate over gun control. Watch the video and post your comments and opinions here on TanyaFree.com

According to Sen. Lindsey Graham, all of us need to arm ourselves to the hilt, because if he has his way with the upcoming budget cuts, we won't be able to count on the police for help:

Graham: We Need Guns Because Of Budget Cuts, Fewer Cops:

Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

Watch this week's WASSUP video and share your comments and opinions!

Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

Outrage mounts over Gun Appreciation Day. Leader claims Gun apppreciation Day honors Dr. King. Watch the video and post your opinions and comments.

Have you had your "SIP" for the Week?

Check out today's WASSUP video and post your comments and opinions here on TanyaFree.com! 

Have you had your "Sip" for the week?

What's your take? Will we have a deal by December 31?

In this week’s address, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and thank our brave troops and their families for their service. The President and First Lady ask the American people to visit JoiningForces.gov to find ways to honor and support our veterans and military families, and say that we must all come together, as we always do, to care for each other during this holiday season.

After a week of silence in the wake of the Newtown shootings, the National Rifle Association finally spoke out Friday defending guns and decrying violence. NRA’s Wayne LaPierre called for schools to be protected with armed guards, just as sports stadiums, the President of the United States and government buildings.

If Friday really is the end of the world then you want to invest in booze, bananas and banks, according to some experts.

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Tanya Free and Friends extend our thoughts and prayers to the families affected by this tragedy.

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Hollywood legend Ed Asner and his take on the 99% What's your  take? Watch the video and share your comments and opinions here on TanyaFree.com!

Have You Had Your Sip For The Week?

Have you had your "Sip" for the week?

President Obama urges Congress to act now on one thing that everyone agrees on -- ensuring that taxes don’t go up on 98 percent of all Americans and 97 percent of small businesses at the end of the year.

 Watch these videos and share your comments and opinions!

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news!

In his weekly address, President Obama says that it’s time for Congress to pass the middle class tax cuts for 98% of all Americans. Both parties agree that this will give 98% of families and 97% of small businesses the certainty that will lead to growth, and so there is no reason to wait. On Tuesday, the American people voted for compromise and action, and the President calls on Congress to come together in that spirit to help create jobs and strengthen our economy.

Have You Had Your Sip For The Week?

Have you had your sip for the week?

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

 A recent survey revealed that a majority of smokers feel that second hand smoke is not very harmful despite the fact that studies continue to suggest that exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of developing many of the same fatal illnesses as smoking. 

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and beware. Share your thoughts and comments. 

 Have you had your "SIP" for the week?

 The only Vice Presidential Debate of this campaign season is history. How would you grade the performances? Who do you think was the victor?

Have you had your sip for the week?

The first Presidential debate of this campaign season is history. Who do you think was the heavyweight champion of tonight's debate? Was it a KO,draw or decision?

Have you had your "Sip" for the week?

 Have you had your sip for the week?

Have you had your sip for the week?

Have you had your "SIP" this week?

Watch as President Obama marks the eleventh anniversary of the September 11th attacks by remembering the innocent lives lost, and honoring the first responders and men and women in uniform who have served and sacrificed to keep our country safe.

Have you had your 'Sip" this week?

Watch as Clint Eastwood speaks at the 2012 Republican National Convention in Tampa last night. His speech has received mixed reviews from the political pundits. What's your take? What do you think of his remarks?

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
Coffee Black is now on Twitter @CoffeeBlackSip and Like her on FACEBOOK!

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment news!

Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.
Coffee Black is now on Twitter @CoffeeBlackSip and Like her on FACEBOOK!
 

Unbelievable! Can someone give me the definition of a "legitimate " rape?

Rep. Todd Akin, GOP Senate nominee in Missouri, said in an interview airing Sunday that “legitimate rape” rarely causes pregnancy.
 

Akin issued a statement Sunday afternoon saying he misspoke.

“In reviewing my off-the-cuff remarks, it’s clear that I misspoke in this interview and it does not reflect the deep empathy I hold for the thousands of women who are raped and abused every year,” he said. “I recognize that abortion, and particularly in the case of rape, is a very emotionally charged issue. But I believe deeply in the protection of all life and I do not believe that harming another innocent victim is the right course of action.”

