Description: Marcus Jones reports on the competion of renovations at the Renaissance Building in the Grove Hall district of Roxbury. The project was funded with money from the city's only minority-owned bank and was overseen by minority architects and contractors. Jones adds that the building is a cornerstone of the Grove Hall revitalization effort. People hold a celebration for the completion of the restorations. A crowd stands outside of the building. Virginia Morrison (Neighborhood Development Corporation of Grove Hall) and Don Muhammad (Muhammad's Mosque) address the crowd. Muhammad says that gang activity will decline as more renovation takes place in the neighborhood. Interview with Trevor Blake (TTB Construction Inc.) and Ernest Scott, a businessman, about the renovations. Blake talks about the challenges faced by minority businesses and contractors. Scott says that renovations and increased foot traffic will force the drug trade out of the area. Jones reports that the city of Boston has committed an additional $50,000 to the Grove Hall revitalization effort.
1:00:01: Visual: Footage of a gathering to celebrate the restoration of the Renaissance Building in the Grove Hall district of Roxbury. Virginia Morrison (Neighborhood Development Corporation of Grove Hall) addresses the gathering. Morrison says that the building makes a statement on behalf of Muhammad's Mosque, of the Grove Hall Board of Trade, of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge, of the residents of the area. Morrison says that the building represents the way that the residents of the area intend to live. Shot of a man tearing off paper above the door to reveal the street number. Marcus Jones reports the newly renovated Renaissance Building is located at 483 - 487 Blue Hill Avenue. Jones says that the building was "an eyesore" for more than a decade; that the building is now the cornerstone of the Grove Hall revitalization effort. V: Footage of Morrison addressing the gathered crowd. Supporters stand behind her, including Don Muhammad (Muhammad's Mosque). Morrison says that the building cost $1,276,000 to renovate; that the building was renovated by qualified African American workers from the community. Shot from an upper window of the Renaissance building, of the intersection of Blue Hill Avenue and Cheney Street. Shots of people looking at the interior of the newly-renovated building. Shot of the newly renovated kitchen. Jones reports that the project was funded with money from the city's only minority-owned bank; that the project was overseen by minority architects and contractors. Jones reports that the building includes twelve apartments on the upper floors of the building; that there is retail space on the bottom level. V: Shot of a man exiting the Ernest Scott Insurance Agency. Footage of Trevor Blake (TTB Construction Inc.) standing in one of the apartments. Blake talks about the challenges faced by African American businesses and contractors. Footage of Ernest Scott (businessman) saying that the whole neighborhood is improving. Jones reports that Scott's Insurance Agency has operated on Blue Hill Avenue for over thirty years. Jones notes that Scott's business is one of the new tenants in the Renaissance Building; that Scott believes that businesses and residents need to fight the gangs and drug dealers in the neighborhood. V: Shot of the exterior of the Ernest Scott Insurance Agency. Shot of a man fixing lettering to the interior of a window of the Insurance Agency; of an employee and customer at the Insurance Agency. Footage of Scott saying that foot traffic and business activity puts a damper on the drug trade. Scott says that participants in the drug trade will be forced out of the area. Shots of traffic on the street in the Grove Hall area; of the crowd gathered in front of the Renaissance Area. Jones reports that community organizers hope to refurbish the entire Grove Hall district within five years; that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has committed an addtional $50,000 to the effort. V: Footage of Muhammad addressing the crowd outside of the Renaissance Building. Muhammad says that the Grove Hall community deserves the same respect and resources as any other neighborhood. Muhammad says that gang activity will dwindle as more renovation takes place in the neighborhood. The crowd claps for Muhammad. Morrison approaches the microphone.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/12/1990
Description: Marcus Jones reports that fifty students at Harvard Law School have occupied the dean's office to demand an increase in minority faculty at the school. The students have presented the school with a list of demands, including the promotion of professor Derrick Bell to the position of dean of the school. Interview with Robert Wilkins of the Harvard Black Law Students Association about the lack of diversity among faculty members and about the students' demands. Interview with Derrick Bell. Students at universities across the nation are protesting racism and a lack of diversity on college campuses. Jones' report includes footage of Harvard Law students in the Dean's office and footage from Frontline of a campus protest against racism.
