42Nd Annual Bayou Classic

Lighting The Road To The Future Victory Night Celebrations

Data Zone Page 7

“The People’s Paper” November 28 - December 4, 2015 50th Year Volume 31 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive 42nd Annual Bayou Classic

Are you Ready? Page 2 Newsmaker In The Spirit Data’s Poll Laying Down Picks Victorious the Right Tracks

Page 4 Page 9 Page 2 November 28 - December 4, 2015 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

It’s Bayou Classic Time Are You Ready?

By Data News Weekly Staff versity and Grambling State University ment, tradition, sportsmanship, marching bands, and The Bayou Classic is a football game and so much friendly competition . The “Classic” is an exhibition of Tigers Jags Historic Rivalry – 2015 marks the more! The Bayou Classic commemorates historically the high standards of academic achievement deeply 42nd annual meeting of HBCU rivals Southern Uni- Black colleges and universities, academic achieve- embedded in the traditions of the two institutions .

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 Art Direction & Production CEO/Publisher Tatyana Aubert MainorMedia.com Kichea S. Burt Cover Story ...... 2 In The Spirit . . . 9. . Edwin Buggage Editorial Submissions Benjamin F. Chavis datanewseditor@ Editor bellsouth.net Newsmaker...... 4 State & Local News . 10 Julianne Malveaux Calla Victoria Advertising Inquiries Alexia Pierre datanewsad@ Executive Assistant Data Zone ...... 6 National News . . 11. Glenn Summers bellsouth.net Distribution June Hazeur Charlie Turner Commentary . . . 8. . On The Run Accounting Lagloria Wheatfall Courier Services 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 28 - December 4, 2015 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

allow us to bring The Bayou Classic November . A week of events fea- TrueBLUE Donor to fans on more platforms than ever turing a parade, fan festival and the Appreciation Gala before .” Battle of the Bands culminates with Presented by the Southern Also new for 2015, the kickoff Saturday’s Bayou Classic football University System Foundation time for the Annual Bayou Clas- match-up . Friday, November 27, 2015 sic has been moved from its tradi- Hyatt Regency Hotel - tional 1:30 pm CST to a new kickoff The Bayou Classic Empire Ballroom time of 4:00 pm CST . This is also a Thanksgiving Day Featured artist: Rachell Ferrell change from earlier dissemination Parade 8:30pm - 12:30 am of a 2:00 pm CST kickoff . Presented in partnership with For more information, “This later kickoff time makes the French Market please call (225) 771-3911 this the first time The Bayou Classic Thursday, November 26, 2015 will see a prime-time matchup both Mercedes-Benz Superdome to Fan Fest in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome the French Market Presented By Cox Louisiana and on broadcast,” added Belletto . 3:30 pm Saturday, November 28, 2015 “While our relationship with NBC Champions Square Sports is longstanding, this new 11:30 am - 3:30 pm relationship opens up additional Career & College Fair avenues to expand the breadth of Friday, November 27, 2015 Bayou Classic-related sports pro- Hyatt Regency Hotel The 42nd Annual Bayou Grambling State University and sity today is part of the only Histori- gramming both in the game broad- 10:00am - 2:00pm Classic Southern University are public, cally Black Land Grant University cast and in advance promotions and Southern University Jaguars vs. four-year institutions of the Histori- System in the United States . marketing efforts .” The Battle of the Bands Grambling State University Tigers cally Black Colleges and Universi- Southern University is commit- & Greek Show Saturday, November 28, 2015 ties (HBCU) . Both are recognized ted to a broad program of research The Bayou Classic Events Presented by Sheen Magazine Mercedes-Benz Superdome for their academics and athletics, and creative work to inspire faculty The Bayou Classic is more than Greek Show 4:00 pm CST and their rivalry is on display each and students in a quest for knowl- a football game . This annual event year during the Bayou Classic . edge and to aid society in resolving is one of the country’s greatest The Battle of the Bands Gospel Brunch Grambling State University is lo- its scientific, technological, socio- college sports rivalries, bringing Presented by USMC Sunday, November 29, 2015 cated in Grambling, Louisiana, and economic, and cultural problems . the fans and Alumni of Southern Friday, November 27, 2015 House of Blues Southern University is located in Southern University has one of University and Grambling State Mercedes-Benz Superdome 10:00am Baton Rouge . the most celebrated athletic pro- University to New Orleans each 6:00pm - 10:00pm grams in the Southwestern Athletic Grambling State University Conference (SWAC), including 14 Grambling State University com- NCAA recognized sports in addi- bines the academic strengths of a tion to the university’s intramural major university with the benefits program . The campus is also the of a small college, a combination home of the world-traveled South- that enables our students to grow ern University Marching Band, the and learn in a serene and positive renowned Dancing Dolls, and SU environment . Cheerleaders . Grambling State University of- The Bayou Classic Team an- fers more than 800 courses and 68 nounced today that the 42nd An- degree programs in five colleges, nual Bayou Classic will once again including an honors college, two be broadcast on NBC, but this year professional schools, a graduate will move to the broadcast compa- school, and a Division of Continu- ny’s cable network – NBC Sports ing Education . National and local Network . The agreement between employers recruit graduates from The Bayou Classic and NBC Sports Grambling’s excellent nursing, Group extends the broadcast of the computer science, teacher educa- Bayou Classic on NBC Sports Net- tion, and other programs . work for another year . In addition to being one of the country’s top producers of African- NBC Television American graduates and the top NBC Sports Group has been the producer of Computer Informa- home of The Bayou Classic since tion Science graduates in Louisi- 1991 . The Bayou Classic has been ana, Grambling is the home of the televised nationally by NBC . The internationally renowned Tiger national broadcast attracts an audi- Marching Band and the “win- ence of four to five million viewers . ningest” coach in college football, “The landscape of television the legendary football coach Eddie sports is changing and it is impor- Robinson, Sr ., whose tenure is me- tant to us that The Bayou Classic morialized in a campus museum, continue to be an integral part of funded and operated by the State of that landscape,” said Dottie Bellet- Louisiana . to, President of New Orleans Con- vention Company, Inc . (NOCCI), Southern University the Management Firm of the 42nd Southern University and A&M Annual Bayou Classic . “Coming College is a comprehensive insti- off one of Bayou Classic’s best and tution offering four-year, graduate, most dramatic seasons in decades, professional, and doctorate degree we could not be more proud to ex- programs, fully accredited by the tend this historic partnership and Southern Association of Colleges are excited that this extension of- and Schools (SACS) . The Univer- fers enhanced opportunities that Page 4 November 28 - December 4, 2015 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com Results of the Runoff The return to the polls yields big results for Data Endorsed Candidates

