Girls Face Worse Facilities, Fewer Opportunities, and Unfair Distribution of Resources at Castle Park High School.
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- In a potentially precedent-setting decision, Judge James M. Lorenz of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California on Thursday ruled in favor of a group of female athletes in a Title IX class action lawsuit against the Sweetwater Union High School District. The judge determined the school district unfairly favored boys’ sports over girls’ sports at Castle Park High School (CPHS) by giving the boys better athletic facilities, resources and opportunities. The parties are to submit the proposed compliance plan within 45 days of the filing of this order.
The case, Ollier v. Sweetwater Union High School, et al., was filed in 2007 by the Legal Aid Society-Employment Law Center, California Women’s Law Center, and Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP. The student plaintiffs sued for injunctive relief under Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments, which bars sex discrimination in education, including athletic programs.
The case detailed the consistently superior quality of playing and practice facilities for the boys’ football and baseball teams, compared to those provided for the girls’ teams. The boys had dedicated locker rooms for just the football team and access to the best athletic amenities. Female athletes did not have comparable facilities. The fields where the girls were required to practice and play were overused, rundown and sometimes unsafe.
In his order, Judge Lorenz noted: “The balance of hardships weighs firmly in plaintiffs' favor. The inequalities demonstrated at trial should have been rectified years ago by the district. ...plaintiffs are entitled to injunctive relief. Defendants are required to comply with Title IX in all aspects of its athletic programs and activities..."
“This victory not only validates the arguments of this group of students, but equalizes the playing field for future girl athletes who deserve an equal high school experience to their male classmates,” said Manatt Litigation partner Erin C. Witkow. “It’s about comparable facilities for boys and girls today—and tomorrow. The schools have to comply and continue to comply, and provide an equal opportunity for student athletes—no matter their gender.”
When parents and students complained about these Title IX violations at CPHS, the administration retaliated against the girls by firing their highly qualified and beloved coach and refusing to allow qualified parents to assist the new coach, despite the fact that the baseball team was still allowed to have parent coaches.
In April 2009, Judge Lorenz issued summary judgment on one of the claims, ruling that CPHS allowed “significant gender-based disparity” in sports at the expense of female athletes. Thursday’s ruling was made in favor of two remaining claims brought by the class: that the District did not provide both sexes equal treatment and benefits; and that the District retaliated in response to complaints of sex discrimination.
“I’m very happy with the outcome of this lawsuit. I hope this will mean more athletic opportunities for all students at Castle Park High School, but especially for girls,” said Veronica Ollier, plaintiff and former CPHS student and softball team member. “I hope this will lead to more college-bound female athletes from Castle Park High School. The outcome was absolutely worth the wait.”
“With this victory, future generations of girls at Castle Park High School will get the same opportunities and treatment as boys at the school," said Naudia Rangel, plaintiff and former CPHS student and softball team member. “That’s all I wanted from this lawsuit. I just wanted things to be fair. I’m proud that we changed the future for female athletes at Castle Park High School.”
“The Sweetwater Union High School District had numerous opportunities to solve this problem,” said Vicky Barker, Legal Director of the California Women’s Law Center. “But instead of addressing the stark discrepancy between the girls and boys athletic programs, they chose to go to court and continue these clearly discriminatory practices. We thank these courageous young women for coming forward to fight against this unfair treatment at their school and we thank Judge Lorenz for holding the School District accountable for its actions.”
“Title IX is almost 40 years old, yet we still see this type of blatant discrimination against young girls all across the country,” said Elizabeth Kristen of The Legal Aid Society-Employment Law Center. “And this is not just about athletics or physical fitness. High school girls who participate in team sports are less likely to drop out of school, less likely to smoke or drink, or become pregnant. And they are more likely to go on to college. The skills that young women gain from sports participation, including teamwork, leadership, and discipline, are crucial to their later success in higher education and employment.”
Although Title IX cases filed on the college level are highly publicized, discrimination is just as likely to occur at the K-12 level. Discrimination in elementary and high schools often goes unchecked because younger athletes and their parents may not be aware that anti-discrimination laws apply to public educational institutions as well as to most private educational institutions if they receive federal funding. Each school system is required to implement and enforce Title IX.
About the Legal Aid Society–Employment Law Center
The Legal Aid Society-Employment Law Center, founded in 1916, is the oldest legal aid organization in the West. It is committed to protecting the rights and economic self-sufficiency of low-income and disadvantaged workers and their families throughout the Bay Area, California, and nationwide. The LAS-ELC provides a continuum of assistance, including community legal services, educational materials, technical assistance to other groups, and direct legal representation. It is nationally recognized for its legal advocacy programs that address racial equality; gender equity; immigration and national origin, and disability rights.