1:00:17: Visual: Shots of Harvard Law students studying their textbooks as they occupy the Dean's office in the administration building of Harvard Law School. Most of the students are African American. Marcus Jones reports that 50 Harvard Law School students marched into the administration building in the afternoon; that most of the students are African American; that many of the students wore black as a show of solidarity. V: Footage of Robert Wilkins (Harvard Black Law Students Association) saying that the students want the administration to deal with the problem of minority faculty at the school; that the school has no specific goals, programs, or ideas to increase the numbers of minority faculty. Shots of the students studying as they sit in the dean's office. Jones reports that the students presented James Vorenberg (Dean, Harvard Law School) with twelve demands; that one of the demands is for the school to hire at least twenty tenured or tenure-track minority professors over the next four years. Jones notes that other demands include the hiring of an African American female faculty member by fall and the promotion of Derek Bell (Professor, Harvard Law School) to Dean next year. Jones notes that Vorenberg will leave the post of Dean next year. V: Shots of protest signs hanging in the administration building. Some of the signs read, "Why no tenured Asian American?" and "More black faculty now." Shots of signs reading, "Stop racism at HLS now" and "Black female faculty now." Footage of Bell saying that a cross-section of the population should be represented in the student body and the faculty; that diversity enhances quality instead of harming quality. Shots of students studying texts as they occupy the Dean's office. Jones reports that the protests of students twenty years ago forced Harvard to hire minority professors like Bell. Jones adds that today's students are hoping that their protest will force the university to take action. V: Footage of Wilkins saying that there have been demonstrations at universities across the country; that a lack of minority faculty is a common problem. Wilkins says that Harvard should take the lead in dealing with this problem. Footage from Frontline of a campus protest against racism. Jones reports that racism on college campuses is a growing problem; that students are protesting to draw attention to the issue. Jones stands in the administration building with the Harvard students. Jones reports that the tenured faculty of Harvard Law School will meet tomorrow; that no one is sure if the faculty will take a stand on the students' demands. Jones notes that the students say that the occupation will continue in shifts to accomodate those who are taking final exams.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/10/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports on debate over a universal health care bill in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Jones reports that lobbyists for the state employees union demanded a collective bargaining amendment to secure the health benefits of state employees. Jones reports that legislators have added the amendment and that the unions are satisfied with the bill. Jones interviews John Flannagan (Massachusetts Teachers' Association) and David Baier (Massachusetts Municipal Association) about the bill and the proposed amendment. Jones also interviews Ray Jordan (State Representative), Catherine Dunham (Dukakis aide) and Richard Volk (Chair, House Ways and Means Committee) about the bill. Jones reports that today's amendment removes one of the roadblocks to the bill's passage. Jones notes that state legislators have been working on the bill for almost a year. He adds that no one is sure if the bill will be approved by the legislature. Jones' report is accompanied by footage of people in the lobby of the Massachusetts State House and by footage of George Keverian (Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) and House leadership in the House chambers.
1:00:14: Visual: Footage from WGBX of Massachusetts State Representatives in the House Chambers. Representatives take turns addressing the House. George Keverian (Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) sits at the front of the House chambers. Marcus Jones reports on the Health Care for All package put forth by Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts). V: Footage of John Flannagan (Massachusetts Teacher's Association) saying that universal health care is important; that the State of Massachusetts was trying to roll back other health benefits to pay for the universal health care plan. Jones reports that lobbyists for the state's public employees demanded that an amendement be added to a conference committee bill. Jones notes that the amendment mandates collective bargaining on health benefits for public employees. V: Shots of people milling about in the lobby of the state house; of a man standing in the entrance of the House chambers; of Keverian and House leadership at the front of the House chambers. Jones reports that state employees were concerned about a plan which replaces their Blue Cross coverage with a more costly plan. V: Footage of Flannagan saying that the state is trying to make employees pay more money for fewer benefits. Flannagan says that the amendment for the bill protects state employees. Footage of David Baier (Massachusetts Municipal Association) saying that he represents municipal governments across the state. Baier says that the bill will increase health insurance costs for local governments across the state. Shot of the interior of the House chambers from the State House lobby. Shot of a man standing in the entrance to the House Chambers. Jones reports that legislators spent a lot of time ironing out an agreement with public employees' unions. Jones notes that the amendment to the health care bill removes one of the roadblocks to the bill's passage. V: Footage of Ray Jordan (State Representative) saying that he is more inclined to vote for the bill now that the unions are satisfied with it. Footage of Catherine Dunham (Dukakis aide) saying that the amendment to the bill limits the management flexibility of the administration. Footage of Richard Volk (Chair, House Ways and Means Committee of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) being interviewed by Jones. Volk says that the bill has required a lot of work on the part of legislators. Jones stands in front of the Massachusetts State House. Jones reports that state legislators have been working on the governor's universal health care bill for almost a year; that no one is sure if the bill will pass.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/12/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports that top officials from the Department of Public Health held a press conference to celebrate the positive findings of a study on the state's Healthy Start Program. The program provides prenatal, birth, and post-partum care to poor and uninsured women. Deborah Prothrow-Stith, the Commissioner of the Department of Public Health and Howard Spivak, the Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Public Health speak at the press conference. Spivak says that high-risk women in the program had excellent results. Prothrow-Stith talks about the importance of prenatal care. Jones reviews the findings of the study of the program. Interview with Spivak about continued state funding for the program. The program's preventative medicine saves money in the long-run. Jones' report includes footage of infants, mothers, and health care workers in a hospital nursery. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: The Consortium of Minority Business Enterprises promotes minority set-aside programs.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of Deborah Prothrow-Stith (Commissioner, Department of Public Health) and another public health official handing out an award to a woman at a small press conference. Shots of the audience applauding at the press conference. Marcus Jones reports that a small gathering of people gathered to celebrate the state's Healthy Start program. Jones reports that top officials from the Department of Public Health announced the findings of a study done on the first group of women and infants assisted by the Healthy Start Program. V: Footage of Howard Spivak (Deputy Commissioner, Department of Public Health) speaking at the press conference. Spivak says that minority women, teenage girls, and other high-risk populations were among those aided by the Healthy Start program. Shots of the audience at the press conference. Shot of a poster for the Healthy Start program. Jones reports that the Healthy Start program began in the mid-1980s; that the program is funded by state and federal money. Jones notes that the program provides pre-natal, birth, and post-partum care to poor, uninsured and under-insured women. V: Shot of a pregnant African American woman being examined by a health care worker. Shot of an African American woman with her child, sitting in the waiting area of a health clinic. Shot of an African American woman and child talking about paperwork with a health care worker. Footage of Spivak at the press conference. Spivak says that high-risk women in the Healthy Start program had better birth outcomes than high-risk women in any other sectors. Spivak says that the success of the Healthy Start program proves that a broad-based approach is effective; that the program succeeds because it tries to serve all of the needs of pregnant women. Shots of audience members at the press conference; of Jones at the press conference. Jones reports that teenagers and minorities in the Healthy Start Program gave birth to fewer low-weight babies than any other group in the state from July to December of 1986; that teenagers and minority women in the Healthy Start Program saw medical professionals more frequently; that teenagers and minority women in the Healthy Start program had fewer premature births. V: Shots of a nurse rocking and feeding an infant in the nursery of a hospital; of hospital workers at an administration desk; of an African American infant surrounded by medical equipment in a hospital nursery. Shot of a health care worker examining an African American infant in a hospital nursery. Jones reports that health officials would like the Healthy Start Program to continue to receive state funding. V: Shots of infants sleeping in a hospital nursery; of a woman in a hospital bed with her baby sleeping next to her. Footage of Spivak being interviewed by Jones. Spivak says that the Healthy Start Program is still in the state budget; that officials expect to be able to maintain the program at its present level. Shots of an African American woman holding her child in a hospital nursery. The woman speaks to a white health care worker. Shot of a child in an incubator being wheeled through a hospital corridor. Jones reports that the Healthy Start Program saves on hospital costs related to the birth of unhealthy and low-weight babies. Jones notes that the Healthy Start Program saves four to six dollars on hospital expenses for each dollar it spends. V: Footage of Prothrow-Stith at the press conference. Prothrow-Stith says that the Healthy Start Program saves lives, prevents human tragedy, and saves money. Shots of the audience at the press conference.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/15/1989
Description: Marcus Jones reports that many residents were present at a public hearing on whether to allow nude dancing at the Highland Tap in Roxbury. The Highland Tap has featured nude dancing for almost ten years. The police and critics believe that the bar is attracting drug traffic and other vices to the area. City Councilor Bruce Bolling and Deputy Superintendent of the Boston Police Department William Celester speak out against nude dancing at the bar. Celester talks about criminal activity and underage dancers at the bar. Local business owners say that the Highland Tap is a good neighbor. Interview with a local business owner who says that the bar creates no problems. Interview with Highland Tap owner Agamemnon Alexopoulos, who denies any problems with drugs or violence at the bar. Interviews with Roxbury residents Norma Alvarado and Dana Holley about their opinions on nude dancing at the bar. Jones reports that the city will soon decide whether to grant a license for adult entertainment at the bar. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Jesse Jackson's supporters criticize the Dukakis presidential campaign.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaking at a hearing on nude dancing at the Highland Tap in Roxbury. Bolling asks why Roxbury is the only neighborhood outside of the Combat Zone to have a nude dancing venue. The crowd applauds Bolling. Shots of the crowd. Members of the crowd hold up signs protesting the nude dancing venue in Roxbury. Marcus Jones reports that most of the audience members at the hearing were there to protest nude dancing at the Highland Tap in Roxbury. V: Shots of city officials at the hearing; of a man speaking at the hearing. Shots of a sign for "live adult entertainment" outside of the Highland Tap; of an African American woman entering a side door of the Highland Tap; of the exterior of the bar. Jones reports that the Highland Tap has featured nude dancing for almost ten years. Jones notes that police and critics say that the bar is attracting drug traffic and other vices. Jones adds that the bar is located near the Orchard Park Housing Development. V: Footage of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) speaking at the hearing. Celester says that the community already has enough problems without the Highland Tap. Jones reports that local businesses say that the Highland Tap has been a good neighbor. V: Footage of Lloyd (owner of Washington Fruit) seated in front of his business across from the Highland Tap. Lloyd says that his business has been here for eighteen years; that he has never seen any trouble at the Highland Tap. Footage of Celester speaking at the hearing. Celester says that police have pursued several investigations of the sale of cocaine at the Highland Tap. Celester says that police have arrested a girl under sixteen for nude dancing at the Highland Tap; that the owner was aware of the girl's age. The crowd applauds Celester. Footage of Agamemnon Alexopoulos (owner, Highland Tap) being interviewed on the street. Alexopoulos says that the Highland Tap has had no problems with drugs or violence. Alexopoulos talks about other bars in the areas that do have problems with drugs or violence. Footage of Norma Alvarado (local woman) saying that nude dancing does not create a drug problem. Footage of Dana Holley (local man) saying that the Highland Tap does not belong in a newly developed Roxbury. Marcus Jones stands outside of the bar. Jones reports that unlicensed nude dancing has been going on at the Highland Tap since the 1970s; that legal maneuvers by the bar's ownership has prevented a public hearing until now. Jones notes that the city can refuse to grant a license for adult entertainment to the bar; that the courts will ultimately decide on the fate of nude dancing at the club.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/25/1988