Off the cuff?

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.

Mitt Romney introduces his running mate, Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, as a man with "unbounded optimism in America's future" at a rally in Norfolk, Virginia.

What do you think of the decision? Will Ryan help Romney's numbers?

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.

How is this possible ? Watch this week's WASSUP video and share your comments and opinions. Join the conversation!

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news! Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show.

GOP Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney criticizes London 2012 Olympics 

Have you had your "SIP" for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news!

Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the  Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show

Vice President Joe Biden fills in for President Obama at the NAACP Convention in Houston,Texas. What's your take?

In case you missed it,here is the video of Governor Romney's address to the NAACP 2012 Convention.What's your take?

Have you had your sip for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news!

Check out "The Sip " Wednesdays on the  Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show

Check this story of  sweetheart deals given to some members of Congress, their staffers and other government employees  from former mortgage-lender Countrywide Financial. They received the deals as part of  a special “VIP program,” according to a report from the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. 

Coffee Black returns today with a special edition of The "Sip" highlighting the BET Awards.

Have you had your sip for the week? The latest in Sports,Celebrity and Entertainment news!

It has been a busy week for the Obama administration. Check out the video here on TanyaFree.com

Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show weekly for "The Sip" with Coffee Black!   The latest in Sports, Celebrity and Entertainment News.

Check out today's 'Wassup' video story and share your thoughts and comments. www.tanyafree.com

Still making a difference at the age of 100!

The 2012 Republican National Convention is slated for August 2.The hunt is on for a VP candidate to pair up with anticipated presidential nominee Mitt Romney. Sen. Marco Rubio, Rep. Paul Ryan and Governors Bobby Jindal and Bob MacDonnell have all been mentioned as possible running mates.

Who do you think would make a good running mate and why?  

What’s on your facebook page? In a growing trend, some employers are demanding access to employee and applicant facebook accounts. Rejecting access could jeopardize employment. What do you think about this new trend? Would you give your employer access to your facebook page?

Check out this week's 'Wassup' video and leave your comments here on TanyaFree.com 

Calls for the immediate arrest and detention of George Zimmerman for the killing of Trayvon Martin continue to escalate from coast to coast.

Based on the information as you know it, do you think there is sufficient probable cause for an arrest?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story where Florida’s ‘stand your ground’ is at the heart of the case. Share your thoughts and comments.  www.tanyafree.com

Check out today's Wassup video of Coach Frank Hall. I invite you to share your thoughts and comments.

A recent poll  revealed that Americans consider Iran as the top enemy of the United States.

Do you agree? What country do you feel is the greatest threat to the United States today?

Boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr recently tweeted  "Jeremy Lin is a good player but all the hype is because he's Asian. Black players do what he does every night and don't get the same praise,"
How do you feel about the comment?  Fair assessment or racist jab?

After a knockdown, drag out fight with Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney is pulling ahead of the pack in some of the polls.

Despite in-fighting within the party, do you think Romney will receive the full support and backing of the GOP if he is the eventual nominee?

An Indiana mother recently forced her son to stand on a street corner wearing a sign that read “I lie, I steal, I sell drugs, I don’t follow the law”. She felt as though the community service given her son after breaking the law wasn’t enough to make him change his ways.
How do you feel about her unconventional punishment?

Do you think the discipline was too harsh?

An increasing number of employers are now testing for nicotine. Applicants that would test positive need not apply.

Is this hiring ban too personal?

Would you stop smoking to get a job or keep your current job?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your thoughts and comments.  www.tanyafree.com 

The death of Osama bin Laden was selected as the the top news story of 2011 in the recent Associated Press' annual poll of U.S editors and news directors.Time magazine gave the nod to the Occupy Wall Street Protests.Global economic concerns,congressional fiscal showdawns and the Penn State sex scandal all made it to the top ten of various lists.

What would you rank as the top news story of 2011?

The yearly debate over whether to say “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” is upon us again this season.

Which greeting of cheer do you prefer?

Latest GOP Presidential Polls seems to have narrowed the race to frontrunners Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney after the exit of Herman Cain.

