Pete Rhodes Is Someone Who Has Throughout at What They Do, We Partner His Life Been Committed to Making His City a Better with Delgado Community Place to Live

Lighting The Road To The Future Page 8 DataZone

Who Dat Nation!

“The People’s Paper” January 23 - February 5, 2010 44th Year Volume 20 www.ladatanews.com

Page 2 Newsmaker Trailblazer We Like...? Pete Our Endorsements Rhodes Page 7 Page 6 Photos by Victor Holt

Page 2 January 23 - February 5, 2010 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com ELECTION 2010: Profiles of the Mayoral Candidates compiled by Data News Editorial Staff

As the date for the 2010 Mayoral Primary draws thority member and radio talk show host . Rob is the guidelines to make decisions as your mayor: near, candidates and their campaigns are busy buy- only current candidate for mayor to run in the last • Will it make our city more livable? ing ads, and making the rounds from neighborhood Mayoral Election . • Will it make our city more affordable? to neighborhood, and door to door . So much in- Rob, a native New Orleanian, was born in Baptist • How does it affect economic opportunity? formation to digest, in this, our third Mayoral Elec- Hospital in 1949 . He attended Jesuit High School, • Is it fair? tion since Hurricane Katrina and her floodwaters graduated from St . Francisville High School and By using this matrix, Couhig believes he can at- breached and devastated our city . With no less than Georgetown University and returned for his law de- tack the issue of crime and integrity in the police our very future on the line, we again are drawn to gree from Tulane . He believes that his background department; Battle blight and multi-million dollar the polls to make the decision which defines our di- allows him to understand the diverse personalities budget deficits by resisting the short term easy out rection and perhaps our destiny as the Great City of that make up our City as well as the problems and of raising taxes; and, create jobs for everyone who New Orleans . opportunities that confront us . wants to work . Data News Weekly, sees it as our most solemn Rob began his legal career at Adams & Reese, a duty, to provide as much of a spectrum for you to law firm of fifteen lawyers . In 28 years, he helped CANDIDATE JOHN GEORGES view your choices with, to assist you in making the grow the firm to well over 200 attorneys . Couhig DEMOCRAT very best decision based on stated platforms and was instrumental in its growth including the open- promises from each candidate . Presented here, in ing of the firm’s Baton Rouge and Washington, D .C . New Orleans native John Georges, 49, has 30 alphabetical order, are the candidates running to be offices . years of experience in the private and public sectors . your next mayor . We hope this information, coupled Recognizing the need for a firm that worked He is a past member of the Board of Regents and a with the research you have done already, can help with entrepreneurs, Rob, along with two other law- current commissioner of the Public Belt Rail Road, you to make an informed and well thought out deci- yers, started Couhig Partners in September 2003 . Chairman of Georges Enterprises and is involved sion . Today the firm has over 20 lawyers, an office in Ba- with various governmental, civic and philanthropic We encourage you to VOTE early! Take advan- ton Rouge headed by Louisiana’s former Attorney groups . In 2007, John ran for elected office for the tage of the added benefit of shorter lines and wait- General Richard Ieyoub and an affiliated consulting first time in the gubernatorial race, in which he gar- ing times, and don’t be caught up in Super Bowl group . He is also the managing partner of Couhig nered 186,000 votes and won New Orleans . In 2009- or Parade Traffic! Early voting continues through Investments, LLC which invests in small businesses 2010, he has decided to run for Mayor . Saturday, January 30, so don’t wait! YOUR VOTE in Louisiana . John Georges is now Chairman of Georges Enter- COUNTS MOST! As the only candidate for mayor who has been on prises . Georges Enterprises is comprised of several the radio for the last three years talking about every types of businesses, including grocery distribution, CANDIDATE ROB COUHIG major issue affecting our City, people know him, offshore marine services, video and arcade entertain- REPUBLICAN know his positions, and also know that he is the only ment, food services and investments . Georges Enter- fiscal conservative in this race for Mayor . prises began as Imperial Trading Company in 1916 . Rob Couhig is a committed lifelong fiscal conser- Imperial Trading is a wholesale grocery company vative with a successful career working with govern- PLATFORM that distributes goods ranging from candy to health ment as a lawyer, businessman, Redevelopment Au- Rob Couhig says he will use four conservative and beauty products . He has served as Chairman of

