Lighting The Road To The Future Ol’ Skool Hip Hop Live!

Data Zone Page 11

“The People’s Paper” October 30 - November 5, 2010 45th Year Volume 22 www.ladatanews.com

Page 2 Trailblazer Data Endorses Newsmaker Carol Bebelle Candidates

Page 9 Page 3 Photos by Victor Holt

Page 2 October 30 - November 5, 2010 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

2010 Mid-Term Election Guide

Candidates For US Senate lowering the costs of healthcare, and giving our chil- by Cheryl Mainor dren the education they need to succeed . Data News Endorsed - Congressman Personal: Melancon was born and lives in Napoleon- Charles (Charlie) Melancon - Democrat ville . He and his wife of 32 years have two children . He Across America, voters are getting ready to go to General Legislative Experience: Charlie Melancon is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisi- the polls again to make their choices for members is currently serving his first term in Congress repre- ana with a degree in Agri-Business . of the United States Congress . Many are calling this senting the 3rd District of . As a member of 2010 Mid-Term Election the most important of our the Energy and Commerce Committee, Congressman Sen. - Republican (Incumbent) time, with some even saying the “Soul of America” Melancon has an impact on a broad range of issues General Legislative Experience: As U S. . Senator, is at stake . With such serious interests on the line, affecting Louisiana, including the oil and gas industry, David Vitter says he is focused on putting Louisiana Data News Weekly has decided that as a service to our health care, and telecommunications . He serves on first as an independent and outspoken reformer, and readers, to provide a complete guide to the elction, so the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommit- on advancing mainstream conservative principles . that you, the voter can see and know, in advance, who tee on Energy and Environment and the Subcommit- He opposes President Obama and his agenda . In the the candidates are you will be charged with selecting, tee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet . Senate, David serves on the Committees on Armed what are their positions and qualifications and which Congressman Melancon is also a member of the Com- Services; Banking, Housing and Urban Development; referendum and amendment items you will be voting mittee on Budget . As a member of the Agriculture, Commerce, Science and Transportation; Environ- on in next week’s election . Resources, and Science committees, he has an impact ment and Public Works; and Small Business and En- As is customary, Data News Weekly and our editori- on nearly every facet of life and business in Louisiana trepreneurship . Working on these committees allows al committee, have our decisions on which candidates including farm and agriculture policy, management of David to focus on jobs, infrastructure, and economic we endorse for the offices they seek, and we are happy our oil and gas resources, and fisheries . development for every region of the state . to present them to you here, but no matter whether From 1987 to 1993 Congressman Melancon served Prior to his service in the U .S . Senate, David rep- you agree or disagree with our selections, as always, in the Louisiana legislature as a State Representative . resented the First Congressional District of Louisiana we urge you, first and most importantly to VOTE! Major Policy Positions: Charlie states as his top from 1999 - 2004 . See you at the Polls on Tuesday, November 2nd . priorities: creating more jobs and economic oppor- Born and raised in Louisiana, David resides in tunities in the 3rd District and across rural America, Metairie with his wife and their four children .

Election guide, Continued on next page.

DATA News Weekly P.O. Box 57347, , LA 70157-7347 INSIDE DATA Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors CEO/Publisher Contributors Glenn Jones Edwin Buggage Cover Story ...... 2 Trailblazer . . . . 9 VP Advertising Cheryl Mainor & Marketing Judge Greg Mathis Cheryl Mainor Rev John Warren Managing Editor Glenn Summers Edwin Buggage Data Zone ...... 6 State & Local News . 10 Editor Art Direction & Production Dionne Character Arts & Entertainment Editor MainorMedia.com Melanie Mainor Editorial Submissions Commentary . . . . 8 National News . . . 11 Copy Editor Intern [email protected] June Hazeur Advertising Inquiries Accounting [email protected] Please call (504) 309-9913 for subscription information. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story October 30 - November 5, 2010 Page 3

Data News Weekly Endorses the following candidates for the office of:

US Senator US Representative Lt. Governor, 2nd District State of Louisiana

Congressman Charles Cedric Richmond Caroline Fayard (Charlie) Melancon Democrat Democrat Democrat

