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“The People’s Paper” August 7 - August 13, 2010 45th Year Volume 11 www.ladatanews.com

Page 2 State & Local Newsmaker Congressional Jerome Smith Race Heats Up! Feeding Dreams Page 9 Page 4

Page 9 Photos by Victor Holt

Page 2 August 7 - August 13, 2010 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com Still in Touch

New Orleans Native Darryl Willis balances love for his company and his community from front lines of BP oil spill

By Gary Estwick Darryl Willis pauses to ponder a question, his eyes sur- veying the patio at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in search of his answer. Willis is concerned about the estimated 50,000 people who started claims with British Petroleum because of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico then failed to submit docu- mentation - tax returns, pay stubs, W2s - all of which can substantiate losses and allow them to receive financial as- sistance. “Why did they call?” Willis asks, thinking about his own question. “Why haven’t they followed-up?” He is worried about businesses whose revenues are attached to contamination-free waters and beachfront get- aways. He set a goal to make sure no person affected by the April 20 accident misses a boat payment, a house or car note or is unable to put food on their family’s table; yet he knows some businesses will be forced to close, includ- ing some in his hometown. These issues perplex Willis, a New Orleans native and 1987 graduate of McDonough 35 High School. As the man in charge of conversing with everyone from out-of- work oyster fishermen to members of Congress; Willis has also taken a hands-on role in the claims process. Ev- ery day, a crabber, a waitress, the owner of vacant vaca- tion condos, a scuba diver somewhere between Texas New Orleans native and BP Executive Darryl Willis and Florida rely on him to make sure they get a check; it’s the right amount and the process is hassle-free. This is why Willis, 41, says the responsibilities he ac-

Continued next page.

DATA News Weekly P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 INSIDE DATA Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors CEO/Publisher Tobi Blanchard Glenn Jones Edwin Buggage Cover Story . 2 Commentary. 8 VP Advertising Dionne Character & Marketing Gary Estwick Cheryl Mainor Jordan Flaherty June Hazeur Managing Editor Allan Katz Edwin Buggage Newsmaker. 4 State & Local. 9 Glenn Summers Editor Dionne Character Art Direction & Production Arts & Entertainment Editor MainorMedia.com Data Zone . 5 National News. 10 Melanie Mainor Editorial Submissions Copy Editor Intern [email protected] June Hazeur Advertising Inquiries Accounting [email protected] Please call (504) 309-9913 for subscription information. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story August 7 - August 13, 2010 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

