Is Mitt Romney a Racist? Beyond the Rhetoric

Lighting The Road To Freedom Christmas in the Marginy

Page 8

“The People’s Paper” September December 1,8, 20072007 41st41st Year VolumeVolume 3737 www.ladatanews.com www.ladatanews.com

HANO Plans Demo

Newsmaker Inside Data Upclose with Marsalis Headlines Sen. Ann Duplessis Holiday Concert

Page 4 Page 7 Photos by Victor Holt

Page December 8, 2007 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

HANO Plans Demolition

Story and Photos by Kerry Leigh

The architectural and social land- In June of 2006, the Housing Au- housing complexes where criminal scape of New Orleans is scheduled to thority of New Orleans announced activity festered amongst endemic change again with demolition set for plans to raze the ‘Big Four’ complexes poverty is giving way to much lower five public housing complexes con- of C J. . Peete, B W. . Cooper, Lafitte and density ‘mixed income’ housing ex- taining thousands of apartments that St . Bernard . The remaining low-rise emplified by the River Garden com- have sat predominantly vacant, and buildings across the river at Fischer munity and the homes that replaced some argue, habitable, since Hurri- are due to be demolished as well . the Fischer high-rise on the west cane Katrina . The dense and isolated low-income bank .

Continued next page. DATA News Weekly INSIDE DATA 616 Barrone Street, Suite 584, New Orleans, LA 70113 Phone: (504) 284-3840 | Fax: (504) 304-0203 editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected]

Terry B. Jones Contributors Contributing CEO/Publisher Harry C. Alford Photographers Cover Story...... 2 Opinions...... 10 Edwin Buggage Bob Bird Glenn Jones Tre Connerly VP Advertising George Curry Edwin Buggage & Marketing Lloyd Dennis Glenn Jones Hazel Trice Edney Jeff Gentner Newsmaker...... 4 Commentary . . . . 11 Edwin Buggage Glenn Jones Editorial Submissions Editor-in-Chief Kerry Leigh datanewseditor@ Cheryl Mainor James Wright NNPA Newswire bellsouth.net State & Local . . . . . 6 National News . . . 13 Managing Editor Art Direction Advertising Inquiries Distribution & Production datanewsad@ Data Zone ...... 8 Sports ...... 15 Glenn Jones MainorMedia.com bellsouth.net Please call (504) 284-3840 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 December 8, 2007 Page

At a HANO meeting on Thurs- Redevelopment, LLC has been day, commissioners approved awarded $9 million to raze the demolition awards of almost $31 132 buildings of the St . Bernard million to various contractors, complex in Gentilly and replace with the first phase of destruction them with 465 rental units plus to begin December 15th . The two commercial development . An- phases of demolition are intended other $645,000 was approved for to prevent total displacement of predevelopment expenses . St the residents who have been living Bernard Redevelopment is the in some of the habitable units . same collaborative of charitable The plans for redevelopment organizations and businesses are being designed by an elabo- that are involved in the Fore!Kids rate collaboration of local commu- Foundation and the Baton Rouge nity development organizations Area Foundation (an affiliate of This phone and housing developers who have which, Commercial Properties ROCKS! TM experience in the development of Development Corp ,. will manage MOTOROKR Z 6 m mixed income neighborhoods . the commercial components of The master plans, schedules and the redevelopment) . The develop- NOW ONLY budgets for reconstruction are ment of the apartment buildings $7999 due within a few weeks for HA- will be managed by Columbia after $100 mail-in rebate NO’s review and approval . Residential, a business based in with 2-yr. service agreement. buy one RAZR A $6 million contract has been Atlanta . Plus Get get one FREE approved to take down the 65 D H. . Griffin of Texas Inc will 50 Free buildings at B W. . Cooper that the receive $2 5. million to take down Songs* development team of Keith B . 70 vacant buildings at Lafitte . available with ROKR music accessory kit purchase. ONLY $1999 After $75 mail-in rebates with 2-yr. service agreement on both lines. See below for details. MOTORAZRTM V3a

come and get your love

shopalltel.com Gift Cards — always the perfect gift 1-800-alltel-1

Alltel Retail Stores Slidell LaPlace • These Retail Stores Now Open Sunday. 1302 Corporate Sq. | (985) 847-0891 Superior Comm. | (985) 651-3464 Covington Shop at a participating retailer: Marrero 808 Hwy. 190 | (985) 893-7313 Equipment & promotional offers at these V. Telecom | (504) 349-4912 locations may vary. Harvey New Orleans • 1818 Manhattan Blvd. | (504) 367-0897 Chalmette Digital Eyez | (504) 309-8620 V. Telecom | (504) 277-4992 Wireless Depot | (504) 243-5250 Key Enterprises and B W. . Cooper BOH Brothers Construction Houma 1043 W. Tunnel Blvd. | (985) 851-2355 Destrehan Resident Management Corpora- will use $6 3. million to replace the NexGeneration Wireless| (985) 764-2021 Kenner Proud Sponsor of: tion plan to replace with 410 rental utility infrastructure at Fischer in • 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. | (504) 468-8334 Gretna Cell Phone Depot | (504) 433-1921 units . An additional $955,000 was preparation for new home con- Metairie Digital Eyez | (504) 224-1231 also awarded for unspecified pre- struction . • 2701 N. Causeway Blvd. | (504) 835-1105 JRS Comm. | (504) 884-4499 development expenses . Despite HANO’s commitment For Business & Government Accounts call 1-866-WLS-BIZZ or visit alltelbusiness.com

Durr Heavy Construction also to moving forward on the demoli- *50 Free Songs: While supplies last. Free songs provided by eMusic. 15 songs are preloaded on ROKR music accessory kit memory card. Get up to 35 music downloads with a free eMusic 14-day trial account. Credit card & sign-up required. Offer available to first-time eMusic customers only. Music offer subject to change without notice. eMusic & the eMusic got an updated contract for their tions, deep concern in the commu- logo are registered trademarks in the U.S. & other countries. All rights reserved. Federal, State & local taxes apply. In addition, Alltel charges a monthly regulatory & administrative fee of up to $1.70, Federal & State Universal Service Fund fees (both vary by customer usage), & a 911 fee of up to $1.94 (where 911 service is available). These additional fees may deal to demolish 14 buildings at nity remains over the quandary of not be taxes or government-required charges & are subject to change. Phone Details: Phones at sale prices & applicable rebates available for a limited time, while supplies last, to new customers & eligible existing customers with activation of a qualifying rate plan. Contact Alltel to determine if you are eligible. Limit 1 rebate per B W. . Cooper . In August of 2005 displaced New Orleanians with qualifying purchase. Phones cannot be returned once mail-in rebate certificates have been submitted. Customer pays applicable taxes. See rebate certificate for details. Gift Cards: While supplies last. Additional Information: This offer may be limited due to time, supplies, coverage, or participating locations. $25 non-refundable they were awarded $640,250 no affordable shelter to return activation fee & possible $200 early termination fee applies per line. Service is according to the Terms & Conditions for Communications Services & other information available at any Alltel store or alltel.com. All product & service marks referenced are the names, trade names, trademarks & logos of their respective owners. Screen for the deal but after Hurricane to . “The absence of New Orleans’ images are simulated. ©2007 Alltel. All rights reserved. Katrina’s impact, an additional black children is a great spiritual

$254,634 is needed for the proj- loss . There is something devi- A8129SRAA.6.3x10.BW.LA2.indd 1 11/15/07 7:46:02 PM ect . ous and criminal about this act,” Central City Partners, an alli- Jerome Smith, a local activist, ance of Peete Redevelopment LLC says about the city leaderships’ www ladatanews. com. (a partnership of McCormack disregard for the communities Baron Salazar and KAI Design of people who called these hous- & Build) and the New Orleans ing development home . When Neighborhood Development Col- asked about his lack of optimism laborative (a coalition of public, regarding the redevelopment private and nonprofit community plans, he counters, “Where are based organizations) will receive the ones they took out of the St . $5 8. million to demolish 55 vacant Thomas community? Where are buildings at C J. . Peete and form a the people who were displaced? redevelopment plan . What small percentages of them The developer St . Bernard are served by the new housing?” Page December 8, 2007 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