Who do you think will be the eventual nominee?

Allegations of infidelity and moral lapses continue to plague politicians on both sides of the aisle.
Would the infidelity of a candidate affect your decision at the ballot box?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ video story.www.tanyafree.com

What would you have done in this situation?

Many families have been forced to scale back Thanksgiving plans and travel this year due to economic conditions.

Has the economy affected your plans this year?

Penn State made the decision not to cancel the final football game of the season after the revelation of alleged child sex abuse and cover up by university officials and athletic staff.

Was business as usual the correct response?

Congratulations to Debra Gaines and Mishonda Cobb who will each receive a pair of tickets to "An Evening With Dick Gregory"

Thanks to Urban Views Weekly for sponsoring this Give-Away!

We still have a few General Admission tickets available.Get yours now at Plan 9 in Carytown and at the door (if available)

Passengers aboard five JetBlue flights were reportedly stranded on the tarmac in Connecticut for more than 7 hours, some without food, water and operating restroom facilities.

How likely are you to be traveling by air during the upcoming holidays?

Ever feel as though someone is watching you? Well, a recent patent application could lead to mini cameras installed in your car’s highway toll EZ passes.

How concerned are you about Big Brother?

The consumer price index continues to rise with escalating gas and food prices according to the National Labor Department. Unfortunately, reports indicate the same cannot be said about wage increases.

When was the last time you had a salary or wage increase?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com 

We are taking a break this week but we will be taking your comments 24/7 @ Tanyafree.com and on our 24 hour hotline @ 804 321 1010.Take a moment to check out the podcast of our May 25th show when we tackled the issue of how and whether we can both support and criticize the President.

The “Occupy Wall Street” movement and mounting solidarity against corporate greed and social inequality continues to grow and has now gone global. Current GOP Presidential frontrunner Herman Cain described the protesters as “jealous Americans who play the victim card” and want to take somebody else”s Cadillac.
What do you think about movement? Do you plan to get involved? 

Sex Education classes will be mandated in New York City Public Schools for the first time in nearly two decades .The curriculum includes lessons on how to use a condom and the appropriate age for sexual activity. Opposition from religious groups is mounting as the national debate grows over what schools should teach students about sex.
How do you feel? Should sex education be mandated in public schools?

Apologies to many of you who tried to listen live today. WCLM's live feed and internet stream were both interrupted during the show.. Aftershocks in Central Virginia and worldwide Blackberry outages! Wow,but the show must go on!

Listen  to the rebroadcast here  on TanyaFree.com!

This week’s topics:
A look back at last night’s Republican debate.

                   

Why is Herman Cain being dismissed by the press while continuing to lead in many of the polls?

Jobs Jobs Jobs! The President’s job bill appears to be  dead in the water.What's next? Are you better off? President Obama conceded that “American people are not better off  than they were four years ago.”  The President’s transparency may be a day late and a dollar short. What does the President need to do to turn the economy around?   

Raising fees seem to be the name of the game in banking. How will the new debit card and higher checking account fees affect the way you bank?

What civil rights activist  vowed to “kill segregation or be killed by it”?
Find out during the Tanyafree.com 365 Moment!

Raising fees seem to be the name of the game in banking. How will the new debit card and higher checking account fees affect the way you bank?

Join the Conversation!

Listen to a rebroadcast of today's show Here on TanyaFree.com!

This week’s topics:

The “Occupy Wall Street" movement against corporate greed and social inequality continues to grow and has garnered support from a diverse group including celebrities and demonstrators from across the political spectrum.

Why do you think this movement has been ignored for the most part by the mainstream media?
 
The killing of Anwar al-Awlaki by U.S. counterterrorism forces has generated condemnation from civil liberties groups. Should the government have the authority to assassinate an American citizen, without trial or due process?

Reverend Herman "Skip" Mason, Jr., the 33rd General(national) President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.joins the conversation to preview the upcoming Association for the Study of African American Life and History Conference this week in Richmond Virginia.

Who was the prolific jazz saxophonist  credited with being  at the forefront of free jazz?
Find out during the Tanyafree.com 365 Moment!