By Charlie Turner in lieu of Tea-Party Republicans . But ultimately, Jindal’s descent investment in higher education . If a community leader and a knowl- @charliemichio When Mary Landrieu lost her to a 20% approval rating, 55% Edwards can get this conservative edgeable legislator in his own Data News Weekly senate seat in 2014, everyone was amongst Republicans, may have state’s congress to cooperate on right . He plans on bringing com- Staff Writer reminded of the steady GOP take- been what doomed Vitter who such measures is another conversa- mercial centers back to NOLA East Photo by Glenn Summers over of the American south that has near identical policy views tion . But he has momentum behind with empowered traditional public began with the backlash from the as the term-limited Governor . him and a willingness to challenge schools to prevent children from For those who did not receive 1964 Civil Rights Act . Attacks on Vitter’s involvement the network of business tax credits having to commute to charters in 50% or more of the vote during the During those 2014 midterms, in the DC-madam prostitution ring and industry groups that defined other neighborhoods . open primary were subject to a ‘run- Sen . David Vitter appeared to be clearly did not help the senator’s the Jindal administration . Edwards off election’ where the two highest one of, if not the most, powerful poll numbers, but it is difficult to say is far from a radical progressive State Representative vote-getters go head to head . With politicians in Louisiana . He was a if they were the main reason for his but does offer a change from the 99th District: Jimmy Harris the exception of David Vitter, every loud and disruptive force in DC defeat considering his smooth 2010 tea-party politics that have defined Defeats Ray Crawford other runoff candidate belongs to who increasingly became a voice reelection . It is possible that voters many statehouses over the past ten Jimmy Harris, longtime aide to the Democratic Party . for conservatives and anti-Obama simply act on different priorities in years, Louisiana included . US Rep . Cedric Richmond, hand- sentiment . All the while Bobby senate races compared to guberna- ily beat the politically unknown Louisiana Governorship: Jindal’s building absenteeism torial ones . But what seems undeni- State Senate 7th Rev . Crawford to represent large John Bel Edwards in office, controversial budget able is that Jindal is leaving behind District: Troy Carter swaths of the Ninth Ward . Like Defeats David Vitter proposals and refusal to expand a desire for political change from a Defeats Jeff Arnold many politicians representing the A Democrat will be the next Gov- Medicaid seemed to make him conservative ideologue, which did Rep . Arnold has a reputation Lower Ninth, Harris wants to focus ernor of Louisiana, a prospect that more divisive by the day . Once not bode well for Vitter . for being a fierce advocate for Al- efforts on developing the blighted seemed unthinkable in a state that the budget busted in 2015 and Besides bringing a new politi- giers even if it meant alienating the neighborhood . He supports using seemed to only get redder . State- Jindal’s blind Presidential ambi- cal party to the statehouse, an Ed- Mayor or his colleagues . His name certain tax incentives to encourage houses all over the South seemed tions were exposed, Vitter’s stat- wards Administration will bring recognition and political following economic activity . But with a bud- beyond the reach for Democrats ure atop the state’s Republican a push for Medicaid expansion, a easily got him past the primary, get deficit largely caused by gener- as moderate voices disappeared leadership seemed cemented . higher minimum wage and more but not enough to beat Troy Carter ous tax credits, it may prove hard to in the runoff . Carter is a diplomat use such a legislative tool right now . who has been successful in pass- ing legislation on both the state and Member of School Board city level . His parliamentary skills District 1: John Brown coupled with his affable persona Defeats Keith Barney should make him an effective sena- Brown gets elected to a full term tor in Baton Rouge . on the School Board after being appointed to replace Ira Thomas State Representative who was indicted on corruption 100th District: John charges . The board is in the middle Bagneris Defeats Alicia overhauling the fully charter school Plummer Clivens system that has faced criticism for a Bagneris beat Clivens despite lack of oversight . Brown will be in her allegations that he owes over a position to affect a school system $200,000 in tax debts . While his teetering between private and pub- family name (brother of mayoral lic management . candidate Hon . Michael Bagneris) Election Night Highlights on Data surely helped his candidacy he is Zone Page 7