Sen . Vitter earned his law Cao was elected as Louisiana’s Richmond - Democrat est of the mortgage industry . Connolly before returning to degree from Tulane Law 2nd Congressional District General Legislative Experi- To investing in a strong and government service, and to School, he earned an econom- Representative making him ence: Cedric Richmond was more educated workforce that Louisiana, to work as a Law ics degree with highest hon- the first Vietnamese-American elected to the Louisiana House has economic security and is Clerk for U .S . District Court ors from Oxford as a Rhodes elected to the United States of Representatives where he better prepared to meet the Judge Stanwood R . Duval Jr . of Scholar, and graduated Magna Congress where he serves on has been a leader and served challenges of the 21st Century . the Eastern District of Louisi- Cum Laude . the Committees on Homeland with distinction since 2000 . And to provide a system that ana . Caroline was later appoint- Major Policy Positions: Security, Transportation and Currently, he is the Chairman effectively educates our youth ed to the faculty of College of Sen . Vitter says his priorities Infrastructure, and Oversight of the Committee on Judiciary in their developmental stages, Law at Loyola University New are focusing on jobs, infra- and Government Reform . and a Member of the Ways and to make sure that college Orleans and served there until structure, and economic devel- was born in and Means, House Executive, is affordable to our best and 2009 when she returned to pri- opment for every region of the Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh and Legislative Audit Advisory brightest children . vate practice . state and that he has been par- City), Vietnam . He currently committees . Major Policy Positions: ticularly focused on lowering resides in New Orleans, LA Cedric Richmond is a life- Caroline says, we need to cre- prescription drug prices, sav- with his wife and two daugh- long resident of New Orleans Candidates for ate economic opportunities to ing our coast, and preserving ters . He earned a Master’s de- where he currently resides . Lt. Governor retain our workforce . Recent and improving Social Security gree in Philosophy from New Cedric graduated from Ben- events such as the oil spill for future generations . York’s Fordham University . jamin Franklin High School, of the State and Hurricanes Katrina and He attained a law degree from Morehouse College, Tulane of Louisiana Rita demonstrate the need for Loyola Law School and he also School of Law and the Harvard (Runoff) strategic planning to diversify Candidates taught Philosophy and Ethics University Executive Program and develop our economy so for US House of at Loyola University . at the John F . Kennedy School Data News Endorsed that Louisiana can continue to Major Policy Positions: of Government . Caroline Fayard - Democrat triumph over tragedy . Caroline Representatives Congressman Cao states Major Policy Positions: General Legislative Expe- promises to advocate for better - 2nd as his priorities Rebuilding Richmond states that his prior- rience: Caroline Fayard is a government — not more gov- Congressional Greater New Orleans as a ities are to provide appropriate lifelong Democrat, who is a ernment . Caroline will reduce place of progress and prosper- assistance for those who have former staff member at both the size of government and District ity, Renewing the spirit of hope come back to New Orleans to the White House serving un- eliminate wasteful spending . within our community, and Re- start the recovery process, der President Clinton and Con- Caroline says she will work Congressman Joseph Cao storing integrity and honesty and provide an avenue for gress before taking a position hard to diversify and modern- - Republican (Incumbent) to government . those who have yet to return . at Goldman Sachs . She later ize Louisiana’s economy, creat- General Legislative Experi- Putting the best interest of ho- worked at the Washington- ing new job opportunities but ence: On December 6, 2008, Data News Endorsed - Cedric meowners ahead of the inter- based firm of Williams and never forgetting the industries

Election guide, Continued on page 5. Your voice. Your choice. Our children’s future.

Vote November 2.

Paid for by American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO, Committee on Political Education, www.aft.org, and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story October 30 - November 5, 2010 Page 5

Cover Story, Continued from page 3.

