Lighting The Road To The Future Regina King Talks About Data Zone Beale Street Page 6 “The People’s Paper” January 19 - January 25 , 2019 53nd Year Volume 38 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive Recalling Dr. King’s Legacy in the Age of Trump

Page 2 Newsmaker State & Local Shaun Ferguson Black & Gold Named New NOPD Choppa Superintendent Style Page 4 Page 5 Page 2 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com Recalling Dr. King’s Legacy in the Age of Trump

The hate that is felt in America today is reminiscent of a time when America was divided racially, socially, culturally and economically between Blacks and Whites. Today that nightmare belongs to another class of brown minorities who strive to obtain the American Dream and the dream of Martin Luther King Jr.

By Dr. Sharlene Sinegal-DeCuir numb to the outlandish things President Trump is racially, socially, culturally and economically between Data News Weekly Contributor doing with our nation . His promise to “Make America Blacks and Whites . A time when Blacks were the Great Again,” has done nothing of the sort . Instead, stepchildren of America and the struggle to claim the Donald Trump has been president for approximate- most Americans outside of his political base often American Dream was truly a nightmare . Today that ly two years now . Within those two years the White agree that his policies and tactics are “Making Amer- nightmare belongs to another class of brown minori- House has endured controversy after controversy . It ica Hate Again .” The hate that is felt in America today ties who strive to obtain the American Dream and the is almost as though we as Americans are becoming is reminiscent of a time when America was divided dream of Martin Luther King Jr .

Cover Story, Continued on page 3.

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 & CEO/Publisher Edwin Buggage Production Pubinator.com Cover Story ...... 2 Commentary . . . 8. . Edwin Buggage Dr. Sharlene Sinegal-Decuir Editorial Submissions Editor datanewseditor@ Andreanecia Morris Cheryl Mainor bellsouth.net Newsmaker...... 4 In The Spirit . . . 9. . Jeffrey L. Boney Managing Editor Advertising Inquiries XXL Magazine datanewsad@ Calla Victoria State & Local News . . 5 National News . . 11. Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell bellsouth.net Executive Assistant Annapurna Pictures Distribution Data Zone ...... 6 June Hazeur Charlene Crowell On The Run Accounting James A. Washington 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 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from page 2.

