Essay 1997

Scores and highlights in a MultiCultClassics Monologue…

• Forbes.com listed “The 10 Most Expensive Celebrity Divorces” — and Michael Jordan’s breakup topped the rest. According to the story, Juanita Jordan could net “more than $150 million in a settlement, making the Jordan divorce the most expensive in entertainment history.” The hoops star has six championship rings, but Mrs. Jordan’s wedding ring could be worth much more.

• Add Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to the list of people happy to see Don Imus fired. “I’m very glad that there was, in fact, a consequence. I think that this kind of coarse language doesn’t belong anywhere in reasonable dialogue between reasonable people,” said Rice. “It gets ruined by this disgusting — and I’ll use the word ‘disgusting’ — comment which doesn’t belong in any polite company and certainly doesn’t belong on any radio station that I would listen to.” It’s probably safe to say Rice isn’t rocking to any hip-hop broadcasts.

• The rights to O.J. Simpson’s cancelled book, “If I Did It,” will not go on auction yet, as Simpson’s lawyers filed for bankruptcy for the corporation behind the failed book deal with publisher HarperCollins. In other words, O.J. killed the latest effort by Ron Goldman’s family to collect the loot they’re owed.

• In Largo, Florida, the ex-city manager allegedly fired for revealing his intentions to undergo a sex-change operation will not be suing in retaliation (see Essay 1901). “It is tempting to seek retribution in the courts, but after much reflection and soul searching, I just cannot find it within my heart to sue Largo — a city I have always and will always love. I do not want to punish the citizens of Largo,” said the man. He plans to begin living as a woman full-time within two months. He may have decided against a lawsuit, but maybe she’ll think differently.