which remain Louisiana’s from creating any addi- financial foundation . tional tax liability for other Caroline Fayard current- property taxpayers; to pro- ly serves as Vice President hibit implementation of the on the Board of Louisiana exemption from triggering Appleseed, a non-profit or- reappraisal of property or ganization that promotes adjustment of millages; pro- access to justice . She is vides that the exemption a member of the Federal shall only extend and apply Bar Association, the Junior if established through an League of New Orleans . election called by the local Caroline is licensed to prac- governing authority and ap- tice law in Louisiana and proved by a majority of the . registered voters in an elec- tion held for that purpose . Secretary of State Jay (Effective January 1, 2011) Dardenne – Republican (Adds Article VII, Section General Government 21(K)) Experience: As the cur- rent Secretary of State, jay Proposed Amendment Dardenne lists as some of No. 4 - To Provide the accomplishments of his That The Power Of A office: Developed Geaux- Taxing Authority With Vote .com and GeauxBiz . A Governing Authority com websites as user Which Is Not Elected To friendly ways to access in- Increase Millage Rates formation; Championed Without Voter Approval increased early voting sites After Reappraisal and hours; Advocated fewer Congressman Joseph Cao - Republican (Incumbent) - To provide that the power Sen. David Vitter - Republican (Incumbent), U.S. Senate election dates and less use U.S. House of Representatives, 2nd District of a taxing authority with a of special elections; Initi- governing authority which ated a compact with other state’s economy . the legislature, not be imple- eight hundred fifty thou- the Atchafalaya Basin in ac- is not elected to increase states to fight election fraud; mented until a subsequent sand for the first fiscal year cordance with formal state millage rates without voter Streamlined laws to punish term of office . (Amends of implementation, which and federal plans; to require approval after reappraisal, election law violators and Ballot Article IV, Section 4; Adds amount would increase to legislative approval for and which is presently limited by establishing the Secretary Initiatives and Article III, Section 4(G) and two million eight hundred specific limitations on the the prior year’s maximum of State Museum System Article IV, Section 21(F)) fifty thousand dollars for the use of monies appropriated millage rate, be further with standard policies and Referendums following and subsequent from the fund . (Effective limited to annual increases procedures and the annual PLEASE READ EACH ONE Proposed Amendment fiscal years; to provide for April 1, 2012 ). (Adds Article which do not exceed two museum summit . CAREFULLY! No. 2 - To Decrease annual adjustment of the VII, Section 4(D)(4)) and one-half percent of the Secretary Dardenne is an There are no less than 10 The Amount Of Taxes maximum amounts in ac- property tax collections for Attorney and a graduate of Referendums on this year’s Retained By The State cordance with the consumer Proposed Amendment the immediately preceding Baton Rouge High School, ballot . Take time to ac- On The Severance Of price index; to require that No. 3 - To Exempt From Ad calendar year; to exclude Louisiana State University quaint yourself with these Natural Resources of the revenues received Valorem Tax, In Addition To from such restriction tax- and the LSU Law Center . referendums and Amend- To decrease the amount by a parish governing au- The Homestead Exemption ing authorities which are He and his wife, have two ments to our State Consti- of taxes retained by the thority under these provi- To exempt from ad va- special fire protection or grown sons . tution prior to entering the state on the severance of sions, that portion which lorem tax, in addition to fire department districts Major Policy Positions: polling booth . This is NOT natural resources, other is in excess of the amount the homestead exemption, or ports, port harbor, and Jay lists as some of his prior- to be done in the polling than sulphur, lignite, and of such revenues received the next seventy-five thou- terminal districts, and mill- ities: Rebrand Louisiana as booth . READ these initia- timber, and to increase the in Fiscal Year 2011-2012 be sand dollars of value of ages levied by certain levee a destination for adventure tives, and if you need help maximum amount of such used within the parish for property which is owned districts under authority and eco-tourism . To create in understanding what they revenues which are remit- the same purposes as mon- and occupied by a veteran granted by the Constitution a robust message to dispel are proposing, ask someone ted to the parish govern- ies received from the Par- with a service-connected of Louisiana . (Amends Art . negative perceptions about to explain so you can make ing authority from where ish Transportation Fund; disability rating of one hun- VII, Section 23(C)) our natural resources . De- an informed and the best the severance occurs, to be to require that of the sever- dred percent; to authorize veloping a comprehensive decision for yourself and implemented in the event ance taxes and royalty rev- the exemption to apply to Proposed Amendment plan to celebrate Louisiana’s your voice is really heard . that the official forecast of enues retained by the state the surviving spouse of a No. 5 - To Authorize bi-centennial and to market severance tax revenues for from activity on state lands deceased veteran if the ex- Continuation Of The the state as a welcoming Proposed Amendment any fiscal year includes an within the Atchafalaya Ba- emption was in effect on the Homestead Exemption place to do business . No. 1 - Salary Increase estimate for severance tax sin, up to ten million dollars property prior to the death To authorize continuation Revitalizing and restruc- For Certain State collections which will ex- per year be deposited into a of the veteran and the sur- of the homestead exemp- turing a measurable pro- Elected Officials ceed that actually collected special fund created in the viving spouse remains the tion and the special assess- gram to attract and retain To provide that any sal- by the state in Fiscal Year state treasury to be known owner of the property; to ment level for a homestead retirees . ary increase enacted by law 2008-2009; to change the as the Atchafalaya Basin require the taxing author- that has been destroyed And on the economy, us- for certain state elected of- annual maximum amount Conservation Fund; to ity to absorb any decrease or is uninhabitable due to ing performance indicators ficials, including statewide to be remitted to a parish provide that monies in this in the total amount of ad a disaster for two years if to cut wasteful spending elected officials, members governing authority from fund be used exclusively valorem taxes collected as the homeowner’s claim for and then invest in market- of the Public Service Com- eight hundred fifty thou- for conservation, improve- a result of this exemption; damages is pending in a for- ing Louisiana to boost our mission, and members of sand dollars to one million ment, and management of to prohibit the exemption mal appeal process with a

Election Guide, Continued on page 11. Page 6 October 30 - November 5, 2010 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Hip-Hop Legends in the Crescent

By Edwin Buggage Photos by Glenn Summers

MC Lyte represents for the ladies Doug E. Fresh shows what legends are made of Legneds Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick rips the stage