What is stopping the dream of ers or reprobates . My brother is many Hispanic immigrants are now a sergeant in the Los Angeles the policies that Trump has ad- Police Department, my sister an opted since being in office . He educational consultant, traveling has made it increasingly hard for Injustice anywhere is a threat around the country, and I have immigrants from certain parts of served as teacher and campus min- the world to legally enter into the to justice everywhere, we ister in Catholic schools .” Sergio United States, labeling them “un- and his family are examples of what desirables .” President Trump fails are caught in an inescapable immigrants strive to do in America . to remember the history of this Most immigrants are not entering nation and the fact that the United network of mutuality, tied in America to destroy it, they are en- States was created by undesir- tering America for opportunity . Op- ables and immigrants . portunity to be educated, to live free One of Trump’s biggest cam- a single garment of destiny. of harm, and to make something of paign promises to his political base themselves, to be as Trump claims is his vow to build a wall along the Whatever affects one directly, himself to be, “a self-made man .” country’s southernmost border . A 2004 graduation speech given And that promise is now at the affects all indirectly. by Trump at Wagner College in center of the longest government New York has surfaced on social shutdown in the history of our na- — Martin Luther King Jr., 1963 media platforms, in which Trump tion . We have heard the rhetoric tells the graduates, “Never give up, that America is experiencing a hu- don’t allow it to happen, if there is manitarian and national security a concrete wall in front of you, go crisis and that the wall will solve through it, go over it, go around it, but get to the other side of that wall .” Surely these are words of hope and inspiration for anyone wanting to obtain the American Dream . So, will a wall stop immigrants? Will $5 .7 billion in tax money needed to build the wall help or hinder Amer- ica, couldn’t we use those funds for a better cause . Here’s a thought, how about we invest that money back into the American economy, perhaps we pay our educators more these issues . But what is the wall re- or here’s a thought… increase mini- ally about? Here is what one of my mum wage . students had to say, “My thoughts How can we keep Dr . King’s about the wall is that it is a physical 1egacy alive today, according to Dr . representation of White Suprema- Raphael Cassimere Jr ., who served cy, to “keep out” people in pursuit of as the New Orleans NAACP Youth the American Dream . The promise Council President during the Civil of this wall being built was a part of Rights Movement, “People of all Trump’s platform to appease the races who believe in the ideas of poor White working class, who are the nation must continue to protest, so ignorant about so many things… One of Trump’s biggest campaign promises to his political base is his vow to build a wall along the country’s organize, and fight again as we did southernmost border. And that promise is now at the center of the longest government shutdown in the his- actually believing the coal industry tory of our nation. decades earlier?” Dr . King’s legacy is coming back and that the culprit lives as his dream for America is of their demise is the immigrant .” and problematic . Many of the same and some families still suffer the current administration’s attack on renewed in this current national Tiberni Hall, Xavier University of scare tactics were used to dehu- legacy of that loss . immigrants as a threat to American struggle . Louisiana . manize African-Americans during Sergio Vasquez, Assistant Pro- values is problematic at best and Dr. Sharlene Sinegal-DeCuir is an President Trump would like the Civil Rights Movement . African- gram Director for Duchesne House dehumanizing at worst . We crossed Associate Professor of History at Xavier University of Louisiana, her Americans to think that all Hispan- Americans were seen as vagrants, for Volunteers, and resident of New without incident and were reunited areas of concentration are in ic immigrants are criminals who rapist, criminals, and a threat to the Orleans who arrived in the United with our family on the other side of American and African- American History with emphasis on the Civil mean us harm . His use of scare “majority” way of life . As a result, States 45 years after crossing the the San Diego border . None of us Rights Movement. tactics is dangerous, demining, many Black people lost their lives border at the age of 6 says, “that the are rapists, drug dealers, murder- Page 4 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

Mayor Cantrell Names Shaun Ferguson As New NOPD Superintendent

NEW ORLEANS — Today, into the 21st Century .” Mayor LaToya Cantrell, joined by Ferguson, a 21-year veteran of several public safety leaders, an- the force, is currently serving as nounced her selection for the new the Commander of the Educational superintendent of the New Orleans and Training Division, which over- Police Department: Commander sees the Police Academy . Prior to Shaun Ferguson . overseeing the academy and train- “I understand how consequential ing the next generation of NOPD this decision is, and it’s probably officers, Ferguson served for about the most important decision I will three years as Commander of the make as Mayor of the City of New department’s 2nd District before Orleans, particularly at this time,” moving to the academy in the sum- said Mayor Cantrell . mer of 2018 . Before his assignment “Commander Ferguson is my in the 2nd District, Ferguson com- choice to be the next Superinten- manded NOPD’s 4th District . dent of the New Orleans Police De- “This is indeed an honor and partment . Commander Ferguson privilege to be selected as the new has the criteria that I’ve been look- Chief of the New Orleans Police ing for . I call it the three F’s: fair, Department,” said Commander firm and friendly . (He’s) known by Ferguson . “I have had many as- our community with over 21 years signments in my 21 years with of experience . We would not have Mayor Cantrell (C) introduces her choice for New Orleans Police Superintendent, Shaun Ferguson (L) also the NOPD to prepare me for this made the strides we’ve made with pictured (R) outgoing NOPD Superintendent, Michael Harrison, who retired from NOPD and has accepted a moment, and I would like to thank the consent decree without Com- position as Police Superintendent of Baltimore, Maryland. Mayor Cantrell for entrusting me with this opportunity . Together, we will work to build upon the suc- cesses the brave men and women of this department have been able Data News Weekly is Hiring to achieve as we strive to be the best police department in America .” Data News Weekly Newspaper, The People’s Paper, The New Orleans native was raised in the Lower Ninth Ward and is hiring in our New Orleans Office. moved to Algiers during his junior high school years . A graduate of O . Perry Walker High School in 1990, Ferguson joined the New Orleans Police Department in December Editor/Reporters 1998 . During his tenure, he ob- tained a Bachelor’s Degree in Busi- ness Administration from Southern University of New Orleans, where About the Job he also received a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice . Journalists — tired of reading of layoffs, closings, the dire straights Ferguson will be sworn in New NOPD Superintendent Shaun Friday, Jan . 18th, in a public cer- of the profession? Recent college graduates — think your job Ferguson. emony held at Gallier Hall . Details prospects are bleak? Not with us! mander Ferguson modernizing the of the ceremony will be provided police department and bringing it later this week . At Data News Weekly, we are expanding! This includes starting a print newspaper/digital endeavor in one of the most dynamic and exciting cities, New Orleans.