Data News Weekly Exclusive: State Senator Ann Duplessis

By Edwin Buggage fight for the resources the city of affordable housing being at space for families and children As the devastated Lower Ninth needs, “I have begun to re-ignite the forefront of many discussions to have a better quality of life . “I Ward grabbed headlines all over a project that I had to bring a state regarding the city Sen . Duplessis think when we concentrate pover- the world, and became the face of the art health clinic to service feels that the question of what is ty without the resources and the of the catastrophe that was Hur- the community ”. affordable and what is not has infrastructure such as proper bus ricane Katrina and its aftermath, Duplessis, a businesswoman been framed in a way that does service, hospitals schools in walk- there has been one person of the understands that government is not look at who are we really talking distance, and if these things many who has been in the center not solely responsible for re-ignit- ing about when the question of are not in place then you are do- of it all since the beginning . Ann ing the engine that is a commu- affordable housing is addressed . ing a disservice to the residents Duplessis is a woman of short nity and that today partnerships “I think it has become a sort of cli- of those communities to not only stature but looms large as an ad- between government, and private ché to talk about affordable hous- survive but to thrive as the city vocate for the recovery as a Loui- industry is necessary for a city not ing and concentrating specifically rebuilds ”. siana Senator of District 2 . only to survive but prosper . “Like on those who are receiving fed- for instance Brad Pitt the actor is eral assistance, but the fact is that Reflections and the Future The Fight to Remain in Baton re-doing 150 homes, so we are now there are enough units for those Duplessis has been involved in Rouge starting to see public and private who qualify for assistance under public service in various capacities After a heated primary election investors working together, and those guidelines in fact there is while recently become a member and run-off against an opponent that is what you are going to see; a surplus ”. “There are homes of the State Senate she has helped who previously been a fixture in investment back into the commu- that have been certified as Sec- those less fortunate than herself State Senator Ann Duplessis the state capitol Jon Johnson, who nity ”. “Presently, I am working on tion 8 available though HUD and as an advocate throughout her Duplessis defeated him in an elec- bringing banking institutions as we couldn’t get them leased, but life . Reflecting on her years of tion where mud-slinging and per- well as canvassing business and The story of New Orleans then there are people who are the public service she says her great- sonal attacks in some instances offering tax incentives to come East is very different according working and lower middle-class est accomplishments have been grabbed more front page copy into my district and be part of its to Duplessis, “Many people have who don’t qualify for federal pro- in the areas of reform govern- than the issues of concern of the rebuilding and renaissance ”. She chosen to return to New Orleans grams ”. “I think that is where the ment and says that the time has constituents District 2 that houses sees brighter days ahead for her East, we have record numbers real shortfall is a far as affordable come for the city to rid itself of a the devastated Lower Ninth Ward community but she is distressed of people who have returned, we housing and where those efforts culture of inept management of and New Orleans East . Duplessis by the number of residents who have upwards to 55 to 60 thou- should be concentrated but for resources . “For many years we says of her re-election, “I think chose to sell their homes through sand people who have returned those who are on the lower end of have not managed our resources the people have spoken and there the Louisiana Road Home Pro- and pre –Katrina we had about the socioeconomic ladder there in the most efficient manner ”. were tired of the politics of old, of “The things we have done since lies, distortion and corruption ”. “I I have been in office in changing am a fresh voice who has brought the way things have been done I new leadership to District 2 and am very proud of, in the areas of I am glad that the voters saw education reform, legislation in through all that and placed me the area of quality day care for our back in office ”. Continuing her young, also in the area of attract- thought she says, “I feel that my ing businesses to the city, and re-election is a testament that I am having a hand in consolidating doing a good job and that the peo- the assessors so that it could run ple approve of my performance ”. more efficiently, and that is what we need to do in Government in Progress Report: The Recov- New Orleans and in the state if we ery Ninth Ward and New Orleans are going to compete in the 21st East century run our city government While the world watched in and a more efficient manner and disbelief as the city drowned sink- that is what I have continued to ing into the abyss amidst a sea of try to accomplish while I have abandonment, leaving parts of the been in elected office ”. city today two years later a resem- The Senator has an optimistic bling ghost towns; as the grave- outlook for the city in the future yards of where people once resid- although she has concerns about ed and where the cultural blood the leadership of the present ad- Sen. Ann Duplessis with students from the Fashion Lab which ran through the veins of ministration and their ability to New Orleans giving it life are vast- move the city forward . “We are ly different today . Duplessis talks gram that she deems as a dismal ninety thousand residents so this are homes available but many of poised to have a great city in the about the Lower Nine saying, “It failure, but understand that resi- is something I am excited about, those who were in the program future, but its not going to be an suffered the most damage and dents must go on with their lives . and also with the prices of hous- which is a federally funded pro- easy route, and I think once we get it was an entire community de- “These are private decisions and ing going up in many other parts gram have chosen to use them in new leadership at the city leveling stroyed and nothing was spared ”. us who are elected officials can- of the city New Orleans East has other states ”. Adding “I think that two years that we are going to But she says that a revival of the not do anything about a choice become a new option for those is the thing that has been missing have opportunities to really make area is on the horizon although someone make which they see who want to purchase a home in from the discussion about people this city better than it was pre- it will take time, she talks specifi- best for them and their family’s the city ”. returning and what is considered Katrina ”. “We are not there yet, I cally about lack of infrastructure welfare, but we must continue affordable, I think we need what think we just need to go through which is something that it drasti- moving forward and fight for the Affordable Housing Crunch: I call cafeteria style availability of the next two years and identify cally needed, “We need schools monies we need in Baton Rouge Myth or Reality housing options ”. people who can be positioned to and hospitals in the area ”. She and make sure that when it gets With the recent approval of As public housing faces inevi- lead this city where it needs to be says that because of the urgency to the local level that the lead- the demolition of many of units in table changes Duplessis thinks it but I am encouraged about where of these needs she has went back ers are held accountable for how several of the large public hous- is important that public housing the city is going ”. to Baton Rouge and continues to those resources are allocated ”. ing developments, and the issue is less dense and has more green

Page December 8, 2007 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com

Brad Pitt plans to rebuild Lower Ninth Ward

ACTOR Brad Pitt has launched houses . The pink odly shaped of the Lower Ninth Ward of New his rebuilding project for the Low- blocks, which Pitt describes as Orleans will be expected to con- er Ninth Ward, Monday by unveil- a work of art, are to be taken on tribute part of the cost of the new ing designs flood-proof homes . a five-week tour throughout the houses, with Make It Right pro- Pitt through his Make It Right area, and are decorated with 1000 viding the rest of the funding for Foundation, commissioned 13 ar- solar powered light bulbs . the homes which are estimated to chitectural firms to produce hous- The actor, putting up $5 7. mil- cost about $150,000 each to comes that would incorporate solar lion of his own money is asking plete . power and other environmentally corporations, church groups and Pitt announced his plan for 150 sound designs . others for assistance in raising an new houses which are expected The Project, has placed 150 additional $150,000 for his adopt- to be completed by next year by huge pink Monopoly-shaped tents a-house project, as well as smaller saying there is no reason why it through the Lower Ninthwith it’s public donations . For their part in could not expand to 10,000 or goal being to replace them with the new homes, former residents even 100,000 homes in the future . Actor Brad Pitt points to the pink tents where he plans to build homes for displaced residents of New Orleans. Photo: AP

