Friday, December 1, 2023

Justice Sandra Day O’Conner

Retired U.S Supreme Court Judge Sandra Day O’Conner passed away today at the age of 93. She was the first woman judge in the US Supreme Court. She was appointed by President Ronald Regan. Justice O’Conner was an independent defender of rule of law. 


I want to write this blog about a funny incident. 

In 1985, there was a “Salute to Congress” event. Many VIPs were invited for dinner. Justice Sandra Day O’Conner happened to sit next to the famous (American) Football Player John Riggins. O’Conner did not know who Riggins was. And, Riggins did not know who O’Conner was. Just their names only from the name tag. 

John Riggins had too much alcohol to drink. He was drunk. They both did not engage in any conversation. At one time during dinner, Riggins told the quiet O’Conner – Hey Sandy Baby, Loosen up. You are too tight”. Justice O’Conner just smiled and did not say anything. 

Next day it was all over the news and much talked about in sports and legal circle. 

It was reported that Justice O’Conner got a kick out of that meeting with John Riggins. After a few weeks, when she was giving a speech at Pepperdine University Law School, she mentioned this incident and got a big ovation. 

After John Riggins retired from football, he took up acting. When he made a debut in a play, Justice O’Conner showed up and presented him with a dozen roses. 

May she Rest in Peace.

16 comments:

  1. Your blogs are always so witty and full of wonderful information. Thank you for always keeping us entertained SG.

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  2. Was it a divine love or friendship. Whatever it may be the blog is interesting.RIP Justice Sandra

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    1. Thanks for your comments Anonymous. And, welcome to my blog. I could give you proper credit if you had given your name. It was neither love or friendship. She took it jovially.

      Anonymous, please visit here as often as possible. Thanks.

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  3. Fortunately, for him, he stopped at that.

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  4. That is wonderful incident.
    American men are generally great with women. They seem to get a lady's attention easily and favorably.

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    1. Thanks for your comments Kirtivasan. HeHeHe.

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  5. Interesting incident. Well narrated.
    People wouldn't know such personal details or anecdotes unless info is shared. She shared and then many knew.
    And now that you have shared, we know the story too :)

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  6. Gripping topic. So, all the known persons are not known to all.
    I had read it earlier and liked also. Might have commented. By seeing anonymous, I felt it like my language. Don't know exactly.

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    1. Thanks for your comments Sarala

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  7. Replies
    1. Thanks for your comments wildflower. And, welcome to my blog. Glad you enjoyed reading this post.

      wildflower, please visit here as often as possible. Thanks.

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