If you want to be an integral part of your community, tell stories in a multi-media environment — look no further.

If interested, send your resume, cover letter and at least three clips of your work to Terry Jones Publisher, Data News Weekly, 3501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70125, or via email to ter- [email protected]. or call (504) 821-7421. www.ladatanews.com State & Local News January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Page 5

Black and Gold and the Soul of New Orleans - Part 2 The Story Behind the Song Choppa Style A Data News Exclusive with JMK the Producer of the Original Version

Edwin Buggage were signed to Master P on his pro- Editor duction label at the time . They were out in Houston at the time they said they would re-do the song . They New Orleans asked me what keyboard I used, and Celebrating and I told them a Kurzweil 2500 through Dance and they had a 2600, so they repro- As the Black and Gold continue duced the song and made it what it their march toward the Super Bowl; was, but everybody in New Orleans the Who Dat Nation celebrates as like the original version . I guess only people in the Big Easy does . maybe because it was the first one Throughout its storied history from to come out and I had two versions Bamboula, Jazz to Second-Line and of it a radio version and a club ver- now Bounce, this city has always sion . It really used to go hard in the been one where dancing has been a club .” prominent part of the culture . Building on this tradition, this Possible New Music from football season Choppa Style a near- Choppa and JMK ly two-decade old song by Choppa Since Choppa Style has been re- has emerged as the unofficial Saints launched I asked JMK will there Anthem as players danced to it in be any new music coming from the locker room after celebrating As the Black and Gold continue their march toward the Super Bowl; the Who Dat Nation celebrates as only him and Choppa and have people people in the Big Easy does. Throughout its storied history from Bamboula, Jazz to Second-Line and now a victory . Since then, the video has Bounce, this city has always been one where dancing has been a prominent part of the culture. Choppa in State & Local, Continued gone viral and now Who Dat lovers front of Armstrong Park near Congo Square. on page 10. everywhere are dancing to Choppa Style . city are hearing the Master P ver- Because of this some have at- sion, which is a derivative of what I tempted to write about the song, its originally did .” origins and the story behind its mu- Giving some background on how sic and lyrics . While the attention he met Choppa and how the song is great, unfortunately, many have came to be he recalls, “I did the fallen short of getting to the es- track in November of 2000 . I was sence of what is behind the music . doing a DJ gig at a club and Choppa In addition, pieces are inaccurate or was performing and I saw some- missing . thing in him that I thought with the right material he could blow up . I The True Story Behind liked him as an artist because he Choppa Style had a lot of energy . So, I told him I To get to the truth behind the was going to go into the studio and song, its origins and the music do a track and come back to the and culture of Bounce; Data News club with the instrumental and the Weekly had the unique opportu- rest was history .” nity to speak to music Producer JMK (Kirk Edwards), who is the Tru Dat: Two producer of the original version of Versions of Song Choppa Style released on local label Those who are true NOLA Take Fo Records in 2001, before be- folks know that there are two ver- ing released later on Master P’s No sions of the song . Most would Limit Records in 2003 . say that the original JMK version He is also the producer of is more organic and authentic to Bounce classics “Walk Like Ron- the Bounce music that gets the ald” by Hot Boy Ronald and “Swing people on the dance floor . In New Yo Keys” by Kilo . On this night we Orleans speak, it goes harder than meet at his studio, where we talk the other version . about a range of topics . That in- Speaking of the songs and how clude Choppa Style, the Saints, the two versions came to be and how music business and the spirit of the his stamp is on them he says, “In people of New Orleans . both versions the melody is mine, We begin by discussing the new the bass notes, the trumpets those attention to a song he originally are all instruments I played, and produced 20 years ago becoming they covered it .” an unofficial anthem for the Black Continuing he speaks on how and Gold this season in their quest the song came to have another ver- to get back to the Super Bowl . With sion, “They only did that because the smile of a proud papa he says, the group that produced it Full “I like the attention getting . Even Pack Music who are good friends though a lot of people outside of the of mine Fess and Don Juan, they Page 6 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Master P Clarifies Comments on Parents of R. Kelly’s Alleged Victims