Is Mitt Romney a Racist? Beyond the Rhetoric

By. Harry C. Alford NNPA Columnist of slavery and welcomed Blacks into his new religion replete with its own bible, The Book of Mor- That is a very important mon, was written by members question to raise about of this group . Smith’s successor someone who is seeking was Brigham Young, who indeed to become the President was a racist, and who introduced of the United States . This the doctrine that Blacks were de- nation has a racist pedi- scendents of Cain, the bad son of gree and it took a lot of Adam and Eve . Thus, they were bloodshed, holocaust and cursed with the mark of Cain struggle to overcome it . If (their Blackness) and are forbid- it is to survive in this ever den entry into heaven and pro- changing and unpredict- hibited from the priesthood of the able world, it must never Mormon Church . This started as return to that flaw for it will, Jim Crow laws were being written indeed, be fatal . So when I throughout the nation during the repeatedly hear about this late 1800’s and post Reconstruc- Sometimes... issue of whether or not tion . Mitt Romney is a racist I It wasn’t until 1978 that the you have to read between the lines. find it more than coinciden- Mormon Church felt encourage- It’s against the law for real estate agents or sellers to consider your race tal . Things keep popping ment to change this policy . In the up on this matter with the meantime the Romney families or national origin in deciding which houses are available to you. greasy haired candidate . were thriving under it . A mem- Ron Paul voted against giv- ber of the Carter Administration’s If you suspect unfair housing practices, contact us: ing Rosa Parks a Congres- Justice Department decided that if sional Gold Medal . He was the Mormon Church wants to em- the only congressperson to brace a racist doctrine they should New Orleans: (504) 596-2100 do so . That sticks on him no longer be given 501c3 tax ex- permanently but that is all emption status . As the federal Baton Rouge: (225) 356-8871 I know about his racial de- government was about to make its Statewide: (877) 445-2100 meanor . But with Romney move, the Church proclaimed that there is always something God visited their president and Online: www.gnofairhousing.org new . twelve apostles and proclaimed

GREATER NEW ORLEANS First of all, Mitt Romney the curse lifted . Blacks from here has been raised a devout on have a chance beyond Hell . Mormon . He’s a leader in How convenient . FAIR the group . The founder, Jo- Romney as an elected official HOUSING seph Smith, was actually an has been known to make racial ACTION CENTER abolitionist who vehement- slurs . He has recently referred Sponsored by: the Greater New Orleans Fair Housing Action Center, Urban Restoration ly fought against the ills to a construction boondoggle, Enhancement Corporation, the Louisiana Family Recovery Corps., the National Fair Housing Alliance and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Continued on page 10. www.ladatanews.com State & Local News December 8, 2007 Page

Entergy New Orleans Customers to See Electric Bills Drop in December

their December bills . ery day to position the company electricity . The FAC reflects the Customers can make the big- New Orleans, La . – Entergy The lower rates are due to to take advantage of cost saving amount ENO pays for fuel and is gest impact on their bills by man- New Orleans’ customers have recent favorable power manage- opportunities . Lowering expens- driven by market prices and cus- aging the amount of electricity something to look forward to as ment activities by the company, es through the timely utilization tomer usage . When fuel costs go and gas they use . Air conditioning 2007 comes to a close – paying including accessing lower-cost of economic purchased power down, the savings are passed di- and heating can account for more approximately 12 percent less on generation from Grand Gulf and agreements and our continued rectly to the customer . than half of customers’ bills . En- their Fuel Adjustment Clause in purchased power agreements . commitment to a diverse fuel mix Fuel often accounts for more ergy conservation tips, such as December . “We’re always pleased when we are key factors in the company’s than half of a customer’s electric- setting your thermostat to 68 de- On a typical bill, customers can pass on savings to our custom- overarching goal of providing reli- ity bill, and Entergy’s energy man- grees in the winter to reduce your who use 1,000 kWh of electricity ers,” said Rod West, president and able service at affordable costs ”. agement staff monitors markets bill, can be found at www entergy-. will see a $7 64. decrease in the chief executive officer of Entergy Entergy does not profit on closely to ensure they are getting neworleans com. . FAC, from $63 02. to $55 38,. on New Orleans . “We work hard ev- the fuel it purchases to generate the best price .

Dillard University presents its 71st annual Holiday Concert

Featuring special guests Ellis two of David Talbert’s hit stage with a Jazz Studies emphasis . In earned a Master’s degree from Morris’s television credits in- Marsalis, Lecresia Campbell and productions, Mr . Right Now and 1986, Marsalis was named Com- Loyola University . Marsalis has clude roles on General Hospital, Garrett Morris His Woman, His Wife . Both monwealth Professor at Virginia been the recipient of Honorary The Jeffersons, Hunter, Roc, Mar- (November 28, 2007) – It’s shows toured the country per- Commonwealth University in Doctorate degrees from his alma tin and The Jamie Foxx Show . been a tradition in Gentilly for 71 forming to sold-out audiences . Richmond, Virginia . He would mater Dillard University (1989), He was a member of the original years: the annual Holiday Con- Campbell has also performed as a spend two years as coordinator of and Ball State University in Mun- troupe of actors – the Not Ready cert showcasing the stellar talent for Prime Time Players – on the of Dillard University’s renowned long-running NBC-TV show Sat- Concert Choir . The concert – fea- urday Night Live, which debuted turing Christmas carols, tradi- in 1975 . Mr . Morris was the lone tional hymns, gospel classics, and Black writer/actor on the show jazzy holiday music – will be held for many years . Mr . Morris has on Sunday, December 9 at 7:30 written two plays, Stagger Lee p m. . in Dillard’s Lawless Chapel (which was commissioned by the and Assembly Hall, 2601 Gentilly Arts Department of New York) Blvd . The event is free and open and The Secret Place (which to the public; doors open at 6:45 was directed by Bill Duke and p m. . Guests are encouraged to ar- performed by repertory groups rive early to secure seating . in both New York and Los Ange- The Holiday Concert will show- les) . case The University Choir, direct- Morris acted in over 40 Broad- ed by S . Carver Davenport, and way and off-Broadway plays, in- will feature special guests Lecre- cluding Slave Ship by Le Roi Jones sia Campbell, The Ellis Marsalis (Imamu Amiri Baraka), Ododo Quartet, and Garrett Morris . The Garrett Morris Ellis Marsalis by Joseph Walker, In New Eng- concert will be narrated by Rev . land Winter by Ed Bullins, Street Gail Bowman, university chap- Scene by Ed Bullins, Dream On lain . Immediately following the background vocalist for Vanessa the Jazz Studies program before cie, Indiana (1997) . He is the fa- Monkey Mountain by Derek Wol- concert, the audience is invited Bell Armstrong, and has shared returning to New Orleans and ther of renowned jazz musicians, cott, Gershwin’s Porgy And Bess, to Kearny Terrace on campus the stage with such artists as the University of New Orleans to Branford, Wynton, Delfeayo and Hallelujah Baby by Jules Styne, for the lighting of the University Larnelle Harris, Donnie McClur- become the first director of the Jason, and two other sons Ellis and Ain’t Supposed To Die A Christmas Tree by Dillard Presi- kin, Mary Mary, Gerald Levert, Coca-Cola endowed chair of Jazz III and Miboya, with his beloved Natural Death by Melvin van Pee- dent Dr . Marvalene Hughes . Stephanie Mills, and others . She Studies . Marsalis officially re- wife, Delores . bles, among others . He also had Lecresia Campbell is best is a graduate of Tougaloo College tired from the University of New Garrett Morris is a singer and roles in over 60 movies, includ- known for her Gospel hit, Mag- in Tougaloo, Mississippi, with a Orleans in 2001 after 12 years on actor that began his performing ing The Anderson Tapes, Cooley nify, from the Gospel Heritage B A. . in Applied Voice . the faculty . career as a singer-arranger with High, Car Wash, Twin Falls, and Praise and Worship project . Ellis Marsalis is regarded in He continues to be active as a the Harry Belafonte Singers . A Who’s Your Caddy, among oth- Campbell earned a Stellar Award many artistic circles as one of the pianist leading his own group and graduate of Dillard University ers . He was nominated for an in- nomination for Best Female Vo- nation’s premier modern jazz pia- has several recordings on the (1958), he continued his vocal dependent film award for his role calist (traditional) for her debut nists . A highly respected music CBS-SONY label . He is currently training with Bernard U . Taylor in Jackpot . solo project, Even Me . She also educator, Marsalis taught for 12 developing his own recording la- of Juilliard, and also studied com- Morris lives in Los Angeles has been a regular on the Trinity years at the New Orleans Center bel, ELM Records . Marsalis grad- position with the great Hall John- and owns the Downtown Comedy Broadcasting Network (TBN) . for Creative Arts (NOCCA) as uated from Dillard in 1955 with son . Club . Campbell has also performed in an instrumental music teacher a B A. . in Music Education, and Page December 8, 2007 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

New Orleans Celebrates Christmas in the Marigny

Marigny residents and businesses invite locals and tourists alike to celebrate the holiday season

WHAT: To celebrate the holiday season, the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association (FMIA) welcomes New Orlea- nians to celebrate Christmas in the Marigny this Sunday, December 9th . An expansion from years past, this year’s Christmas in the Marigny includes an art market, tree lighting and music on Frenchmen featuring local musicians Benny Grunch and the Bunch . Children can also get their pictures taken with the original Creole Santa, Papa Noel, at the art market starting at Noon .

