Lighting The Road To The Future

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“The People’s Paper” November 1 - November 7, 2014 49th Year Volume 27 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive Election 2014

Mary Landrieu Cedric Richmond Chris Bruno Nakisha Ervin-Knott Janet Ahern Data News Weekly Endorsements Page 2 Newsmaker Publisher Donna Brazile Why I Support Leading the Fight for What’s Right Mary Landrieu Page 4 Page 9 Page 2 November 1 - November 7, 2014 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

Data News Endorsements

Throughout the history of America, Blacks have struggled to first gain the right to vote, and secondly, to keep it. We must exercise our right to vote in every election so that our voice can be heard, and the change we seek, can come to pass.

By Terry B. Jones There are many races on the ballot and we at more accessible to the people our elected officials Data News Weekly after carefully looking at some are supposed to serve . It is again time to go to the polls on November of them . We have decided in this issue that we have 4th; making the primary on a Tuesday, which may chosen thus far to endorse these candidates . It is U.S. Senate: Mary Landrieu cause some people difficulties in getting to the a mix of incumbents and one newcomer to elected In the race for the U .S . Senate we endorse Mary polls, so we suggest that if you can please consider politics that we are endorsing in this cycle because Landrieu; she has been a committed leader who has early voting as an option . In the face of many of the we feel some have done an excellent job for their built bridges of understanding between people from challenges that some are making efforts to as far constituents and deserve to be re-elected, while diverse backgrounds and been an effective voice for as people trying to keep some away from the polls others have become comfortable in their seats of Louisiana and the interest of its constituents . Since it is necessary for what is at stake our voices need power and it is important to pump new blood into her election to the U .S . Senate in 1996 she has been to be heard . the veins of government to give it life and make it a staunch advocate for the people of her Congres-

Cover Story, Continued on next page.

DATA NEWS WEEKLY P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 | Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 INSIDE DATA editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors Freddie Allen CEO/Publisher The Bookworm Sez Edwin Buggage Cover Story ...... 2 Commentary . . . 8. . Edwin Buggage Dr. Benjamin Chavis Parnell Herbert Terry B. Jones Newsmaker...... 4 Publisher’s Page . . 9. Editor Glenn Summers MG Calla Victoria Calla Victoria State & Local News . . 5 Home Style . . . .10 . James Washington Art Direction & Production Executive Assistant MainorMedia.com Data Zone ...... 6 National News . . 11. Editorial Submissions June Hazeur [email protected] Book Review . . . 7. . Advertising Inquiries Accounting [email protected] Please call 504-309-9913 for subscription information or to obtain a back issue of the paper ONLY. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story November 1 - November 7, 2014 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

Mary Landrieu Cedric Richmond Chris Bruno Nakisha Ervin-Knott Janet Ahern sional District . As always she is fac- he along with Senator Landrieu the New Orleans Council on Aging court in an efficient and effective public safety is important and we ing a battle from several opponents were able to send about $56 million for his philanthropy with the senior manner and be proactive in cases cannot endanger our citizens and one which is well-funded Republi- in total federal funds for Louisiana community . With his amazing port- on her docket as to create an envi- with the passage of this proposi- can Congressman Bill Cassidy . He that ranged from renovations to the folio as an experienced attorney, ronment where there are fewer de- tion this decision to fund public and his proxy’s inside of elements Fort Polk barracks to ongoing Hur- judge and civic service, he is well lays in the courtroom . safety is in the hands of the voters . of the Republican Party have cre- ricane Katrina recovery projects . suited to retain his seat and we glad- If this Amendment passes it would ated ads that distort and in many He has been a supporter of Presi- ly endorse Chris Bruno for Judge of Constitutional authorize the City to have the flex- instances outright lie about the re- dent Obama and the Affordable Civil District Court Division F . Amendment 6: Yes ibility that other municipalities al- cord of Mary Landrieu . Care Act, fighting to bring health- Data News Weekly supports ready have where the New Orleans She is one of few people on Capi- care for all to Louisiana . We stand Judge Civil District Constitutional Amendment 6 . This City Council can ask the voters to tol Hill who has support on both with him in this fight . Court Division D: amendment raises the cap on the consider an increase to pay for en- sides of the aisle . She is a principled As a leader in Washington, Ce- Nakisha Ervin-Knott millage dedicated to police and fire Cover Story, Continued independent voice that we need in dric is not afraid to make tough Sometimes change is good, and protection in Orleans Parish . Our on page 10. the Nation’s Capitol . Her race along calls . For example, his leading pro- not because someone is absolutely with a few others may determine forma sessions on the floor in Con- doing a bad job, but what happens whether the Democrats continue gress, continuing to do the work of sometimes they have stayed in of- to hold a majority in the U .S . Sen- the people of Louisiana instead of fice too long and not as effective as ate . This is an important race and choosing to go home to campaign someone with a fresh set of eyes we must get out and support Mary like many of his colleagues in the that can possibly give a new vision Landrieu . She is a valuable voice House and the Senate did . We sent and direction to an office . This is and in The U .S . Senate where se- him to work, and that is what he what Nakisha Ervin-Knott has to of- niority matters; she is a voice that has done . We firmly believe in Con- fer . A different vision for Civil Dis- has risen into the ranks of leader- gressman Richmond’s commitment trict Court Division D, she comes ship . She chairs several commit- to the people of New Orleans, and with great credentials . She has tees and is also part of major com- we look forward to his returning to been practicing law for 16 years in mittees and subcommittees that Washington, to continue doing so . a variety of capacities in addition to are important to Louisiana . Some being involved in many civic activi- of which includes the Committee Judge Civil District Court ties including holding the office of on Energy and Natural Resources, Division F: Chris Bruno Past President of the Independent Subcommittee of Homeland Secu- Effective, Efficient, Competent Women’s Organization, a demo- rity and the Ad Hoc Subcommittee and Compassionate are a few words cratic women’s organization dedi- on Disaster Recovery and many that describe Judge Chris Bruno, cated to promoting the issues and others . She is a voice that we cannot who has been sitting on the bench candidates of the Democratic Party . afford to lose on Capitol Hill, so we at Civil District Court since being She is poised and ready to steer the strongly endorse Mary Landrieu in elected in 2008 . He is running for court in a new direction under her her race for the U .S . Senate . re-election on a record of excel- leadership, and we put our full sup- lence, hard work and dedication . port behind Nakisha Ervin-Knott, a U.S. House of In his work in the courtroom his voice of change for the better . Representatives, 2nd docket moves in a timely manner and those who appear in his court Judge Domestic Court Congressional District: matters are and resolved efficiently Section 2: Janet Ahern Cedric Richmond and fairly in a timely manner . He Data News Weekly strongly en- is not only a man who serves well dorses Janet Ahern for Judge of Do- Data News Weekly is proud to in his role on the bench, but in the mestic Court Section 2 . We feel she endorse Congressman Cedric Rich- community as well, serving those has the experience as an attorney mond in his campaign to retain his in need . When not on the bench he handling family law for over two seat and continue to represent Lou- has been involved in many philan- decades . She is a woman with a vi- Highly Qualified, Hard Working, Fair isiana’s 2nd Congressional District thropic efforts . One is helping to sion to bring much needed changes in the U . S . House of Representa- build a new senior activity center to Domestic Court . It is her goal to PLEASE VOTE FOR NAKISHA ERVIN-KNOTT tives . During his time in Washing- on Jackson Avenue for Mercy En- have interpreters available for our ton, D .C ., Congressman Richmond deavors which is a non-profit se- citizens that do not speak English, ON NOVEMBER 4TH 2014 has been responsible for bringing nior activity center catering to all also she would like to take a more back sorely needed funding for denominations . It primarily serves holistic approach and bring in so- projects to assist the citizens of New lower income seniors but is open cial workers to help navigate some Paid for by Nakisha Ervin-Knott Campaign Committee Orleans in our efforts to rebuild our to all . For his dedicated service he of the problems that arise in fam- infrastructure post-Katrina . In 2012, received the Silver Fox Award from ily court . She also plans to run her Page 4 November 1 - November 7, 2014 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com Donna Brazile Leading the Fight for What’s Right Voting is Always Important