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the Young Presidents’ Organiza- • Hold regular neighborhood other alternatives to continue he started his own successful In life, law and government, he tion and was recently selected as meetings to encourage citizen to improve public schools in company, Henry Consulting . always seeks to bring people to- a Young Leadership Council Role input into public safety policies New Orleans Troy has played a leadership gether to find common ground . Model . and practices, and will allow po- • Push to provide early childhood role on some of the most impor- As a State Legislator, Mitch John has 22 years of public ser- lice to keep citizens informed education for every family who tant and successful projects in the represented the Broadmoor vice experience . In 1992 John was about efforts in their neighbor- wants it for their children . City of New Orleans since Hurri- neighborhood for 16 years . Dur- appointed by the Governor to the hoods . • Keep current system for now, cane Katrina, and he’s also worked ing his tenure, he made his mark Board of Regents, the state agen- • Increase interagency commu- until a field of experts can ana- effectively with city governments as a reformer who could get the cy that coordinates all public high- nication, reducing duplication lyze how to better manage and and elected officials throughout job done . er education in Louisiana . The of effort and sharing informa- improve the school system for his career, including at the state As Lieutenant Governor of Board of Regents has budgetary tion to identify, track and appre- the future . and federal level . Some of his Louisiana, Mitch has served as responsibility for Louisiana’s pub- hend criminals . RISS (Rapid • Gather experts in education to many accomplishments and ex- an executive, managing a $127 lic higher education, including 19 Information Sharing System) recommend long term plans periences he would bring to the million budget and 800 employ- public colleges, universities, and technology is available and al- for public education in New Or- Office of the Mayor include: 20 ees . To deliver results, he put in professional schools . John also ready in use worldwide . leans . years of executive management place strict standards of account- served as member of the Univer- REBUILDING NEIGHBOR- experience at some of the largest ability . sity of New Orleans Foundation, EFFECTIVE AND OPEN HOODS U .S . corporations; Former Presi- After Hurricane Katrina, he led LSU Medical Foundation, and GOVERNMENT • There is no excuse for dent of United Water, the nation’s the effort to rebuild the tourism Tulane President’s Council, and • Enact stronger ethics and anti- the blight & crumbling infra- largest water and waste-water industry, and the thousands of served on the board of his chil- corruption regulations for all structure plaguing our city . management company; Led sig- jobs it creates . Mitch’s team got dren’s school where he chaired city employees, spreading ac- • Get code enforcement nificant recovery efforts in New more than $22 million in grant fundraising for the school’s re- countability to every corner of departments to work as one Orleans including the Unified money from Congress into the covery efforts after Hurricane government operations . • Review and improve the New Orleans Plan (UNOP), Ener- hands of hundreds of homeown- Katrina . John also serves on the • Continue the practice of having blight hearing process gy Smart, and the redevelopment ers quickly. New Orleans Public Belt Com- an independent commission • Establish clear goals for of the historic Pontchartrain Park During his tenure, Mitch has mission, and is in his second term monitoring the IG’s Office in the Sewerage and Water Board neighborhood; Assisted local, focused on creating jobs . He appointed by the Mayor . order to ensure that it, too, is and the Public Works Depart- minority and women-owned busi- launched the Cultural Economy The Public Belt Commission held accountable . ment, so public roads and utilities nesses secure over $150 million initiative to grow jobs through our is responsible for managing the • Recruit and retain a diverse, ca- receive targeted, timely and cor- in contracts since Katrina . culture, music, food, film and art . publicly owned terminal-switch- pable and responsive executive rect repairs . Troy’s vision is for the City The cultural economy accounts ing railroad and also maintaining leadership team to head city de- of New Orleans to have more for 144,000 jobs in our state . the railroad portion of the Huey partments . HEALTHCARE & HOSPITALS professionalism in City govern- After more than 20 years of P . Long Bridge . In 2008, the New • Work closely with the City • Work to reopen Methodist ment, greater transparency and government experience, his top Orleans Public Belt Railroad Council to ensure that depart- Hospital, or to find resources to accountability, improved streets priorities as mayor will be creat- celebrated the opening of its re- ment heads are responding to open a hospital in New Orleans and infrastructure, less crime and ing jobs, improving our schools furbished main facility at 4822 citizens’ concerns . East . blight, and a strong economy . and making our streets safer . Tchoupitoulas Street . Person- • Expedite the replacement of ally and through Georges Enter- RECOVERY & ECONOMIC services lost when Charity PLATFORM PLATFORM prises, John supports a diverse DEVELOPMENT Hospital closed . • Re-engineering city govern- group of charities throughout the • Our full recovery requires a • Work with the state to restore ment to be more efficient and MORE JOBS community, with an emphasis on business-friendly environment, inpatient mental health servic- customer-focused • Create good-paying jobs so that education, the arts, preservation, safe for employees and profit- es . • Attracting between 40,000 to all of our people have the op- and faith-based initiatives . He able for companies • Restore easily accessible pri- 50,000 new jobs to the city portunity to work . played a significant role in recov- • Negotiate with airlines to in- mary care by establishing more • Hiring the most qualified police ery efforts for the University of crease the number of direct, community clinics through chief to make our streets and BETTER SCHOOLS New Orleans and its Arena . Also, nonstop flights, expanding op- public-private partnerships . neighborhoods safer • Be a champion for our kids because he understands how im- portunities for commerce and • Eradicating blight and redevel- and our schools, so all children portant the New Orleans Saints tourism . CANDIDATE TROY HENRY oping neighborhoods have the opportunity to reach are to their fans and to the city, • Increase neighborhood com- DEMOCRAT • Dedicating more dollars to- their God-given potential . John contributed to ensure Saints mercial districts that will in- wards street and infrastructure games were sold out so that they clude full service restaurants, Troy Henry was born and repairs SAFER STREETS would be broadcast on television grocery stores, pharmacies raised in the Lower 9th Ward, • Aggressive crime fighting tech- for five years in a row . and other needed services . then Pontchartrain Park, and now niques, strong leadership from John is married to Dathel and • Provide more parking in the lives in New Orleans East . CANDIDATE MITCH the Mayor’s office and a re- is the father of three children . French Quarter near the riv- His family has a long legacy LANDRIEU dedication to crime prevention er to attract more visitors to of leadership and improving the DEMOCRAT through community outreach PLATFORM French Quarter businesses quality-of-life in the community. and policing . • Make personal calls and pro- His mother was a school teacher, Mitch Landrieu grew up as one • A New NORD will be central to CRIME vide invitations to CEOs from for 35 years his father owned and of nine children in the Broadmoor crime prevention . • Improve coordination between across the country to recruit operated the Lower Ninth Ward’s neighborhood where Mitch de- the New Orleans Police De- more large businesses to New only neighborhood pharmacy, veloped a love for the City of New HEALTH CARE partment and the District At- Orleans and his grandfather, Clarence Orleans . Today, Landrieu and his • Build a first-rate hospital in torney’s Office . • Finish existing recovery proj- “Chink” Henry, was President of wife Cheryl are raising five chil- New Orleans East and a state- • Improve coordination between ects the Local ILA 3000 Longshore- dren of their own . of-the-art biomedical complex local, state and federal agen- man’s Union . Mitch’s governing philosophy in Mid-City . cies . EDUCATION Troy graduated from St . Au- is rooted in his Jesuit education, • Keep pace with technological • Making our schools work is gustine High School, completed where he learned to be commit- BLIGHT advances in crime fighting . a vital step to making our city undergraduate studies at Stan- ted to service . He was educated • Solve longstanding problems • Enhance educational programs better ford University, and then earned at Jesuit High School, Catholic associated with having more for police officers . • Work towards school choice dual Masters degrees at Carne- University, and earned a law de- than 50,000 blighted properties • Create Neighborhood Adviso- so families can send children gie-Mellon University . gree from Loyola University . in our community . ry Groups to work with NOPD to schools in their neighbor- After spending 20 years as a Mitch had a successful law Encourage residents to invest in • Provide citizens with direct hoods or another public school corporate executive, Troy and his practice for 15 years . He became rebuild their properties communication with their law of their choice . wife moved back to New Orleans an expert mediator, focusing on enforcement professionals . • Support Charter Schools and with their three kids . Years later, alternative dispute resolution .