Dedicated to preserving and protecting the Faubourg Marigny, the FMIA hosts caroling each year as one of the premier events they offer members, residents and the community as a whole to spread holiday cheer . Come toast a glass of warm cider, munch on a Hubig’s Pie and enjoy an evening of holiday caroling, New Orleans style .

WHO: Papa Noel, the Original Creole Santa Leaders from the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association (FMIA), www faubourgmarigny. org. About the FMIA Caroling led by New Orleans Pfister Sisters The colorful and little-known history of the Faubourg Marigny began in March 1805 when the 20-year-old minor, Bernard Xavier Philippe de WHEN: Sunday, December 9th Marigny de Mandeville, petitioned the Conseil de Ville (City Council) 11:00 a m. . – 8 p m. . to allow the subdivision of his plantation located below the Vieux Carré . The request was granted April 19, 1805, and Bernard began selling prop- WHERE: Art Market with Papa Noel: 11 a m. . – 3 p m. . erty in what would become known as a Creole French speaking suburb . Washington Square Park (700 Elysian Fields) The Faubourg Marigny Haitian refugees would later populate the area and it would flourish as a center for local commerce . Artist’s Open Studio: Noon – 5pm, visit Today, the unique character of the neighborhood instilled by Bernard www openstudioartists. org. for map Marigny at its founding remains intact in this thriving cultural hot spot for locals from throughout New Orleans as well as visitors who want to Benny Grunch and the Bunch: 3 p m. . – 6 p m. . take in the sights, sounds and flavors of the neighborhood and its resi- Café Brazil (2100 Chartres Street) dents—such as those along famous Frenchman and Franklin streets . Visit www faubourgmarigny. org. for additional information about Car- 23rd Annual Christmas Caroling: 6:00 p m. . – 8:00 p m. . oling, FMIA and the historic Marigny . Washington Square Park (700 Elysian Fields)

V2_31795.1_10.75x3_4C_Ad 12/3/07 1:37 PM Page 1

Saturday, December 8 Friday, December 14 Panorama Jazz Band “Who Dat” Brass Band, Klezmer Holiday 6 – 8pm Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters 4 – 8pm Located at Fulton and Poydras Street across from Harrah’s Casino.

#1 – Data News Weekly – 12/8 www.ladatanews.com Data Zone December 8, 2007 Page

NOTES FROM NEW ORLEANS: BOOK REVIEW

by Tre Connerly recounts the tale of Cotton profiles several local residents patients whose wild family members do A new book about our having to evacuate to including Chef Austin Leslie of Chez everything from dancing to BET videos city has hit the shelves Houston in a taxicab Helene and Pampy’s fame who passed to playing the fart game . called ‘NOTES FROM and ending August away after Katrina; Councilwoman Cyn- That Cotton loves New Orleans and NEW ORLEANS: Spicy, ’07 during the second thia Willard Lewis who gives a rare and her people is clear . She pays close atten- colorful tales of the poli- anniversary of Ka- revealing interview recounting her per- tion to what makes our culture unique tics, people, food, drink, trina . sonal challenges during the first year and is able to translate this to her audi- men, music and life in Although new to after the storm; and a 70 year-old Ninth ence in colorful and entertaining detail . ‘Post-Breaches New the area, Cotton’s ac- Ward woman named Miss Mary Dell Her stories are a one-woman campaign Orleans’ . Deborah Cot- counts of life in New Van Buren who rode the storm out in to let the world know in great, intimate ton, a local journalist Orleans hits all the her attic as it floated away with her in it detail why saving New Orleans is a mis- who moved to New Or- marks of a native and lived to laugh about it . sion worth undertaking . For anyone leans just three months with intimate under- Cotton doesn’t hold back in her analy- who loves this city, from the fourth gen- before the storm, is the standing of ‘home’ sis of local politics which is at once bit- eration native to the most recent trans- self-published author yet with the fresh ing, humorous, and smart . She shares plant, this book is a must-read . of this entertaining and eyes of a new-comer tales of her quest for love to be found Deborah Cotton will be reading from well-written post-storm who’s fallen for the in what she describes as “a big black and signing her book NOTES FROM ode to New Orleans . lady New Orleans . southern man” that’s “12:45am black NEW ORLEANS on Saturday, Decem- ‘Notes From New Her walk through with a big belly and a James Evans from ber 8th from 11am-1pm at Community Orleans’ was originally our painful memory ‘Good Times’ presence and authority ”. Book Center, 2523 Bayou Road at Broad . published as an online lane is actually a joy Her journey through post traumatic de- The book is available in local stores and column on EURweb com,. a black en- to take . She writes like your auntie or pression are captured in funny accounts online . More information can be found tertainment industry news wire . The next door neighbor talks, sarcastic, fast, such as her experience at Ochsner by going to www deborahcotton. com. . articles span the course of two years, full of comedy, and gossip anchored in which she renamed “Soul Hospital” after beginning in September ’05 as Cotton the truth . having to share her hospital room with

This Christmas, the perfect man just happens to be Santa.

www.ThePerfectHolidayMovie.com STARTS EVERYWHERE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 CHECK DIRECTORY FOR SHOWTIMES

NEW ORLEANS, LA DATA NEWS WEEKLY 12/8 10.5X 7 PROOFING LIST This must be before any job is passed on. SIZE TITLE QUOTES HEADING TAG ART SPELL CHK THEATRES Page 10 December 8, 2007 Opinion www.ladatanews.com Xmas Gifts of Cash