By Edwin Buggage on insuring that students have the whole picture of civic engagement . resources they need to attend col- “The roux of our democracy is vot- As we near the November Prima- lege, he is not a yes vote on support- ing, we have to vote, but it does ry there are many races for several ing HBCU’s, he’s not a yes vote on not end with that you have to stay elected offices in addition to several equal pay for women, he’s not a yes engaged . You want appointments, constitutional amendments and lo- vote to help Barack Obama to fight President Obama just appointed me cal ballot initiatives . But the one the Ebola outbreak . He is not just to the Fulbright Board, and I think race that has been getting the most a no vote to President Obama, but I am the second African-American attention is the race between U .S . a no for Louisianans .” Continuing woman ever to be appointed to this Senator Mary Landrieu who is fight- she says, “And you can look at his board . You have to stay engaged . ing to win a fourth term . This race voting record as proof, the NAACP Also we need young people to run has become not only a state but na- compiled a list of all the top issues for office and take positions in gov- tional concern because if Landrieu affecting African-Americans and ernment to have a voice and be at loses her seat it may be the margin Bill Cassidy earned an F, and when the table when decisions are be- of difference that may give the Re- you combine those national issues ing made . I am constantly looking publicans control of both Houses of with those local issues his election for Louisianans to push to get out Congress . Donna Brazile, who is a would not be good for those who there and serve on committees I New Orleans native and national po- have progressive agendas who keep the pressure on Obama I keep litical strategist, TV personality and want to help all the people of Louisi- the pressure on Mary . You keep the author, was in New Orleans work- ana not just a few at the top .” pressure on everybody if your com- Photo: Glenn Summers ing with the Mary Landrieu in her munity is to get what it needs .” bid re-election . Left to right Data News Weekly Editor Edwin Buggage, US Senator The Politics of Inclusion vs. Mary Landrieu, Political Strategist Donna Brazile, Data News Weekly Brazile feels that it is important Publisher Terry Jones. The Politics of Exclusion Continuing the Fight that voters understand that this as Contrasting Mary Landrieu’s for What’s Right is every election important, in some tries for the Koch Brothers . So they to change and it can only happen record to Bill Cassidy she says, Brazile believes that African- instances more important because don’t want someone like Mary who if more people get to the polls . “I “There is a clear difference be- Americans must continue the fight it has a direct impact on local is- believes in equality, and believes hope we can revitalize the two-party tween Mary and Cassidy . He in- to participate and be included . sues . “This is a very consequen- that America needs a raise and be- system in the south, you have Re- sinuates that poor people are in the She feels that today many of the tial election, people believe that lieve in women getting equal pay publicans running everything be- predicament they are in because gains that African-Americans have off year elections aren’t important for equal work and somebody who cause Democrats sometimes don’t they are lazy, when what they need earned they stand on the shoulders because there is not a Presiden- would fight for Louisianans so they get out and vote, African-Americans to uplift themselves are resources of many who’ve came before and it tial Election but I think that non- have to spent a significant amount don’t come out and Republicans and opportunities . Mary has been is our responsibility to honor their presidential elections are essential of money trying to defeat her,” says take over and what happens is a proven leader and whatever the courage and sacrifices . “The right because when turnout is low we Brazile . there is a 99 percent chance that issue is Mary has taken up many to vote wasn’t simply about getting see for example the results of 2010, Since 2008 and the election of they will not support the kinds of causes and she has been doing this access to the ballot box, it is to get when we saw the rise of Tea Party Barack Obama we have seen the issues that African- Americans and for her three terms in office and access to how laws are made and Republicans get elected,” remarks rise of the politics of polarization . others think are important . They she will continue to fight to secure how policy is created and if you Brazile . Continuing speaking of the We have also seen the rise of ex- mock poor people and threaten rights for all the people of the State are not at the table you are on the detrimental aftermath that comes tremism in the Republican Party them with fewer resources and I of Louisiana .” menu .” Continuing she says as to along with non-participation, “Dur- that has voted against their own also believe when they take over Speaking of other Republicans what has become her life’s mission . ing some of these races what we constituents’ interest to score par- they try to diminish our voting across the state and how they have “As long as I am alive I am going to saw were Governors and legislators tisan political points . In addition to rights, they make us re-litigate our not championed causes of poor be at the table even if I have to bring who were elected cut spending on some who have made comments civil rights and they don’t protect people or people of color, “I can- in a folding chair . I will tell anybody education, healthcare and of course that were extreme toward women our equal rights . So I hope we can not remember when Bobby Jindal, to scoot over .” do whatever they could in their as it relates to issues of birth con- continue the progress we have Bill Cassidy or David Vitter stood Recalling her childhood and the power not to work with President trol, rape etc . Brazile feels this is made under Senator Landrieu . But up and fought for our values and solid foundation that was given to Obama .” a troubling trend, “Many of those most importantly Barack Obama when I say our values I mean the her by her parents and how that who are invested in electing Re- have two more years left in office ones that are just as American as has shaped her need to make the Mary Landrieu and the publican candidates like the Koch and I tell my friends don’t just pray apple pie and just as delicious as the world a more just a fair place she Attack on Women by brothers have spent more money for Barack Obama send friends up gumbo we have in Louisiana, but says, “When I think about what’s Right Wing Republicans demonizing female candidates . I be- to Washington that will help him they will not fight for poor people shaped my life I think back to my She feels that this race has be- lieve women are strong and proven raise the minimum wage and equal or uplift African-Americans . Mary childhood growing up in this re- come a national concern because leaders and I think having Mary pay for women . Help him keep our has been tremendous in helping gion and I think back to my parents Senator Landrieu heading the ener- Landrieu remain in the Senate and country safe and secure so that we provide grants and opportunities and I think about Riverdale High gy committee and other issues she having the Democrats retain con- can rebuild our infrastructure and for all people of the state . Also as School and think about my daddy has championed to level the playing trol will provide a good checkpoint bring jobs back to America .” you see in her commercials and in- who caught the bus to work . I think field for many Americans . “I think for what I believe is the right wings When speaking of Mary side her camp many different types about my mother who caught the Louisiana is a very important race extremism over the last six years Landrieu’s main challenger Louisi- of people are under her tent giving bus from Kenner all the way to Or- and the Koch Brothers are spend- since Barack Obama took office .” ana 6th District Congressman Bill their support .” leans Parish to work . They made all ing hundreds of millions of dol- Cassidy; Brazile feels he is not good kinds of sacrifices for us and they lars to get the Republicans to gain Voting and the Power to for Louisiana as she begins to list The Recipe for Civic put eight out of their nine children control of the U .S . Senate . I think Empower Your Community things that would possibly happen Engagement through college because they didn’t they have targeted Mary Landrieu When we look back at the south if Bill Cassidy is elected . “He is not Likening civic engagement to have the opportunity to go to school because she is Chair of the Energy we see states where Republicans a yes vote on raising the minimum gumbo that have many different so I feel we owe it to the next gen- Committee, think about the power hold Governorships as well as the wage, he’s not a yes vote of helping ingredients, Brazile says that vot- eration to stay involved and try to of that seat that regulate oil and gas majority in state legislatures . This to get African-Americans judicial ing is only one piece and there are make the world better for the next and this is one of the major indus- is something Brazile feels need appointments, he is not a yes vote many other things that create the group of Americans .” www.ladatanews.com State & Local News November 1 - November 7, 2014 Page 5