Cover Story Continued page 11.

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Data Editorial Staff Announces Endorsements for Municipal Elections and Mayoral Primary Races

Data News Weekly would first what hangs in the ence in running a large business, State Senator, - Irma like to congratulate our New Or- balance still for New and in building a small business Muse Dixon leans Saints in a victory well de- Orleans future . This into a large corporation since we served and long awaited, and we includes the billions are now in a building stage, and Judge, Civil District Court, feel confident we will go all the of federal dollars that how we build is crucial . It is also Division J – Paula Brown way! We hope this is a sign of were allocated to the imperative, that our leaders have a great things to come in our city . city for reconstruction sense of our past as we move into Criminal Sheriff – Marlin As the city and the nation is fo- after Katrina, which our future . To lead with a head Gusman (Incumbent) cused on Super Bowl Sunday, let’s have been caught up for business and a commitment not forget Saturday, the 6th, when in red tape for years . to fairness, ethics and moving the Criminal District Court our challenge as New Orleanians So although it may ball forward for all New Orleani- Clerk – Arthur Morrell will be to select our leaders . We lack “fireworks” this ans is as important as being a bril- have a big and sober task ahead . election is paramount liant businessman . Assessor – Errol Williams We need to select our judges, to the future of New We utilized that formula in as- Criminal Sheriff, a State Senator, Orleans . We feel that sessing in the candidates, and Coroner – Dwight two Clerks, our full City Council the leadership should with this in mind we endorse the McKenna and of course, the big one, the understand business following candidates for leader- Mayor . and how to lead this ship . City Council This election season up until John Georges city fairly . Of course now, has not been very exciting we felt before, that Mayor of New Orleans Councilmember At Large like we are used to; not a lot of who will decide the direction the business acumen was the main at- – John Georges – Cynthia Willard-Lewis fireworks . That’s strange because city will move in for years to come . tribute of the current mayor, and John George has a proven re- this Mayor, and this new leader- Their impact may be felt for gen- it was, but we have also learned cord of success in business by District A – Susan Guidry ship will probably be the ones erations because the enormity of that there may be some differ- growing a small family business into a multi-million dollar corpora- Distrct B – Corey Watson tion . He has shown tremendous fairness as many of his executives District C – Kristin are African Americans . Meaning Gisleson - Palmer he understands that value of tal- ent and teamwork is not dictated District D - Cynthia by ethnicity, race or gender but Hedge Morrell by ability. These are the qualities we feel we need in our next mayor District E – John Johnson that John Georges exhibits . The remainder of our endorse- We want to remind you again ments, reflect proven leadership to take advantage of early voting and experience that will benefit and go to the polls today! They our city moving forward . are open through

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PeteCommitment Rhodes to a Tradition of Service by: Edwin Buggage

Pete Rhodes is someone who has throughout at what they do, we partner his life been committed to making his city a better with Delgado Community place to live . His committment to service began College giving students an early in life, “I was taught from a young age by my opportunity to gain real parents that service and giving back is very impor- world experience with us ”. tant,” says Rhodes . “We train them in the way Through their family company, “The Rhodes we do things, and hopefully Family of Businesses” that includes funeral servcic- give them the foundation to es, a limousine service and real estate among other go into the work world with endeavors they have become a vital and viable part skills that can take them of the city for over 125 years . Although the ravages where they can reach their of Hurricane Katrina devastated their homes and full potential in their work businesses, Rhodes felt the will to come back and lives whether it is with us or be an inspiration for the city was very important . another company,” says Rho- “I believe that with us rebuilding our businesses, it des . could give people hope that they too through hard Rhodes says he is im- work can put the pieces of their lives back togeth- pressed with the city and er,” says Rhodes . the pace of the recovery, “I As a business leader he feels some of the skills thought it would be about necessary to run a successful business can also ap- 10-15 years before we would ply in life, in his everyday experience he passes this get where we are right now .” on with his example . “I tell people all the time that Continuing he says, “Al- sacrifce, discipline and staying committed to your though we are far from re- goals is the most important things in become a suc- building the entire city I am cess in business and in life .” encouraged by the efforts Beyond his life in business he serves as a mem- citizens are taking matters ber of the Louisiana Judiciary Committee . This into their own hands to re- committee reviews the behavior of Judges . “I am build their futures and their vey proud of what I do in this capacity and it is very funeral services because we care about our com- lives and I hope that myself and the rest of the Rho- rewarding and just another of the many ways I try munity and as we have been around for 125 years des family can continue to inspire people to give to give back to my community through service,” we are committed to being around to continue to back and serve as we have because the traditions says Rhodes . inspire and move the city forward with our example of what we were taught by our parents .” Recently, the Rhodes family reopend their flag- of excellence .” ship business located on Washington Avenue in the Pete Rhodes says the company is also interest- Broadmoor area to much fanfare as city, civic and ed in training young people in the field of Funeral business leaders and citizens gathered to welcome Services . “We are excited about young people and back a business they have come to know and trust giving them the things they need to be a success for over a 125 years . “It was an amazing moment for myself and my family, to rebuild our business after the storm, and now we are even further committed to being part of this community ”. Continuing he says, “We have a policy not to turn anyone away, we try to find a way to help people as they are griev- ing, and in some cases we have even given away JMJ Joseph M. Jones Continuing Education Fund Page 8 January 23 - February 5, 2010 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com Who Dat Nation The Hype of the Game