About the California Women’s Law Center
Since its founding in 1989, the California Women’s Law Center (CWLC) has worked to eliminate the barriers that keep women and girls in poverty. CWLC advances systemic reforms through gender discrimination, health, violence against women, and reproductive justice initiatives, ensuring that life opportunities for women and girls are free from unjust social, economic, and political constraints. CWLC is a leader in Title IX education and enforcement in California at the high school level.
About Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, is one of the nation's leading law firms with offices located in California (Los Angeles, Orange County, Palo Alto, San Francisco and Sacramento), New York (New York City and Albany) and Washington, D.C. The firm represents a sophisticated client base – including Fortune 500, middle-market and emerging companies – across a range of practice areas and industry sectors. Manatt professionals and staff are actively involved in the firm’s pro bono representations. The firm annually devotes at least 3% of billable time and resources to hundreds of not-for-profit organizations and individuals unable to pay significant legal fees. For more information, visit www.manatt.com.
California Women’s Law CenterVicky Barker, (323) 951-9276vicky.barker@cwlc.orgorThe Legal Aid Society-Employment Law CenterElizabeth Kristen, (510) 501-4692ekristen@las-elc.orgorManatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLPLawrence Martinez, (310) 231-5443lmartinez@manatt.com
Source: Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, WV -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 02/10/12 -- The musical line-up for the 2012 Greenbrier Classic Concert Series is:
- Wed, July 4 - Toby Keith
- Fri, July 6 - Rod Stewart with special guest Lionel Richie
- Sat, July 7 - Bon Jovi
ABOUT THE GREENBRIER: www.greenbrier.com Located in White Sulphur Springs in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier has been welcoming guests since 1778. Known as "America's Resort," it encompasses 6,750 acres of undulating landscape that includes four golf courses, The Greenbrier Clinic (specializing in executive health), a 40,000-square foot Five Star mineral spa, a mlange of sporting activities, shops, private homes at The Greenbrier Sporting Club, guests-only casino and, at its heart, a vast and imposing grand hotel. Purchased in 2009 by West Virginia entrepreneur James C. Justice II, The Greenbrier has undergone a $250+ million restoration and is now home to The Greenbrier Classic, a PGA TOUR, FedEx Cup event, and will this year launch The Greenbrier Presidential Express, a luxury touring train from Washington, DC to The Greenbrier train depot, and The Greenbrier Medical Institute, a state-of-the-art medical complex on the resort's grounds.
Media contacts: Jeff Kmiec President The Greenbrier E-mail: Email Contact www.thegreenbrier.com Tel: 1-304-536-1110 Mark Liebermann at WEILL E-mail: Email Contact Tel: 1-866-PR-WEILL Ann-Rebecca Laschever at WEILL E-mail: Email Contact Tel: 1-866-PR-WEILL Media Contact for Intero Alliance, LLC: Sarah Miller Axis Marketing & PR T: 310.276.2220 F: 310 861.0958 Email Contact
Source: The Greenbrier
WASHINGTON, DC -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 02/10/12 -- Stepping away from the hectic pace of everyday life for a lover's holiday with that special someone is easy this Valentine's Day with romantic Washington, DC hotel deals like the one offered by Washington Marriott.
This Georgetown DC hotel package starts with deluxe overnight accommodations and then pampers guests with a bottle of sparkling wine, complimentary breakfast for two adults and free parking. With rates starting as low as $169*, this is an exceptional choice among hotel packages in Washington, DC and an ideal way to help Cupid on his way this Valentine's Day.
The spacious guest rooms at Washington Marriott include Marriott Revive bedding, complete with down comforters and 300 thread-count linens. Room service is a standard feature along with a coffee maker and tea service, a flat screen LCD TV with premium movie channels and pay-per-view movie options.
A premier choice among Georgetown hotels in Washington, DC, the Washington Marriott is conveniently located in the heart of the city and near many popular Washington, DC attractions. Guests don't have far to go to experience exceptional dining options, as creative American cuisine in a casual atmosphere is offered in The Atrium Restaurant, while cocktails, fine wines and a variety of appetizers and comfort foods are served daily in the hotel's Court Lounge. For those looking to "step out" for the evening, some of Georgetown's finest restaurants are located within walking distance.
Booking a lover's escape is easy, as the Celebrate Valentine's Day package is available through February 14, 2012, and reservations may be made simply by visiting the hotel website at http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/waswe-washington-marriott/ and clicking on "Check Availability" or by calling 1-800-228-9290 and using promotional code ROM.
*Rates are per room per night and valid seven days a week through 2/14/12 based on availability at the time of reservation. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms and may not be used in combination with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. Please visit hotel website for additional terms and conditions.