Louisiana Program Failing Hundreds of At-Risk Children

Center (SPLC) and the Advo- torney . “But these children and not receiving the services they youth support and training . Southern Poverty Law cacy Center describe how the their families cannot access the need . The letter describes how By not providing these inte- Center, Advocacy Center CSoC program is plagued with full benefits of the program if there are no crisis stabilization gral services, the program is in Urge Federal Officials to long wait lists and major gaps the state does not provide the providers in the state, leaving violation of the Medicaid Act . in services . The letter can be services they need .” families without appropriate It also violates the Americans Take Action read at: http://sp .lc/133r9I9 . Louisiana’s program was es- support in crisis situations and with Disabilities Act by failing CSoC was created to provide tablished in 2012 with a Med- causing them to rely on the to provide services in the com- NEW ORLEANS, La . – Two mental health and other servic- icaid waiver that allows the very institutions the service is munity to Louisiana’s most vul- civil rights groups urged fed- es to young people in an effort state to use Medicaid funds to designed to avoid . nerable youth, creating an even eral officials today to investi- to keep them in their homes pay for services delivered in The short-term respite ser- greater risk of institutionaliza- gate Louisiana’s Coordinated and communities rather than a young person’s community vice, which provides care to a tion or incarceration . System of Care (“CSoC”) pro- in institutions . Without these or home . It offers five special- youth and a break to the child’s “There is a crying need for gram, which is failing to pre- services, youth end up in hospi- ized services: crisis stabiliza- caregiver or guardian, is also the services that the Coordinat- vent young people with severe tals and jails in order to receive tion, short-term respite care, unavailable to many families ed System of Care promises,” behavioral health needs from mental health treatment . parent support and training, due to a shortage of qualified said Nell Hahn, Director of Sys- being unnecessarily funneled “This program, if implement- youth support and training, providers . Respite care is a key tems Advocacy and Litigation into detention centers and hos- ed properly, could greatly im- and independent living/skills component in preventing chil- at the Advocacy Center . “After pitals . prove the lives of children with building . Statewide expansion dren from ending up in hospi- years of work, these services In a letter to the Centers for severe emotional and behav- of the program is expected by tals and other institutions . The should not just exist on paper . Medicare and Medicaid Servic- ioral needs in Louisiana,” said mid-November . program is also failing to con- At risk children need reliable, es, the Southern Poverty Law Sara Godchaux, SPLC staff at- But many young people are nect families with parent and quality services now .”