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9th Annual Oak Street Po Boy Festival By Kichea S. Burt Data News Weekly Contributor

ast Sunday, the Oak Street business corridor in the neighbor- hoodL of Carrollton was transformed into one of the most unique festivals in the world, the Oak Street Po- Boy Festival! This event featured some of the fin- est restaurants, artists and musicians in the Crescent City, all coming together in appreciation of one of New Orleans most distinct and delicious creations… The legendary Po-Boy Sand- wich . Over 40 different food vendors were serving up their own take on this tasty classic while some of the best local bands in town provide the soundtrack . On top of all the fantastic food and music, Po-Boy Fest is also excited to add the return of an Arts Mar- ket! Food, Music, Art and Oak Street? Doesn’t get much better!

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

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Victory Night! Photos By Glenn Summers Data News Weekly Contributor

Governor-Elect Edwards in the second-line

Terry Jones, Publisher, Data News Weekly and Governor-Elect Edwards in the second-line Governor-Elect John Bel Edwards

City Councilman Jared Brossett and Terry Jones

Governor-Elect Edwards and his brother who introduced him

Terry Jones and Cedric Smith Terry Jones and Troy Carter, State Senator-Elect for Blair Boutte’, Blair Bail Bondsman and Senator- District 7 Elect Troy Carter Visit www.ladatanews.com for more photos from these events Page 8 November 28 - December 4, 2015 Commentary www.ladatanews.com Stop the Trivialization and Preservation of Slavery and Racism