Description: Marcus Jones interviews Brian Wright O'Connor, the Managing Editor of The Bay State Banner, about the negative media portrayal of the Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan area. Jones notes that O'Connor believes that the media focus only on images of violence, drugs, and murder. O'Connor talks about the effects of the negative media coverage. Footage from an interview with Boston Police Deputy Superintendent William Celester about negative media coverage of the community. Jones notes that gubernatorial candidate John Silber was recently criticized for making negative comments about the Roxbury community. Silber has accused columnist Mike Barnacle of giving a biased representation of life in many neighborhoods. Jones' report is accompanied by footage from a news story with Barnacle, by footage from Justice on Trial (WCVB-TV) and by footage from Street Cop (WGBH/Frontline documentary). Jones notes that politicians and community leaders have spoken out against media bias in the wake of the Carol Stuart murder case. Michael Dukakis talks about media bias at a press conference. Following the edited story is additional footage of Jones's interview with O'Connor. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: John Silber speaks to the media and Roxbury residents
1:00:25: Visual: Footage of news reports from local TV stations. John Henning (WBZ news anchor) reports on the murder of a woman in the city. Natalie Jacobson (WCVB news anchor) reports on a police search for suspects in two Roxbury shootings. Shot of police searching two suspects who are lying face down on a sidewalk. R.D. Sahl (WHDH news anchor) reports on growing outrage in Roxbury. Shot of a woman being taken from a home on a stretcher. Shots of police cruisers on the streets of Roxbury at night. Shot of an injured person in an ambulance; of police at a crime scene cordoned off by yellow tape. Shot of an African American man leaving a police station. Marcus Jones reports that media coverage of the Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan neighborhoods focus on images of violence, drugs, and murder. Jones reports that Brian Wright O'Connor (Managing Editor, The Bay State Banner) believes that the media does not provide an accurate portrayal of life in Roxbury. Jones notes that O'Connor lives in a quiet section of the Roxbury neighborhood. V: Shot of Jones and O'Connor walking through a quiet park. Footage of O'Connor saying that criminal activity should be covered by the media; that the media uses questionable tactics in covering crime. O'Connor says that the media often stretches its definition of the term "news." O'Connor questions if there is balanced news coverage of the greater Roxbury area. O'Connor says that the media come to Roxbury to cover crime; that the media comes to Roxbury to cover reactions of local residents to comments by white politicians. Footage of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) saying that media coverage creates the wrong perceptions about the community. Celester says that negative perceptions did not begin with the comments of John Silber (Democratic candidate for governor of Massachusetts). Celester says that the negative perceptions need to be changed. Footage from WCVB of Justice on Trial. The footage shows Joe Lally (Boston Police Department) walking toward a city courthouse. The narrator says that Lally is "the only symbol of civilization left on many city streets." Marcus Jones reports that Silber has accused the media of twisting his words; that Silber says that the media has skewed perceptions of reality in Area B neighborhoods. Jones notes that Silber accused Mike Barnacle (columnist) of giving a skewed portrayal of life in many neighborhoods. V: Shot of Mike Barnacle interviewing a white man outside of a building. Footage of Barnacle walking along a sidewalk. Barnacle compares the neighborhood to a "shooting gallery." Jones reports that he interviewed Barnacle by telephone. Jones reports that Barnacle says that he feels no obligation to balance negative coverage of a neighborhood with positive coverage. Jones notes that Barnacle could not recall the number of columns he has written this summer with positive coverage of the neighborhoods in Area B. V: Footage from a WGBH/Frontline documentary called Street Cop. A plain-clothes police officer rides through a housing development. The officer says that the neighborhood is a tough place. The officer says that he would probably end up selling drugs if he were a poor, African American teenager in this neighborhood. Footage from Street Cop of white, plain-clothes police officers breaking down the door of an apartment with sledgehammers. A police officer reaches down the shirt of an old woman to look for drugs. Jones notes that WGBH/Frontline produced a documentary called Street Cop three years ago; that the documentary was accused of using negative stereotypes of crime in Roxbury. Jones reports that politicians and community leaders have spoken out against media bias in the wake of the Carol Stuart murder. V: Shots of newspaper articles with headlines about the suspect in the Stuart case. Footage of Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) speaking at a press conference on April 11, 1990. Dukakis says that there are thousands of good kids in the community; that the media gives all of the news coverage to the 500 bad kids. Bernard Cardinal Law (Archidiocese of Boston) is seated behind Dukakis. Footage of O'Connor being interviewed by Jones. Jones asks if the media focus on crime leads to a reduction in crime. O'Connor says that the community has been stereotyped by the media; that negative stereotypes reduce the political will to address the underlying socio-economic problems. O'Connor says that these negative stereotypes imply that the citizens of the community are morally defective or undeserving of aid. O'Connor says that the biased media coverage is "pernicious." O'Connor says that the negative media coverage allows people with resources to turn away from the community. O'Connor notes that two large companies scrapped their plans to build facilities in Roxbury in the wake of the Stuart murder. O'Connor says that the two companies could have provided jobs for at-risk teenagers in the community.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/12/1990
Description: Marcus Jones reports that voter support for Jesse Jackson (Democratic US Presidential candidate) appears to be growing with each primary election, despite being labeled as "unelectable" by political analysts and the media. Jones notes that Jackson is gaining support from white voters and other voters outside of his political base. Jones suggests that critics are dismissive of Jackson because of his skin color. Jones' report includes footage from an interview with Bob Beckel (political analyst). Beckel says that Jackson will have to convince white voters and the media to see beyond his skin color. Jones' report features footage of Jackson campaigning, footage of Jackson at a candidates' forum and footage from a Jackson campaign advertisement. Jones' report also includes footage of Jackson saying that his race should not be an issue in the campaign.