GET HIS BACK Republicans have made it clear that they want our President—Barack Obama—to fail.

If you don’t vote this November 4, they win. STand wiT h PRESIdENT OBAmA vOTE dEmOCRAT n ovember 4T h

PAID FOR BY THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL COMMITTEE DEMOCRATS.ORG NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE Page 6 November 1 - November 7, 2014 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Harrah’s Fest Photos by Glenn Summers

Harrah’s Fest New Orleans 2014 celebrated 15 years of entertainment with family and friends on Saturday Oct 25, 2014 and Data was there!!!

Visit www.ladatanews.com for more photos from these events

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Real Talk for Real Times... 1639 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)942-0106 www.wbok1230am.com

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Real Talk for Real Times... 1639 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)942-0106 www.wbok1230am.com www.ladatanews.com BookData Review Zone November 1 - November 7, 2014 Page 7 Justice While Black

You have the right eryone with dark skin knows could make things worse . Turn on the news, pick up to remain silent. about Driving While Black and Know your Constitutional the paper, and you know that Shopping While Black . rights, laws of search & sei- everything’s changed – or has But then, you already know And, of course, there are the zure, and other rules, and it? A basic history of African that . You’ve seen it all your headlines . . teach them to your children . Americans, police, and prison life on TV, read it in books, The fact is that if you’re Shipp says that the Nation of is part of what you’ll find inside heard it in movies . It’s almost black – particularly if you’re Islam has proven the propri- “Justice While Black .” become a cliché . a black male, Attorney Shipp ety of this; rarely does she see Like a gavel on a judge’s You have the right to remain says - you are vulnerable to Muslim clients, in or out of jail . bench, author Robbin Shipp silent, but you also have the right being a potential suspect in a Know how to proceed when (with Nick Chiles) hammers to speak up – which is precisely crime . It doesn’t matter who stopped while driving or walk- home point after important one of the things you don’t want you are, who your father is, or ing . Learn to keep impulses in point on each page, with infor- to do if you’re arrested . In “Justice even if you’re innocent: as soon control when faced with arrest . mation that will make you want While Black” by Robbin Shipp, as you’re put in the back of a Remember that the prison sys- to take notes (but you don’t Esq . and Nick Chiles , you’ll learn police car, you’re probably go- tem is driven by economics . have to; there’s a handy syn- “Justice While Black” why, among other things . ing to jail . Don’t think that you can’t af- opsis in the back) . Her advice It is a sobering story: one in If that happens, the first ford a private lawyer; talent covers adults and children as By The Bookworm Sez three young black men can ex- thing to remember is to go doesn’t necessarily cost much . young as four years old, male “Justice While Black” by Robbin pect to be jailed in his lifetime . against human nature and Ask questions and accept ad- and female, and includes tips Shipp, Esq. and Nick Chiles The number of imprisoned Af- shut up . Be polite, answer vice, but think hard before ac- on minimizing trouble and c.2014, Bolden $14.00 / $17.50 rican Americans is dispropor- questions succinctly, but cepting a plea deal . finding the right attorney . I was Canada 160 pages tionate to the number of jailed don’t try to talk yourself out And above all: never stop Book Review/ whites in this country . Ev- of anything . It won’t work; it hoping . Continued on page 11

ELECTION DAY: NOVEMBER 4

JANET AHERN AND CONGRESSMAN CEDRIC RICHMOND

ENDORSED BY: Congressman Cedric Richmond Clerk of Court Dale Atkins Senator Edwin Murray Councilmember Jason Williams Councilmember Nadine Ramsey State Representative Walt Leger State Representative Helena Moreno State Representative Wesley Bishop Constable Lambert Boissiere, Jr Clerk of 2nd City Court Darren Lombard Constable of 2nd City Court Edwin Shorty EXPERIENCE WE CAN TRUST #65

DOMESTIC SECTION 2

PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT JANET AHERN Page 8 November 1 - November 7, 2014 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