cepted in a shift of roles amid the Willis said BP spent much of the way to utilize it. of raising the two kids, a son, 8, and more than 200 million gallons of first 30 days of the spill attempting to Later, he credits his William and daughter, 11. This has allowed him crude oil leaking into the Gulf is convince people that they were not Cora Willis, now deceased, and fam- to be totally immersed in the recov- much harder, more stressful than going to try and hide behind the $75 ily members for preparing him for ery efforts. They usually communi- his normal post. million cap associated with damages the job. His father used to tell him cate daily, by phone or sometimes “It’s affecting their lives,” says caused by spills as it was defined in all the time, “It’s important to walk text messages. Willis, a scientist. “It’s infected their the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. Then with kings, but not lose the common “My wife has just been totally run- lives. That’s a big responsibility to when the oil was capped, suspicion touch.” ning the show. She could easily be carry.” arose that the financial assistance Willis would give his father the calling me, saying what about this The task has dominated his life would dry up. preverbal, ‘Yeah, yeah, I got it,” not bill, nagging me, ‘How ya doin, what- since early May, taking him away “That’s been the challenge,” he really understanding the lesson. It’s cha doin?’ “ from his wife and two children in said. “To get people comfortable something he now understands. Willis says he has no interest in Houston. Placed him in New Or- with the fact that we’re going to actu- “This whole response is personal maintaining a public relations or op- leans one night, in Gulf Shores, AL, ally do what we’re supposed to do.” for me,” he said. “I want people to erations role after late August. He’s a the next, and in Pensacola , FL, the He is now less than a month away know that I’m listening to them, I scientist. He will make himself avail- following day. It has put him in front from turning over everything to know what they’re saying. Some- able once or twice a month to ensure of the House Judiciary Committee. Kenneth Feinberg, who was named times I’ll have an answer they like, that the process continues to work. Cast him in a nationally-adver- by President Obama to indepen- sometimes I won’t have an answer “For me, it’s a lot to take in, that tised commercial, far from his nor- dently manage the $20 billion Gulf they like, but I hope to give them an my company was involved in this mal job as a scientist sitting behind a disaster compensation fund. answer, and that’s not always easy. spill, but we were,” Willis said. “The desk. Far from his formal training as ” response is going to be the key a chemist, mathematician, geologist PERSONAL TOUCH AWAY FROM HOME thing: how we repaid the damage. If and geophysicist. Willis wears a sky blue dress He realizes that he wouldn’t be we don’t we should be held account- But it has allowed him to put his shirt, pinstriped slacks, dark shoes able to complete this task without able for that. own spin on a recovery process he and cuff links given to him by Eric his wife, Dawnia, who works as a “And if I thought that we wouldn’t, dared not shy away from. Ochmanek, the BP public relations pharmacist and is handling the role I wouldn’t be talking to you.” representative who travels with HERO OR PARIAH him. His job has been to help Wil- In late April, Willis received a lis craft his message and make sure call from Andy Inglis, a BP execu- his thoughts are clear and for meet- tive. He asked Willis to assist with ings, town hall gatherings and tele- the recovery efforts, unsure where conferences with reporters. Willis’ he was needed at, Willis accepted. head is shaved bald. His facial hair is The following morning he boarded growing back slightly now that it is a flight to Monroe. past 4 p.m. on a Tuesday afternoon Since then, Willis has received in Downtown New Orleans. Thin both praise and criticism. glasses sit on his nose. Nationally syndicated radio host It’s a different look for Willis, who Tom Joyner questioned on air if Wil- was introduced to America in the or- lis worked for BP. Is he an actor? ange collared shirt and denim jeans Even a Congressman recently asked he wore in the BP commercials. Willis if he was a lawyer; perhaps a On a conference call Tuesday with public relations expert he hadn’t reporters, Willis, a self-inflicted per- met or heard of. fectionist, is asked about problems “No, I’m a scientist,” Willis re- in the claims process. As of Monday sponded. night, BP has paid nearly $300 mil- Some applaud him for stepping lion of claims. into the oily fray. They thank him for “If you took one question and doing the commercials; thank him asked it in all 14 (claims) centers for what he’s trying to do to help BP (in ), you might get seven make it through the process. After different answers,” Willis admits, all, he could have stayed behind his “because we haven’t had the time to desk as vice president of the compa- get everyone on the same page. But ny’s engineering and geoscience in Feinberg is going to get that fixed. North America and followed cover- “We’ve been worrying about cut- age on network and cable television. ting checks quickly.” Then they give him their claim num- He answers questions carefully, ber and ask for personal help with but with a frankness not associated their claim. with corporate spokesmen. Perhaps Others laud him and BP, ques- it is his slight New Orleans accent tioning the reason behind his pres- which has hung around despite ence - a Black man facing blame for stints in Moscow, Vietnam and San a corporation’s mishap, and attempt- Francisco with BP. ing to fix the mess. Still others meet Before answering each question him in the field and remind him - as in the 30-minute teleconference, if he didn’t remember - that in the Willis thanks the reporter for ask- commercial he said he would “do ing the question, then takes his whatever it takes to make this right.” time answering, making sure not to They tell him everything isn’t right stop once he reaches the 12-second and that he needs to get it resolved. television sound bite. His voice is Then they give him their claim num- firm yet understanding. Yes, he’s a ber. native, but he’s not going out of his Page 4 August 7 - August 13, 2010 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

General Mills Names New Orleans Resident A Candidate For Feeding Dreams

Jerome Smith is New Or- we’re excited to have consumers leans’ Community Champion in help us empower these amaz- the Southeastern 2010 Feeding ing people in 10 cities with grant Dreams Competition monies,” said Rodolfo Rodriguez, The spotlight was on local Director, Multicultural Market- community hero Jerome Smith ing, General Mills. “Jerome and as the 2010 Feeding Dreams other Community Champions campaign officially launched in have made extraordinary strides New Orleans today. Smith is New to improve the lives of so many. Orleans’ Community Champion We encourage everyone in New as part of the Feeding Dreams Orleans and supporters nation- grassroots initiative supported wide to visit the Web site and cast by General Mills that celebrates a vote for their top Community African-Americans’ commitment Champion.” to community service at the local FeedingDreams.com also pays level. Smith’s compassion for his tribute to 2008 and 2009 Feeding neighbors is paired with a deep- Dreams Community Champions rooted passion for creating a more from Birmingham, Charlotte, vibrant city through the causes he Memphis and Norfolk. champions daily in New Orleans’ “We’re celebrating a handful of neighborhoods. our brightest community stars, Residents of New Orleans our civic engineers,” said Susan L and supporters throughout the Taylor, Feeding Dreams spokes- country may cast a vote at Feed- Smith New Orleans Hero Jerome Smith was honored by being named a candidate for General Mills Feeding person and editor-in-chief emeri- ingDreams.com for Smith who is Dreams National Award tus of Essence Magazine and among the 10 Feeding Dreams founder of the National CARES champions competing for grant tor, teacher and nurturer of at-risk monies, and his photograph and African American youth in the story are featured on the web Seventh Ward and Treme neigh- site. This year’s Feeding Dreams borhoods. A faithful volunteer of program highlights Community more than 40 years, Smith has Champions in 10 cities: Atlanta, been instrumental in operating GA; Birmingham, AL; Charlotte, programs that uplift the lives of NC; Columbia, SC; Jackson, MS; Black youth. He uses a holistic ap- Jacksonville, FL; Memphis, TN; proach that meets the children’s New Orleans, LA; Miami, FL and needs and interests. Such pro- Norfolk, VA. grams include “Balls and Books,” Jerome Smith: A dedicated a program that encourages all activist, humanitarian, former youth who want to play a sport freedom rider and giant among to also carry their own library men-New Orleans’ own Smith is card. “Our youth excel in sports revered and respected as a men- but not in books,” Smith laments.

