Random Notes From NYC

A lot of people have been saying celebrities needed to step up and make their voices heard regarding the acquittals in the Sean Bell case. Several hip-hop stars have spoken out, but leave it to Jay-Z to take it to the next level. 

Published reports say he's set up trust funds for Sean Bell's two children. The trusts are reportedly of substantial amounts, to be paid when the youngsters become adults. Some may remember the Detective's Endowment Assn. here in New York slammed Bell's widow for appearing an a Roc-a-Wear ad campaign. All one can say is, actions speak louder than words.

Speaking of the Bell case, Rev. Al Sharpton says there will be a number of pray-ins around the city on Wednesday to protest the verdict. He says they will involve civil disobedience, and one could well take place at police headquarters. There's been little word yet on the status, if any, of the federal investigation promised in the wake of the acquittals.

Poor Staten Island Cong. Vito Fossella. First he gets busted for DWI in Virginia. He says he only had one drink. Then comes word his drunk test registered .17 , twice the legal limit. Must've been a BIG drink. Now there are questions about a "mystery woman" who bailed him out. Next time the Giants are at the White House, stay home, congressman!

And finally, yet another public figure admits mistakes in his personal life. That would be Roger Clemens, former star pitcher for the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Astros, and Yankees (did I leave anyone out?). The mistake must have been that long standing relationship he had with a country music star, one that he first denied was sexual. It must have been tough to deny after the woman and her mother said otherwise.

And oh, yeah, the Rocket said again he's never done steroids.

Any believers?