The killing of Anwar al-Awlaki by U.S. counterterrorism forces has generated condemnation from civil liberties groups.

Should the government have the authority to assassinate an American citizen, without trial or due process?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com

This week’s topics include:

A look back at the case and execution of Troy Davis
What’s behind the protests on Wall Street and why is the media absent for the most part?
President Obama tells the Congressional Black Caucus to press on and stop complaining. Maxine Waters wonders who he is talking to and finds the comments curious. How do feel about the comments?
Vowing that he would not run for the presidency in 2012, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie may be reconsidering at the request of his party.
Do you think Gov. Christie should run in 2012?

Listen to the podcast  HERE on Tanyafree.com!

Who was the unsung hero of racial and economic justice born in Norfolk VA?
Find out during the Tanyafree.com 365 Moment!

Vowing that he would not run for the presidency in 2012, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie may be reconsidering at the request of his party.

Do you think Gov. Christie should run in 2012?

Check out highlights of today's show!

Sylvia Cyrus , Executive Director of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History joins the conversation to discuss their upcoming convention ”African Americans and the Civil War”

The Troy Davis case in Georgia has brought the issue of Capital Punishment back in to the spotlight.

Should the Death Penalty be outlawed in all fifty states?

The dust has settled,the technical glitches from the storm are fixed.We plan to return live next Wednesday!

Stay in touch with us this week on FACEBOOK and Twitter! We of course welcome your comments and opinions to our posts 24/7 @ TanyaFree.com and our Voice Mail Hot Line @ 804 321 1010

Listen to the PODCAST of our August 24th broadcast that will air on WCLM 1450AM today @ 2:30pm on TanyaFree.com

Time for a 2012 Democratic Primary?

Karen Bernal and Sharon Kyle from The California Democratic Progressive Caucus will join the conversation to discuss a resolution in support of a possible 2012 Democratic Presidential Primary Challenge.
Should Congress ratify the Korea Free Trade Agreement? Could it lead to more Americans on the unemployment rolls?

Michele Nash-Hoff, author of “Can American Manufacturing Be Saved? Why we should and how we can” joins the conversation.

A recent poll revealed that more Americans prefer to work for a male than a female.

If you had a choice, would you prefer a male or female boss and why?

Benita ,William and I will not be in the studio live today.

Join us this week for a rebroadcast of our 9/11 Special that first aired May 18

Stay in touch with us this week on FACEBOOK and Twitter! We of course welcome your comments and opinions to our posts 24/7 @ TanyaFree.com and our Voice Mail Hot Line @ 804 321 1010

Dr. David Ray Griffin, author of the book “Osama bin Laden: Dead or Alive” joins the conversation during our first half hour to discuss his doubts that Osama bin Laden was responsible for the attacks of 9/11.
Mike Berger, media coordinator for 911truth.org and author of the documentary, ”Improbable Collapse: The Demolition of Our Republic” joins us in our second half hour to raise his question about the findings of the 911 Commission Report detailing the World Trade Center Collapse.

Listen to the show HERE!

We unfortunately will not be able to broadcast the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show  and our regular segments on Sirius/XM this week.

The double whammy of an earthquake and hurricane in the past few days have wreaked havoc on the schedules and facilities of both WCLM Radio in Central Virginia and Sirius/XM in New York .

Stay in touch with us this week on FACEBOOK and Twitter! We  of course welcome your comments and opinions to our posts 24/7 here @ TanyaFree.com and our Voice Mail Hot Line @ 804 321 1010

Take a minute to  catch up on some of our archived shows here on TanyaFree.com.Just click the WASSUP Link to the left and scroll through our Wednesday posts.

Until next time,remember to always "Live Life With A Purpose" and "Be Free"!

A recent poll has Texas Governor Rick Perry in front of the pack for the 2012 GOP nomination.

Who do you think will be the eventual GOP Presidential nominee?

Listen to the PODCAST HERE on TanyaFree.com

President Obama’s approval rating is at an all time low. With a steep decline in economic confidence a few members within his own party are calling for a Democratic Primary Challenge.

Time for a 2012 Democratic Primary?