General Mills Representatives join Jerome Smith (center) for a photo while honoring him as a candidate for Feeding Dreams.

Smith’s goal is to help our young ity of his or her choice; followed Mentoring Movement. “I am truly people build confidence in self, by the second-place winner who inspired by their leadership and and he sees to it that their knowl- will receive $5,000; and a third- energized by their work. These edge base is steeped in Black his- place champion who will receive champions show that with vision, tory and the achievements of our $3,000. The remaining champions passion and a plan, we can restore elders-which he draws from when will receive $2,000 grants respec- our communities and change our teaching and inspiring them to tively for their designated chari- world.” achieve against all odds. ties. All nominees receive a $500 Feeding Dreams online voting At FeedingDreams.com, visi- check as acknowledgement of began Sunday, August 1, 2010 and tors may vote once per day for their community service. runs through Sunday, October 31, their local Community Champion “We’re honored to recognize 2010. The program culminates in or a Community Champion from Mr. Smith who is making a differ- December in Atlanta with a cel- another city. The individual who ence and improving communities. ebratory luncheon and awards garners the most votes at the end We created the Feeding Dreams ceremony hosted by Taylor. of the voting period will receive a program to celebrate the work of $10,000 grant to benefit the char- our Community Champions, and Actor Wendell Pierce congratulates Jerome Smith on his honors. Photos: Jim Belfon/Gulf South Photography Project www.ladatanews.com Data Zone August 7 - August 13, 2010 Page 5 Nathan Emanuel I Am Nathan

so desires. At the age of 15, he has al- the Hornets vs. San Antonio Spurs and ready entertained over 30,000 people in Cleveland, Ohio for the Cleveland in a tribute to his father, the late Elder, Cavaliers. He has shared the stage with Flint Gros. Since the loss of his father, various gospel greats such as Bishop Nathan has vowed to dedicate his voice Paul S. Morton, Bishop Lester Love, to withhold his father’s passion for life Senior Pastor of The City of Love, Wil- through his music. liam Murphy, Kim Burrell, Rod Lump- He has captured the ears of many kin, Ledesi, Maurette Brown-Clark, becoming a well-known and highly Rizen, and Crystal Aiken just to name respected voice in the Full Gospel a few. Community. Well rounded, Nathan Jazz, Pop, R&B, Gospel, and Clas- Dionne Character, Author maintains a 3.8 grade point average sic Standards are all a part of his rep- as a student at Greater Gentilly High ertoire. Once you hear his voice, you Entertainment Editor & Columnist School. will never forget the sound. Nathan has performed The Na- Nathan will soon be releasing his tional Anthem for several major sport- Pop R&B debut project, I Am Nathan. ing events in New Orleans, Louisiana Check out this young star at www.na- Nathan Emanuel Gros can take namely: The New Orleans Hornets vs. thanemanuel.org you on a trip with his voice dropping the L.A Lakers (twice), Game 2 of the your soul off in any genre your heart NBA Western Conference Playoffs for Dionne Character can be reached at www.dionnecharacter.com

DST Divas celebrating Jimmie Woods Jr. in New Orleans Turns 1

Regina Bartholomew, Jimmie Woods & Jimmie Woods Jr Page 6 August 7 - August 13, 2010 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Local Lounges Welcomed The Delta’s Local Lounges Welcomed The Women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. during their national convention

@ The Prime Example @ Broad Street Grill

Photos by June Hazuer Photos by June Hazuer

Night Out Against Crime Warwick West– held on Weaver Ave between E. Rockton Cr and E. Wheaton Cr – We had a great turn-out by the sign- in. I arrived late when the gathering was to end. Many residents had already left the area. These residents among oth- ers were still enjoying the camaraderie along with the food and drinks in spite of the intense heat. www.ladatanews.com Data Zone August 7 - August 13, 2010 Page 7 Ritual Murder Chakula cha Jua Theatre Company By Dionne Character