MACY’S Model of Fairness

the observations and reports of est department store chain in the and retail department managers . nities like in Ferguson, Mo ., it was others, there is nothing more in- United States . Given the fact that He said, “Of course Sir, I am the a rather pleasant scene to witness structive that getting a firsthand Black Americans spend in excess manager of the men’s department also in Atlanta and in Washington, experience and knowledge about of $1 .2 trillion as consumers each on this floor . How can I help you?” D .C . to see the actual opposite a matter of serious concern . Over year, one should expect that we I smiled and responded, “Ex- of racial bigotry and prejudice the past several years, there have would be welcomed to shop inside cuse me, I want to know if you are at work again inside of MACY’s been a series of incidents and all major retail stores . indicative of MACY’s commitment department stores in those cities situations where Black Americans When I went inside of the flag- to racial and ethnic inclusivity in respectively . I think other large and others have been targeted for ship MACY’S store at Herald employment, especially at the retail chains should learn from Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. unfair treatment as a result of “ra- Square in New York City recently managerial level?” He said, “Yes I what MACY’s is doing to welcome NNPA Columnist cial profiling .” one evening to purchase a neck am representative of how MACY’s customers and to help engender Racial profiling while driving, tie, I first noticed that there was continues to move forward to give a sustainable generation of mul- I am always on the alert to make walking, shopping, traveling on an unexpected array of Black opportunities for long term career tiracial managers, executives and sure that Black Americans are transportation systems and in American, Latino American, Asian development .” His name was Ste- eventually business owners . treated fairly and justly . No, I do not other places has had a debilitat- American and White American ven and he further affirmed, “Sir, The economic development go around searching all the time ing impact on the intergenera- salespersons . In other words we have a strict non-discriminato- of our communities needs more for what is wrong with society and tional mindset of millions of Black the diversity of the salesforce in ry policy at all levels of MACY’s corporate partners and support- with the world in which we live . Americans . This may surprise MACY’s was very evident . They management and employment . In ers like MACY’s . Let’s remember The truth is whenever it is possible some but I do want to talk about all really exhibited a respectful, fact I take pride in how MACY’s to vote! Let’s continue to demand I would rather point out and lift up what I experienced personally helpful and wholesome attitude today treats all people who shop freedom, justice and equality . If what is right and just . Yet when it this fall while shopping at vari- toward me and other customers here and who work here .” you are going to shop, spend your comes to assessing the progress or ous MACY’S department stores in who were busy looking for the I later journeyed to the west money where we are respected . lack of progress for Black America, New York, Washington, D .C, Los best quality product at the best coast and inside of the MACY’s Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is the Presi- we should avoid being socially and Angeles and in Atlanta . sale price . in South Central LA, I found the dent and CEO of the National politically blind . We must see facts Of course, I had heard that I went over to one young broth- same inclusive array of brothers Newspaper Publishers Associa- tion (NNPA) and can be reached as facts and not become victims be- there had been allegations about er in his late 20s and asked him if and sisters all working together for national advertisement sales cause of the lack of consciousness past incidents of racial profiling I could speak to his floor manager . in the retail sector with a mutual and partnership proposals at: and awareness . while shopping at some of the I wanted to inquire about MACY’s respect for all their customers . At [email protected]; and for lec- tures and other professional con- When it comes to finding out a major department stores across inclusivity not just for the floor a time of severe renewed racial sultations at: http://drbenjamin- set of facts, verses depending on the nation . MACY’s is the larg- salespersons, but also for the floor polarization in too many commu- fchavisjr.wix.com/drbfc

Support Each Other

About a year ago I thought greeted with a warm smile and By Parnell Herbert About 20 years ago I moved to all around us, all we have to do is Pensacola FL . with my job at Bell- seek them out and support them . one of my laptops was ready a friendly “Welcome to The Half Consumers in the African- South . Out of thirteen linemen Recently I have had great experi- for the technological graveyard Shell .” American community are often I was the only Black . To settle ences with three Black owned busi- and I had a virus on the other . Server Dominique Spadone, who criticized for their spending habits . myself in town I began looking nesses . A friend referred me to “Accred- lives nearby, says “It’s a great addi- Not because of their purchases but for a house to purchase but first While paying my cell phone ited Computer Solutions” 7301 tion to the neighborhood . There because of who they spend their I had to find a Black realtor . I pe- bill at Cellular Plus 7190 Down- Chef Menteur Hwy . Bro . Donald is nothing like it in Mid-City .” The dollars with . Or more specifically; rused the yellow pages for a Black man Rd . owner Andre’ Le’Coq Autry gave me a half hour lesson warm and friendly family like atmo- who they do not spend them with… sounding name . I spotted one; asked me about my $50 plan . He in computers while he was re- sphere extends itself to patrons and each other . Willie Mae Stanberry . I dialed the went on to tell me that I could get pairing one and diagnosing the employees alike . Marc, the General It is often said that the Black dol- number and listened for the voice; the same usage from the same other . I learned more from him Manager is the epitome of a people lar circulates one time in our own “Yep . That’s a sister .” To be sure phone, no contract and no start- than I ever thought I would want person; he makes customers feel community and then it leaves . All I asked “Is this business Black up fee without changing carriers to know about computer tech- at home as he treks from table to sorts of figures float around about owned .” I was assured that it was . for $35 per month . They special- nology . He repaired one laptop table chatting with them and prob- other people’s dollars i .e . Asian dol- I met contracted and purchased a ize in “unlimited, no contract on the spot and the other in two ing to find out what he can do to lars turn over five times in their house through her agency . monthly plans . This brother will days . He charged me much less make their next visit an even more communities, White dollars seven I went on to find a Black doctor, actually talk with you and dis- then I had ever spent for comput- pleasurable experience . Our twice times… whatever truth there may dentist, insurance agent and an at- cuss your needs before he sells er repair in New Orleans . weekly happy hour has been a great be in these statistics; we should torney . It presented a challenge but you anything and at the lowest New Orleans is known for its success; Monday and Wednes- support Black businesses . If we it was worth it to me . Pensacola price . I listened to his advice, great restaurants; Marc “Johari” day diners are treated to a dozen don’t, who will? was like 12% Black . When I wanted read the pamphlet he gave me Lawes and family have opened a oysters at regular price and a half How often have you seen a Chi- a haircut I checked the map and and decided to make the change . wonderful new restaurant “The dozen free with a complimentary nese person eat in a soul food res- found M .L . King Blvd . I drove to My bill is now $15 less than the Half Shell Bar and Grill” 3101 glass of wine . Our signature dish is taurant or patronize a Black owned that area of town and it was on . $50 I had been paying for several Esplanade Ave . The only thing Voodoo Blu Oysters .” Try them for cleaners? How many Whites have There were my people . years; thanks to a brother who that impressed me more than an experience you will not regret . you seen in Black doctors or dentist We don’t have those issues in wanted nothing more than to the food is the service . As you We have to step up and support waiting rooms? New Orleans . Black businesses are “Help a brother out .” walk through the door you are each other . If we don’t who will? www.ladatanews.com Publisher Page November 1 - November 7, 2014 Page 9 I’m with Mary Because I Care About Our Future