About Washington Marriott Washington Marriott is an established landmark amidst the hustle and bustle of Washington, DC, allowing guests to enjoy the heart-beat of this remarkable city while resting comfortably in well-appointed guest rooms and hotel suites overlooking the tree-lined streets below. Attentive service and gracious amenities are standard at Washington Marriott, which also offers more than 12,000 square feet of newly renovated event space. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated event managers and professional catering, this well-defined hotel is an ideal choice for group conferences, corporate meetings and elegant social gatherings.
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CONTACT: Amanda Nichols Washington Marriott Email Contact
Source: Marriott International
PANDORA offers tips to find a charming gift
COLUMBIA, Md., Feb. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Looking for a last minute gift for that special woman in your life —whether a friend, family member, significant other or spouse? PANDORA, an international fine jewelry company, offers the following tips to ensure that the last minute gift is still charming and personal.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120210/DC51478)
- Select a gift that will last longer than a week: Chocolates or flowers seem like a great idea, but why give a gift that will only be around for a week or so? Consider long-lasting items, such as jewelry. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) annual Valentine's Day spending survey, more than eight in 10 gift givers (18.9%) will buy jewelry, up from 17.3 percent last year and the highest percent in the survey's history.
- Customize the gift to her style, likes, hobbies and favorite things: A little thought into her favorite colors, hobbies, activities, and even her style (e.g., classic, edgy, etc.) can go a long way to show her that you listen to what she says and pay attention to what she does.
- Tell AND SHOW her how you feel about her: A heart-filled or even humorous card is a great way to tell her how you feel. Make sure you also couple it with a gift that shows her how much you care, not just a gift that says, "I passed a flower shop on my way home."
- Build onto your past special memories with new ones: A piece of jewelry, like a PANDORA charm bracelet, provides an unforgettable way to capture favorite memories, and to select new charms for future special occasions and celebrations. It's a gift that keeps giving.
"With PANDORA, we try to make it easy to help every gift giver find a gift that is as unforgettable and unique as the special woman in your life," said Angel Ilagan, vice president, Marketing, PANDORA North America. "For the gift giver who doesn't know how to start selecting charms, our PANDORA gift advisor [www.PandoraGiftAdvisor] walks you through the process of selecting meaningful charms. Users can even print out the list and take it to one of the more than 2,000 U.S. retailers that carry PANDORA."
With the NRF estimating the average gift giver will spend about $74.12 this Valentine's Day on their spouse or significant other (up from $68.98 last year), PANDORA recommends the following jewelry ideas.
- Charms starting at $25. PANDORA offers hundreds of charms in sterling silver, 14K gold, Murano glass and wood — some which feature stones, enamel or two tone metals.
- Of course you'll need a bracelet for the charms. PANDORA offers macramé, colored cord, braided leather, sterling silver, 14K gold or two-tone bracelets to start building those special memories. Starting price point is $20.
- Heart-themed pieces of jewelry. New this month is an open work charm ($25) with hearts. PANDORA also offers rings, earrings and pendants featuring hearts.
- A fabulous pair of versatile sterling silver hoop earrings that retail for as little as $30.
- Rings that can be worn alone or as the centerpiece of stackable rings. Consider thinner, stackable rings, which start at $25, or a ring with a decorative stone, such as a garnet, onyx, pearl or even a carved pink shell.
In addition to selecting a meaningful piece of PANDORA jewelry, customers who spend at least $150 will receive a free Valentine's Day gift with purchase, such as a leather heart-shaped jewelry case. Participation and gift with purchase quantities may vary by retailer.
About PANDORA
PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fine jewelry industry for almost 30 years, and is world-renowned for its high-quality, hand finished design. The collections inspire women to embrace their individuality with romantic and feminine pieces that capture the unforgettable moments of life. The strength of the PANDORA charm bracelet is the detailed design, the high quality and the unique threaded bracelet system (U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,507.) The affordable luxury collections include customizable charm bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces and watches made from sterling silver and 14K and 18K gold with gemstones. Perfect for any occasion, PANDORA jewelry is sold in 55 countries on six continents in more than 10,000 locations, including nearly 500 PANDORA branded concept stores. To view the PANDORA collection, build a bracelet online or locate a jeweler, please visit PANDORA.net.
Headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, PANDORA employs over 5,000 people worldwide, of whom more than 3,600 are located in Gemopolis, Thailand, where the company manufactures its jewelry. PANDORA is publicly listed on the NASDAQ OMX Copenhagen stock exchange in Denmark. In 2010, PANDORA's total revenue was DKK 6.7 billion (approximately 1.2 billion USD). For investor information, please visit www.pandoragroup.com.