Chakula Cha Jua Theater Company returns with RITU- AL MURDER, its first major production since Hurricane Katrina. Featured in the cast are: Harold X. Evans, Linda M. Merritt, Andrea El-Man- sura, Beverly Frank, Bobby R. Toomer, Jr., Christopher M. Williams, Jason Mitchell, Ceth R. Watson and Brian Foy, Jr. RITUAL MURDER deals with the agonizing theme of Black-on Black violence. The story revolves around Joe Brown, Jr., a 19 year old Black youth who murders his best friend, James Roberts, on a Saturday night “for no appar- ent reason.” A narrator is used in the style of a television documentary to interview the people who knew Joe Brown Jr., to determine why this mur- der happened? By the end of Christopher M. Williams, Jason Mitchell, Ceth R. Watson, Bobby R. Toomer, Jr., Brian Foy, Jr., Harold X. Evans Middle Row: the play we learn that there Linda M. Merritt, Andrea El-Mansura, Beverly Frank Bottom: Chakula cha Jua, director are reasons for the murder. Reasons which are “personal tinues to plague us to this day. and common.” Although Joe Catch Ritual Murder August Brown Jr., and James Roberts 1, 6, 7 and 8 Fridays and Satur- never truly understand what days at 8:00 pm at ASHE Cul- happened to them, audiences tural Arts Center, 1712 Oretha will be astonished to learn Castle Haley Blvd., New Or- the real reasons behind the leans, LA: General Admission murder as RITUAL MURDER $12, Students and Seniors $10. examines and analyzes this For Further Information call agonizing problem which con- 504.569.9070.

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N0RZ0006_DataNws_6_25x7.indd 1 7/23/10 12:50 PM Page 8 August 7 - August 13, 2010 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

Who Will Meet Richmond In The Democratic Runoff?

By Allan Katz Of-Staff Eugene Green in the August 28th Green will be hard pressed to gain name Special Guest Columnist primary. recognition and garner much voter sup- Armed with significant endorsements Richmond has raised in excess of port. If Green has any chance at victory, he from former U.S. Senator John Breaux and $500,000 – more than all his opponents too will need to get past LaFonta and meet the Democratic Congressional Campaign combined. He may need a war chest to Richmond in the October 2nd runoff. Committee, Second Congressional District defend his voting record and any potential Green is already on the radio challeng- candidate State Rep. negative attacks. Richmond has already ing Richmond ’s Democratic credentials. appears to be guaranteed a slot in the begun his first round of television commer- This was a questionable move considering October 2nd Democratic Runoff, if cials. Green has to catch up in name recognition necessary. However, an all-out Democratic LaFonta, a hardworking campaigner, is to overtake LaFonta, who may have been primary win on August 28 would give the legislator who represents Gentilly, the the beneficiary of Green’s attack. Richmond much needed momentum Marigny and Bywater. LaFonta has strong That brings us back to Cedric Rich- heading into a tough November general support from the lesbian, gay, transgender mond. election to unseat Republican incumbent and bi-sexual community (LGTB). He also A poll by Zata, taken before the DCCC Anh . received a unanimous endorsement from endorsement, shows Richmond ahead of Richmond has received the support of the Forum for Equality, an organization LaFonta, 53-13. If this primary race be- every Democratic elected official who has that unites Louisiana lesbians and gay men comes a heated contest, Republican Joseph endorsed in this race. Richmond has been in political matters. This constituency has Cao would be the beneficiary. In a District in the Louisiana Legislature for eleven been his strongest base to date, especially that is 74% Democrat, 11% Republican and years and is known to be extremely bright in fundraising. 15% Independent, it is highly unlikely that a and a skilled coalition builder. He will face LaFonta is politicking heavily on the Republican incumbent will be able to hold State Rep. Juan LaFonta, newcomer Gary street corners and can be found greeting on to this seat if African- Americans view Johnson and former Bill Jefferson Chief- voters most mornings, sometimes even the race as a cause. In Joe Cao’s last election, he benefitted Cedric Richmond from the perfect storm. Hurricane Gustav pushed the election back 30 days into De- cember. This off election saw a record low alone. LaFonta raised close to $200,000 but turnout among African-Americanvoters. has only $30,000 on hand in the last report- Cao was challenging an embattled incum- ing period. Although LaFonta has been bent, Bill Jefferson, an African-American elected to the State House of Representa- Democrat who was under federal investiga- tives for over 5 years, he has yet to receive tion. an endorsement or stamp of approval from Jefferson was low on funds and unable to any other elected official. But he still re- mount much of a GOTV effort. mains Richmond ’s toughest challenger in The Democrat who faces Cao in Novem- the Democratic primary. ber is expected to be a much tougher chal- Being in the number two spot with little lenger than Bill Jefferson. If lightning does funds puts LaFonta in a vulnerable position. not strike twice, we could expect the elec- If either of the other challengers – Gary tion to be held on November 4th as sched- Johnson or Eugene Green – could gain any uled without the distraction of a hurricane steam, they may be able to bump LaFonta and alongside a highly contested Senate out of the Democratic runoff. The question race that should ensure much higher voter becomes, if hit with negative attacks by any turnout. other candidate, will LaFonta have the re- Whatever candidate receives the Demo- sources to respond? cratic nomination he will need a strategy Gary Johnson, a bright young face with and the resources to get out the heavily some Washington experience, could be- African-American and Democratic vote in come a player in future races or disappear the 2nd Congressional District. It is obvi- from the political scene altogether. Johnson, ous that most of the local elected Demo- who is running a low-budget campaign, has crats and the DCCC believe that Richmond a few yard signs throughout the district but is better suited for the challenge. He has has not reported raising any funds. The raised significant resources, has a well- challenge for Johnson if he wants to have tooled GOTV machine and is an outstand- a future in politics is to make the Demo- ing campaigner in his own right. cratic runoff or at the very least close the With the second Democratic runoff gap between himself and the second place spot still up for grabs and a small possibil- finisher. ity of an outright victory for Richmond in Virtually unknown, Eugene Green, a the Democratic primary, there is only one Harvard grad like his former boss Bill Jef- thing that is guaranteed – that this time Re- ferson, has been reaching out to the old Jef- public incumbent Joseph Cao needs to be ferson coalition. Behind the curve on fund- prepared for the storm. raising, Green is telling potential donors he Allan Katz has been a New Orleans jour- will consider contributions more than $250 nalist for more than forty years and cur- as loans that he will repay. Green must rently the host of the television program, raise plenty to fund a Jefferson-style get out Louisiana Newsmaker. the vote effort. Without proper funding, www.ladatanews.com State&Trailblazer Local News August 7 - August 13, 2010 Page 9