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (Democratic US presidential candidate) at a campaign rally in New Hampshire on February 16, 1988. Jackson say that his campaign has defied the odds; that his campaign has been winning "uphill battles." Shots of the crowd. Marcus Jones reports that political analysts and the media have called Jackson the "most unelectable candidate in the race for the White House." Jones notes that support for Jackson seems to be growing. V: Footage of Jackson announcing his candidacy in November of 1983. Footage from a 1988 political advertisement for Jackson. Jones notes that Jackson's candidacy in 1983 made history; that Jackson's victories in 1988 are exceptional. Jones adds that Jackson is gaining support from voters outside of his African American base. V: Footage of a white male saying that Jackson will win in the South; of another white male asking, "Why not?" Shot of Jackson at a campaign rally; of Jackson exiting an airplane. Jones notes that voters in Maine, Vermont, Minnesota, and other states are supporting Jackson. V: Footage of a white male in New Hampshire saying that critics are creating a negative image of Jackson. Footage of Jackson at a televised forum in Dallas. Jackson sits on stage with other Democratic candidates. Jackson says that the US should not be overly dependent on oil from the Persian Gulf; that every youth should have the opportunity to go to college. Jackson criticizes the defense policy of Ronald Reagan (US President). Jones suggests that critics are calling Jackson unelectable because of his skin color. V: Footage of Jackson in New Hampshire on October 12, 1987. Jackson says that the issue of his race should be left to "God"; that the issue of his credentials should be left up to the voters. Footage of Bob Beckel (political analyst) saying that Jackson addresses issues that other candidates are afraid to address. Beckel says that Jackson will have trouble convincing white voters and the media to see beyond his skin color. Beckel says that Jackson has "no shot" at winning. Beckel says that the situation is unfair to Jackson. Footage of Jackson at a campaign rally in New Hampshire. Supporters chant, "Win, Jesse, Win." Jones notes that Jackson's base of support continues to grow.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/04/1988
Description: This tape features Marcus Jones's first report in a three-part series on the life of Jackie Robinson (baseball player) in honor of the fortieth anniversary of Robinson's entry into major league baseball. Jones reviews the history of African Americans in professional baseball. He notes that the Negro League was successful in the 1930s and 1940s. Jones reports that Robinson was one of three African American players to try out for the Boston Red Sox in the 1940s. Jones reports that Robinson was signed to the Brooklyn Dodgers as the first African American in major league baseball. Jones notes that Robinson encountered virulent racism and even received death threats. Jones reports that Robinson went on to become one of the greatest players of all time and was inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Jones' report includes footage from interviews with Larry Whiteside (Boston Globe sportswriter), Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger), Rachel Robinson (wife of Jackie Robinson), and Frank Robinson (Baltimore Orioles). Jones' report also features footage and photographs of Robinson and early African American baseball players. Jones' report is accompanied by footage from the films The Jackie Robinson Story and The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars. Tape 1 of 3
1:00:17: Visual: Shots of a Red Sox baseball player signing autographs for fans at Fenway Park. Text on screen reads, "Jackie Robinson's American Dream." Marcus Jones reports that Jack Roosevelt Robinson was the first African American baseball player to play in the major leagues. V: Black and white footage of Robinson playing baseball. Jones talks about the history of African Americans in baseball. V: Black and white photographs of early African American baseball players including John "Bud" Fowler, Moses Fleetwood Walker and Wellday Walker. Jones talks about early African American players including Fowler and the Walker brothers. V: Footage of Larry Whiteside (Boston Globe sportswriter) saying that racial issues in Major League Baseball reflect the racial issues in American life. Footage from the film, The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars. Jones talks about the formation of the Negro Leagues. Jones reports that African American players still wanted to break into the major leagues; that some tried to pass as Latino. V: Footage of Whiteside talking about racism in early baseball. Jones talks about the success of the Negro League in the 1930s and 1940s. V: Black and white footage of Negro League baseball games. Black and white shots of players including Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, and Jackie Robinson. Black and white photos of teams from the Negro League. Jones reports that three African American players were given a one-day tryout for the major leagues at Fenway Park in Boston. V: Black and white shots of African American fans; of the exterior of Fenway Park. Footage of Whiteside talking about the events leading up to the tryouts. Whiteside says that Marvin Williams, Sam Jethroe, and Robinson were given tryouts. Black and white footage of players at Fenway Park; of Jethroe; of Robinson; of the exterior of Fenway Park. Jones reports that the Red Sox did not give any of the players a spot on the team; that Branch Rickey (Owner, Brooklyn Dodgers) signed Robinson to play for the Brooklyn farm team. V: Black and white footage of Red Sox players at Fenway Park; of Rickey. Black and