In the last few days, we have lost two leaders and defenders of the principles of social justice and democracy. The passing of Rosa Parks, a mother of the civil rights movement, and of Congressman Edward Roybal, a tireless Mexican-American leader and symbol of the growing strength of the Hispanic community in the U.S., inspires us to keep up the fight for an American society in which Democratic values and opportunities are available to all. I join in the mourning, remembrance, and celebration of these inspirational lives that opened the doors to diversity in this country.

The Politicker eagerly awaits Mike's statement on the death of Ronald Reagan.

(There's been some question about whether it's fair to "pick on Freddy while he's down." The view around here is that to start averting ones eyes for the last days doesn't exactly do Ferrer a favor.)

The Daily News takes the high road with a handsomely composed tribute to Rosa Parks, including the editorially savvy choice of her mug shot as illustration: This is exactly what Jim Crow was about--the criminalization of simple acts of living.

The Post, meanwhile, ignores the civil-rights pioneer in favor of screaming demi-gibberish conflating the War on Drugs with the War on Terror with the made-up scare story from a while back about al Qaeda seeking to poison America's illegal drug supply. The blurred-out faces of the feds testify that this is a matter of critical National Security.

Winner: New York Post

Overall standings: Daily News 2, New York Post 1

The messages conclude:

"The thoughts and prayers of all New Yorkers are with the Parks family, and all of her friends and colleagues during this difficult time."

And:

"The thoughts and prayers of all New Yorkers are with the Mara family, the Giants and Wellington's friends and colleagues during this difficult time."