Congressional Race Heats Up and New Election Rules

By Edwin Buggage Richmond he has also are armed with in- three times. chaired the Louisiana formation that can Data News Weekly feels it is District 2 Congressional Legislative Black Cau- help them make our job to not only inform but Race cus. intelligent well educate our citizens about the po- As Louisiana heads towards Eugene Green is a thought out deci- litical process. And it is our hope election season with several seats political veteran and in- sions when they get that the information we provide up for grabs in various offices sider who have worked to the polls. will help people come out to the in the fall, the one race that has with many politicians These are crucial polls to participate in selecting the been getting the most attention including William Jef- times for the city candidate that will represent us. is to fill the post of Louisiana ferson. And the final and in an election Today are critical times for the Congressional District 2. Democratic opponent is that low turnout is city and these elections will im- A seat once held by the now de- Gary Johnson running expected it is im- pact the direction of the city mov- famed William Jefferson. The Re- for office for the first portant this trend ing forward; so it is important to publican incumbent Joseph Cao time; and has worked in does not continue. participate and Data News Weekly who is running unopposed will be entertainment with New In this election it is will do its best to provide you with seeking re-election against one of Orleans native Tyler important to note the most current and accurate the four challengers who are run- Perry; and has worked that there are first information so the voters can get ning in the Democratic Primary. in various posts on Capi- the party primaries out and participate in democracy. The four challengers are State tol Hill. that may lead to a So if you are not registered take Representative Cedric Richmond, runoff; and then the first step and get registered, a well-financed candidate who is Voting and New there is the general get involved in the determining making his second run for the Election Practices election in the fall the future of your city and who District Two seat. One of the oth- Data News Weekly in its role as the views and platforms of all the that will determine who will rep- will represent our citizens in elect- er challengers is Juan LaFonta, “the people’s paper” in the com- candidates seeking elected office. resent District 2; so voters may be ed offices. also a State Representative; like ing weeks will introduce you to We feel it is important that voters asked to go to the polls a total of

AALP Announces its support for “The Sanders Plan for Governance”