Big Daddy Kane Whodini and Mannie Fresh Yo Yo, Doug E Fresh & Edwin Buggage

Hip-Hop has grown up from During its golden age, hip- how it should be done . The sents . Whodini went through who has become an adopted its infancy in the streets of hop with its fresh and exuber- night started with house DJ Raj their hits Friends, One Love, son of New Orleans kept the New York where it, like many ant energy, changed the scope Smoove on the ones and twos Freaks Come Out at Night and crowd on its feet . He even gave African traditions, embodied and landscape of what it meant and WQUE Uptown Angela many others as the crowd was a nod to the new kids out there, music, the spoken word and to be an entertainer . That time was holding down the stage as on their feet the whole time . showing them how the Doug dance to convey the living was recaptured in New Orleans the mistress of ceremonies . The audience was also treated E . dance really goes from the culture of a people . What was recently as the Legends of Hip- It was a star-studded affair DJ Grandmaster Dee setting man himself as the crowd went once thought of as a passing Hop show touched down in the as Big Daddy Kane with his the turntables on fire and to wild . With the stage presence fad, three decades later, has Crescent City . On this night rapid-fire style of rhymes, fi- the moves of Doctor Ice from of a rock star Doug received made an impact across the the days of fat gold chains and nesse and dance moves for the UTFO showcasing he still has a standing ovation as his set globe . Anywhere in the world Adidas and Kangols were re- ladies, cameout and showed dancing skills that rival any ended . It was a great way to you will see people using hip- visited . that he could still, as the great young guys today . This well- end a night of legends that laid hop as a means of expression It was a night for those who Rakim said, “move the crowd” . choreographed show was a it down in grand style . or companies co-opting it to grew up on hip-hop coming MC Lyte in the hip-hop vernac- treat to watch as people sang Leaving this concert I sell products . From the streets to see some of legends who ular showed and proved she along with the classic songs thought that hip-hop has to the elite, hip-hop’s impact laid down the foundation of still had the skills to pay the from hip-hop’s heyday . grown up, that today those of is undeniable and transcends the music . Avian Gray who at- bills and Yo-Yo,was accompa- The show ended with a rous- us who came of age during its race, class and geography . tended the show said, “They nied onstage by New Orleans ing set from Doug E . Fresh golden golden years are now Today it is at a crossroads, just don’t make hip-hop like own legend Mannie Fresh, who calls himself the World’s mothers, fathers and some while contemporary artists en- this anymore, I just wanted to represented for the ladies with Greatest Entertainer and true even grandmothers and grand- joy increased visibility; money come out and enjoy a show that a set that kept people on their to form he delivered the goods . fathers . And judging by the and fame, much of the creativ- would take me back to when feet reciting the lyrics of some In an energetic he set it off in packed house that in the near ity and showmanship that em- the music inspired something of their favorite songs . grand style doing his hits the future that there may soon be bodied early hip-hop has been in me and was also fun .” The But the night belonged to Show, I Get Ready and La-Di- a category called adult contem- sapped out of the genre . What show was a definitely a grown Whodini and Doug E . Fresh Da-Di . Onstage with him was porary hip-hop . Maybe it’s just was once the sonic equivalent folks affair that had a nostalgic who both owned the stage his original Get Fresh Crew: wishful thinking, but it would of a Romare Bearden collage feel to it . B-boy swag was in full with show stopping sets that Barry Bee, Chill Will and the be nice to have a music that has been reduced to clip art effect as the architects of hip- were the essence of what hip- man who first brought bling to has matured with its audience . and clichés . hop laid it down and showed hop and showmanship repre- the masses Slick Rick . Doug E . www.ladatanews.com Data Zone October 30 - November 5, 2010 Page 7

Data Around Town All over New Orleans, friends were having fun and at Club 7140 last week, Data was there!

Tickets Move Quickly for Scholarship Benefit Concert

Rave Reviews for 3rd Annual Dr . Norman C . at the Ernest N . Morial Convention Center’s New says, “We are pleased to support Xavier Univer- Francis Endowed Scholarship Benefit Orleans Theater . sity’s important role in educating future leaders Concert reviewers across the country are unan- The Friday evening concert began three of New Orleans, and we also salute Dr . Francis’ imous in their praise for four of America’s finest years ago to celebrate Francis’ 40th Anniversary decades of exemplary leadership in service to our Rhythm & Blues vocalists – Peabo Bryson, Jeffrey as President of the nation’s only Historically Black community ”. Osborne, Howard Hewett and Freddie Jackson – and Roman Catholic institution of higher educa- Tickets are on sale through the Ticket Master as their “Men of Soul ” tour makes its way toward tion, and to raise funds for the special endowed hot line #1-866-448-7849 or online at: http://www . New Orleans next month for a very special schol- scholarship fund created in his honor . ticketmaster com. . Complete concert information, arship benefit concert . The University is also pleased to announce with links to the Ticket Master site as well as links Xavier University of Louisiana is pleased to that – besides AT&T Louisiana serving as prima- to recent “Men of Soul” concert reviews, is also announce that, in addition to the “Men of Soul,” ry sponsor of the 3rd Annual fundraiser – other available through the Xavier web site at: http:// world renowned story teller William “Bill” Cosby corporate sponsors have signed on to support the www .xula .edu/mediarelations/ncfconcert_2010 . will return once again to perform the opening event including BP, Liberty Bank, People’s Health, php . Limited sponsor and patron packages with act for the 3rd Annual Dr . Norman C . Francis First NBC, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Humana, the concert tickets are available through the Office Endowed Scholarship Benefit Concert on Friday Louisiana Weekly and others . of Institutional Advancement’s special concert hot evening, November 19, 2010 sponsored by AT&T* AT&T Louisiana’s President Sonia Perez line at #504-520-4252 . Page 8 October 30 - November 5, 2010 CommentaryTrailblazer www.ladatanews.com