Since launching his campaign he crucial time for our state is come has not really spelled out an agenda together under one umbrella of our on what he would do, all he’s done shared interest . And I feel the per- is race bait and run negative ads son best equipped for this task is about someone who has been a Mary Landrieu . friend and ally to our community She is our voice and has become and that is Mary Landrieu . She’s powerful in Washington sitting been on the frontlines of many of on and also chairing important Terry B. Jones the things that are important to committees that will bring much Publisher, us and unlike Bill Cassidy she has needed resources into the state Data News Weekly been all inclusive in her campaign that will help all the people not It is time to get to the polls and as evidenced by her support from a just a few as would be the case if let your voices be heard . We cannot broad cross-section of people from Bill Cassidy is elected . His record allow the hands of time to be turned both parties and varied interest speaks for itself; the N .A .A .C .P back by our non-participation and across the state . gave him an “F” when grading let Bill Cassidy become our U .S . When I think of Bill Cassidy his voting record in regard to Senator . If we do this it would be the and look at his ads, what I see re- the issues that affect African- nail in our coffin as it relates to our minds me of my City growing up in Americans . We cannot afford to agenda . This is a person who along the 1960’s . A world where African- gamble with our future . We have with other Republicans at the state Americans occupy the margins of to come out in large numbers and and national level are against the society . In his ads you don’t see vote for Mary Landrieu because poor, against ensuring your right any of us, or any persons of color, we deserve leadership that will to the ballot, are enemies of our el- or young people . In my opinion he address our needs and concerns . derly, of veterans and a host of oth- is a fossil stuck in the past and try- So I am Terry Jones, Publisher of er things . He is part of a chorus of ing to drag our state down a road Data News Weekly, “The People’s Republicans where all they can say we fought hard to leave and never Paper” and I care about our future is “no” to everything . United States Senator Mary Landrieu return to . What we must do in this and that is why I’m with Mary .

In The Spirit Spiritually Speaking.... Refresh with Paul

with one another, I can’t help but my weaknesses, so that Christ’s attack by old friends . It is also he’s been through and has expe- consider the impact of this tan- power may rest on me . That is not unusual for new Christians rienced the worst that life has to dem on human history . Just in why, for Christ’s sake, I delight to come under the attack of the offer . But because of his belief case someone wants to debate me in weaknesses, in insults, in hard- world, since it is in the world that system, he’s experienced the best on this by bringing up the lives of ships, in persecutions, in difficul- Satan has some degree of power . I of God’s promises . It’s like a re- the 12 apostles, I have considered ties . For when I am weak, then I think Paul’s good news is there is fresher course and I just wanted them as well as the prophets and am strong .” 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 . a place of refuge for all of us, when to let you know where I go during I’m just one of those who is in awe This kind of thinking and belief this happens . He uses himself as difficult times . You might also find James Washington of Paul . A very large part of the led to the eventual proliferation an example to follow . some answers there . The point I’m Guest Columnist bible is devoted to Paul’s build- of the church worldwide . It also If I surrender my weaknesses trying to make is that in the eyes ing of the early church at a time makes the point of how the lives to the power of Christ and subju- of God, one’s weaknesses are wel- when who you worshipped was a of so few have impacted and influ- gate my will to that of the Lord’s, comed opportunities for God to I remember reviewing the let- life and death decision . enced so many in the world then, then I become empowered to deal show up and show out . Have you ters of Paul in bible study . In doing Paul himself says in his letters and also in the world as we know with whatever is thrown my way . ever wondered why those who so I was constantly reminded that to the church in Corinth, there it today . Forgive me if I find this Life, the Christian life, is funny have been through so much are one cannot look at Paul without was indeed a point to his suffer- a rather fascinating fact . Paul is that way . It places what I have able to stand and witness mightily really seeing Jesus’ amazing hand- ing and persecution and the basis who he is because of his unique described as a bulls- eye on your for Christ? Reexamine the reality iwork . Now you need to know that for most, if not all, of what he went one on one encounter with Christ . back, designed to distinguish you of God’s grace and you just might I think Paul is an awesome person through was a by product of his That encounter changed him and from those non believers around get your answer . when it comes to the story of his faith in Jesus Christ . It’s another ultimately the world in which we you . It, your faith, also sets you up May God bless and keep you life . I haven’t found a biography or perspective of one of my favorite live . If that be true, then our in- and apart to do great things in the always. autobiography of anyone in or out- scriptures . “But He said to me, dividual encounters with Christ name of Jesus Christ, my personal side of the ‘good book’ who comes “My grace is sufficient for you, should also have a profound effect Lord and Savior . I guess what I’m James Washington is President & close to my admiration for Paul; for my power is made perfect in on us and the world in which we really saying is when the going Publisher of the Dallas Weekly and Vice President and General Man- Jesus notwithstanding . Because weakness . Therefore I (Paul) will currently live . It is not unusual gets extremely tough, check the ager of the Atlanta Voice News- the two are so closely associated boast all the more gladly about for new Christians to come under human being Paul . Like Christ, paper. Page 10 November 1 - November 7, 2014 Home Style www.ladatanews.com

