Archive for the Battinto Batts Jr. Category
Nathan McCall weighs in on Mayor Holley
A couple of weeks ago, I wrote that embattled Portsmouth, Va. mayor James W. Holley should be allowed a dignified exit. Holley faces a recall election on Tuesday. If successful, it would be the second time Holley has been removed from office – an unprecedented distinction.
Nathan McCall grew up in Portsmouth, wrote for The Virginian-Pilot [...]
The response to LeBron is about race and power
I rushed home on Thursday night, ate dinner and then parked myself in front of the TV in my office to hear what LeBron James had to say.
LeBron James announces his decision on ESPN
I wasn’t alone.
Millions tuned in on ESPN at 9 p.m. to see where King James would take his basketball talents. We all [...]
LeBron James is leaving Cleveland
That headline got your attention, didn’t it?
I wish I knew for sure where LeBron is going to play next year. If I did, I’d be famous for breaking the story. But my instincts tell me something about his decision to make the announcement on ESPN during an hour-long broadcast and donate sponsorship proceeds to the [...]
Some people never learn
You would think after spending two years in a federal penitentiary, Mike Vick would want nothing at all to do with law enforcement.
You would think after losing millions in endorsements and salary from the NFL, the Mike Vick would cherish this second chance he’s been given to play professional football.
You would think after his friends [...]
The best solution for Mayor Holley
PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Go anywhere in this historic town and you’ll find someone with an opinion about Mayor James W. Holley III.
Many appreciate everything he’s done for the city and want him to complete his term. Others respect and tolerate him, though they think he’s held the position too long. And yet another faction of [...]
I am back; and I have lots to say
This marks my return from my self-imposed hiatus. I have taken a few months off to tend to other projects, and though many of them remain incomplete, I felt it was time to start writing again.
One thing my absence has done is given me lots to say. But I am not going to say it [...]
What President Obama Teaches Us About Racism
Barack Obama is bright. He is charismatic. He is a great orator. He has a beautiful family. He is inspiring.
He is also a good teacher, especially when it comes to how to deal with the issue of race. I think he provides an excellent blueprint for African Americans who seek leadership positions and overall increase [...]
Who is this Joe Wilson guy anyway?
One of the things that I always respected about the military was its insistence on decorum and respect. On more than one occasion, I have encountered a military man or woman who when addressing me, respectfully called me “sir.” It always sort of jolts me at first, especially when the individual is obviously as old [...]
Who is this Joe Wilson guy anyway?
One of the things that I always respected about the military was its insistence on decorum and respect. On more than one occasion, I have encountered a military man or woman who when addressing me, respectfully called me “sir.” It always sort of jolts me at first, especially when the individual is obviously as old [...]
Charting new territory is tough
When President Obama stepped into the controversy regarding the arrest of Henry Louis “Skip” Gates by offering his commentary on the issue, many people became critical of him. They found it foolish for the President to give his two cents worth regarding an issue that has burned in this nation for a very long time. [...]