Larry Lucas back to that “returned” thing later . from low self esteem (no daddy love) we happy with life is happy with themselves, No I’m not a “Scrooge”, but it really is yearn even more for respectability and des- their relationships, what they do and how Data Columnist about money, so I prefer to and we have perately spend or sometimes meager funds well they do it . a family culture of giving cash to young on the most expensive stuff available . Its I really must be more careful because people on Christmas Day, and I’ll get back often said that when America catches a Big Business is watching, and if too many to that timing later . We spend money like cold we get pneumonia . If the rest of Amer- of you begin to think about the things I’ve it is undesirable, and it is completely un- ica overextends for Xmas shopping, some- put here, you might ruin this shopping derstandable, because most of us are con- times we act like there is no tomorrow, and season by giving cash instead of buying un- vinced that self esteem and happiness can that brings me back to timing . used gifts and then having the recipients be bought because those are the constant Giving cash at Xmas time gets more “gift pay after Xmas prices instead of retail . And messages we receive as we spend hours value” for the dollar than buying stuff for if you impact the Xmas season, I’m sure The Love Dr. each day exposing ourselves to television other people . First, a cash gift will get 100% homeland security will have to look into it Data Columnist commercials designed by experts to influ- use rather than the 50% of bought gifts that as a threat to our economy (national secu- ence us in ways that make us feel like we were never wanted and never used, so giv- rity), and how teaching people to think and “need” and will be more respected, desir- ing cash ensures that you don’t waste your save money is “thought crime” . able, and happier if we buy what advertis- hard earned dollars on stuff that will just Actually, I’m going to admit that as a fam- They may call me “Love Doctor”, but ers are selling . collect dust or get given to the mission in a ily we agreed to stop swapping gifts among that doesn’t mean that I’m sentimental, The truth be told, nothing provides self few years . Secondly giving cash on Christ- siblings and spouses, and we all give cash and anyone who doesn’t understand that esteem, peace and happiness like money mas day means that the recipients get to to the kids, so now I know the “thought Xmas shopping is the biggest retail hustle in the bank, but that is something many buy what they want at after Xmas, sale police” are coming! Be even more subver- in America is either in shopping denial, was Americans will never experienced because prices, rather than full retain, sometimes sive, become a revolutionary by starting a just born, or is brain damaged or extreme- we believe that happiness comes from con- they can get twice as much of exactly what savings account and keeping some of your ly stupid . verting money into stuff that has less or no they like or want and it always fits . wealth for yourself, and vow to never pay Like cattle driven to slaughter, each year value once we buy it, and all the messages I minimize my exposure to commercial full retail price again . Remember, in a capi- we are driven by guilt, misplaced love, hab- we receive in the media from Big Business television and have come to assume that talistic world there is nothing worse than it or compulsion to spend our hard earned contain the lie, “that to buy is to be happy”, when it is on or when I pick up a magazine being broke . Broke people can’t get sick, dollars or over extended credit on stuff that whereas the truth is “to buy turns your or catalogue (or web page) that everything talk back to their boss, pass up overtime, may or may not be appreciated by those wealth into ours and that is why we spend I am looking at is designed to make me feel deal with emergencies or enjoy five days of for whom we bought it . If the gifts I have billions to pay for TV shows that keep you like converting my wealth into their wealth Jazz Fest and still pay the house note on received over the years are an indicator of connected to our commercials, that keep will somehow improve my life . time . Life is doing stuff, not having stuff . the usefulness of Xmas gifts, I would have you believing that your life will be better I’ve also learned that the greatest misery to estimate that roughly half of the money once you buy what we sell” . and stress in life comes from wanting stuff spent on Xmas gifts is wasted, because the As black Americans we are as caught you don’t have instead of appreciating what gifts are never used or returned . We’ll get up or worse . Because so many of us suffer you do, and that everyone I know who is

Mitt Romney, continued from page 6. Advertise in Data News Weekly Its the Right Stratagy The Big Dig, as a “Tar Baby” he without comment Mitt Romney “bigot code” . It is the same thing needs to avoid . Tar Baby - That’s refused to participate in the cer- they would say to keep us out of an old school racial slur . It’s not emony and recognize the new the military, college and profes- something we want a presidential Black Governor . That sounds sional sports, the better public in- candidate to say and have such a like the old George Wallace or stitutions and corporate offices . It thought process about . Strom Thurmond type of stuff . wasn’t because of racism but that Romney’s successor as Gover- The people of Massachusetts we just weren’t good enough and nor of Massachusetts is the Hon- were outright embarrassed . that’s how God made it . It falls orable Deval Patrick, a Black who Very recently, well known right along with the “Cain Curse served as chief of the Civil Rights Black Republican J C. . Watts Doctrine” . Slick haired Romney Office of the Clinton Administra- publicly complained that the is starting to appear to be very ar- tion’s Justice Department . That Romney presidential campaign rogant for all the wrong reasons . is the same office that went after was absolutely void of Blacks, It is an aura about him that smells the Mormon Church’s racist poli- Hispanics or any other ethnic- anti-American and anti-Christian . cies in the late seventies . There ity other than white . It was lily He appears to be a blast from the seems to be some serious “bad white and this needed to be cor- past and that is not good for us as blood” caused by that . It is a long rected proclaimed the former a whole and harmonious society . tradition that when inaugurating a Black congressman from Okla- Is Mitt Romney a racist? Ra- new Governor in Massachusetts homa . When approached about cial slurs, racist upbringing, racist they have a ceremonial passing J C. ’s. comments on CNN News, slights, racist hiring and racist ex- of the gavel . The outgoing Gov- Mitt Romney retorted, “What’s cuses – seems like an easy ques- ernor stands and hands over the the charge? Is there something tion . gavel to the new Governor and wrong with that?” Alford is the co-founder, Presi- exits the building as the new Gov- He then explained that he hired dent/CEO of the National Black ernors stands to the podium and only the best workers and if that Chamber of Commerce . Website: delivers his inauguration address . means an all white staff – so be it . www nationalbcc. org. . For the first time in history and This, my brother and sisters, is www.ladatanews.com Commentary December 8, 2007 Page 11 The Drug War on African-Americans