Illuminating Plant Creations

mature and start emitting light after By LMG Calla Victoria two months . Natural lighting is about to take As a Master Gardener I am on a whole new meaning if the sci- amazed and in awe of these new entist at Glowing Plant have their agricultural creations . The con- way . They have created glow-in-the- cept of electricity without electric- dark plant material, yes plants that ity but through vegetation is mind light up when the sun goes down . boggling . Imagine glowing trees So forget the solar garden lights, someday lighting up the night cre- pathway lights, and solar flower ating luminous vistas and saving pots that illuminate your gardens by cities millions by discarding street night, just plant some glow-in-the- lights . Most large trees like oaks dark plants . And save on your utility take years to reach their mature bills with glow-in-the-darks plants heights, but perhaps the Plant Sci- instead of night lights in the home . ence gurus will start experimenting Can you imagine buying a potted with fast-growing trees like angels glow-in-the-dark Christmas tree, trumpets, one of my favorites . no more untangling and stringing Imagination, innovation, and sus- lights! This is a case of life definitely tainability are the fuel that makes imitating art, the ethereal glowing minescent marine bacterium Vibrio that plant life could interpret them . importantly, Arabidopsis has a very the Glow Plant project a success . forest featured in the movie Avatar fischeri to create bioluminescent or Finally the DNA genes were intro- short life cycle about six weeks The company has raised over will be coming to a backyard near glow-in-the dark plants . duced to plant material . from germination to seed matura- $600,000 in pre-orders for these fas- you very soon . Yes fiction has be- The first step in the process was The host plant of choice in these tion and because they are self-pol- cinating plant innovations, and yes come science and as Glowing Plant to extract the luminescent DNA amazing experiments is the Ara- lenating many seeds can be har- you better believe my pre-order is C .E .O . Anthony Evan says, “We are from the marine life and fireflies . bidopsis thaliana, which is a small vested very quickly . Glow Plant’s in that number . Orders are sched- only limited by our imagination!” Then the teams manipulated the flowering plant that is widely used science gurus, using a gene gun uled to ship late Fall of 2014, while Barely one year old the San Fran- DNA via Do-It-Yourself Bio Labs as a model organism in plant biol- filled with high-pressure helium, glowing rose plants will ship in the cisco based, Kickstarter funded, in California . Then they had DNA ogy . Arabidopsis is a self-pollinating blast the newly created and rewrit- summer of 2015 . For further infor- company Glowing Plant is propel- sequences designed online on a herb and member of the mustard ten DNA sequences into the small mation Glowingplant .com ling botany light-years into the fu- computer using special Biocad (Brassicaceae) family . Arabidopsis plant cells of the Arabidopsis on a ture . Their team of Stanford-trained software then they made the DNA offers important advantages for petri dish . The sequence contains Check out my “Garden- Plant science Gurus, using syn- sequences using DNA laser print- basic research in genetics and mo- luciferase, the light-emitting com- ing Tip of The Week” at thetic biology, have combined the ing… . .What, are you kidding me? lecular biology because of its exten- pound found within fireflies . Only thegardeningdiva.com. DNA of those wonderful light bugs Then those newly engineered DNA sive genetic and physical maps of all less than 1 percent of the plants ac- Remember, never get too busy to (fireflies), with plants and with lu- sequences had to be rewritten so 5 chromosomes are available . Most cept the genes, but the ones that do stop and enjoy the beautiful flowers!

Book Review, Continued Cover Story, Continued from page 3. from page 7. hanced police and fire protection . Ninth Ward of the City of New includes funding the operations ing resurgence in its rebuilding it Under the existing law, the City of Orleans? We feel if this amend- of the jail . If this passes the City is important that Disadvantaged New Orleans cannot increase the ment is in place with the things in will not have to cut services to pay Business Enterprises (DBE’s) are millage dedicated to public safety place that give people at all levels for operations cost and fulfill the in the mix receiving a chance to to pay for more police officers . This a chance to either own property mandates of the consent decree or benefit from the business activity in amendment empowers the people or incentivize starting a business most importantly the City will not the City . If this City is to thrive then of Orleans Parish to have a hand in in the Lower Ninth Ward then it have to increase taxes to of its citi- all must be awarded opportunities creating solutions to the problems would be a good thing for the City . zens . Also giving the City flexibil- to participate . With the passage of of public safety and it is an invest- ity by passing this proposition can this amendment hopefully, it would ment worth making for our City The Law Enforcement help save jobs for City employees level the playing field for small, lo- moving forward . District Proposition PW Law who may lose their jobs if some cal businesses to be able to partici- Enforcement District: Yes City services have to be cut . pate in work done by the City . We at Constitutional Data News feels that we must So we in the “New” New Orleans Data News feel protecting our right Amendment 13: Yes vote yes on this proposition that if feel we must support this proposi- to participate is important . And to We at Data News would like passed would allow the City of New tion to help deal with having a more go further that this amendment is to see the re-population of the Orleans to pay for the Orleans Par- efficient and effective Criminal Jus- only at a minimum, our goal should Lower Ninth Ward . We believe ish Sheriff’s Office consent decree tice System . be to go beyond getting small jobs that if incentives were put in place without raising taxes or cutting city as subcontractors and be the prime astounded at this book (oh, those and pricing made affordable for services . With its passage funds The City Charter contractors as well . It is time to stats!) and at what can be learned in more people to purchase property can be contributed to assist the Amendment on City compete on all levels and playing 160 short pages . or land in this devastated area it City in pay for the consent decree Contracting PW HRC the game at all levels without barri- While Shipp adamantly states could help to repopulate this his- with an existing millage the 2 .9 Amendment Sec. 6 ers to entry, so this is why we sup- that this book doesn’t replace face- toric area . Therefore, we support Law Enforcement District mill- (Contracts to Which port this amendment . to-face counsel, I absolutely believe proposed Amendment No . 13 that age . But under the current law the City is a Party): Yes its $14 price tag is an invaluable authorizes the governing author- money can only be spent to build This is an important change that Data News Weekly Encour- beginning for your family’s protec- ity of the City of New Orleans to things, but if this proposition pass- would help many minority owned ages You to Get Out and Get In- tion . For you, “Justice While Black” sell at a price fixed by the legisla- es it can give the City the flexibil- businesses to get a piece of the volved In Shaping Your Future. could be the right book on your ture property located in the Lower ity it needs to do other things that economic pie . As this City is see- Get Out and Vote! shelf . www.ladatanews.com National News November 1 - November 7, 2014 Page 11