turies of oppression and economic federacy prior to, during, and after phy represents Vivian Whylly, a truth is that many Bahamians took injustice, we should be always the Civil War take unprecedented 53-year-old native Bahamian of Afri- to the streets back in 2013 to protest aware of the challenges and respon- steps to “preserve” and “conserve” can descent whose ancestors were the Audubon’s actions concerning sibilities to advance the cause of former slave plantations? brought to Bahamas in slave ships Bacon and his public proclivities to freedom and human dignity . In fact, the National Audubon and then worked and died as slaves trivialize the legacy and horror of Usually the standard principles Society, one of the world’s lead- on the former Whylly Plantation at the slavery of African people . of preservation and conservation ing conservation organizations, is Clifton Point . To my personal surprise as a re- are used by people who are com- now weighing an urgent request A relevant note is that Murphy sult of some independent research mitted to caring for the protection to strip New York hedge fund giant also successfully represented the about Louis Moore Bacon, I also Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. of natural resources . Also conser- Louis Bacon of an Audubon Society family of Freddie Gray this year found that he is spending a lot of NNPA Columnist vationists and preservationists are award that he received in 2013 for after Gray died horrifically in Bal- money in the state of North Caro- supposed to help people to enjoy his work in the Bahamas . Bacon timore City police custody . Ac- lina to “preserve” and renovate the As one of the co-founders of and appreciate the magnificent had attempted to preserve a histor- cording to Murphy, Bacon misrep- Orton Slave Plantation in the south- the evolving environmental justice bounty of all of creation . Wow, these ic slave plantation in the Bahamas resented the facts in getting the eastern region of the state . Orton movement worldwide, I am always are lofty terms . and the Audubon Society originally award and he also made racist com- Plantation at one time was one of interested in how some people to- So how is it that there is a billion- thought that Bacon was up to some- ments in his acceptance speech at the largest and most brutal slave day who have amassed billionaire aire named Louis Moore Bacon who thing positive and good . the Audubon ceremony . Allegedly plantations in North America . financial status view racism, slav- prides himself as a conservationist, But in a recent letter to Audubon Bacon went so far as to praise the Bacon’s motives are not only ery and the issues of diversity and but yet finds himself now at center CEO David Yarnold, famed civil slave-justifying novel “Gone with questionable, but also as more and inclusion . But first, let me state for of expanding allegations of racist rights and high-powered African the Wind” as his “holy book .” more research is conducted by the record, I believe in economic actions in the Bahamas as well as American lawyer, William H . “Bil- “It was Mr . Whylly and a handful Harvard University Professor Hen- empowerment and freedom for all in the United States? Why would ly” Murphy Jr ., has challenged the of other local activists who spear- ry Louis Gates and other scholars people . a very successful businessman Audubon Society and demanded headed the 1999 movement to turn about the quantitative impact of the Especially for people of African whose family was involved in the that the unjustified award to Ba- the plantation into a heritage park,” Commentary, descent that have experienced cen- founding and funding of the Con- con be rescinded . Attorney Mur- Murphy wrote in his letter . The Continued on page 9.

