Archive for the ‘Found In the News’ Category

Our Desire For Judgment: Right vs. Wrong

Monday, June 13th, 2011

Why MediationOne of the most popular news stories of the day is a that of a committed and vocal congressman. Previously known for his passionate speeches on the floor and confrontational style, Anthony Weiner is now known as the congressman who accidentally outed his secret activities through Twitter.

The story is a perfect example of our desire for a judgment or determination of right/wrong. Congressman (more…)

Chicago Tilted Kilt: Workplace Sexual Harassment

Tuesday, June 7th, 2011

Workplace MediationOn June 1, a complaint alleging workplace sexual harassment was filed in the Chicago office of the federal Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) against the Tilted Kilt bar and restaurant.

The complaint, filed on behalf of 10 current and former waitresses, alleges that a manager at the downtown Chicago location has engaged in inappropriate and sexually harassing behavior repeatedly since the restaurant opened in 2009. Specifically the complaint alleges: a manager made sexually explicit comments (more…)

Bishop Eddie Long & Accusers Reach Resolution

Monday, June 6th, 2011

Georgia megachurch leader Bishop Eddie Long and the four young men that filed suit against him for sexual misconduct have successfully reached a settlement through mediation.

The parties agreed to mediate in December of 2010. The initial mediation session was held in February and full resolution was reached within a few months. (more…)

Deciding Child Custody: Divorce Litigation Example

Thursday, May 12th, 2011

Divorce Custody MediationOn April 25, 2011 North Carolina Judge Nancy Gordon ruled that primary physical custody of Alaina Giordano’s two children (who currently reside in North Carolina) would go to their father, Kane Snyder, who lives in Chicago as of June 17.

Like so many litigated divorce cases, the Giordano v. Synder case is a contentious one that includes a history of restraining orders, mental health concerns, and allegations of both cheating and domestic violence. (more…)

Civil Unions vs. Catholic Charities – Gay Adoption

Friday, May 6th, 2011

AdoptionIllinoiscivil union law will be in effect June 1, 2011. The law gives gay and lesbian couples the same rights as heterosexual married couples. This means that gay and lesbian couples who have committed to one another through the closest option to marriage legally available in Illinois – a state recognized civil union – should be able to adopt through state-sponsored adoption agencies.

In Illinois, Catholic Charities’ foster care and adoption programs serve more than 3,000 children, which is approximately twenty percent (20%) of services. These programs are largely funded by the state of Illinois, who pays Catholic Charities $30 million annually. (more…)

ADA Compliance – Therapeutic Kangaroo Irwin

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011

Irwin and ChristieIt seems that the Broken Arrow City Council has figured out a way to meet the needs of its resident while not changing the laws related to exotic pets.

The Broken Arrow City Council unanimously voted Tuesday night to create an exotic animal ordinance exemption that would allow Christie Carr to keep Irwin the red kangaroo within city limits under certain conditions.

Carr is unable to work because of her health and has found comfort in the companionship of Irwin, whom she met while volunteering at a local animal sanctuary on the advice of her therapist.

(more…)

Donald Trump – Bullying Gone Mainstream

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011

There is so much talk about bullying in the news recently. Bullying in the schoolyard and workplace is finally getting the attention it needs, if we are to lessen the prevalence. However, we seem to – at least – turn a blind eye to and, at most, celebrate bullying behaviors in prominent celebrities and businessmen.

Donald Trump’s recent comments and behavior are a good example. He has stated things and engaged in behavior that if objectively looked at can be described as bullying behavior. Despite this, (more…)

Divorce Case Study: The Taub Divorce

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Divorce MediationNew York’s real life War of the Roses divorce was finalized after six years and likely at least $1.5 million in legal fees. It is likely not over.

Simon and Chana Taub, married in December 1984. Chana filed for divorce twenty-one years later in 2005. This was the second marriage for both. Together they have four children in addition to their children from previous marriages. (more…)

Workplace Conflict: Cardinal George vs. Rev Pfleger

Thursday, April 28th, 2011

Catholic ChurchIn Chicago, a workplace conflict is being played out in a very public arena.

The leader of the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago, Cardinal George, has suspended a popular Chicago priest Reverend Michael Pfleger. The suspension comes after a workplace conflict surrounding the potential reassignment of the reverend, which was publicly discussed by Rev. Pfleger on a national radio program. In response to the Pfleger’s comments on the Tavis Smiley show, the cardinal felt that the process was “short-circuited” and opted to suspend the pastor. (more…)

Workplace Behavior – Accessing Electronic Records

Tuesday, April 26th, 2011

Workplace BehaviorThe Chicago Sun-Times reports that Chicago police officers have accessed and printed electronic records inappropriately. Up to 1000 officers may face official discipline for the transgression.

The specific record accessed details an allegation of sexual assault against two on-duty Chicago police officers by a local woman.  The records were accessed within three weeks of the incident.  It is not clear as to the officers motivation for looking at the report. (more…)