If African-Americans used and ons on drugs offenses increased Camden, N J. ;. Cuyahoga, Ohio; lated to social policy, the amount sold drugs at higher rates than by 21 percent, from 280,182 to Jefferson, La ;. San Bernardino, spent on law enforcement and Whites, that might be under- 337,872 . However, from 1996 to Calif ;. Cook, Illinois and Alameda, judiciary systems, and local drug standable . But, as this and other 2002, the number of those impri- Calif . enforcement practices ”. studies have also found, that’s not oned for drug increases jumped Counties with the lowest rates To reduce the drug incarcera- the case . by 47 percent, from 111,545 to were: Washington, Ore ;. Cumber- tion rate, emphasis needs to be Citing one federal survey, the 164,372 . land, Maine; Fairfax, Va ;. Wake, placed on other factors that con- report noted, “In 2002, there were A report from the Justice Pol- N C. ;. Rockingham, N H. ;. Bucks, tribute to the likelihood of one George C. Curry approximately 14 million white icy Institute in 2000 showed that Pa ;. Howard, Md ;. Montgomery, becoming involved in drugs and NNPA Americans who had used drugs Whites admitted to prison for drug Md ;. Guilford, N C. . and Mecklen- going to prison, experts say . in the previous month, compared offenses increased by 115 percent burg, N C. . Jason Ziedenberg, executive to about 2 6. million African Amer- between 1986 and 1996 . Over that “On average, counties with director of the Justice Policy In- By . George E Curry icans who had done so . In other same period, the rate for Blacks higher unemployment rates, stitute, observed: “Rather than NNPA Columnist words, there were five times as increased by 465 percent . higher poverty rate, and larger focus law enforcement efforts on As one who has written exten- many whites using drugs as Af- Increased imprisonment has percentages of African American drug-involved people who bear sively on disparities in the crimi- rican Americans . However, our been accompanied by increased citizens tend to have higher rates little threat to public safety, we nal justice system, I am familiar analyses indicate African Ameri- prison expenditures . According of admission to prison for drug of- should free up local resources to with assorted statistics associated cans were admitted to prison for to the American Association of fenses,” the report stated . fund treatment, job training, sup- with selective prosecution . On drug offenses at nearly 10 times Correctional Association, the cost Phillip Beatty, coauthor of the portive housing, and other effec- Tuesday, the Justice Policy Insti- the rate of whites ”. of housing drug offenders in state study, said, “Laws – like drug tive public safety strategies ”. tute released a comprehensive Black youth are also selectively and federal prisons totals $8 bil- laws – that are violated by a large George E . Curry, former edi- study on the issues of race, pov- prosecuted . lion a year . percentage of the population are tor-in-chief of Emerge magazine erty, unemployment and selective “According to the Monitoring Counties with the highest particularly prone to selective and the NNPA News Service, is a prosecution within the context of the Future (MTF) survey con- drug admission rates were, in enforcement . The reason African keynote speaker, moderator, and the so-called war on drugs . ducted by the National Institute order: Kern, Calif ;. Atlantic, N J. ;. Americans are so disproportion- media coach . The report’s conclusion was on Drug Abuse, African American Orleans, La ;. St . Louis City, Mo ;. ately impacted may, in part, be re- blunt: “The drug war is primar- adolescents have slightly lower ily being waged against African illicit drug use than their white American citizens of our local ju- counterparts – whether for illicit USING A BIT OF MAGIC AND A DASH OF HOLIDAY CHEER risdictions, despite solid evidence drug use generally or for use of a QUEEN LATIFAH PRODUCES “THE PERFECT HOLIDAY” that they are no more likely than wide variety of specific drugs, in- their white counterparts to be en- cluding crack cocaine…However, COMING SOON TO THEATRES gaged in drug use or drug deliv- in 2003, African Americans youth By R. Lane ery behaviors ”. were arrested for drug abuse vio- New York - (November 26, 2007) Sometimes, it's hard to have yourself a merry The study is titled, “The Vortex: lations at nearly twice the rate of little Christmas when relationships fail, families feud and job prospects seem as The Concentrated Racial Impact whites ”. cold as The North Pole. Thankfully, a new film “The Perfect Holiday,” in theatres of Drug Imprisonment and the All of these factors contribute everywhere December 12th, successfully navigates this treacherous terrain, bringing joy to the world through laughs, lessons, holiday cheer and a whole lot Characteristics of Punitive Coun- to the fact that the U S. . imprisons © of love. Producer and Academy Award nominated actress Queen Latifah leads ties ”. It examined detailed data more of its citizens than any other an all star cast with Morris Chestnut, Gabrielle Union, Academy from 198 large counties (with a country in the world . Award©nominated actor Terrence Howard, Jill Marie Jones and comedians population of more than 250,000) For the first 70 years of the 20th Charlie Murphy, Katt Williams and Faizon Love along for the sleigh ride. Directed and co-written by Lance Rivera, “The Perfect Holiday” that contains 51 2. percent of the century, the U S. . incarceration follows the romantic foibles of Nancy (Gabrielle Union) a divorced mom who U S. . population . rate remained stable at roughly falls for part-time mall Santa and aspiring songwriter Benjamin (Morris “In 2002, African Americans 100 per 100,000 persons . Since Chestnut). Her kids are torn; the two little ones love Benjamin. The eldest prefers their absent, self-absorbed rapper dad J-Jizzy (Charlie Murphy). The drama, and were admitted to prison for drug 1970, the rate has risen to 491 per the fun, escalates when the kids try to play matchmaker and Benjamin must first offenses at 10 times the rate of 100,000, almost five times the pre- pass the test but ultimately choose between Nancy and the kids and his career. whites in the 198 largest popu- vious level . “We're always looking for ways to introduce lighthearted stories that are true reflections of the African American family experience,” says Queen lation counties in the country,” Fueled by mandatory sentenc- Latifah. “This movie has a message of love. How important love is from parents the study found . “Ninety-seven ing and get-tough drug laws, the to children, from woman to man, as well as loving your dreams and going for percent (193 out of 198) of the rate at which people have been them. There is also a message of hope. These three kids maintain the hopefulness and idealism that we as grownups can sometimes forget.” large-population counties have ra- incarcerated has also soared . Be- “The Perfect Holiday” explores these issues and more with a lot of relate to the whole emotional thing of the son being exposed to this new man,” cial disparities in drug admission tween 1995 and 2003, the number humor…and heart. This deft combination helps highlight the struggles adults says Murphy. “As a kid I went through that. I was raised by a step parent so I rates ”. of people in state and federal pris- find themselves in, and possible ways to ease them and find strength in family, went through the whole adjustment of a new man. I also have a stepson that I friends and partners. At the center of the story is Nancy, who runs a single parent raised. I identify totally with the son rejecting the new guy and the bonding home efficiently but it leaves little time for her. process that has to take place between them. Fed up with her loneliness, Nancy tries Acceptance is the biggest problem. That's real. Very to make a life for herself and pursues Benjamin, the real.” www ladatanews. com. mysterious handsome man who pays her a And that doesn't just mean accepting a new face in compliment in a store. But Benjamin has his own the family. There is also the simple acceptance of the concerns, working a part-time job while waiting for parents children know growing apart. “Some kids his break as a musician. Embarrassed of who he is, handle it okay and some take it very personally,” says he leads Nancy to believe he's someone else. Latifah. “Most kids want their parents to get back together just like I wanted my parents to get back Wrangling with self-esteem in romantic relationships together. I had to deal with the reality that they had is just a piece of “The Perfect Holiday's” pie. Family both moved on but they still loved us.” ties get even knottier with the complexity of a single Ultimately, finding and accepting love in whatever parent household and all of the emotional needs that form you can is the message of the “The Perfect must be met. The kids want a father to be present, but the question is who that Holiday.” “At the end of the day,” says Latifah. “This is about keeping that little man should be. Their biological father J-Jizzy puts his career before family. bit of Christmas cheer and magic that in this cynical, dangerous world we can Doting dude Benjamin is attentive but a stranger to them. sometimes forget.” It may be easy to vilify J-Jizzy for his overwhelming self- absorption, but the flip side to his work-oriented ways is evident. Most adults can “The Perfect Holiday” opens in theatres everywhere December 12, 2007. relate to clocking their hours to get paid at the end of the day. “I was able to

TPH_ADVERTORIAL__1/4_6 X 7 Page 12 December 8, 2007 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com

Hornets Hoop for Homes

By Glenn Jones ners are joining in this effort to is available for teachers in public On November 27, 2007 a well provide funding for teachers to re- and private schools throughout deserving New Orleanian, a pillar build their homes, including, The Orleans, Jefferson, St . Bernard, of our community received need- New Orleans Hornets (Hoops for Plaquemines, St John the Baptist ed stability to continue their in- Homes), Tyson Chandler (R2R), and St . Tammany Parishes . valuable work in the community . Neighborhood Housing Services, Molly McKinney is one of the Its no one you’ve probably heard Neighborworks America, Loui- proudest recipients in this proof . A teacher has received funding siana Disaster Recovery Foun- gram . “It’s a blessing; With going to complete the rebuilding of her dation, and the Salvation Army . to work early in the morning and home . As we all know teachers Together they provide financial having to stay late to get class- are among the most unsung he- support in what is being called rooms and lesson plans together roes of our society . A host of part- the Gap funding program which then coming home to grade pa-

left to rt: Ashley Shelton from La. Disaster Recovery Foundation, Don R. Phoenix From Neighborworks(r) America, Hugh Weber team President and COO, Lauren Anderson C.E.O. of Neighborhood Housing Services, Maj. Mike Hawley of Salvation Army, Educator and recipient Molly Mckinney, Center for New Orleans Hornets Tyson Chandler and Councilwoman Willard.

pers, leaves little time to apply Though the Hornets and Neig- for funding and deal with contrac- borworks have invested heav- tors ”. she expressed . Ms . McK- ily in this program, they are still inney also has two daughters in looking for more contributors school . This is a daunting task to extend the programs reach . which many of our teachers are When asked how much the fed- facing . erally funded Neigborworks was Tyson Chandler understands investing in this program Don teachers’ uphill battle and their R . Phoenix of Neighborworks impact on the community . When replied “to date about $270,000 speaking about their impact he along with building materials and noted, “There are a number of supplies ”. Michael Thompson of teachers that have had a lasting the Hornets said this community impact on my life, and giving back involvement is a cue from the top, to the teachers of the community Hornets’ Owner George Shinns’ is one way I can honor their role commitment in turn the Hornets in my life and help to rebuild New commitment to return to the city Orleans at the same time ”. Lau- and to help rebuild the city brick ren Anderson C E. O. . of Neigh- by brick, house by house ”. borhood Housing Services told The Hornets will not build the us that “A lot of programs come practice facility in New Orleans out and sound good but this is East which was once slated under real . We are so excited that an an agreement with the City Coun- NBA team stepped up and is do- cil and other organizations . The ing something that is so tangible first phase of this program will be and very practical ”. Tyson Chan- homes in the Gentilly and Eastern dler’s Rebound to Rebound (R2R) New Orleans areas . The practice program provides $100 for every facility will be adjacent to the rebound made through the 07- New Orleans Arena . The Hornets 08 NBA season . Chandler is ask- are still committed to New Or- ing corporations and community leans East ”. “Our commitment to leaders to step up to the plate by New Orleans East is still strong, matching his contribution . “My George Shinn feels that New Or- hat goes off to Tyson Chandler leans gave him a second chance for showing tremendous leader- before the storm and he wants to ship providing us with a real win- do that for New Orleans after the win ”. said Anderson . storm ”. says Thompson . www.ladatanews.com National News December 8, 2007 Page 13