Courtesy of XXL Magazine viving R . Kelly described . “Ain’t nobody gonna play with my Master P caught some flak for his re- kids,” Master P said in the video that marks about the parents of the alleged started this bit of controversy . “Straight victims who appeared in the Lifetime up . You shouldn’t have even been on TV, docuseries Surviving R . Kelly . In an In- and if you a parent, you shouldn’t be on stagram video, the No Limit Records that unless you on CNN from a jail cell . founder implied that the parents didn’t I don’t know if R . Kelly did it or not, that do enough to help their children when ain’t any of my business, I ain’t judg- Kelly allegedly abused them . Now he’s ing, but I’m just saying those parents stepped forth to clarify his comments . shouldn’t have let that go that far . If you On Wednesday (Jan . 9), Master P, got love for your kids, you are going to along with his son Romeo Miller, ap- war behind your kids . You ain’t doing no peared on the daytime talk show The New Orleans’ businessman Master P, recently addressed and clarified his reality show .” Real and P elaborated on a point he comments regarding the explosive docuseries “Surviving R. Kelly”. Master P’s Master P is referring to the Clarys’ made on Instagram a couple days ago . original comments saw him speculate on how he would’ve handled things if his situation in episode 6 of Surviving R . Kel- children were in the situation like the women in Surviving R. Kelly described. The rap vet wanted to make it specifi- ly . The parents were outside of R . Kelly’s cally clear that he wasn’t blaming the need to get done . We love our beautiful deal with the truth,” he said . “I’m putting Chicago studio banging on the door and victims’ parents, he was only explaining black women that they went through in God’s hands, I’m praying for [those] throwing rocks at the window in an at- what he would do if he was ever put in this . We want justice for them .” women whatever justice that needs to to tempt to see their daughter, Azriel, who that situation . Master P also blamed social media for be served the system need to do that .” has been living with the singer . We must “I said me as a parent I would have twisting his words and not accepting the P’s original comments saw him mentioned that the Clarys haven’t seen kicked that door down, I’m not blaming hard truth . speculate as to how he would’ve their daughter in three years and they [the parents],” he said . “Whatever jus- “Social media has a verse and people handled things if his children were claimed that R . Kelly is allegedly prohib- tice that need to be done to R . Kelly, that have opinions [but] they don’t want to in the situation the women in Sur- iting them from seeing her . Data News Weekly is Hiring Data News Weekly Newspaper, The People’s Paper, is hiring in our New Orleans Office.

Sales Manager/Retail Ad Manager

About the Job Data News Weekly Newspaper is the leading African Ameri- Our ideal candidate will possess the following education, can media company in New Orleans, publishing a weekly skills and experience: newspaper. Additionally, its website under ladatanews.com • Minimum 5 years print and digital sales and manager ex- is the most read Black website in the region. perience We are currently seeking a strong leader to proactively man- • Self-starter, capable of executing within all phases of sales age broad aspects of the advertising division. You will be cycle working in a positive team-oriented atmosphere which has • Strong relationship building and client service background a modern press, leading website and award-winning news- • Strong organizational, communication and presentation paper. skills Responsibilities include but not limited to: • Team player and leader • Prospect and develop sales leads for print and digital • Understanding of Analytics and ad serving technology product lines • Strong motivational skills • Drive online and cross platform advertising sales • Recruit talent • Identify, create strategies, develop influential contacts, Our company provides a competitive salary, and an envi- and help close new digital products ronment that encourages personal and professional growth. • Increase overall revenue opportunities in both print and We are an equal opportunity employer. online If you are interested in a rewarding career, email a cover let- • Develop a team sales atmosphere ter and resume to: [email protected] or mail to: Data News Weekly, c/o Terry Jones, Publisher, 3501 Napoleon Av- enue, New Orleans LA 70125 www.ladatanews.com Data Zone January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Page 7