Republicans Ignore Black People

said that West’s comments were place . It’s fair to say that none of the ment, but building a wall and de- oped comprehensive policy posi- “one of the most disgusting mo- moderators asked about race and porting people would increase the tions . All that was missing for me ments” of his Presidency . the economy . But just as the candi- federal payroll . was a question about race and the Let’s see . Former President dates jumped into the conversation I’ve had about enough of Mar- economy . Bush took us into Iran, and we’re when they wanted to, none jumped co Rubio’s immigrant parents Race is a low priority for all of still there . His actions were partly in after Carson’s remark (a perfect story . He could score a couple of the candidates, Democratic and Re- the cause of the Great Recession . opening) . points by adding comments about publican, in the 2016 election . The He was widely described as less Kanye West said, “George Bush involuntary immigrants . Such a Democrats will say some of the ap- than intelligent and, in fact, a doo- doesn’t care about Black people .” comment might suggest to Afri- propriate things because they have Julianne Malveaux fus . But remarks from Kanye West One might say the same thing for can-Americans that they at least no choice but to recognize that Af- NNPA Columnist were “one of the most disgusting the eight major Republican candi- slightly get some of the race is- rican Americans are part of their moments” of his presidency? These dates who stood on stage and ig- sues that plague our country, but base . The Republicans talk diver- As I watched the Republican remarks suggest that George W . nored Black people . Republicans those candidates ignore African sity, but they don’t practice it, and debate on October 10, I thought Bush has as little judgment as he keep saying they want to reach Americans on one hand, and offer haven’t figured out how to weave a about Kanye West and the com- was often accused of . Consider out to people of color, but ignoring rhetoric about including African narrative about race into their con- ments he made after Hurricane Iraq— New Orleans— and a tax Black people suggests that they Americans on the other . versations . Katrina decimated New Orleans . code that favored the wealthy . Yet are thinking about us as much as The moderators of this de- Kanye West said that George He said, “George Bush doesn’t Kanye West’s remarks were an “all- George Bush did in 2005 . bate—Fox Business staff Neil Ca- W . Bush “doesn’t care about Black care about Black people” . Later he time low?” They did talk about immigration, vuto and Maria Bartiromo, along people .” This group of candidates tiptoed away from the comment Why does this Kanye West ker- or the Latino population (Trump with the Wall Street Journal’s Ge- ignores Black people and behaves by saying he “regretted” it, but he fuffle remind me of the last Repub- isn’t trying to build a wall between rard Baker did a great job in keep- as if there are no consequences never apologized . lican debate? Ben Carson is the the United Stated and Canada, but ing things moving forward and when they turn their backs on the Five years later, in 2010, Bush only person on stage that used the between the United States and imposing time limits (although ones they might woo later . gave the Today Show’s Matt work “Black,” and he said it in con- Mexico) . That part of the conversa- many ignored the bell that Cavuto Lauer an interview . Bush stated nection to increasing the minimum tion was, in my opinion, impractical said would ring when time was Julianne Malveaux is an author that West’s remarks were an “all- wage, which he opposes . None of and disparaging . How is the United up .) And then there’s the to-be-ex- and economist based in Wash- ington, DC. Her latest book “Are time low” in his Presidency . He the others uttered a peep about Af- States going to expel millions of pected interrupting and crosstalk . We Better Off? Race, Obama went on to say, “I didn’t appreci- rican American people, not in terms people and then allow them to come There were far fewer personal and Public Policy” will be released in November 2015 and is avail- ate it then, and I don’t appreci- of entrepreneurship, the wealth back? Each of the candidates talked attacks . The debate showed that able for preorder at www.juli- ate it now…I resent it .” He then gap, nor discrimination in the work- about shrinking the size of govern- none of the candidates had devel- annemalveaux.com. www.ladatanews.com In The Spirit November 28 - December 4, 2015 Page 9

Laying Down the Right Tracks