End Gay Discrimination

respects the rights of gays to live as domes- he says he wants Congress to bring an end thing is missing: a government stance on tic partners, to be free from violence, and to it . It’s highly unlikely that the President bullying, specifically bullying of gay stu- to work in whatever field they choose, even will get his wish with such strong opposi- dents . Where is the national policy that the military . Yet, the government seems tion from Republicans in Congress, a group cracks down hard on bullies and charges to do very little – and even contradicts it- that is expected to take control after the any young person who bullies a gay teen self – when it comes to making these ideas November elections . Why, then, didn’t his (or a Black or Latino or Asian one) with a reality . administration let the ruling stand? Your hate crime? There isn’t one . Recently, a federal court lifted the con- guess is as good as any . Gay rights are civil rights and we must troversial “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy The confusion doesn’t end there . In re- protect them . Any American, regardless of that prohibited gays in the military from cent weeks, we’ve been sobered with stories race, gender, religion or sexual orientation openly declaring their homosexuality . Any- of young gay men across the country who should be free to live life openly and safely . Judge Greg Mathis one caught doing so, under the law, could committed suicide because they were tired America, as open as it is in other areas, is be immediately discharged from service . of being bullied by their peers . Research not at that place yet and it should be . Let’s President Obama has often stated that he shows that gay and lesbian teens are four force our elected officials to take a stand for wanted to bring an end to the policy during times more likely to commit suicide than the rights of all citizens by standing up for his presidency . However, as soon as the rul- their heterosexual counterparts . There gay rights . How can we do that? We can do Mathis’ Mind ing came down, his Justice Department be- is currently a national campaign aimed at it by casting our vote in the upcoming elec- The United States is suffering from an gan working on an appeal that would keep young homosexuals, designed to lift their tion for those who fall on the side of justice, identity crisis when it comes to the rights the ban in place…at least temporarily . And, spirits, encourage them to get help and let fairness, and equality for everyone . and safety of homosexuals and lesbians . they won . The President still maintains that them know that things will get better for On the one hand, the government says it he wants “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” to die, but them . In the midst of all this support, one

“Why We Must Vote on Nov. 2nd 2010”

By Dr . John E . Warren our voters with the respect of declaring their There is no question that everyone who position on issues and seeking our concerns, is able should vote in each election and es- should not be allowed the traditional last pecially in the Tuesday November 2nd Mid- minute rush to Black churches this Sunday Term Election . But for African-Americans, with a smile and a hand shake; those who can the stakes are higher than they have ever vote should do so . Those who cannot vote been . Higher because the American political should provide transportation and assistance process has moved from resisting the Black to friends and neighbors who can vote and vote as many did before the Voting Rights Act should vote . Those who are not sure or who of the 1960s to a lack of concern over Black have been told that they are not in the files voter participation because of a greater con- as a registered voter, should insist on vot- cern over the Latino and Asian votes . Why? ing “Challenged Ballots .” This means that Because these groups have demonstrated an you will be allowed to vote but that your vote interest and seriousness about participation would be sealed until registration can be veri- in the political process as a means of getting fied . Where you find no candidate that you leverage and respect that African-Americans know enough about to vote for, there is usu- once had . It appears that with the election of ally a place for a “write in” which allows you to President Obama, a number of African-Amer- place a name of your choice . Where you only icans assumed that “we” have arrived and chose to vote for say one person and no one decided to take a vacation from the Struggle . else on the ballot, that is your right also . Unfortunately, this is the same time that con- It has been estimated that the Black vote servative “White America” decided that the can determine at least 20 seats in the congres- economic stimulus, Health Care Reform, bail- sional races for the U .S . House of Represen- outs and job assistance for the unemployed tatives . There are 39 seats up for election . are all socialist programs intended to under- Each one with a Democrat is key to President mine America and that such change, at the Obama maintaining the majority needed in hands of a Black man represented more than the Congress to continue his programs . The this nation could stand . Conclusion, this elec- so-called Tea Party conservatives and the tion is not about programs that have saved Republicans want those seats and at least as millions . It is about stopping a Black man in many of the 12 seats up for election in the the White House until the next Presidential . It has been said that the election with a view toward never allowing Latino vote may decide to sit out this election . this to happen again . The so called political is- But the Black vote has no such luxury . Every sues on the table are merely distractions . The vote counts and that includes your vote . Now question is will we be distracted or focused is our time to once again be heard at the bal- and get out the vote as we did two years . lot box . Those candidates, who have not treated www.ladatanews.com TrailblazerTrailblazerDataZone October 30 - November 5, 2010 Page 9

CarolPhenomenal Bebelle Woman by: Edwin Buggage

She has dedicated her life nity and this multi-purpose riched by giving . She is also to serving others and is the space serves the people of known as Akua Wambui, living embodiment of Maya not just Central City, but the which means “sweet mes- Angelou’s poem ‘Phenom- entire New Orleans commu- senger singer of songs” . enal Woman ’. Carol Bebelle nity,” says Bebelle . And it has been through has spent her entire life ded- The center has helped the Ashe Cultural Center icated to the spirit of giving . people both young and that she has been able to “I have always seen people old and from many walks connect and uplift the com- in my community serve, so of life since its inception . munity through cultural, it was just natural for me to “What we do is about help- spiritual and creative enrich- dedicate my life to serving ing people know their own ment . These are the tools others,” says Bebelle . “It all personal power and that that she uses to build hope began with my grandfather they can overcome what- and help people reach their A J. . Bebelle, a minister, who ever obstacles are in their full potential and aspire to taught me the importance way,” says Bebelle . Bebelle reach higher . of helping people and giving is an artist in her own right; She says to young people them the tools to live a more a writer/poet who has been who are the gatekeepers of quality life .” published in several antholo- our legacy, “Invest in your- Throughout her life she gies and her own volume of self and imagine yourself liv- has always found a way to work entitled “In a Manner ing your dream and having serve those in need . “In of Speaking ”. the life you want and that it whatever I have done in The Ashe Cultural Center is never too late to change my professional life it has is dedicated to using culture your path in life .” always been connected to as a means to uplift the com- Ashe is a word that means uplifting people in the com- munity . She says it is impor- Amen, and it is a blessing to munity, whether it’s been in tant that young people know have a phenomenal woman education, drug prevention that many sacrifices were such as Carol Bebelle con- or public health .” made for the opportunities tinuing to be the visionary Bebelle has been able to they now enjoy . “Today I leader in the City of New turn her passion for giving see so many things have Orleans . And it is our plea- into a space that uses the changed and doors are now sure at Data News Weekly cultural arts as a way to con- open that were closed previ- to recognize her as our nect people in the commu- ously; I think today some of Trailblazer for the month of nity in the true spirit of the our young tend to take this October 2010 . Carol Bebelle old adage ‘each one teach for granted so it is up to us, one .’ The Ashe Cultural the elders, to let them know Arts Center was co-founded where we’ve come from, so by Bebelle and the late art- that they can have the ist/activist Doug Redd . It is tools to move us fur- a space that lies in New Or- ther down the road of leans Central City and is a progress ”. beacon of light where there In life Bebelle has is much darkness . “We’re done similarly in lead- committed to the commu- ing a fruitful life en- JMJ Joseph M. Jones Continuing Education Fund Page 10 October 30 - November 5, 2010 News www.ladatanews.com