white footage of Robinson and Rickey signing a contract. Shot of a newspaper article with a headline reading, "Dodgers purchase Robinson, first negro in modern major league baseball." Footage of Rickey talking about his efforts to warn Robinson about the abuse that Robinson would receive in the major leagues. Footage from the film, The Jackie Robinson Story. Jones reports that Rickey challenged Robinson to hold his temper in the face of racial slurs and hostility; that Robinson moved into the Dodgers' starting line-up in 1947; that Robinson played great baseball despite the racial hostility. V: Black and white footage of the press and fans at a baseball game; of Robinson playing for the Dodgers. Black and white shots of African American and white fans cheering for Robinson. Footage of Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger) saying that Robinson had no fear; that Labine had never played with a more exciting player than Robinson. Jones talks about the extreme pressure under which Robinson played. V: Shots of a newspaper headline reading, "Robinson reveals written threats;" of a hand-written letter to Robinson reading, "We are going to kill you if you attempt to enter a ballgame at Crosley Field." Footage of Rachel Robinson (Jackie Robinson's wife) talking about the threatening letters received by Robinson. Footage of Labine saying that he received hate mail after a photo of him and Robinson was printed in the paper. Shot of a black and white photo of Labine with his arm around Robinson. Labine says that Robinson received a lot of hate mail. Footage of Frank Robinson (Baltimore Orioles) saying that few people would be able to perform under pressure like Robinson did. Black and white footage of a newscaster speculating on Robinson's performance. Black and white footage of Robinson playing baseball for the Dodgers. Jones reports that Robinson's first year in baseball was outstanding; that Robinson was named Rookie of the Year for the National League. V: Black and white footage of Robinson receiving the Rookie of the Year award; of the Dodgers playing in the World Series in 1947. Jones reports that Robinson's fondest memories were of playing in the World Series; that Robinson was the first African American player to play in a World Series. V: Shot of a black and white photo of Robinson. Audio of Robinson saying that his goal was to break the color barrier; that he wanted to show that African American and white players could play together. Black and white footage of Robinson playing baseball. Shot of a Dodgers' team photo with Robinson. Jones reports that Robinson played for 10 years in the Major League; that Robinson was the MVP in 1949; that he appeared in the World Series six times. V: Black and white shots of fans at a stadium; of Robinson; of the Dodgers World Series victory in 1955; of Robinson being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Jones reports that Robinson was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. Jones stands in front of Freedom National Bank in Harlem. Jones reports that Robinson turned his attention to civil rights, business, and politics at the end of his baseball career.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/04/1987
Description: This tape features Marcus Jones' second report in a three-part series on the life of Jackie Robinson (baseball player) in honor of the fortieth anniversary of Robinson's entry into major league baseball. Jones reports on Robinson's career after baseball and his active participation in the civil rights movement. Jones notes that Robinson was the first African American to reach the level of vice-president in a major corporation when he was named to that post at the Chock Full O'Nuts company. Jones reviews Robinson's role in the civil rights movement and his political activity during the 1960 presidential elections. Jones reports that Robinson co-founded the Freedom National Bank in Harlem in 1963, which was the first bank in the US to be run by African Americans. Jones talks about Robinson's disappointment when white teammates from professional baseball refused to join him for the March on Washington in 1963. Jones' report includes footage from interviews with Rachel Robinson (wife of Jackie Robinson), Ambassador Franklin Williams (friend of Jackie Robinson), Mal Goode (journalist), and Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger). Jones' report also features footage of the civil rights movements and footage of Robinson in the 1960s. Jones' report includes footage from the film Jackie Robinson: An American Journey. Tape 2 of 3
1:00:01: Visual: Footage of Jackie Robinson walking off of a baseball field. Text on screen reads, "Jackie Robinson's American Dream." Black and white shot of an older Robinson waving goodbye; of the exterior of Ebbets Field; of a newspaper headline reading, "Giants get Robinson." Shot of a black and white photo of Robinson in a suit. Marcus Jones reports that Jackie Robinson left baseball in 1957; that Robinson chose to retire instead of be traded to the New York Giants. Jones reports that Robinson signed on as vice-president of personnel for Chock full o'Nuts company; that Robinson was the first African American to reach the level of vice-president in a major corporation. V: Black and white footage of Robinson in a baseball uniform; of Robinson in a business suit; of a sign for "Chock full o'Nuts." Black and white footage of Robinson with his employees; of Robinson meeting with a group of people. Jones reports that Robinson played an active role in the civil rights movement. V: Footage of Rachel Robinson (Jackie Robinson's wife) saying that Robinson wanted to be a part of the civil rights movement. Black and white footage of African American students integrating white schools; of African American picketers