the whole class . It was the start of a cific level, he is omnipresent, he new passion for him . is everywhere, he is all,” he said . “From there, it was a no brainer The recording studio for rap that music was going to be a part of and Hip-Hop is often considered a my life forever,” Smith said . He now place where artists must be able owns a gospel record label, Sancti- to dig deep within their creative fied Sound, LLC in Baton Rouge, souls to create music that touches La, which he founded in 2003 . He is the listeners . Artists who work By Alexia Pierre a producer for artists from New Or- with Smith say he sets the right Data News Weekly Columnist leans to cities across the Gulf Coast tone to capture their music during who want to use their talents to min- recording sessions . “The studio One of the secrets behind the ister to others through gospel music . itself is a great work environment, growth of gospel rap is business- “I’m helping people fulfill what always peaceful, and orderly,” said minded small producers scattered God has mandated them to do,” recording artist, Michael “A .V .” between New Orleans and Baton Smith said . The label doesn’t just Mitchell . Mitchell has been re- Rouge . These talented musicians support gospel rappers, but singers cording with Sanctified Sound, perfect the sounds of local gospel as well . Smith said that rap is just a LLC for some years . Mitchell is rap artists at late night and week- tool for reaching the lost, he said . also a radio disc jockey for WXOK Producers like Victor “Vick” Smith (pictured above) have helped gospel end sessions . Their studios are the “The music is no more important artists to find their unique sound, style and calling. radio and a motivational speaker . spaces that have created a network than a t-shirt . A t-shirt is just like a Smith see’s his work as a produc- of performers who support each CD . It has your message on it—it of the first bands to play the drums them at their level so that you can er as both an enterprise, but also other’s ministries by performing has the message God has placed in in his church around 1998 . Smith win them for Christ,” Smith said . a mentorship and development of together or collaborating on tracks . your heart,” he said . said he could feel the disapproval “Just like Paul said, ‘I have be- the talent he works with . “God told It’s the producers like Victor Smith said he was inspired to ex- and he had the same feeling when come all things to all people so me to develop talent . Now I own a “Vick” Smith whose helped gospel plore his musical talents for good . he rapped in church . Churches that by all possible means I might business that is developing talent,” artists to find their unique sound, The songs “What Do You See?” by must understand the culture we save some,’” Smith said . The way Smith said . style and calling . Smith was intro- The Ambassador, of the group, Cross live in today . “The same way [se- one preaches the gospel changes, Stay tuned for next week’s col- duced to music at an early age . He Movement, and “Controverse All nior Christians] got reached, they however the message stays the umn as we continue to share opin- said his father was one of the lead Star” by Lil Raskull, were particularly should allow the youth of today same, only the delivery adjusts, ions and highlights of the local gos- singers at Jimmy Swaggart Min- transformative for him in making a to be reached . You have to meet he added . “God is just not at a spe- pel scene . istries . However, Smith found his decision to pursue gospel music . love for music in the seventh grade . Smith, who also produces his He saw his first live concert for the own rap songs, adds that gospel band in his middle school then . The rappers are successful not because band was playing the original Bat- of the money or fame but because man theme song, but with a twist, he they get to “minister on stage .” recalled . The characters for the Bat- Christian rappers, he said, define man cartoon ran around the stage success differently than how the during the performance, he said . television portrays it . “Our pri- Prior to this performance, Smith orities are not trying to get the big said he wanted to be a scientist . A house, the notoriety [or] trying to year later, he joined the school’s get on television,” he said . Gospel band and played what he thought rappers are trying to reach those was an unattractive baritone horn . that are on a “different level .” His band director presented Smith Everything being played in the with a brand new baritone horn, church right now was not accepted which he could not afford, in front in the past . Smith recalls being one