$100,000 Up for Grabs Through Sprite® Refresh Your School Playground Sweepstakes

Submit My Coke Rewards that can be used towards athletic America . “Even more, all of the with Sprite to select playground Sweepstakes . Sprite will work Points to Help Your Local K-12 equipment . Community members schools that receive donated equipment for construction in the with the winning school to re- Schools Win One of Two $25,000 can donate points to their schools points can use them for much coming months . move all old equipment and will Playground Makeovers or $5,000 by entering the code found on any needed sports equipment and “Schools registered in the My design, ship and install the new Towards Physical Education of their 13 favorite participating school supplies through the My Coke Rewards program, and who playground . Schools that are not Equipment Coca-Cola products at www .my- Coke Rewards for Schools pro- receive donated points between currently registered for the My Sprite is working to keep stu- cokerewards com. . gram year round ”. October 1 and November 30, Coke Rewards program can re- dents physically active at school “We are excited to bring back St . Benedict Cathedral School will be eligible to win one of two ceive point donations, but will not with the second Sprite Refresh the Sprite Refresh Your School in Evansville, Ind . was the grand $25,000 playground makeovers earn entries for the sweepstakes Your School Playground Sweep- Playground Sweepstakes to rally prize winner of the first Sprite made from recycled materials or unless officially registered by a stakes . From now through parents and community members Refresh Your School Playground one of 10, $5,000 prizes for athlet- school administrator . For more November 30, Sprite is giving to help schools obtain the physi- Sweepstakes held during the 2009- ic equipment . For every five My information on how to register a schools across the United States cal fitness equipment students 2010 school year . The school was Coke Rewards points donated, school please visit www .mycok- the opportunity to win one of two need to stay active,” said Caren awarded a $25,000 playground the selected school will earn one erewards com/schools. . $25,000 school playgrounds or Pasquale Seckler, Non-Cola makeover made of recyclable sweepstakes entry to the Sprite one of 10, $5,000 runner-up prizes Brands, and Coca-Cola North material and is currently working Refresh Your School Playground

Seo Career Program Extends For Gulf Coast Vacation Homeowners: Summer 2011 Internship Deadline November 23 Deadline for Filing Emer- Non-Profit Organization Con- gency Advance Payment Claims tinues to Open Doors tor Un- derserved Young People