Blacks Favor Clinton Over Obama, at Least for Now

By. James Wright their views on who would be the ‘’When we are talking about among Black voters, Bositis said . shire and then South Carolina, Special to the NNPA candidate they would most likely Black voters today, we are really ‘’Many of those surveyed in where nearly half of the primary support in the presidential race, talking about Black women,’’ he the South doubt that America is voters, 48 percent, will be Black BALTIMORE (NNPA) - If Illi- important national problems and said . ‘’Sixty percent of the Black ready to elect a Black president,’’ and the majority of those will be nois Sen . Barack Obama and his issues in the campaign . The sur- voters are women . In a way, we he said . ‘’They base that on their women ’’. leading cheerleader, TV mogul vey was conducted between Oct . found many Black women are own experiences, because it is Other results of the survey: and talk show star Oprah Win- 5 and Nov . 2 . torn, should they support a Black difficult for a Black to win a state- *The top three issues for Blacks frey, were counting on the Black Republican candidates for the man or a woman . This is further wide office in the South . So they were the war in Iraq, 28 percent; vote to help him win the Demo- presidency did not do well among complicated by the issues that af- figure, if it is tough in the South, health care, 20 percent; and the fect Blacks and women, they are it must be tough for a Black man economy/jobs, 15 percent . very different ’’. nationally ’’. *Eighty-one percent think that That schism is expected to play One plus for Obama is Afri- the political process in Washing- itself out most dramatically dur- can-American’s preference for ton has broken down; ing the South Carolina primarily, change, 60 percent, to experi- *Blacks think that the charac- where Black women make up the ence, 30 percent . Obama has con- ter of the next president is more biggest Democratic voting block . sistently maintained that he is the important than the issues . Bositis points out that there candidate for change, while Clin- *President Bush has a nega- was a slight gender gap in the race ton points out her years of work tive rating of 87 percent while the between Obama and Clinton, with on a wide range of issues . Democratic Congress is seen un- Clinton posting an 86 percent fa- Bositis said that the key to the favorably by 29 percent of those vorable rating among Black wom- Clinton-Obama contest could be polled . en, while 78 percent of Black men the Iowa caucuses . *While 43 percent indicated rated her favorably . Black men ‘’If Clinton wins big time, it is that their financial status was and Black women rated Obama over,’’ he said . ‘’If Obama wins, unchanged from 2006, more said favorably at the same rate . that will change a lot of things that they were doing worse (32) Obama is also fighting an uphill in terms of whether he can win . than better (24) . battle over the issue of race, even After Iowa, you have New Hamp-

Senators Obama -D(Il) and Clinton -D(NY) lead the other candidates in the race for the Democratic nominee for President with polls shifting back and forth daily for the front-runner position in the primaries.

cratic presidential nomination, Black voters, said David Bositis, the announcement came as a senior policy analyst for the Joint rude awakening . Center, who supervised the sur- Black voters are likely to sup- vey . port New York Sen . Hillary Clin- Former New York Mayor Ru- ton over Barack Obama in their dolph Giuliani led among the small contest over who gets the 2008 number of Black Republicans sur- Democratic Party nomination for veyed, but overall he was viewed president, according to a study of as favorable by 27 1. percent of the African-American voters . people surveyed and unfavorably ‘’Clinton has been known lon- by 43 percent of those polled . ger to African-Americans than The rest of the Republican can- Obama ’’. didates were viewed unfavorably . The study by the Joint Center Clinton, the wife of former for Political and Economic Stud- President Bill Clinton, has several 4GDWKNFKPIVJKUEQOOWPKV[ ies, a Washington-based think advantages over Obama among DGIKPUYKVJHCOKNKGU9GECPJGNR tank, found that Black voters view Black voters, Bositis said . Clinton more favorably than they ‘’Clinton has been known lon- do Obama . ger to African Americans than In the national survey of 750 Obama,’’ he said . ‘’They met her Black voters, Clinton, received in 1992 when she became first .QWKUKCPC5RKTKV*GNRNKPG the highest favorable rating of lady and now they know her as any presidential candidate with 83 the senator from New York . On 6#.- percent and only 9 7. unfavorable . the other hand, they got to know Obama, who is in his first term Obama in 2004 , and he is just in the Senate, followed closely three years into his term as a with 74 percent favorable to 10 senator . unfavorable . Former North Caro- ‘’Plus, Black voters have a lina Sen . John Edwards, who ran very positive view of the Clinton in 2004 for the vice presidency years . Studies have shown that in with presidential candidate John the second Clinton term, Black Kerry, had favorable ratings from household income rose faster 9GECPRWVRCTGPVUKPVQWEJYKVJRTQHGUUKQPCNN[VTCKPGFEQWPUGNQTU 45 percent of the respondents . than White household income . YJQWPFGTUVCPFVJGKORQTVCPEGQHTGUVQTKPIJQRGVQEJKNFTGPKPFGURCKT New Mexico Gov . Bill Richard- Blacks view the Clintons favor- ;QW¶TGTGDWKNFKPI[QW²CPF[QWTHCOKN[2NGCUGECNNWU.QWKUKCPC5RKTKVQTI son was the only Democrat that ably ’’. had a higher negative rating than Clinton’s popularity among #RWDNKEUGTXKEGQHVJG.QWKUKCPC&GRCTVOGPVQH*GCNVJCPF*QURKVCNU a positive, 27 2. percent to 17 4. . Black women in particular works The respondents were asked in her favor, Bositis said . Page 14 December 8, 2007 National News www.ladatanews.com

Sharpton Maintains Heightened Security as Threats Increase

Chicago and Miami because of of the key reasons that he takes Hazel Trice Edney the level of activism at those sites the new threats seriously . NNPA Editor-in-chief and some targeted threats . “You must remember I was WASHINGTON (NNPA) – The “We’ve increased those who stabbed once leading a march ”. Rev . Al Sharpton, looking back travel with us and we’ve increased On January 12, 1991, he was on a year of volatile civil rights those at our headquarters,” he protesting the killing of a Black and race cases, says despite the says . Reportedly, the FBI has also teenager in the predominately false alarm when a prisoner sent warned his staff to not open mail White Bensonhurst neighbor- a harmless substance to his New from certain addresses and police hood in Brooklyn, N Y. . when he York headquarters last month, he squad cars have been sometimes was attacked and stabbed in chest is still constantly concerned for strategically parked outside of by Michael Riccardi, an Italian- his life . NAN headquarters . American weilding a five-inch “We’re getting all kinds of Security has especially been knife . threatening calls . This is just one boosted since the Sept . 20 march Riccardi, who was convicted of that hit the papers,” says Sharpton in Jena, La . In that march, tens first degree assault and served in an interview . “Especially since of thousands of people pushed eight of a 15-year sentence, said Jena and then around the time of for justice in the case of the Jena he had attempted to kill Sharp- the Washington trip . Every time Photo: Allexthea I. Carter Six, Black high school students ton because he thought it would we’re involved, we get threaten- At the recent march on the Justice Department, the SCLC’s Rev. Charles Steele lauds the Rev. charged in the beating of a White make him a hero in his commu- ing phone calls… It’s a recurring Al Sharpton for his leadership on this year’s civil rights issues. Sharpton says his high profile is school mate during racial tensions nity . It was Sharpton’s security increasing threats. problem because that’s part of the after three nooses were hung in a detail who stopped that attack, down side of leadership that peo- so-called White tree then in the apprehended Riccardi and turned ple don’t see . People only see you nizations and news agencies . The “It works up kooks and copy school yard . him over to police . out there on TV . But they don’t FBI successfully traced the sub- cats . Whereas this cat may not The security concerns also “Of course we’ve got to pay understand that also makes you a stance in the mail less than a week have been real, he could have come in a year in which the Ala- more people, pay more for them to target for every nut and bigot in after Sharpton led the U . S . Justice woke us up because now, some- bama-based Southern Poverty travel and all of that,” says Sharp- the country ”. Department against hate crimes . body might think that’s a good Law Center has reported a 40 ton . “But, we take these things Sharpton boosted his already The white substance turned out idea . So it causes a lot of con- percent increase in hate groups seriously cause I know what they escalated security protection after to be only talcum power, Sharpton cern ”. since 2000 . The FBI last month can be ‘cause I almost got killed ”. the FBI warned him and his staff confirmed . Among his 33 National Action also reported an 8 percent rise in on Nov . 21 that a New York state But, he says the high profile Network sites around the country, reports of hate crimes last year, inmate had confessed to sending media coverage on the incidents Sharpton says he has especially from 7,116 in 2005 to 7,722 last a powdery substance to him and has raised prospects for real upscaled security in New York, year . Most were racial attacks . at least six other civil rights orga- threats . Atlanta, Los Angeles, Detroit, Sharpton is quick to recall one