Civil Rights Groups Rally Voters for Nov. 4 Elections

that an even higher percentage use at stake and is threatened and that’s restrictions, then it really thwarts By Freddie Allen Association for the Advancement out-of-precinct voting . what I see happening right now .” the ability of the majority of the peo- NNPA Senior Washington of Colored People (NAACP) and Barber expressed concerns that Hair continued: “When you see ple in this country to govern and Correspondent other individual plaintiffs, sued the state of North Carolina within 20 people are going to show up to the this happening in so many states that’s the intent: to allow a minority WASHINGTON (NNPA) – As minutes after Republican Gover- wrong precincts to vote, while oth- across the country, where redis- to govern indefinitely . And, that to voters prepare to cast ballots in the nor Pat McCrory signed the voting ers will assume that they can still tricting is being layered with voter me, is terrifying .” first federal general election since rights bill . do same-day registration, because the United States Supreme Court “We call it the ‘monster bill’ be- they’ve been doing it for three elec- shredded a key provision of the Vot- cause it is more comprehensive in tion cycles . ing Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) with its evilness than most of the other “What this general assembly the Shelby County v . Holder deci- laws,” said Hair . “It went after ev- did is take away from citizens an sion, civil rights groups are gearing erything .” extension and expansion of the up to make sure those voters can The North Carolina voting law franchise of the voting that they still cast ballots . cut same-day registration during had already experienced and ex- Under Section 5 of the VRA, early voting, ended pre-registration pect,” said Barber . states and jurisdictions with egre- for 16 and 17 year-olds, restricted Johanna Berkson, executive di- gious histories of racial voting dis- straight ticket voting and out-of-pre- rector of OurTime .org, a nonprofit crimination were prohibited from cinct voting, and installed a strict group that empowers and mobi- changing any voting laws without voter ID provision, that will nega- lizes young people to address vot- “pre-clearing” the changes with tively impact the poor and Black ing reform, college affordability, the Department of Justice . Sec- voters in the state . equal rights, and job opportunities, tion 4 of the VRA determined the Since the Shelby v . Holder deci- said that 45 percent of eligible vot- pre-clearance formula and which sion, the Department of Justice has ers,18-29 years-old, showed up at states, most of them in the South, filed lawsuits in Texas and North the polls in 2012, but only 22 per- were covered . Carolina challenging the states’ cent voted in 2010 . During a press briefing with new voting laws . The Justice De- “[We’re not] kidding ourselves,” reporters, Penda Hair, co-director partment also sued Texas over 2011 said Berkson . “We know that the for the Advancement Project, a redistricting plans that diluted the midterms are really tough to get multi-racial civil rights group, said voting power of minorities in the young Americans out to vote .” that protecting voters from dis- Lone Star State . The group will spend the last crimination under Section 5 was Rev . William Barber, the presi- days before the midterm elec- a really effective practice and it dent of the NAACP’s North Caro- tions focusing on “pledge to vote” stopped states from moving the lina branch and the leader of the efforts and connecting with reg- ball all the time as they attempted Moral Monday Movement, said istered voters 18-29 years-old, be- to block poor and Black voters that when African Americans cause registered voters are more away from the ballot box . started winning seats in the state likely to cast ballots . Hair said that Section 5 resulted legislature, conservative lawmak- “If you disagree with tax policy in many objections over the years, ers led by Rep . Thom Tillis (R- or Medicaid policy or you like but it also trained the states to do N .C .), the speaker of the House, Obamacare or don’t like Obam- things right because they knew if perverted the intent of the Vot- acare, you can vote and make your they submitted some questionable ing Rights Act and “committed voice heard,” said Hair . “When voting law change that they would to stack, pack and bleach African they take away your right to vote be rejected . American voters” using redistrict- or when they make your right to In last summer’s Shelby County ing plans that shifted 52 percent of vote more difficult to exercise or v . Holder decision, even though the the Black voters into 27 out of 120 when they redistrict in such a way Supreme Court acknowledged that House districts and 49 percent that even if you do vote there’s racial discrimination in voting still of African Americans into 19 out very little chance that you can existed, it ruled that the formula of 50 Senate districts, “creating a actually elect a person that will (Section 4) that was used to deter- brand new Apartheid-type voting represent your interest, then I mine which states were covered patterns” that prevented Blacks really am terrified that the funda- was unconstitutional, effectively and progressive Whites from mental democracy is at stake and ending protection for voters under forming fusion coalitions to elect is threatened and that’s what I see Section 5 . the candidates of their choice . happening right now .” “The Shelby decision seemed to Even though Black voter turn- “If you disagree with tax policy or open the floodgates to discrimina- out reached historic levels in North Medicaid policy or you like Obam- tory voting practices that the states Carolina in 2012, Barber said that acare or don’t like Obamacare, had been wanting to implement conservatives were still able to win you can vote and make your voice but knew that they could never get a super-majority, partly due to how heard,” said Hair . “When they take them cleared by the Department of the voting map was drawn . away your right to vote or when Justice,” said Hair . “Even before the Barber said that what happened they make your right to vote more ink was dry on the Shelby decision, in N .C . is full proof of why the state difficult to exercise or when they North Carolina and Texas moved needs a Section 4 fix, adding that redistrict in such a way that even very aggressively to cut back on an updated Section 4 must cover all if you do vote there’s very little voting rights .” states that were previously covered . chance that you can actually elect Hair said that the Advancement Barber said that more than 42 a person that will represent your Project, representing the North percent of Blacks use same-day interest, then I really am terrified Carolina’s branch of the National registration during early voting and that the fundamental democracy is