The spirit of New Orleans on front porches, blowing whis- was at it’s most high, as every tles and shouting “Who Dat” . citizen in the Crescent City There was so much hope in was somewhere watching the the New Orleans Saints, the game . There were no cars on souls of lost ones must have streets, no cell phones ringing, been resurrected through the no food left in stores, and cer- excitement . The entire City was tainly no more black and gold overwhelmed and happy to be to be found . Those who didn’t apart of something positive, af- make it to the Superdome or ter giving their all to a team who the French Quarter, were home realized in the end, that without Dionne Character, Author or at somebody else’s, enjoying the fans, none of this would Entertainment Editor & Columnista a “live” Pre-Super Bowl party of have been possible . their own . After the deal was The hype of this game was sealed with a “field goal” and the all about the people of New Or- world knew the New Orleans leans . Everyone forgot all of Saints were in fact going to the their troubles, all races came Super Bowl Championship, the together, and everybody loved entire City went wild . People everybody, as the Who Dat Na- were crying, praying, honking tion showed why, there ain’t no horns, dancing in the streets, place like home . firing fireworks, beating on cow bells, playing second-line music

Black History, an American Celebration

N0KP0000_625x7.indd 1 1/12/10 12:08 PM If We Can Come TogeTher for a fooTball Team, leT’s Work TogeTher To sav e The CITy.

I was struck at the Saints game, as I have been all season, by how united our city was behind our team. People are coming together effortlessly and sharing the same emotions, pulling for the common victory.

Together, we have been rebuilding neighborhoods and together, we will restore New Orleans to the beautiful city that it was. We’ve proven we can get along for the sake of the Saints. We need quality schools, hospitals open in New Orleans East and downtown, jobs with a decent wage, and we need to rebuild all of our neighborhoods with ample affordable housing for all our people.

fIxIng our mosT urgenT Problems My PlaN fOr Our city’s futurE addrEssEs Our grEatEst NEEds

4 A systematic approach to solving crime. 4 Eliminating Blight and creating effective code enforcement. 4 Adequate Healthcare coverage and availability. 4 High-quality, affordable Housing and increased 4 Economic development and Job creation. home ownership opportunities. 4 infrastructure improvements, like good streets now. 4 Adequate and effective flood Protection. 4 Access to high-quality and competitive schools 4 Balancing the Budget. in every neighborhood, along with improved recreational opportunities for our children. 4 rebuilding our beautiful Neighborhoods.

4 real accountability in government and the 4 Getting the recovery moving again for a police department. Better Quality of life.

“i’ve built my own business very successfully by giving people chances. i know what New Orleans people can do. give me a chance to lead as your mayor and i’ll unite, not divide. you can count on me to work hard every day to make New Orleans a better, safer and more prosperous city.”

Paid for by the John Georges Campaign

TMP-13492_Georges_DataNewsAd_v2.indd 1 1/20/10 6:58 PM

Continued on next page Page 10 January 23 - February 5, 2010 State& Local News www.ladatanews.com