Plan would transfer governance posals to reorganize the school uneven, the charter movement is gap between the races and 5) it gives all stakeholders the oppor- and control of all public schools system that are presently being fraught with uncertainty and the will efficiently deploy public re- tunity to be represented in deci- into the hands of local community discussed, it is obvious that the OPSB valiantly attempts to edu- sources in a transparent manner, sion making, and offers a system parents and residents . . . Sanders Plan is far superior to the cate its children with severely lim- and eliminate waste and duplica- that can truly deliver a modern The African American Leader- other proposals” said Mrs. Gail ited resources. It appears that we tion . No other proposal comes educational product to African- ship Project (AALP) announced Glapion, AALP Chairperson and now have a plan that addresses all close to achieving these objec- Americans and all other students. its support last week ( 7/29/10) former school board president and of the major issues that might im- tives.” Best practices from around the for the reorganization of the pub- board member for 20 years. She prove results, learning outcomes Finally, AALP member and country strongly suggest that a lic school system in New Orleans went on to add that “accountable and performance indicators for educational advocate Atty. Ernest unified and decentralized system as proposed by former Orleans governance is a critical element our children. Jones asserted that “ Dr. Sanders yield superior results. Thus, if the Parish School Board member that affects school performance According to Dr. Mtangulizi clearly did his homework and has Sanders Plan were adopted into Rev. Dr. Torin Sanders. along with equitable and fair dis- Sanyika, AALP Project Manager produced a masterful plan that law and policy and provided with “The Sanders Plan for Gover- tribution of resources, modern- and former Professor of African holds the promise of unifying adequate resources, perhaps we nance” creates a single, unified 9 ized facilities, contemporary ma- World Studies at Dillard Universi- parents, teachers, administrators all can move beyond the current member, term limited district gov- terials, a sound curriculum and ty “The Sanders Plan has numer- and the public, while improving state of polarization and confusion erning board, and consolidates the competent experienced teachers. ous advantages not offered by any the quality of education for all and move on with the business of Recovery School District (RSD) Of course parental involvement other proposal: 1) it unifies the children , especially racial/ethnic educating our children to become and the Orleans Parish School and supportive services are also RSD and the OPSB, 2) it allows children of diverse socio-econom- effective citizens in a globally Board (OPSB). It would trans- important factors in student per- for charters and non-charters 3) ic and cultural backgrounds. “ competitive society. fer governance and control of all formance. The Sanders Plan cov- it supports school autonomy and The AALP highly recommends “The Sanders Plan for Gover- public schools (charter and non- ers all of these critical elements actively engages the community, the Sanders Plan to the citizens of nance” is available at www.blac- charter) in Orleans Parish into and intelligently integrates them 4) it will reduce the performance New Orleans as an approach that knolathinktank.blogspot.com. the hands of local community par- into a holistic framework.” ents and residents, and institutes Ever since the state takeover of decentralized site-based manage- the schools and the emergence of www.ladatanews.com ment. The Superintendent would the charter movement, there has be replaced with a more efficient been a confusing and contentious and accountable Chief Executive debate regarding governance, ac- Officer, or CEO as parents be- countability, performance, equity, come more involved and teachers racial disparities and inequalities become more accountable. in the public school system. The “After reviewing other pro- RSD record of achievement is Page 10 August 7 - August 13, 2010 National News www.ladatanews.com