SOURCE PANDORA Jewelry
ANNAPOLIS, Md., Feb. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Clean Wind Energy Tower, Inc. (OTCBB:"CWET") announced today that the Company sent the following Letter to their Shareholders of Record:
Dear Shareholders, It has been a little over a year since we completed our reverse merger and began trading as a public company under the stock symbol "CWET" and I wanted to take this opportunity to provide you with an update on our Company, and our business plans moving forward.
The Company has made significant progress towards our core objective and focus of becoming a leading provider of clean efficient green energy to the world communities at a reasonable cost without the destructive residuals of fossil fuel, while continuing to generate innovative technological solutions for today and tomorrow's electrical power needs.
As currently designed, the Company anticipates that each Downdraft Tower could generate enough electricity to power up to 1,600,000 homes using the guidelines set forth in the California Statewide Residential Appliance Saturation Study, 2004. As an independent power producer of clean renewable energy, the Company will not be selling power directly to consumers but rather to the grid. The Company anticipates that each Downdraft Tower will be capable of generating 1,100 megawatts per hour of salable electricity to the grid. One megawatt equates to 1,000,000 kilowatts of electricity. Currently, avoided costs per kilowatt in California are running approximately $0.11 per kilowatt hour.
We took our technology through the initial development stages with an internal engineering staff, and we have always been of the persuasion that it would be desirable to bring on board the brightest and most knowledgeable professionals to complete our project objectives. This team approach of aligning ourselves with a select group of experts from a variety of disciplines has proven invaluable in generating some of the critical data we have needed in order to proceed efficiently with an effective design and construction approach to our initial Tower. Our plan is to continue to seek and utilize the best outside consultants for our engineering needs.
Beyond our focus on environmental issues, the financial metrics of our project have been paramount. With the scientific and meteorological data we have generated, we believe that a smaller less costly initial Tower can be built while generating sufficient power and revenues to cover our project development financing criteria of a cash flow ratio of 2 to 1 for debt service. A substantial cost saving is now possible in construction costs as well as time to completion by using a larger number of smaller self erecting Kroll Cranes along with high speed elevators.
We have now identified and are pursuing 4 independent Tower site locations in North America, all of which have excellent climate, topographical conditions, reasonable access to water, and good accessibility. Our current goal is to place one or more of these sites under contract, contingent upon all approvals being obtained to erect the Tower.
We have continued to work diligently on our patent portfolio, those that are pending with USPTO and with the creation of additional enhancements to our already dynamic structure. As we progress along our development path with our team we are certain to see continued innovation worthy of intellectual property protection.
Through the operation of our Downdraft Tower we will be avoiding the creation of a large incremental amount of greenhouse gasses, allowing us to take advantage of the creation of substantial Carbon Credits. We are having those Carbon Credits analyzed for their potential market value, which we think could be substantial. In closing, as we continue to transition from a research and development stage to a full development company pursuing a project, we anticipate that more frequent communications will be coming forth.
Thank you for your support!Sincerely,
Ronald W. Pickett, President & CEOClean Wind Energy Tower, Inc.
About Clean Wind Energy, Inc.Clean Wind Energy, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Clean Wind Energy Tower, Inc., has designed and is preparing to develop, and construct large "Downdraft Towers" that use benevolent, non-toxic natural elements to generate electricity and clean water economically by integrating and synthesizing numerous proven as well as emerging technologies.
Our Company's core objective and focus is to become a leading provider of clean efficient green energy to the world communities at a reasonable cost without the destructive residuals of fossil fuel, while continuing to generate innovative technological solutions for today and tomorrow's electrical power needs.
In addition to constructing Downdraft Towers in the United States and abroad, the Company intends to establish partnerships at home and abroad to propagate these systems and meet increasing global demand for clean water and electricity. Clean Wind has assembled a team of experienced business professionals, engineering and scientific consultants with access to the breakthrough energy research upon which this technology is founded and the proven ability to bring the idea to market. Clean Wind has filed several patents that the Company believes will further enhance this potentially revolutionary technology. Clean Wind Energy, Inc. is based in Annapolis, MD, and is traded on the OTCBB under the symbol 'CWET.' For more information, please visit www.cleanwindenergytower.com.
Contact:Clean Wind Energy, Inc.1997 Annapolis Exchange Parkway Suite 300Annapolis, Maryland 21401Phone: 410-972-4713E-mail: Info@cwetower.comwww.cleanwindenergytower.com
Investor RelationsJody JansonPhone: (855) 848-6937Email: ir@cwetower.com
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsStatements included in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties such as competitive factors, technological development, market demand and the Company's ability to obtain new contracts and accurately estimate net revenues due to variability in size, scope and duration of projects, and internal issues in the sponsoring client. Further information on potential factors that could affect the Company's financial results, can be found in the Company's various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
SOURCE Clean Wind Energy Tower, Inc.
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