Commentary, Continued from page 8.

Transatlantic Slave Trade on Africans and African Americans, we have to be vigilant and concerned about any scheme to desensitize, trivialize or to downplay the actual genocidal realities of African slavery . The Audubon Society should immediately rescind the award to Bacon and should itself repent for improperly vetting what was actually happen- ing in the Bahamas . Yet there is the larger looming issue: Racism, Slavery, Injustice and Inequality must be forever challenged . Each generation must rise to the occasion of advancing the cause for freedom, justice, equality and empowerment . No matter how much money someone may have, there is never a justifi- cation for the trivialization and preservation of slavery and racism . Dr . Benjamin F . Chavis, Jr . is the President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached for national advertisement sales and partnership proposals at: dr .bchavis@nnpa .org; and for lectures and other professional consultations at: http://drbenjamin- fchavisjr .wix .com/drbfc . Page 10 November 28 - December 4, 2015 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com

The REAL ID Act

New Year, but was concerned be- By Tatyana Aubert ing for passports for this holiday season despite the extension . cause she has a Louisiana driver’s Traveling during the holiday The REAL ID Act was passed by license “What if one of your family season can be a frustrating expe- the U .S . House of Representatives members who lived in another state rience . But Louisiana residents in 2005 to provide a higher level of becomes ill and you want to visit say they are worried that they security for identification across the them but can’t because you need could be turned away by a Trans- country with regards to state identi- a passport that you can’t afford to portation Security Administration fications and driver’s licenses . Gov- get,” Sarah said . agent because their state ID does ernor Bobby Jindal vetoed the leg- The DHS has tried to stagger not meet the REAL ID Act require- islation in April, 2014 arguing that the implementation of the REAL ments . This is the dilemma facing it violated the privacy of Louisiana ID Act in order to provide citizens holiday travelers in Louisiana who citizens and added an unnecessary and states the opportunity to com- don’t want to take the chance layer of federal oversight . ply . To date, the DHS has sought that their identification could be “The Eagle Forum, the Loui- to enforce the first four phases on rejected at another airport . The siana Family Forum, and the Tea the REAL ID Act . Phase one was state was granted an additional Party of Louisiana have asked for enforced on April 21, 2014, and extension on compliance to the a veto of the bill due to concerns restricted access to areas oper- new federal standards on Oct . 10, about whether it will compromise The move by the former 2016 Re- for boarding commercial planes . ated by the DHS’ headquarters 2015 . The extension allows resi- Louisiana’s sovereignty over what publican presidential candidate has Those without the REAL ID iden- in Washington, D .C . Phase two, dents to use their driver’s licenses is fundamentally a state method not been without controversy . Loui- tification will have to go through which was enforced on July 21, for identification for flights at least of identification,” said Gov . Bobby siana’s representatives in Congress extra layers of security in order to 2014, restricted areas for all fed- until the end of the year . But the Jindal in a letter in 2014 explaining were responsible for securing that enter facilities and to board planes . eral facilities and nuclear power uncertainty still prompted a swell why he chose to reject the legisla- the state received an additional ex- The change also means additional plants . Phase three, which was in the numbers of residents apply- tion . tension this month, despite Jindal’s costs for residents . Louisiana stan- enforced on January 19, 2015, re- firm stance not to comply with dard drivers license cost $32 .25, but quired new identification for semi- REAL ID standards . “All states are the cost for a passport is $110 and restricted areas for most federal required to share the information of a $60 additional fee for expedited facilities and military security fa- our licensed citizens with all states, service . In order to receive a pass- cilities . Phase four will go into ef- WEWE AREARE OPEN!OPEN! including their driving history and port, citizens must submit an appli- fect in 2016 . This phase would re- records and Governor Jindal is only cation, provide evidence of citizen- strict those without the required concerned about the citizens priva- ship, and a recent photo . The U .S . drivers license from boarding TI cy,” said Alexis Nicaud, the deputy Department of State estimates that federally regulated commercial EENNTILLLL communications director at the Of- only 46-percent of Americans own aircrafts . GG YY fice of Gov . Bobby Jindal . New York, passports . “Customers have been coming in Minnesota and New Hampshire are Without a change to REAL IDs, applying for passports and we also also among the list of states that a lot of residents would have no ac- hosted a passport fair regarding the are non-compliant with the require- ceptable form of identification to REAL ID Act,” said Lisa Smith, an ments of the REAl ID Act . travel by air . employee at the US Post Office in Fortunately for travelers, and “Most important thing people Metairie, La . The passport fair was government officials who must need to know is that it takes four held Sept . 26 and Sept . 27, 2015 at use state IDs, the Department of to six weeks to get your pass- the Esplanade Mall in Kenner, La . Homeland Security announced it port but if you want to rush it, Residents were given the opportu- will accept non-compliant identi- that will be an additional $100,” nity to renew or apply for their pass- fication from states that have re- said Calla Victoria, who recently port at the all-day fair . So far, there ceived extensions . The DHS said went through the process to get are no passport fairs scheduled for it will review its current imple- her passport, as a result of the the near future . mentation schedule by the end state’s non-compliance . Victo- The election of a new governor of 2015, and provide the public ria said residents should also for Louisiana means that the state with at least 3 months notice to expect to dedicate time to the would likely revisit its decision Dine-in/Takeout any changes for deadlines . In the process . She spent an entire day not to comply, observers say . The meantime, the October extension going through the paces to re- REAL ID compliant licenses would Pizza • Wings • Salads • Sports Bar allows federal agencies to accept ceive a passport at the Carrolton carry a barcode and security de- Louisiana drivers’ licenses until Avenue Post Office . “Louisiana vice, as well as a star in the upper October 10, 2016 . Fearing that citizens should also know what right-hand corner that will signal they may not be able to travel, is needed when getting a pass- that the identification was approved Louisiana residents have been port because it’s going to take by the TSA . For those states that Sunday-Thursday 11 am — 10 pm rushing into local DMVs and post the whole day,” she added . are compliant with the new act, resi- offices to obtain a passport in or- Residents expressed their frus- dents would simply follow the same Friday-Saturday 11 am — 11 pm der for them to travel . Residents trations while waiting in the Me- procedures in place for applying for say they are also concerned about tairie post office in October . “This a standard driver’s license . what any consequences of not is ridiculous, why should I need a “I think that it’s an inconvenience having identification that meets passport just to go to another state . because DMV employees are al- the federal standards . And plus passports are so expen- ready over-worked and now there 504-826-9180 The REAL ID Act was created to sive,” said Chantell Sarah, a student is more added to the process,” said improve the security standards for at Southern University of New Or- Rebecca Conrad, a customer ser- 4706 Paris Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70122 identifications for access to federal leans . Sarah said she had plans to vice representative at the Office of facilities, nuclear power plants, and fly home at the beginning of the Motor Vehicles in Metairie, La . www.ladatanews.com National News November 28 - December 4, 2015 Page 11 DATA CLASSIFIED Call 504-821-7421 to West Speaks on Obama, place your classified ad. Black Lives Matter Job Opportunity Freelance Of course we agree with a fair By Lagloria Wheatfall Writers trial but that’s the kind of pressure Special to the NNPA News Wanted we’re talking about because we Wire from The Houston have to change the culture of police Data News Weekly, “The Defender departments . They think that some People’s Paper, is looking for freelence writers to NNPA Newswire (HOUSTON) how they can get away with it . No join our team print and – Dr . Cornel West, an outspoken ac- they need to go to jail the same way digital team. We want tivist, author and professor, recently as if we kill anybody, we need to go to hear from you if you shared his views on pressing issues to jail . are a working journalist, or an aspiring journalist during a speech at the University of HD: What should be done to who has 2 years or more Houston-Downtown . strengthen police relations in the of newspaper or PR West, a professor of philosophy African- American community? writing experience. We and Christian practice at Union CW: It would be nice if we had need writers who can Theological Seminary and profes- just control of the police in Black cover New Orleans news stories, ranging from sor emeritus at Princeton Univer- communities . And that does not local high school sports, sity, addressed topics ranging from necessarily mean just add more community events, City the Black Lives Matter movement Black police, because we all know Hall and entertainment. to peace in the Middle East . that some Black police officers Experience in print is necessary, experience in He also commended educators, don’t always do the right thing and digital and social media saying that, “being a teacher is some white police do, do the right are encouraged. a sacred calling .” He urged stu- thing . But what we need is more Dr. Cornel West addressed topics ranging from the Black Lives Matter dents to “be a long-distance run- movement to peace in the Middle East during a speech at the Univer- just control in our communities . Compensation is ner in your education as you learn sity of Houston-Downtown in Houston, Texas.( John Everett/Houston HD: How do you respond to competitive and great how to Socratically engage in criti- Defender) African-Americans who say you and story ideas will be cal reflection .” 13 . He has been a frequent guest on advise organizers to move forward? Tavis Smiley have unfairly criticized appreciated. West praised UHD as a universi- “Real Time With Bill Maher,” CNN, CW: The Black Lives Matter President Obama? ty where students can learn to think C-Span and “Democracy Now .” movement must stay in the streets CW: I say you have to keep me If you are interested, please email your resume independently . West joined forces with broad- as well as put pressure on the pow- and brother Tavis accountable . But and 3 writing samples to: “What kind of courage did you caster Tavis Smiley for a Poverty ers that be on the inside . We need Obama’s relation to Wall Street, terrybjones@bellsouth. exemplify in the short time you Tour, where they visited various an inside-outside strategy . We can the drones, dropping bombs on in- net and datanewseditor@ were here?” he asked . “Did you American cities to bring attention just be solely outside and have no nocent people and massive surveil- bellsouth.net. have the courage to think critically to economic injustice . West and impact inside . We need both fronts . lance of each and every one of us is for yourself? That’s the difference Smiley have been vocal critics of Secondly, we have to recognize wrong, and I don’t care what color between high-quality education President Obama, with West calling that when we talk about police bru- the president is, he just happens to We can’t wait to and cheap schooling . University of him a “Rockefeller Republican in tality, and the accountability of po- be Black at the moment . hear from you! Houston-Downtown is not about blackface .” lice, we’re talking about being able HD: How would you grade the cheap schooling . You want what the In an interview with the Houston to send police to jail when they kill Obama Administration in terms of Greeks call paideia, that deep edu- Defender, West shared more of his innocent people . We’re not talking what it has done for African-Ameri- cation, that turning of the soul .” thoughts . about just training, we’re not just cans on a scale of A to F? As an important figure in Black HD: How do you think the Black talking about diversity exposure, CW: He wouldn’t be on the intellectualism, West has written Lives Matter Movement should pri- but we’re talking about legal ac- dean’s list . I’d give him maybe a B- more than 20 books and has edited oritize its agenda? How would you countability . minus or C-plus . Yeah, C-plus . This space can be

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