The Samsung Laser Java Copy Zone Copier SCX-6345N 616 Baronne Street Suite 100 New Orleans Louisiana 70113 Take a look at this one-stop 504.301.4934 f: 504.304.0203 digital solution that can [email protected] manage your entire printing workflow. An MFP copier that can match the output of large contract-based A3 copiers, and can also scan, print and fax. With a first copy speed of 5.0 seconds, 50 page ADF and a 620 sheet paper supply, the Samsung 6345N produces high b&w quality copies @ 45 cpm. Add in high performance features like duplex, high capacity paper trays and simple one touch operations and you have a solution capable of the highest workflow demands. With Samsung SCX- 6345N, it's not that hard to imagine. Samsung supplies the very best in quality copier products!

At Sean Taylor Funeral: Jackson Calls for Mourners, Team to Join Push for Gun Control

Afro-American Newspapers, Someone pried open a front win- ing a knee injury on Nov . 11 that NNPA and Wire Reports dow and went through drawers forced him to miss the past two WASHINGTON (NNPA) – and a safe, Taylor reported . The games . Thousands filed into the Florida intruder left a knife on a bed, Taylor has had several brushes International University Arena according to a Nov . 18 police re- with the law and National Foot- Monday to mourn the tragic port . ball League rules since joining death of Washington Redskins Consequently, some have the Redskins . star safety Sean Taylor . questioned the nature of the last In his first year, Gibbs sus- He died in a Florida hospital af- attack . pended him for a game after he ter he was shot in the leg during a Cerrato of the Redskins had al- was arrested for driving under break-in at his Miami home Nov . ready made up his mind . the influence . The charges were 28 . Four men are charged with ‘’This was a deliberate attack’’ later dropped . his killing . he said . A year later, he pleaded guilty ‘’Even champions live in dan- Redskins teammates and offi- after being charged with felony of ger . Not all of us are safe in our cials expressed their dismay fol- aggravated assault with a firearm own house,’’ said the Rev . Jesse lowing his death . for allegedly brandishing a gun in Jackson, among the speakers at For all of us here, we’re obvi- a Miami neighborhood . To avoid the funeral . ‘’Our American house ously in shock,’’ a shaken Coach jail time, he reached a plea agree- is on fire . We’ve accepted violence Joe Gibbs told reporters . ‘’I know ment . He was fined $71,764 by as the norm . It must be rejected ’’. I can’t put it into words ’’. the NFL for violating the personal Jackson has fought for stricter Redskins owner Daniel Snyder conduct clause of his contract . gun laws over the past year . He voiced similar sentiments . The NFL also has fined Tay- has called for the renewal of the ‘’This is the worst imaginable lor for illegal hits, uniform viola- Brady bill which would ban assault tions and weapons and place restrictions on s p i t t i n g the sale of other firearms . on Tampa ‘’One day it’s Columbine . One Bay run- day it’s Virginia Tech,” Jack- ning back son said . “Now it’s Sean Taylor . M i c h a e l We’re slow learners . We’re in a P i t t m a n hole looking for a shovel when during a we need a rope . We need a new p l a y o f f game plan . We need a stronger game in defense…We’re all the safety J a n u a r y now . NFL players, you must play 2006 . the safety between your commu- In the nity and violence now . If we learn past two from his death we’ve saved many y e a r s , a touchdown . In your living and however, dying you still inspire us to win Taylor has the big game ’’. Sean Taylor e a r n e d praise from sleeping with their 18-month- c o a c h e s old daughter when they heard a and team- noise in the house, located in the mates for upscale Palmetto Bay suburb . maturing Taylor grabbed a machete or and bet- knife that he kept by the bed, his ter work fiance said, and locked the bed- Washington Redskin running back Clinton Portis, reveals a t-shirt under his h a b i t s . game jersey paying tribute to slain teammate Sean Taylor during the Sunday room door . game versus the Buffalo Bills in Landover, MD Redskins But the intruder kicked the r u n n i n g door in and fired twice, striking back Clin- Taylor in his leg in the femoral ar- tragedy,’’ he said on the team’s ton Portis, a former University tery, a major blood vessel . The fi- Web site . ‘’Our thoughts and of Miami teammate, said Taylor ance and the child were uninjured prayers are with Sean’s family ’’. had grown up considerably since as Taylor bled to death . D C. . Congresswoman Eleanor the birth of his daughter in May Taylor’s fiance told police she Holmes Norton also expressed 2006 . tried to call 911 from the house her condolensces . Those who came to the funeral line, but it had been cut, said ‘’The Taylor family has my and the millions who watched it Vinny Cerrato, Redskins vice deepest sympathy,’’ she said . on television, reflected sadly on The casket of Sean Taylor is wheeled into the Pharmed Arena at Florida International Univeristy before the funeral ceremony. president of football operations . ‘’May the tragic loss of another his youth and what he might have She used her cellular phone to young man who was on his way become . Meanwhile, over the weekend, that snuffed out the vibrant young call for emergency assistance, up personally and professionally “Professional athletes have Jason Mitchell, Venjah Hunte, life . which delayed the response time . alert his young fans to the life he never known this level of endan- Charles Wardlow and Eric Rivera “God, take care of Sean un- By time medics arrived, Taylor, was building and the necessity to germent,” Jackson said in a state- Jr . were charged with felony mur- til we get home,’’ said Redskins the Redskins’ top draft choice in control guns in our city and in the ment . “This is the struggle of this der, home invasion and armed coach Joe Gibbs . ‘’He had an ex- 2004, had lost a massive amount nation ’’. generation . We will be praying for robbery . They are being held citement for life that is going to of blood . Taylor, who was selected to the new laws that will protect lives without bond . According to re- live forever ’’. The shooting occurred just Pro Bowl for the first time last and the well-being of all ”. ports, police say they have more According to police, Taylor, eight days after Taylor reported year, was having his best season than one confession in the killing 24, and his fiancé, Jackie, were another break-in to his home . as a professional before suffer- NEW ORLEANS IS 1 OF 10 CITIES WITH THE MOST AIDS CASES* In 2005 STAND UP & STOP THE SPREAD OF HIV

STAND WITH ENROLL NOW AT MAGIC ISTANDWITHMAGIC.COM & FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

* www.cdc.gov/hiv/topics/surveillance/resources/reports/I 2005report/pdf/2005SurveillanceReport.pdf accessed 8/14/07 ©2007 Abbott Laboratories Abbott Park, IL 60064 036-11128 Sept 2007 Printed in U.S.A.

9610 036-1128 ROB Ad_mm.indd 1 10/11/07 4:57:00 PM