Four Men Arrested for Attempting to Infiltrate Senator Landrieu’s Office

Manu Raju, Erika Lovley Politico and hard-hats . They informed a Jordan Ginsberg . gal troubles: ACORN is pressing member of Landrieu’s staff that In a statement is- charges him with a six-figure law- Anti-ACORN filmmaker arrest- they were telephone repairmen sued Tuesday night, suit in Baltimore for videotaping ed and faces felony charges and requested access to the main Landrieu said: “This is its employees with a hidden video Federal authorities have arrest- telephone at the reception desk . a very unusual situa- camera over the summer . The ed four men on felony charges for At that point, the two men al- tion and somewhat un- lawsuit is still ongoing, and the attempting to infiltrate Sen . Mary legedly attempted to manipulate settling for me and my Philadelphia branch of the group Landrieu’s New Orleans office, telephones and accessed the tele- staff . The individuals alleged in federal court this month including one filmmaker who phone closet, saying they needed responsible have been that O’Keefe and co-filmmaker targeted the community group to work on the entire system . The charged with enter- Hannah Giles caused emotional ACORN last year in damaging un- men, who said they left their cre- ing federal property distress, harm and injury in their dercover videos . dentials in their vehicles, were under false pretenses publicizing of the videos . Among those arrested was arrested by the U S. . Marshals for the purposes of O’Keefe made waves last year 25-year-old James O’Keefe, the Service soon afterward . O’Keefe, committing a felony . when he unveiled undercover conservative filmmaker, along who had been filming the two I am as interested as videos of ACORN employees with Joseph Basel, Robert Flana- men on his cell phone camera, everyone else about seeming to encourage two peo- gan and Stan Dai, all 24 . They was allegedly involved with plan- their motives and pur- ple – who were pretending to be were charged with entering feder- ning, coordination, and prepara- pose, which I hope will sex workers – to circumvent the al property under false pretenses tion of the operation, according become clear as the law, embarrassing the group and and attempting to gain access to to an affidavit signed by Steven investigation moves forcing many of its supporters to the Democrat’s office by posing Rayes, special agent at the FBI . forward .” spurn its ties with it . ACORN has as telephone repairmen, accord- According to the FBI, the four In a statement, long been a punching bag for con- ing to a copy of an FBI affidavit men could each face up to 10 years ACORN said O’Keefe’s servatives who say that the com- James O’Keefe speaks with the media while unsealed Tuesday . and a fine of $250,000 if they are getting into a taxi cab after being released from arrest is “further evi- munity-organizing group engages The complaint said that O’Keefe convicted . The case, which is be- the St. Bernard Parish jail in Chalmette, La., dence of his disregard in underhanded activities as it was waiting in the office when ing investigated by special agents Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010. O’Keefe, a conservative for the law in pursuit tries to beef up voter registration activist who posed as a pimp to target the Flanagan and Basel each entered of the FBI and deputy marshals community-organizing group ACORN, is one of of his extremist agen- among the poor, charges that the the premises, wearing light green with the United States Marshal’s four people arrested by the FBI and accused da .” group roundly dismisses . fluorescent vests, denim paints Service, is being prosecuted by of trying to interfere with phones at Sen. Mary This was not the Landrieu’s office in New Orleans. and blue work shirts, tool belts Assistant United States Attorney first of O’Keefe’s le- Anthony Bean Community Theater Dillard University Hosts Celebrates 10th Year Anniversary Three Mayoral Forums January 30th Debate is Second of “Conversations with Candidates”

Twenty Neighborhood Groups tion, race relations, neighborhood of Gentilly Civic Improvement As- and economic development - that sociation Partner With Dillard’s are important to the quality-of-life Community Development Corpo- in New Orleans . The January 12th ration, Political Science Faculty debate, sponsored by the Deep and Students, and Student Gov- South Center for Environmental ernment Association for Frank Justice in conjunction with the Af- Discussion on Neighborhood Is- rican American Women of Power sues and Purpose and the New Orleans Q93’s Wild Wayne hosts Urban League, addressed the par- 7:00a .m .-9:00a .m Town Hall Meet- ticular concerns of the city’s Afri- ing with Students on their con- can- American community . cerns for the future “Dillard University is an an- NEW ORLEANS AGENDA, choring institution in the Gentilly News Report (1/27/10) - Dillard Community and, as such, should Church Ladies Go Rouge in lead role as Stella . A lighthearted, Special Note: On Sunday, Febru- University will host the second in a offer all of our neighbors an op- ‘Steal Away’ Opens January 29 . outrageous comedy for the en- ary 7, performance will be at 8:00 series of three mayoral debates on portunity to speak with the candi- In celebration of The Anthony tire family . In this fun-filled pro- pm ONLY! Tickets are $18 .00 for Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 10:00 dates on those issues that are of Bean Community Theater 10th duction, the ladies of the Negro adults, $16 .00 for students and se- a m. . in Lawless Memorial Chapel vital importance to the survival of year Anniversary . We’re returning Women’s Organization for Youth niors, and are available by calling on campus . The three mayoral their respective neighborhoods,” to the play that started it all . “Steal Education find inventive ways of the Box Office at (504) 862-7529 . debates are designed to give the said Dillard President Marvalene Away”, a comedy written by Regi- sending girls to college . Perfor- You can also charge by phone or candidates and various New Or- Hughes, Ph .D . “We have opened na King and Directed by Anthony mances take place January 29-31, charge on line at www .anthony- leans communities a framework the campus to community and Bean and original cast member, February 5-7, 19-21 & 26-28 . On beantheater .com . to initiate discussions on a wide neighborhood organizations to Gail Glapion, a prominent com- Friday and Saturday at 8:00 PM variety of issues - crime, educa- foster civic engagement and vigor- munity leader, will return in the and Sunday’s matinee at 3:00 PM . Dillard, Continued page 12. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story January 23 - February 5, 2010 Page 11

Cover Story, Continued from page 3.