Karen Bernal and Sharon Kyle from The California Democratic Progressive Caucus will join the conversation to discuss a resolution in support of a possible 2012 Democratic Presidential Primary Challenge.

Should Congress ratify the Korea Free Trade Agreement? Could it lead to more Americans on the unemployment rolls?

Michele Nash-Hoff, author of “Can American Manufacturing Be Saved? Why we should and how we can” joins the conversation this week.

Living Life With A Purpose!

Who was the first woman ordained a bishop in the Episcopal Church in the United States?

Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment”

Lawsuits were recently filed by tobacco companies against the federal government alleging that the newly mandated graphic warning labels on cigarette packages unconstitutionally infringe on the companies" rights.

Are these warning labels too graphic?

Listen to the podcast of today's show here on Tanyafree.com!

The flash mob phenomenon that started out as an outlet for creative expression through spontaneous performances has now turned into violent riots and looting in cities spanning the globe from London to Philadelphia.

These incidents have been described as everything from political unrest to race riots.   A lot of attention has been placed on Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter’s response to the flash mobs that included the message that Black youth have damaged their race.

Is it really about race? What’s really behind these flash mobs?

Reverend Kevin Johnson, Senior Pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia will join the conversation this week to discuss his recent Philly.com OP/ED article,”Tackle The Real Reason For Flash Mobs”

Who is the author described as one of the most versatile and admired writers in America today?

Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment” 

A recent survey revealed that 64% of Americans are without the means to handle an unexpected $1000 expense.

Do you have savings or other means to handle a $1000 emergency?

Join the Conversation!

Listen to a podcast of today's show here on TanyaFree.com!

Our friend Mike Lux, President of Progressive Strategies, LLC and author of  "The Progressive Revolution :How the Best in America Came to Be"joins us this week to talk about the winners and losers in the debt ceiling debate, repercussions of the S & P downgrade and what’s happening on Wall Street.

Minimal national media attention has been given to the historic recall elections in Wisconsin. Several State Senators on both sides of the aisle are at risk due to outrage over the repeal of collective bargaining rights of public employee unions, signed into law by Governor Walker.

Why do you think these elections have been largely ignored by much of the media outside of the State of Wisconsin, especially considering the reported $30 million dollars that has poured from the outside to influence the outcome?  

Who was the Mississippi civil rights leader and activist known for the quote “I am sick and tired of being sick and tired?

Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment”

A Pennsylvania restaurant recently announced a ban of children under the age of 6. Other businesses have already implemented similar practices. 

 How do you feel? Do you find the ban offensive? 

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com 

Did you miss today's hot show? No problem! Listen ON DEMAND!

Post your comment or opinion here on TanyaFree.com!

Today's topics include:

What was the debt ceiling debate really about? Difference in Ideology or something a lot more personal?

How do you feel about Washington’s ability or inability to govern and their handling of the debt ceiling deb

 Will the influence of the Tea Party in the GOP lead to even more gridlock?

Another apology from a member of Congress for his racist "Tar Baby" comment!

Who is the South African leader that has been the recipient of more than 250 awards for his commitment to peace and social justice?

Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment”

Radio Legend and WCLM Morning Drive Host Big John Trimble joins the conversation to discuss his upcoming “Virginia Has Talent Contest”

The Tea Party’s role in the debt ceiling debate have caused rifts within the GOP and caused some to question whether their influence will move the party even further to the right jeopardizing the all important independent vote while increasing the gridlock on Capitol Hill.

What do you think? Will the influence of the Tea Party lead to even more gridlock?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com 

Listen to today's show here on TanyaFree.com

Blogger Baye Kambui joins the conversation this week to talk about his latest post, ”Debt Ceiling – Class Trippin’ or A Different Game”

Bushwacked?

The Bush Tax Cuts continue to be a contentious issue between Democrats and Republicans. One side claims the cuts have created jobs while the other side believes they have delayed the recovery of the economy and putting Americans back to work.

What impact do you think the Bush tax cuts have had on the economy?

Free Speech?

A federal appeals court recently ruled that a California man’s racist post suggesting that then Presidential Candidate Obama be shot and that "He will have a 50 cal in the head soon" is constitutionally protected free speech, even though he was found to be in possession of several weapons including a .50 caliber rifle when arrested.
 