A Movement Rises in Arizona

By Jordan Flaherty Three months ago, Arizona tiated large protests and provided Governor Jan Brewer signed into direct service, and they are now law the notorious SB 1070, a bill strategizing more ways to take di- that puts her state at the forefront rect action and non-compliance in of a movement to intensify the the post SB 1070 era. criminalization of undocumented Fernandez says that this strug- immigrants. gle is ultimately about overcom- ing fear and moving from reaction Since then activists have re- to proactive action. “We’ve been in sponded through legal challeng- a crisis in Arizona for a long time,” es, political lobbying, grassroots he explains. “Even if SB 1070 organizing and mass mobiliza- weren’t implemented, it wouldn’t tions. More than a hundred thou- matter. The political crisis would sand people from across Arizona continue.” To address this crisis, marched on the state capitol on Fernandez believes organizations May 29. Today, hundreds more must build unity across race and have pledged to risk arrest class. “Traditionally in America, through non-violent direct action. when the working class starts These are the public manifesta- suffering, instead of connecting tions of a widespread struggle together and looking upwards at happening in this state. The orga- the cause of the problem, they nizations leading this fight offer a look sideways or downwards for template of inspiring and strategic who to blame.” Most importantly, actions for people around the US he believes activists must take ac- who want to join in resistance to tion to seize the initiative. these policies. In this vision, he has been in- spired by young organizers work- A Rogue State ing on the DREAM ACT, a federal Yesterday, Federal District law that creates a path to citizen- Court Judge Susan Bolton issued ship for undocumented youth. a preliminary injunction against “They came to Arizona and said, sections of Arizona Law SB 1070, ‘we’re undocumented and we’re which is scheduled to go into ef- going to commit acts of civil dis- fect today. The judge put a hold obedience.’” At first, Repeal Coali- on some of the most outrageous tion members tried to talk them parts of the bill, such as language out of this action, but the youth that mandates racial profiling by the community-based structures Just after midnight, as the law Working Proactively explained, “We are going to lose officers. However, Judge Bolton work to both serve basic needs, took effect, the first protest of The Repeal Coalition, a Flag- our fear because it is the fear of left much of the rest of the law and also builds consciousness the day began. Nearly 80 people staff- and Phoenix-based grass- being arrested or the fear of being intact, including sections that spe- and helps bring people together. blocked the intersection at the en- roots organization, was formed in deported that fuels the inability of cifically target day laborers. The committees host regular trance to the town of Guadelupe, 2007. The group came together political action.” The bravery and For Arizona activists, the legal “know your rights” trainings and a small - one square mile - Na- because they saw a vacuum in vision of these youth has inspired ruling represents - at best - a small ESL classes, and are organizing tive American and Latino com- the immigrants’ rights movement Fernandez to continue to search respite. “It’s not a victory, it’s a re- Copwatch projects. “We ask the munity just outside of Phoenix. in Arizona. “Some of the left here for new and bold ways to take ac- lief,” says Pablo Alvarado of the community to unite and organize Residents and elected leadership were not being very audacious,” tion, rather than just continually National Day Laborer Organizing themselves,” says Puente activist in the town have a history of pub- explains Luis Fernandez of the respond to right wing attacks. “We Network (NDLON). “We’re put- Diana Perez Ramirez. “And we lic criticism of Maricopa County Repeal Coalition. “The positions need to set the agenda,” explains ting a band aid on a wound.” are just there to support that.” Sheriff Joe Arpaio, who has been in the public debate ranged from Fernandez. “We have to say, ‘No, Alvarado and the organizers More than one thousand people one of the main public faces of SB ‘kick them all out,’ to ‘get their la- you’re going to react to us.’” with NDLON are part of a broad have joined these neighborhood 1070, and most of the protesters bor and then kick them out.’” The Despite a range of tactics and network of national organizations organizations so far, with more (and all of the organizers) were Repeal Coalition has staked out a philosophies, one thing organiz- and volunteers who have joined joining every day. from the community. Holding position of calling for the elimina- ers here have in common is a ded- with local organizers to fight not Puente has made use of volun- signs declaring their opposition tion of all anti-immigration laws, ication to exporting the lessons just against this unjust law, but teers from across the US, utilizing to the new law and leading chants declaring, “We fight for the right of their struggle. While Arizona’s also against a general climate of national support to help with local against police brutality; activists for people to live, love, and work law is the first and most draco- anti-immigrant hatred. “Arizona organizing, and initiating direct declared that Arpaio’s officers are wherever they please.” With this nian, similar laws are pending is a rogue state,” says Alvarado. action with the support of out of not welcome in their town - a point call, says Fernandez, “Now we across the country. And during “We’re going to use every single town allies like The Ruckus Soci- they made concrete by physically can have a real debate.” this current national economic means that we have at our dispos- ety, Catalyst Project, and various blocking the main road leading in. When the coalition was found- crisis, more and more politicians al to fight back.” chapters of Students for a Demo- The stand-off against police lasted ed, organizers brought in labor have found that they can score Puente Arizona, a Phoenix- cratic Society (SDS). They have more than an hour, before protest activists to advise them on how to political points by demonizing im- based organization that describes issued calls to action including a leaders in consultation with the build an organization along simi- migrants. “The last two months itself as a human rights movement Human Rights Summer (modeled town’s mayor decided to open the lar models to those that have built we’ve had a lot of people calling working to “resurrect our human- after the civil rights movements’ intersection. Several more actions strong unions, utilizing house us asking what they can do to ity,” has formed Barrio Defense Freedom Summer) and “30 Days are planned for throughout today, calls, neighborhood mapping, help Arizona,” says Fernandez. Committees in neighborhoods for Human Rights,” a month of ac- and Arpaio has threatened mass and group meetings. Although “We say, organize in your own across the city. Emulating the tions culminating in mass civil dis- arrests. they are an all-volunteer group town. You don’t have to come to structure of groups founded by obedience today, the day SB 1070 with little to no funding, they have Arizona because Arizona is com- popular movements in El Salvador, will become law. developed a structure that has ini- ing to you.” www.ladatanews.com Special August 7 - August 13, 2010 Page 11