NEW ORLEANS RECREATION publican conventions in the sum- STOPPING CORRUPTION cational endeavor was law school . practice of law . During that time DEPARTMENT mer of 2008 . • Reform city contracting, reduce She attended Cornell Law School she also served as General Coun- • Rebuilding after-school and rec- James has served on the His- corruption . in Ithaca, New York for one year sel for the Louisiana Health Care reation programs toric District Landmark Com- • Reform process for the procure- where she was the recipient of Authority . • Ensure that playgrounds are mission, New Orleans Non-Profit ment of professional services the American Jurisprudence During those years of private free of criminal activity and Development Collaborative, and contracts throughout all execu- Prize in Constitutional Law, there- practice, Nadine had the opportu- drug-dealing . the African-American Heritage tive branch departments, while after; she transferred to Tulane nity to serve as Judge Pro-Tempo- Preservation Council . He is a also maintaining the City’s com- University School of Law where re to the Orleans Parish Juvenile OPEN AND HONEST member of the Esplanade Ridge mitment to DBE hiring goals . she received her Juris Doctor of Court . She so enjoyed her time GOVERNMENT Neighborhood Association and • Establish evaluation commit- Law degree in 1980 . serving the public that it inspired • Bring a culture of open and the National Association for the tees to review proposals in an Nadine started her professional her to run for public office . In 1996 honest government to New Or- Advancement of Colored People open public forum for transpar- career serving the State of Louisi- she launched her first bid for pub- leans . (NAACP) . ency . ana and the City of New Orleans, lic office with her run for an open • Create a level playing field for • Call upon members of the City first as an Assistant Attorney Gen- district court judicial seat . Nadine those who want to do business PLATFORM Council to implement compa- eral for the State of Louisiana and was elected to the Civil District in New Orleans, supporting 5 ACTIONS IN 5 DAYS rable reforms in awarding pro- then as an Assistant City Attorney . Court for the Parish of Orleans, participation by disadvantaged fessional services contracts by As an Assistant City Attorney she Division “J” on January 1, 1997 . businesses in city contracts . the legislative branch of city was a member of the legislative During her tenure on the IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY government . staff, which developed the City’s bench, Judge Ramsey adjudicated CANDIDATE JAMES PERRY • During mayoral transition, con- • Proposition on Fall 2010 elec- legislative package . She was also cases as a domestic judge and civ- DEMOCRAT duct a national search to hire tions ballot to unite executive responsible for serving as the il judge . She presided over cases a new Superintendent for the and legislative branch procure- City’s liaison to the state legisla- involving simple, as well as com- James Perry is a life-long resi- New Orleans Police Depart- ment policies in a single re- ture and was on the land use and plex litigation, including but not dent of New Orleans, who learned ment (NOPD) . formed procedure, or any pub- zoning team . limited to, class actions involving his core values of the importance • Sign and deliver Executive lic entity . During her professional career toxic torts, contract disputes, ex- of community, service, education Order requiring the NOPD to Nadine also served as a Law Clerk propriation of blighted properties and social justice from his parents compile and disclose data to REBUILDING NEIGHBORHOODS to the Louisiana Fourth Circuit and city tax and public bid laws . who are career educators . members of the press and pub- • More Sheriff Sales, less blight Court of Appeal . From 1987-1996 She was a knowledgeable, fair, The Perry family lived in New lic in a monthly “Crime Report • Enact Executive Order to make she was engaged in the private impartial and efficient jurist who Orleans East, where young James Card” Sheriff House Sales a priority in witnessed first-hand the decline • Requirements of performance eradicating blight . See Cover Story, Continued page 12. of his neighborhood even before and accountability standards • Hold monthly auctions it became swamped it with flood- across the range of criminal on properties where water . justice agencies, not just the owners have ignored A graduate of McMain High NOPD . administrative orders to School and the University of New • Execute a dialogue about city- make repairs . Orleans, And Loyola Law School, wide performance measures for • City agencies make avail- James worked for the Preserva- all areas of criminal justice, to able to homeowners all tion Resource Center (PRC), a address root causes of crime . appropriate counseling non-profit organization dedicated • Create a Cooperative Endeav- services and financial as- to preserving the diverse neigh- or Agreement (CEA) executed sistance to support them borhoods of New Orleans, where among all parties in the crimi- in making repairs and he focused on the problems of nal justice process to share with maintaining their prop- urban blight and neighborhood each other and with the public, erties in accordance with disinvestment and helped resi- all data necessary to assess housing code require- dents acquire and rehab blighted effectiveness and implement ments . properties . changes . • Work cooperatively with James is currently the Execu- the New Orleans Re- tive Director of the Greater New GENERATING ECONOMIC development Authority Orleans Fair Housing Action DEVELOPMENT (NORA) in devising a Center (GNOFHAC), a private, • Coordinate a strategy to gener- coordinated strategy to non-profit organization created to ate new business activity, sup- eradicate blight . promote equal housing opportu- port existing businesses and • NORA should repair or nity . Under James’ leadership and to attract new companies, more demolish and put back management, GNOFHAC has tri- jobs and increased economic into commerce as soon pled in size and helped thousands investment . as possible property ac- of residents . • Create New Public- quired through the Road One of James’ major initiatives Private Economic Development Home Program . has been to fight in New Or- Partnership . leans and in Washington DC for CANDIDATE NADINE fairer payouts by the Road Home IMPLEMENTING CITY M. RAMSEY Program . Recently, on behalf of BUDGET REFORM DEMOCRAT residents displaced by Hurricane Create a better way to conduct Katrina, James led his organiza- this essential function of city gov- Nadine M . Ramsey, a There’s no one better tion’s successful lawsuit against ernment . proud native of New Or- St . Bernard Parish, which passed More open budgeting, more leans, was born October to get the job done. an illegal ordinance that resulted fiscal responsibility . 17, 1955 . She graduated in racial discrimination . Propose an ordinance that from the Academy of Holy In recent years, James has testi- places budget reforms in the City Angels High School and Vote Jon Johnson #54 on fied before Congress seven times Code and in the Home Rule Char- went on to attend New- about the critical importance of ter comb College where she Saturday, February 6th Gulf Coast recovery, a cause that Invite participation by all stake- received her Bachelor of he took up again in presentations holders in an open public process Arts degree in Political Sci- to both the Democratic and Re- for setting budget priorities . ence in 1977 . Her next edu- www.votejonjohnson.com Page 12 January 23 - February 5, 2010 Commentary www.ladatanews.com Is it the End of the World?