Do you agree? Free Speech or Criminal Hate Speech?

Attorney Alex Taylor joins the conversation to share his insights revolving this controversial case.

Living Life With A Purpose!

Who was the abolitionist and entrepreneur known as “The Mother of Civil Rights”

Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment” 

The Bush Tax Cuts continue to be a contentious issue between Democrats and Republicans. One side claims the cuts have created jobs while the other side believes they have delayed the recovery of the economy and putting Americans back to work.

What impact do you think the Bush tax cuts have had on the economy?

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com

“The Best of the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show” On Demand Here!

William, Benita and I are taking a break this week!

Check out the much requested repeat of our June 22nd show with Comedian and Civil Rights Activist Dick Gregory.
Even though we won’t be in the studio.We will still take your comments and opinions here and on our Voice Mail Hot Line @ 804 321 1010.

Republican lawmakers have expressed a desire to reform the Fair Labor Standards Act which guarantees a minimum wage and overtime for hourly workers.

What do you think? Should the Fair Labor Standards Act be reformed?

www.tanyafree.com

Listen to a rebroadcast of today's show here on TanyaFree.com!

Post your comment or opinion. We want you to continue the conversation with us here.

 Our topics this week include:

"The Marriage Vow’ Pledge" signed by Michele Bachmann and Rick Santorum that included:
"Slavery had a disastrous impact on African-American families, yet sadly a child born into slavery in 1860 was more likely to be raised by his mother and father in a two-parent household than was an African-American baby born after the election of the USA's first African-American President"
Why hasn’t there been more of an uproar, especially from Black conservatives?

A startling number of white-power candidates are seeking public office. Add to the growing list of candidates considering a bid for the GOP presidential nomination in 2012 America’s most famous white-power advocate ,David Duke.

Where is the GOP headed?  This group makes the Tea Party look like moderates!

Who is the Fortune 500 CEO and Chairman that was listed by Ebony as one of the 50 “Living Pioneers” in the African American community?
Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment”
 

According to British scientist Aubrey De Grey, the first person who will live to see 150 years old has already been born and the first person to live for 1,000 years could be less than 20 years away. If this prediction was medically possible, would you want to live to be 150, 500 or perhaps 1000 years old?

Please record your vote to the poll in the column to the left and  post  your comment here on TanyaFree.com.

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION!

The recent arrest of a 20 year old University of New Mexico football player for refusing to pull up his sagging pants on a US Airlines flight in San Francisco has been labeled as a clear case of racism by the NAACP.

Sagging pants: Indecent exposure or racial profiling?

Attorney Alex Taylor joins the conversation to give his insights on this case and other cases around the country dealing with sagging!

Who is credited as the originator of Hip-Hop?

Radio Host of “OldSchool TrueSchool” and Hip Hop Historian ElBravador will be our guest host of this week’s TanyaFree.com “Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment.”

 Join us as we take a look at the evolution of Hip- Hop. Have some of the lyrics now gone too far?

Listen To The Podcast Here On TanyaFree.com!

Have A Safe and Happy Fourth of July!

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com 

Check out our hot discussion of same sex marriages and how  the religious beliefs of a candidate may affect your decision at the ballot box

Living Life With A Purpose!

Be sure to check our interview and the amazing story of our contest winner and FACEBOOK Friend  MsSuccessful Sammie S .

Rape Survivors-The Real Deal!

Who was the classically trained African American pianist and singer known as the voice of the civil rights movement?    
Find out during the TanyaFree.com “Living Life With a Purpose 365 Moment” as we celebrate Black Music Month!

Listen To The Podcast Here on TanyaFree.com!

Questions regarding the electability of a Mormon have dominated the airwaves since Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman joined the list of GOP Presidential hopefuls. A recent poll revealed 22% of Americans are hesitant to support a Mormon in 2012.

How would a candidate’s religious preference affect your decision at the ballot box?

Please record your vote to the poll in the column to the left and  post  your comment here on TanyaFree.com.

We want YOU to be our special guest on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show next Wednesday June 29th! We will choose one special “FRIEND” to join the conversation.