outside of a Woolworth lunch counter; of an African American man confronting a police officer; of Martin Luther King (civil rights leader); of an African American man being pushed by white men; of fire hoses being used on African American demonstrators; of African American picketers with protest signs. Footage of Ambassador Franklin Williams (friend of Robinson) saying that Robinson identified with the NAACP; that Robinson was an active chairman of the Freedom Fund Campaign. Jones reports that Robinson advocated equal opportunities for African Americans in all areas; that Robinson's stature drew attention to the cause. V: Footage from Jackie Robinson: An American Journey. Footage shows Robinson campaigning for civil rights. Robinson rides in a convertible through an African American neighborhood. Footage of Williams saying that Robinson drew great crowds; that women would pay to have him kiss them on the cheek. Footage of a Nelson Rockefeller presidential campaign rally in 1960. Robinson is visible in the crowd. Jones reports that Robinson supported Nelson Rockefeller (presidential candidate) in 1960; that Robinson campaigned for the Republican nominee Richard Nixon (1960 Republican presidential nominee) after Rockefeller lost the nomination. V: Shot of a black and white photo of Nixon and Robinson. Footage of Williams saying that Robinson believed that African Americans would be strengthened if they were represented by both of the major parties. Footage of a campaign debate in 1960 between Nixon and John F. Kennedy (1960 Democratic presidential nominee). Footage of Williams saying that Robinson had great respect for Nixon at the beginning of the 1960 presidential campaign; that Robinson eventually became disillusioned with the Republican Party. Shot of a black and white photo of Nixon and Robinson. Black and white footage of Kennedy's inaugural speech. Jones reports that Robinson continued to fight for equality for African Americans; that Robinson pushed for Mal Goode (journalist) to be hired as the first African American TV news correspondent. V: Shots of black and white photos of Robinson; of Robinson and Goode. Footage of Goode reflecting on the sacrifices made by the previous generation of African Americans. Jones reports that Robinson co-founded Freedom National Bank in Harlem in 1963; that the bank was the first bank to be run by African Americans. V: Shots of Freedom National Bank in Harlem. Black and white footage of Robinson talking about the importance of Freedom National Bank. Jones stands in front of Freedom National Bank. Jones reports that Robinson worked to free the African American community from the constraints of racism. V: Footage of Williams talking about the idea of a bank run by African Americans, in which whites could participate. Black and white footage of Robinson talking about the importance of registering African Americans to vote. Black and white footage of African Americans marching in the South in 1963; of whites standing behind a Confederate flag; of two white men waving a small Confederate flag. Jones reports that Robinson spent a lot of time in the South in 1963. V: Black and white footage of Robinson and King; of Robinson addressing a crowd about the need for equal rights. Shots of a black and white photo of King. Black and white shot of Robinson picking up a telephone. Black and white aerial shot of the March on Washington in 1963. Jones reports that Robinson was disappointed when his white Dodger teammates refused to join him for the March on Washington in 1963. V: Footage of Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger) saying that he regrets not joining Robinson for the March on Washington. Black and white shot of Robinson addressing a crowd. Jones reports that Robinson started a construction company in 1970; that the company was dedicated to building low-income housing. V: Shots of Robinson at a construction site; of Robinson looking at architectural plans; of Robinson throwing out a baseball at a ballgame. Jones reports that Robinson died in October of 1972. Jones stands outside of Ebbets Field Apartments. Jones says that Robinson's ideals still live on.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/05/1987
Description: Third report in Marcus Jones' three-part series on the life of Jackie Robinson in honor of the fortieth anniversary of Robinson's entry into major league baseball. Jones reports on the lack of African American managers and coaches in major league baseball. Jones notes that Robinson spoke out against discrimination in baseball during the last years of his life. Jones adds that Robinson never received an offer to manage a major league baseball team. Jones' report includes footage of Al Campanis (former Vice-President, Brooklyn Dodgers) and Lee MacPhail (General Manager, New York Yankees) making discriminatory comments about the abilities of African Americans to manage professional sports teams. Jones reports that Frank Robinson (bench coach, Baltimore Orioles) became the first African American manager in professional baseball. Jones adds that many current African American players have expressed interest in management positions. Jones interviews Frank Robinson. Jones also interviews Tommy Harper (former Boston Red Sox coach) about his experiences with the Boston Red Sox. Jones notes that Harper was fired for speaking out against the team's discriminatory practices. Jones notes that affirmative action plans are under review for major league baseball. Jones' report includes footage of Rachel Robinson (wife of Jackie Robinson), Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger), Elrod Hendricks (Baltimore Orioles), Larry Whiteside (Boston Globe sportswriter), Billy Williams (Chicago Cubs), Howard Cosell (sportscaster) and Ambassador Franklin Williams (friend of Jackie Robinson) speaking about Jackie Robinson and African Americans in baseball. Jones' report includes footage of Jackie Robinson as well as footage and photographs of current baseball players and officials. Tape 3 of 3