By Kingfish Next on the list are Peyton Manning and “Pigs are flying and hell has frozen the Indianapolis Colts . At first I thought over” said Jim Henderson of WWl radio as the city might be separated or even feel- the football goes thru the uprights, advanc- ing a little strained with choosing whom ing the New Orleans Saints to Super bowl to root for, Manning or the Saints… .but . XLIV! First off, IT DOESN’T GET ANY not so much . This decision probably came BETTER THAN THIS (until the Saints win easy with news last week that famed rap- the Super Bowl)! per and New Orleanian LI’L Wayne was The NFC Championship of 2010 will go going with the Vikings because he was a down as one of the greatest in NFL history . Brett Favre fan . I know most people’s ini- This was a hard fought battle between two tial reaction was WTF?, but I personally strong willed football teams . This is evident believe he was under the influence of his by the overtime victory and score of 31 to cup, and we know how much he loves his 28. Except for the first quarter and end- cup! This week it seems to be clear where ing overtime score the Saints and Vikings the lines have been drawn . “Mannings, we were tied after each quarter. These teams love you but by total count yawl have two went blow for blow the entire game with rings . It’s our time!” no let up . Truly an example of a gladiators Since we’re talking numbers, a friend of clashing in battle with seemingly the entire mine brought to my attention that it was world watching and the Saints reigning quite a coincidence that our 44th Presi- victorious, Yes the Saints! No they didn’t dent is black and the Saints are in the 44th time . Well my Friends and fellow fans it fearless leader Drew Brees said, “This is fumble at the end . They didn’t give up in Super Bowl . Yes a little ironic, and maybe has, and it ain’t over yet! great but were not finished! the fourth quarter. They didn’t panic with because the 44th President Mr . Obama The New Orleans Saints have daunting My fellow friends, fans and Saints Na- one minute left and the legendary Brett picked the Saints to win it could be an emo- task of not believing in themselves to much, tion, there is still unfinished business . On Favre driving the field for the game win- tional, even cosmic push, but not the end but enough to know they can win . Wow, February 7th the world will be watching to ning field goal or in Saint’s history, over of the world . what an emotional roller coaster that must see if the new “America’s Team” can upset the top for a touchdown with 5 seconds As I left the dome there were so many be!? The Saints have to remember what got the crafty veteran who almost plays “rain left on the clock . They didn’t muff the snap cheers and well wishes filled with all the them here, one team focus and believing man like” on the biggest stage in national for the field goal . They marched down the excitement one could fit in their body . I in each other . They cannot get caught up sports . I for one have no reservations on field and gave our new beloved son Gar- came across a longtime fan, Ms . Lisa Fel- in the hype of the game, that’s for us fans . the outcome of this game . This city knows rett Hartley the opportunity to do what no ton, as I approached she kept bellowing A reassurance of their focus for me came one or two things about inevitability, or the other New Orleans Saint has ever been out “the world must be comin to an end, after the game . In the locker room there force of nature, and that’s exactly ” some- able to do . Put this special Saints team and the Saints are in the Super Bowl!” Along was no champagne, no beer being sprayed thing wicked that way comes” towards this city into the Promised Land, the Super with the quote from Jim Henderson you all over the players . Yes, celebratory with Miami, Florida Super Bowl weekend . To Bowl baby! can see that the overall consensus is that, hats and t-shirts (they earned) but not as Brees and all the Bayou Boys God speed, this would never, ever happen in our life- though the battle or war was over . As our health and Victory!

Cover Story, Continued from page 11. Dillard, Continued from page 10.

rendered her decisions based tion Fellow and Association continuing legal education point a Budget Task Force ous debate on issues vital to our constitu- on the facts, law and evidence of Trial Lawyers of America seminars . • Review City’s participation encies .” that were presented to the Judicial Fellow . She currently Nadine M . Ramsey is mar- in tax reduction, incentive This Saturday the candidates will again court . Judge Ramsey was hon- serves as an examiner for the ried to Craig Peters . and avoidance programs be asked to answer questions from the ored to serve as Chief Judge in Louisiana State Bar Associa- • Conduct thorough review of community . The 20 neighborhood organi- 2007 and 2008 . tion Committee on Bar Admis- PLATFORM collection of sales and prop- zations of the Gentilly Civic Improvement Very active in various pro- sions . erty tax revenues in the City Association, one of the largest coalitions fessional and civic organiza- Among the honors and CRIME of New Orleans of neighborhood groups in the city of tions, she is a member of the awards she has received are • Institutionalizing foot patrols • Appoint a Task Force to ana- New Orleans, have partnered with Dillard Louisiana State Bar Associa- the Southern Christian Lead- by members of the New Or- lyze collection and distribu- University’s Community Development tion, American Bar Associa- ership Conference (SCLC) leans Police Department tion of City tax revenues Corporation, political science faculty and tion, National Bar Association, Community Service Award, • Conducting a national students, and Student Government Asso- American Judges Association Black Achiever in Business search for a new Superin- ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ciation to sponsor a debate on issues of and Louis Martinet Legal Soci- and Industry Award, Urban Es- tendent for the New Orleans • Creation of a Central Per- particular interest to the Gentilly commu- ety . She is Past President and sence Award, Positive Women Police Department focusing mitting Office and an Office nity . The debate will center largely around member of the New and Men Award and St . Philip on foot patrols of Contract Compliance issues of blight, education, neighborhood Orleans Chapter of Links, Community Center Mentoring • Funding of neighborhood • Creation of a new Office of revitalization, economic development and Inc ., past president and for- and Volunteer Award . She was organizations in the fight to Women’s Services with a di- crime . The debate will be held at 10:00 mer board member of the named a YWCA role model reduce crime reduce blight vision to assist women in the a .m . in Lawless Memorial Chapel . Fourth and Fifth Circuit Judg- and in 1982 was selected by • Financial support for an ef- development of new Wom- Preceding the debate, Q93’s Wild es Association . She is a former the Times Picayune as one of fective witness protection en’s business enterprises Wayne will host a town hall meeting from member of the Louisiana State the “Women to Watch” in the program • Create an Office of Environ- 7:00 a m. . to 9:00 a m. . in the Social Room Bar Association Disciplin- Greater New Orleans Com- • Engage Faith Based Com- mental Health of the chapel . University students from ary Board and served on the munity . munity in fight against crim- • Introduce competition to around the city are invited to share their Board of Advisors for the New Furthering her commit- inal activity the City’s utility services in- thoughts on the current political climate Orleans Children Advocacy ment to serve her commu- dustry with radio listeners . Programs . nity and profession, she is fre- CITY BUDGET Her past fellowships in- quently called upon to speak at • Institute monthly review of clude Louisiana Bar Founda- conferences and professional City budget publicly and ap- This is WhaT i sTand For ✔ Economic and business opportunities for all of our busnessmen and women and and better paying jobs and economic opportunity for everyone.