You pick the topic! You make your case!
Call me on Tanya Free and Friends hotline at (804)321-1010 or email me @ info@tanyafree.com .Leave your name, phone number and topic no later than Sunday June 26th.

What’s on your mind?
You can join us in the studio if you are in Central Virginia or by phone for our friends across the country.

Be our guest next week on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show!

Comedian and Civil Rights Activist Dick Gregory joined the conversation today! Mr. Gregory, who was on the frontline of the civil rights movement in the sixties, continues to be a "Drum Major for Justice and Equality" today.
 

Listen to the podcast here on TanyaFree.com !

Republican Presidential hopeful Rick Santorum has brought the concept of privatizing Social Security back into the political discussion.How do you feel about the idea of converting Social Security benefits into private investment accounts?Should Social Security be privatized?

Please record your vote to the poll in the column to the left and  post  your comment here on TanyaFree.com.

www.tanyafreee.com

Comedian and Civil Rights Activist Dick Gregory will join the conversation this week on the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show!

Here is your opportunity to "Ask Dick Gregory" whatever is on your mind  here on TanyaFree.com in advance.  Mr. Gregory,who was on the frontline of the civil rights movement in the sixties,continues to be a "Drum Major For Justice and Equality" today. You can also pre-record your question or comment on my voice mail hotline @ 804 321 1010. We will get to as many as possible on air, because we know the studio phone lines will be jam packed .

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com  

The Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show: Social and Political Straight Talk

The struggle continues! Don’t miss the show this week when Chicago activist and freedom fighter, Fr. George Clements joins the conversation to share his perspectives and discuss the continued need for activism and education to combat the ills affecting our communities.

Join us as we celebrate the Fathers in our lives with a special Tanya Free and Friends Father’s Day Tribute

Who is the multi-award winning vocalist known as the "First Lady of Gospel?
Find out during the TanyaFree.com "Living Life With A Purpose 365 Moment"

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE ON TANYAFREE.COM!

Several states have passed laws requiring all individuals to show government-issued photo IDs to vote. Will these laws help to prevent fraud or will they lead to the disenfranchisement of the poor and elderly?

Please record your vote to the poll in the column to the left and  post  your comment here on TanyaFree.com.

N.Y. Blogger Baye Kambui joins the conversation this week to share his perspectives and assessment of the Obama presidency and the GOP presidential hopefuls. Baye will also help us to kick off Black Music Month on Tanya Free and Friends Radio as we discuss the legacy of Gil Scot Heron.

Presidential Hopeful Mitt Romney has joined the GOP chorus asserting that “President Obama has failed America.”

Political campaign rhetoric or fair assessment? How would you grade the Obama administration and why?

Representaives of The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League join the conversation to talk about the history and great work of the league.

 Listen to the podcast here! Post your comment  here or on FACEBOOK and Twitter!

In a recent vote, House Representatives adopted a resolution reprimanding President Obama for engaging U.S. military forces in Libya without congressional approval. In hindsight, does the President Obama deserve a scolding?

Check out an amazing ‘Wassup’ story and share your comments. www.tanyafree.com   

Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

Join us for a special  “ Best of the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show ” this week!

 Check out three of our hottest interviews from the past several weeks!

 Listen as Dr. Boyce Watkins talks about President Obama's recent low approval ratings and The Black Agenda. Dr. David Ray Griffin ,author of the book “Osama bin Laden: Dead or Alive” discusses his doubts that Osama Bin Laden was responsible for the attacks of 9/11 and Mike Berger, media coordinator for 911truth.org and author of the documentary, ”Improbable Collapse: The Demolition of Our Republic”  questions  the findings of the 911 Commission Report detailing the World Trade Center Collapse

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE!

Post your comments here on TANYAFREE.COM ,FACEBOOK OR TWITTER!

Now you can call  also leave us a voice mail on our new 24 Hour Message Hot Line @ 804 321 1010. Listen  to see if your comments  or opinions make it on the air next week!

Check out today’s ‘Wassup’ story and your share comments or thoughts on any subject. www.tanyafree.com 
 

Video Courtesy of KSL.com