Parents Can Aid Homework Success

By: Tobie Blanchard homework for them. ducive to learning. “Be sure When parents become involved • Praise your child for doing the everyone in the family under- in their children’s schoolwork, in- homework, especially for ac- stands how important home- cluding helping with homework, complishments, rather than work is and does not interfere studies show the children do bet- pointing out errors. For exam- with or interrupt that time,” ter in school, says Diane Sasser, ple, say, “You’ve spelled 18 out Sasser says. Turn off the TV, an LSU AgCenter family life edu- of 20 words correctly – that’s limit phone calls or do whatever cator. the best you’ve done this semes- it takes to maintain an environ- “But that doesn’t mean they are ter,” rather than saying, “That’s ment conducive to study and doing their homework for them,” good, but you missed two.” concentration. Sasser says. “Becoming involved On the other hand, if 18 out of “Proper nutrition and good health means giving support, guidance 20 are wrong, giving praise for also are keys in helping concen- and appropriate resources.” poor work is unproductive as tration and avoiding fatigue,” Sasser offers these tips to help well as misleading. “Instead, Sasser says. with homework: encourage your child to talk • Provide a homework area for • Maintain contact with your with you about why there were your child with plenty of good child’s school. “Know your so many errors, how they can light and few distractions. “For child’s teachers and their ex- be corrected and what can be example, if your child concen- pectations,” Sasser says. Ask learned from them,” Sasser ad- trates better with calming mu- your child each day what he or vises. sic, provide that help,” Sasser she has for homework. If you • Be aware of your child’s learn- • Be available when your child is the teacher,” Sasser advises. suggests. need or are interested in spe- ing style. Does he or she learn doing homework so you can an- “Seeing the pattern of errors is She also emphasizes having ad- cial services offered by your better by seeing and reading swer a question if there is con- often helpful to a teacher.” equate resources. “At a minimum, child’s school, consult the list of about things, touching and fusion. “If possible, it is better • You might try organizing study this should include a dictionary, services at your Louisiana De- trying things or hearing about for you to be in another room, groups. Your child may benefit paper and pens,” she says. She partment of Education. Its web- new ideas? Sasser recommends so you are easily accessible yet from studying with one or two recommends taking advantage of site has this listing along with searching for child learning not a distraction,” Sasser says. classmates. But make sure they the local library, if you don’t have tips for parents and students for styles on the Internet to help • Look over the homework when are using the time to study, the a home computer and access to LEAP testing and other aids at you determine what type of it is completed. “Do not correct family expert says. the Internet. www.doe.state.la.us. learner your child may be. it unless you have checked with • Build an environment con- • Set a homework schedule, in- cluding both a beginning and an ending time. “Of course, younger children require less time than older children,” Sass- er says, suggesting a wind-down time after school for kids before they tackle their homework. “Kids need time to be kids,” she says. “But make it clear on how much time is allowed for relax- ation and when they need to ‘hit the books.’” She says children will whine at first, but if you’re consistent, they will fall into the routine. Beware of doing homework too close to bed- time, however, because fatigue may make it difficult. Fridays usually are the best day for home- work that must be completed over the weekend. Assignments are still fresh, and last-minute panic rushes can be avoided. • Encourage your child to divide the homework assignment into “what I can do myself” and “what I need help with.” “You should help only with that part of the homework your child cannot do independently, like re- viewing completed assignments, practicing spelling words and so forth,” Sasser says. “This builds responsibility and independence in your child.” She says not to fall for the old “I can’t do it; you do it” trick. Re- member to guide rather than do I grew up on the Gulf Coast. I know these waters. And I’m doing everything I can to clean them up. - Fred Lemond, BP Cleanup Operations

Making This Right BP has taken full responsibility for the cleanup in the Gulf. And that includes keeping you informed. Beaches Claims Searching For And Cleaning Up The Oil Every morning, over 50 spotter planes and helicopters search for oil off the coast, heading to Cleanup areas previously mapped with satellite imagery and infrared photography. Once oil is found, Economic Investment they radio down to the 6,000 ships and boats of all sizes that are supporting the cleanup effort and working to collect the oil. These are thousands of local shrimping and fishing Environmental Restoration boats organized into task forces and strike teams, plus specialized skimmers mobilized Health and Safety from as far as the Netherlands.

Wildlife We have recovered more than 27 million gallons of oil-water mixture from the Gulf. Other methods have also helped remove millions of additional gallons of oil from the water. We’ve deployed more than 8 million feet of boom to protect beaches and sensitive wildlife areas.

Hurricane Preparedness In the event of a hurricane, our first priority is keeping people safe. In coordination with the Coast Guard and local officials, we may suspend operations temporarily but have organized to resume them as soon as possible.

Our Responsibility We have already spent more than $3.2 billion responding to the spill and on the cleanup, and none of this will be paid by taxpayers. We will work in the Gulf as long as it takes to get this done. We may not always be perfect but we will do everything we can to make this right.

For information visit: bp.com For assistance, please call: restorethegulf.gov To report oil on the shoreline: (866) 448-5816 facebook.com/bpamerica To report impacted wildlife: (866) 557-1401 twitter.com/bp_america To make spill-related claims: (800) 440-0858 youtube.com/bp www.louisianagulfresponse.com

© 2010 BP, E&P beyond petroleum®

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Client: BP Live: 10.75” x 14” Mechanical Scale: 100% Campaign: GOM Format: Full page 4C Ad #: BP_10_305X_LA Printer: Ad Title: Cleanup Media Vendor / Publication: Version/Revision #: V1 Various Publication Date Modified: July 12, 2010 Operator: mh/mg Schawk Docket #:896182A02