It's About Time

Couldn't believe the news when an insurance company refused to pay. Article below says it all - from the Vacaville Reporter

Doing the right thing: Dollar Tree Store compensates boy
It took several news stories, numerous phone calls, a public protest and national interest via the Internet, but the Fairfield Dollar Tree Store is stepping up and doing the right thing -- even without the backing of its insurance company.
Dollar Tree officials have agreed to compensate the 11-year-old son of one of its clerks who was stabbed to death at work two years ago, even though the company's insurance carrier rejected the claim.
The payment, $250,000, is equal to the full workers' compensation benefit permitted under California law, according to Timothy Reid, a vice president of investor relations for Dollar Tree.
Taneka Talley was only 26 when she was killed on March 20, 2006, while working in the North Texas Street branch of the discount chain.
The man arrested and charged with murder is currently awaiting trial in Solano County Superior Court.
Talley left behind a son, Larry, who is now in the care of his grandmother.
Dollar Tree's insurance carrier -- ACE USA -- denied workers' compensation death benefits for the boy, arguing that Ms. Talley was killed because of her race, not as a result of her duties at the store. That supposition was based on a court-ordered psychiatrist's report that her killer had attacked her because she was black.
Because of the attacker's motive, insurers argued, the claim would not be covered under the state workers' compensation law.
That ludicrous attempt to dodge responsibility inspired the Oakland law firm of Boxer and Gerson to become involved, representing young Larry and his grandmother.
In the meantime, the story gained national attention, as did a locally organized protest at the Dollar Tree.
Dollar Tree officials finally decided enough was a enough. Rejecting the advice of their attorney, they are willing to compensate the family.
"Taneka Talley was the victim of a despicable crime," Mr. Reid said in an e-mail. "While we were advised that the claim would not be covered under the state workers' compensation law, we feel this is the right thing to do for Taneka's son."
It's good to see the company stepping up to do the right thing, even if it took too long for the right thing to be done. The firm has the resources and should appeal the insurance company's miserly contention. Those who are left to raise Ms. Talley's son, however, do not. They need the money now to provide for Larry. They cannot afford to wait until he is grown to have this settled.

Green Lemonade

Makes 1 Serving

1 head romaine lettuce or celery
5 to 6 stalks kale (any type)
1 to 2 apples (as needed for sweetness - recommend Fuji)
1 whole lemon
1 to 2 tablespoon figure ginger

Process the vegetables through the juicer by admitting one vegetable at a time through the mouth of the juicer.