If you’re hoping for restitution ment for each claimant, she ex- rum where Gulf Coast vacation SEO (Sponsors for Educational than 50 corporate and philan- for income lost due to the oil spill, plains . Any Emergency Advance homeowners can connect with Opportunity) has extended its fel- thropic partners . What begins you’d better get moving . Payment you may receive will each other for mutual learning lowship application deadline to as a 10-week summer internship If you’re a vacation homeowner ultimately be deducted from that and support . January 15, 2011 . The SEO Ca- turns into a lifelong professional with property on the Gulf Coast , allocated sum . And while there ap- “I spoke with Peter Taaffe, the reer Program is a summer intern- network and a resource base for November 23 is D-Day . (The D is pears to be no definitive informa- Buzbee Law Firm attorney who ship for college students which SEO alumni through every step for “Deadline ”). Yes, the Tuesday tion on how final claim amounts provides legal commentary on offer superior educational and ca- of their development . before Thanksgiving is the last will be determined, Karpinski ad- HomeAway’s oil spill website, and reer experience to young people “This is an exciting opportunity day you can file with the new Gulf vises vacation property owners to he urges caution,” says Karpin- from underserved communities, for young people of color,” says Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) for file for the emergency payment . ski . “Please, consult your attor- addressing inequities in educa- William A . Goodloe, President an Emergency Advance Payment “If you let the deadline pass, ney before you file the final claim . tion and opportunity that often and CEO, SEO . “Many of these on losses you’ve experienced as a you may spend a long time waiting Every claim and every owner’s limit their success . students begin with summer in- result of the Deepwater Horizon for compensation,” she asserts . “I circumstances are different . It is The SEO Career Program re- ternships and move onto be very oil spill . say that based on that fact that important to make sure your final cruits and trains outstanding un- successful executives as a result “According to GCCF repre- despite all the conversations I’ve claim—and a possible final reso- derrepresented college students of this program .” sentatives and the website itself, had, despite reading the GCCF lution of all of your claims—is the of color for summer internships Applications for current college if you don’t meet the November website and compiling pages of right thing to do and represents that lead to full-time jobs with in- juniors meeting the qualifications 23 deadline, you can still file for a claims documentation, no one the right amount .” vestment banks, corporate law can be found at www .seo-usa .org/ claim—it just will not be paid as ex- seems to be able to cite a date by “Everyone must make his or firms and other leading global application . The deadline for ap- pediently as an emergency claim, which homeowners will receive her own decision on the best way companies . Historically, more plications is January 15th, 2011 . and you have up to three years to final payment . No one’s offering to proceed—in terms of the Emer- than 75% of interns receive full- Information for college freshmen do so,” says Christine Karpinski, guarantees of any sort ”. gency Advance Payment and also time job offers from SEO corpo- and sophomores is also available director of Owner Community for For details on the claim pro- in terms of filing a final claim,” rate partners . Over the past two on the SEO website at http:// HomeAway . “I learned this dur- cess, visit www .gulfcoastclaimsfa- she adds . “It’s a complicated issue years, SEO has provided more www .seo-usa .org . ing conversations I’ve had and cility .com . Additional information with lots of variables . Just make than 700 internships with more research I’ve done regarding my and perspectives from second sure to educate yourself at every own personal claims and those of homeowners are available on the step of the way so you’ll be able to other homeowners .” HomeAway Gulf Coast Response make an informed decision ”. www.ladatanews.com The GCCF, under the direction Center at www .oilspillhomeaway . of Kenneth Feinberg, is working ning com. . The site provides news, to allocate a lump sum settle- expert advice, and a popular fo- www.ladatanews.com National News October 30 - November 5, 2010 Page 11

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Named Champion for Children

The L .A . Watts Time The hearing included testi- motivation for school shootings 30% staying home to avoid bully- Lee Holds Hearing on the mony from parents of bullying — 87 percent said shootings are ing . “By law, we require our chil- Growing Nationwide and Local victims and representatives of motivated by a desire to “get back dren to go to school . Therefore, Epidemic of Bullying and called community, civic, civil rights, those who have hurt them .” Fur- we have a duty to maintain a safe for Passage of a Federal Anti-Bul- faith organizations, and ex- thermore, 46 percent of males and healthy environment for chil- lying Statute perts on children, education, and 26 percent of females report- dren, one in which they should NNPA Newswire - The First mental health and social ser- ed that they had been in physical not be afraid . It is important that Focus Campaign for Children, a vices . “As a member of the fights . Children in lower grades our children know that bullying national, bi-partisan child advo- House Judiciary committee, reported being involved in twice will not be taken lightly, and that cacy group, released the names I have been overwhelmed as many fights as those in higher there will be consequences for of Members of Congress identi- by one episode after another grades — a sign that bullying is such actions,” said Congressman fied as the most valuable leaders of children losing their lives impacting our youth at younger Lee . “The problem of bullying has on issues important to children . and the lack of a coordinated and younger ages . Statistics like been a persistent issue for years, The announcement launches the response to incidents of bul- these show that there is a direct but it is now becoming a national group’s inaugural campaign to lying,” Jackson Lee said . “At correlation between bullying and crisis,” the Congresswoman went recognize the top 100 Members this hearing, we will seek the school safety and heighten the on to say . “Newspaper headlines of Congress who make improving best practices from the many need for bullying to be addressed and news broadcasts across our the well-being of children a na- US Representative Shiela Jackson Lee good initiatives offered from quickly and effectively . Nation have been flooded with tional priority . Congresswoman (D-TX) our own community . Also, we Furthermore, there are reports chilling stories about victims of Sheila Jackson Lee was among will hear firsthand some of the that state many of the deadly cas- bullying . This hearing will be an those named, and in fact she re- local, state, and federal elected troubling personal stories of bul- es of bullying arise when children opportunity to hear from Hous- cently held a hearing in her dis- officials including Rep . Al Green, lying victims . This is our wake are teased and tormented simply tonians in order to help establish trict about the well-being of chil- D-TX, Texas State Senator John up call to this national crisis . Our for being different . There has National solutions,” she conclud- dren and proposed legislation to Whitmire, Texas Representative children have to be our first prior- been a recent increase in suicides ed . curb a growing problem among Alma Allen, and Houston City ity,” she continued . among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and Other members of the Con- the youth - bullying . Council Members Wanda Adams, According to statistics, bully- transgendered (LGBT) teens as gressional Black Caucus listed Congresswoman Lee held a Al Hoang, and C .O . “Brad” Brad- ing is now increasingly viewed as a result of bullying . Almost 85 on The First Focus Campaign fact-finding hearing to address ford . Also joining Rep . Jackson a contributor to youth violence, percent of LGBT teenagers are for Children are Rep . Elijah Cum- the growing nationwide and lo- Lee was Harris County District including both homicide and sui- harassed in high school because mings, D-MD, Rep . Danny Davis, cal epidemic of bullying to call for Attorney Judge Patricia Lykos cide . According to the Bureau of their sexual orientation, with D-IL, Rep . Chaka Fattah, D-PA, passage of a Federal anti-bullying and Harris County Sheriff Adrian of Justice Statistics, teenagers 61 percent of gay youth reporting and Rep . Bobby Scott, D-VA . statute . She was joined by other Garcia . say that revenge is the strongest that they felt unsafe in school and

