They may not like me for this...Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori, and others in the Episcopal Church said they hoped I would continue posting about the "Service of Repentance" held on October 4, 2008. I haven't written much, and debated if I ever would. Yet looking at the commemorative pen given at the event, I couldn't refrain from writing this. The pen says: "Day of Repentance." And, how true that is! And, that's not just my frustration. It's one sha... Read Full Story

Tomorrow, Congress will vote on a so-called "Paycheck Fairness Act."  The Bill is supposed to address disparities in pay.  However, the Bill only refers to gender disparity.  When I called Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro's (D-CT-3) office, I asked if I was misreading the Bill or if it only addressed gender disparities.  The lady responsible for the Paycheck Fairness Act stated that it - in fact - dealt only with gender disparities, but that in doing so it would cover Black, Latino an... Read Full Story

by: Ed RodmanIt is with some trepidation that I feel called to write this open letter at this time. I would ask you to indulge me by taking the time to read it in its entirety so that any things that you may have heard or assumed about my various public statements on this issue can be viewed in their full context. This letter is intended to affirm, educate, chastise, and invite us to a deeper dialogue toward the beloved community. Before I begin I should make certain biographical commen... Read Full Story

Now, I'll admit I'm no economist.  So, if someone can talk me down on this it would be refreshing.  I've actually spent the past few days trying to decipher this...In The Source on Monday, there was an article about the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority (PFA) being authorized to float up to $341 Million in gross-receipts tax bonds.  Who knows exactly what gross-receipts tax bonds are?  If so, please chime in on this point.A gross-receipts tax is "a tax on the total gros... Read Full Story

In these tight economic times, we're witnessing something tremendously ironic: those who have been against "hand-outs" for individuals facing hard times are demanding similar-type "hand-outs" for corporations. In the name of Economic Development or Economic Stimulus, corporations are lining up for money to either prop up their businesses or salvage them.Personally, I am for tax-cuts for all (corporations and individuals). I prefer tax-cuts to appropriations or allotm... Read Full Story

I read in The Source about the "grim picture of Vitelco's infrastructure."  According to the article, two-thirds of Vitelco's facilities throughout the Territory are in poor condition and one-third are in fair condition.  What?!There are software packages so out of date that the manufacturer no longer supports them.  The consultant who inspected the facilities also said things are so bad that Vitelco has "even failed to do routing maintenance like clearing bush from aro... Read Full Story

What an amazing time in which we live!With the election of the first "Black President," comes with much election and so many expectations.  Not only in America, but also across the African (and entire) world people have hopes that this will mean something. See highlights of the watch party at Ebenezer Baptist Church: I too am excited - albeit cautiously.  I guess it's as Congressman John Lewis said in this clip: the election of Barack Obama is not the promised land.  And, w... Read Full Story

Today we are living in a historic time.  Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States of America.  In this posting, I would like to explore the meaning of the "Obama Phenomenon" to the Virgin Islands.  President-Elect Barack Obama stated that he "was never the likeliest candidate for this office. (Presidency)"  His journey was one that was enormously difficult.  His victory was something that no one thought possible.  And, the reality of his coming pres... Read Full Story

I know when I say this people are going to say it's expected.  But, I ask you to read this post with an open mind.  When Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama, there were some (Rush Limbaugh) who took the attitude that the General's actions were expected.  He - and others - ignored the well thought out statement made by General Powell and those, rather, to focus on trivial nuances.  So, let me reiterate: I ask you to read this post with an open mind.I endorse my father Krim Menelik Balle... Read Full Story

In all things there is a silver lining.  Take Sarah Palin...Many people see her as a strange pick and question her qualifications.  But, there are positives to Sarah Palin.  What are they?  What benefit can be accrued from her candidacy?Personally, I feel that American can learn a great deal about Black Women from Sarah Palin.  What she has done by choice, Black Women have done for generations out of necessity.  It is rare that Black Women are able to choose between career and family.  And, t... Read Full Story