✔ A unified city

✔ Excellence in city government services

✔ An honest, effective police department that earns the respect of all the people they serve.

i Promise You This: ✔ All of our businessmen and women will share equally in the millions of Recovery dollars and city work.

✔ I will stop the fighting in city government and start the building.

✔ I will recruit the best and brightest of our graduates from Xavier, Dillard and SUNO to join me in city government.

I share with you my principles. Please join me in my agenda to move our city forward. TOGETHER WE CAN!

Sincerely,

John Georges

Paid for by the John Georges Campaign

TMP-13538_Georges_2nd_DataNewsAd_v2.indd 1 1/27/10 9:39 PM Page 14 January 23 - February 5, 2010 Special www.ladatanews.com

Countdown to Election Day for City Council Seats

Data News Weekly Staff also approves the operating and body for public utilities . It reviews of property tax assessments for The City Council is comprised The New Orleans City Council capital budgets for the City, as and has final say on many land real estate taxes, and certifies tax of five districts and two coun- is the legislative branch of New recommended by the mayor, and use and zoning matters, as well as rolls to the Louisiana Tax Com- cilmembers-at-large . The follow- Orleans City government . The continually monitors revenues considers major economic devel- mission . Other responsibilities of ing candidates have qualified and Council considers and enacts all and expenditures for local gov- opment projects for the City . As a the Council include overseeing are running for the following seats local laws that govern the City ernment operations . The City Board of Review for Orleans Par- the operation of the public access on the New Orleans City Council of New Orleans . The Council Council is also the regulatory ish, the Council examines appeals television in Orleans Parish . in the February 6, 2010 elections:

Council District A Council District B

Virginia Blanque Jay Batt Susan Guidry “Fred” Robertson Stacey Head Corey Watson (incumbent)

mitch landrieu • MAYOR

itch Landrieu was born and raised in New Orleans. Now, he’s raising his own family Mhere. Every decision Mitch Landrieu makes is based on his commitment to making the city we love a better place for his five children and yours. Mitch Landrieu brings 22 years of experience making government work for the people of New Orleans.

Mitch’s PLAN ResuLts foR New oRLeANs

Crime l $20 million in Rebuilding l Tax Incentives to help l Youth Programs Grants to more than 500 rebuild neighborhoods l Community Policing homeowners, many in the l Investing in our Culture l Tough, Honest Police Chief 9th Ward l Recovery of the Tourism l Juvenile Justice Reform Industry and the 70,000 SChoolS l Funding Youth Education jobs it creates l Charter Schools Programs l Bringing the Essence l Accountability l Rebuilding Playgrounds Festival back home l Opportunities for Every Child with volunteers JobS l Small Business Opportunity l Workforce Development “I’m asking for your vote. & Training l Growth Industries Let’s get this done together!” Vote Saturday, February 6

1516 Thalia Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 • (504) 529-5300 • Email: [email protected] www.mitchformayor.com pAid fOr by MiTch LANdriEu fOr MAyOr cAMpAigN fuNd www.ladatanews.com Special January 23 - February 5, 2010 Page 15

Council District C City Council At-Large

Kristen Gisleson- Tom Arnold Arnie Fielkow (in- Jacquelyn Brechtel Cynthia Willard- Palmer cumbent) Clarkson (incum- Lewis (current Nathaniel Jones Carlos James bent) council member, (Not Pictured) Williams, Jr. (Not District E) Pictured)

William “Poppa” Gant (Not Pictured) Council District D William “Lance” Von Uhde, III (Not Pictured)

Gregory “Chef” Nolan Marshall Sonnier

Cynthia Hedge-Mor- Denise Holden rell (incumbent)

Council District E Let’s Keep Our Strong Voice On The Council.

Austin Badon Jerrelda Drummer- Sanders Since Katrina, Cynthia Willard Lewis has been the strongest voice for the average citizen on our city council. Time and time again she stood up to the powerful special interests who wanted to reduce the city’s footprint – and abandon our neighborhoods. She has consistently fought to bring back all of new Orleans and she is fighting now to make sure that citizens get to vote and have the final say on the proposed Master Plan for the city.

Cynthia Willard-Lewis created the successful Lot Next Door Program to help citizens fight blight. And when the city council voted to double their own salaries, Cynthia stood up to oppose them, saying she believes that police, fire fighters and teachers deserve raises, not politicians.

Jon Johnson Alicia Plummer Quietly courageous, unfailingly courteous, never intimidated. She is the conscience of the city council and we cannot afford to lose her.

Cindy Nguyen Leonard Lucas Elect Cynthia Willard Lewis Councilman at Large.

(Not Pictured) (Not Pictured) Orleans Parish EndorsEd by: S.E.I.U. Executive Democratic Committee (Service Employees International Union) American Federation of Labor • Congress of Industrial Organizations

Paid for by the Cynthia Willard Lewis Campaign

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