Election Guide, Continued from page 5.

governmental agency or program offer- Proposed Amendment No. sale . (Amends Article I, Section 4(H) ing assistance for repairing or rebuild- 7 - Bidding Process For Ad (1)) ing homes damaged by the disaster or if Valorem Property Tax Sales a homeowner has a damage claim filed To provide relative to the bidding pro- Proposed Amendment No. 9 - When and pending against the insurer of the cess for ad valorem property tax sales A Court Of Appeal Is To Modify property; to authorize an assessor to by authorizing a bidder at a tax sale to Or Reverse An Administrative grant up to three additional one-year bid down the existing five percent penal- Agency Determination In A extensions of the continuation of the ty in increments of one-tenth of one per- Workers’ Compensation Claim homestead exemption and the special cent; to require the payment of penalties To provide that, in civil matters only, assessment level as prescribed by law . by a bidder at ad valorem property tax when a court of appeal is to modify or re- (Amends Article VII, Sections 18(G)(5) sales; to require the payment of interest, verse an administrative agency determi- and 20(A)(10)) penalties, and costs by a taxpayer who is nation in a workers’ compensation claim delinquent on the payment of taxes on and one judge dissents, the case shall be Proposed Amendment No. 6 - To movables . (Amends Article VII, Section reargued before a panel of at least five Require A Two-Thirds Vote Of 25(A)(1) and (E)) judges prior to rendition of judgment, The Elected Members Of Each and a majority shall concur to render House Of The Legislature To Proposed Amendment No. 8 - Property judgment . (Amends Article V, Section Enact Any Benefit Provision Expropriated For The Public Purpose 8(B)) To require a two-thirds vote of the Provides that property expropriated elected members of each house of the for the public purpose of removing a Proposed Amendment No. 10 - Permit legislature to enact any benefit provi- threat to public health or safety caused Criminal Defendants, Except In Capital sion for members of a Louisiana public by the existing use or disuse of the prop- Cases, To Waive Their Right To A Trial retirement system if the provision has erty shall not be subject to the require- To permit criminal defendants, except an actuarial cost . (Amends Article X, ment of offering the property back to the in capital cases, to waive their right to a Section 29(E)(5); Adds Article X, Sec- original owner who allowed the property trial by jury no later than forty-five days tion 29(F)) to become a threat to public health or prior to the trial date . (Amends Article I, , Candidate for Lt. Governor safety or to the requirement of public Section 17(A)) I was born in New Orleans. My family still lives here. We have to restore the Gulf communities for the shrimpers, fishermen, hotel and restaurant owners who live and work here. - Iris Cross, BP Community Outreach Making This Right Beaches Claims No oil has flowed into the Gulf for weeks. But we know this is just the beginning of our work. BP has taken Cleanup full responsibility for the cleanup in the Gulf and that includes keeping you informed. Economic Investment Restoring Gulf Communities We can’t undo this tragedy. But we can help people get back on their feet. We have been working with Environmental impacted communities since day one.

Restoration Partnering with local governments and community organizations, my job is to listen to people’s needs and frustrations Health and Safety and find ways to help. We have 19 community centers and teams in four states, listening and helping.

Wildlife Restoring The Economy BP is here in Gulf communities with shrimpers, fishermen, hotel and restaurant owners, helping to make them whole.

More than 120,000 claim payments totaling over $375 million have already gone to people affected by the spill. We have committed a $20 billion independent fund to pay all legitimate claims, including lost incomes until people impacted can go back to work. And none of this will be paid by taxpayers.

BP has also given grants of $87 million to the states to help tourism recover and bring people back to the Gulf beaches.

Restoring The Environment We’re going to keep looking for oil and cleaning it up if we find it. Teams will remain in place for as long as it takes to restore the Gulf Coast.

And we’ve dedicated $500 million to work with local and national scientific experts on the impact of the spill and to restore environmental damage.

Thousands of BP employees have their roots in the Gulf. We support over 10,000 jobs in the region and people here are our neighbors. We know we haven’t always been perfect, but we will be here until the oil is gone and the people and businesses are back to normal. We will do everything we can to make this right. For general information visit: bp.com For help or information: (866) 448-5816

restorethegulf.gov Facebook: BP America Twitter: @BP_America YouTube: BP

For claims information visit: bp.com/claims louisianagulfresponse.com

© 2010 BP, E&P beyond petroleum®

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Client: BP Live: 10.38” x 14” Mechanical Scale: 100% Campaign: GOM Format: Full Page 4C Ad #: BP_10_308X_LA Printer: Ad Title: Communities Ad Media Vendor / Publication: Version/Revision #: V1 Various Publications Date Modified: August 20, 2010 Operator: AC Schawk Docket #:896872A01