1:00:03: Visual: Black and white shot of the exterior of Ebbets Field in Brooklyn. Text on screen reads, "Jackie Robinson's American Dream." Black and white shots of fans at the stadium. Footage of Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger) saying that the heart and soul of Brooklyn were destroyed when the Brooklyn Dodgers left town. Black and white shot of Jackie Robinson playing baseball for the Dodgers. Marcus Jones stands in front of Ebbets Field Apartment Complex in Brooklyn. Jones reports that opportunities for minorities are still lacking in one area. V: Footage of Al Campanis (former Dodgers' Vice President) on Nightline. Campanis says that African Americans do not have what it takes to manage a baseball team. Campanis says that there are not many African American quarterbacks or pitchers. Black and white shots of Robinson in a baseball uniform; of a group of Brooklyn Dodgers players. Footage of Campanis speaking to the media. Jones reports that Campanis is a former teammate of Robinson; that Campanis's remarks show that African Americans still face barriers in major league baseball. V: Shots of a major league baseball game. Footage of Robinson addressing a crowd. Footage of Clem Labine (former Brooklyn Dodger) saying that Robinson looked forward to the day when there would be African American managers in major league baseball. Shot of Robinson throwing out a ball at a major league baseball game. Jones reports that Robinson spoke out against discrimination in baseball management during the last year's of his life. Jones notes that Lee MacPhail (General Manager, New York Yankees) claimed in 1969 that African Americans were not prepared to be managers; that Robinson publicly rebutted MacPhail's claims. Jones reports that Robinson never received an offer to manage a major league baseball team. V: Footage of MacPhail at a press conference. Black and white shot of Robinson standing with three white baseball players. Footage of Rachel Robinson (Jackie Robinson's wife) saying that Robinson was disappointed that he never had the opportunity to manage a baseball team. Shots of Robinson's funeral. Shots of Frank Robinson (bench coach, Baltimore Orioles) at a baseball game. Jones notes that Frank Robinson became the first African American manager of a baseball team in 1972. V: Footage of Frank Robinson being interviewed by Jones. Frank Robinson says that he wishes Jackie Robinson could have lived to see him appointed as a manager. Jones reports that Larry Doby and Maury Wills were the only two other African Americans have been field managers in professional baseball. V: Shots of Doby and Wills; of a white Chicago player. Jones notes that Don Baylor (Boston Red Sox), Reggie Jackson (Oakland Athletics) and Elrod Hendricks have expressed interest in becoming managers. V: Shots of Baylor, Jackson and Hendricks; of a white manager arguing with an umpire. Footage of Elrod Hendricks (catching coach for the Baltimore Orioles) saying that he would like to be a manager if the right opportunity presented itself. Footage of Tommy Harper (former Boston Red Sox coach) saying that African Americans want an equal opportunity to compete for jobs. Shots of Harper at a non-professional baseball field. Jones reports that Harper had hopes of moving up in the ranks of the Red Sox organization; that Harper was fired in 1975 for protesting against the team's discriminatory practices. V: Shot of a newspaper headline reading, "Harper still shut out because he spoke out." Footage of Harper saying that minorities have been shut out of management positions all over baseball; that the minority officials in baseball right now have no authority. Footage of Larry Whiteside (Boston Globe sportswriter) talking about the lack of opportunities for African Americans in baseball. Jones reports that there is pressure on team owners to hire more minorities. V: Shots of a ceremony honoring Robinson at a Major League ballpark; of a newspaper headline reading, "No shortage of black candidates." ESPN footage of Billy Williams (Chicago Cubs batting coach) at a Hall of Fame Ceremony. Williams says that team owners must look beyond skin color in hiring management. Shots of an African American man talking to the press; of white team owners; of Peter Ueberroth (Baseball Commissioner). Jones says that affirmative action plans are under review for major league baseball. V: Footage of Frank Robinson saying that he hopes that African Americans will soon have the same opportunities as whites to become managers. Black and white footage of Jackie Robinson playing baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers; of fans cheering for Robinson. Jones notes that Jackie Robinson's courage inspired the nation. V: Footage of Howard Cosell (sportscaster) saying that Jackie Robinson is an important figure in American history, not just sports history. Footage of Rachel Robinson (Jackie Robinson's wife) saying that she had no idea that his legacy would become as important as it is. Black and white shots of Jackie and Rachel Robinson; of Jackie Robinson campaigning for civil rights. Footage of Labine saying that Robinson will be remembered for what he did for the African American race. Black and white shots of Robinson with Chock full o'Nuts company employees; of Robinson receiving an award. Footage of Ambassador Franklin Williams (Robinson's friend) saying that a lesser man would not have succeeded like Robinson did. Black and white shots of Rachel and Jackie Robinson with their child; of Robinson with a friend.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/06/1987