Award-Winning Actress Regina King Opens Up About Sleeper Hit “If Beale Street Could Talk”

By Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell award as “The Best Supporting Ac- The New Tri-State Defender tress .” In her acceptance, she thanked Jenkins for telling the poignant story . Regina King makes it easy to say She vowed as a producer and director, “yes” to an assignment editor’s request herself, to make sure all her future proj- for a reporter to join in on a national ects involve at least 50 percent women . conference call and listen to an actress The tone for the movie was set at the talk about her role in a movie . top, King said on the call . I had already sounded the “y” in my “Barry from the very beginning cre- “yes” before the sentence conveying ated a loving and trusting environment . the opportunity was complete . From that day when the cast first met, At 7 p .m . Central time last Wednes- we fell into our roles . It was like our day, I was in full-listen mode as King – roles chose us . fresh from her Golden-Globe winning “And shooting that scene around evening – talked about her role in “If KiKi Layne and Stephan James in If Beale Street Could Talk. Photo: Tatum Beale Street, when we took breaks, we Beale Street Could Talk” with more Mangus / Annapurna Picture/Tatum Mangus/Annapurna Pictures didn’t go back to our rooms . We went than a thousand faith leaders, commu- upstairs in the brownstone and just talk- nity activists, sororities and fraternities audiences, lines wrapped around the ed and shared our stories . You will see and African-American news outlets on block, people seeing it for the first time, real relationship in our performances .” the line . fans coming to watch for the fifth time . Sharon and Joseph Rivers create a loving, nurturing household, King said . She was candid It’s the little movie that could. “You see the love on screen between from the jump. “No one in Hollywood can say that a black father and his daughter . We “James Baldwin’s book with the there is no audience for movies like this see a young man who so gently and same title is a powerful meditation on that tells our stories,” said King . “We tenderly loves this young woman . The love,” King said . “It talks about what want to see ourselves . We want to see take-away is that throughout the years, love really is . Baldwin gives literary our stories . Our children want to see we are reminded that it has been our voice to the blues . This movie is impor- their stories . My son told me it was the love for one another that has gotten us tant because we actually see ourselves first time he had seen himself on the through .” on the screen . It is important to tell our screen .” April Reign, the activist who started stories, to keep telling our stories .” Hundreds of Facebook posts, tweets Regina King stars as Sharon in Barry “#OscarsSoWhite,” also praised the One key story King is telling is this: on Twitter and other social media mes- Jenkins’ IF BEALE STREET COULD film on the 45-minute conference call . Go the see the movie; help get the word sages lit up cyberspace during the call TALK (Annapurna Pictures) “This movie is fierce, tender and un- out! Let people know that there is a as people live-streamed King’s inter- apologetically black,” said Reign . “It is a powerful film out about a “black family view and reported that they had already she said . “They understood the spirit portrait of every strong mother we have in the early ‘70s” and how they manage seen “Beale Street” multiple times . that was in us at an early age .” known . Let’s encourage everyone to go to get through the challenges of life in King portrays Sharon Rivers, Ernes- Director Barry Jenkins adapted a and see ‘Beale Street .’ a world of institutions that are systemi- tine and Tish’s mother and Joseph’s screenplay from Baldwin’s book and “But once you see it, you’ll come cally and historically racist . It resonates wife . The facts of her own journey sug- then set course for a movie on the big running back for more . Get lost in the with themes of family, love and justice . gests that King has been preparing for screen . Produced by Plan B Entertain- magic that is James Baldwin brought to “Beale Street” made its American de- the role all of her life . ment, the film made its world premiere life by Barry Jenkins .” but on December 14 in – get this – just “I am a mother, and I have an amaz- at the Toronto International Film Festi- For those on the conference call, the four theatres . That’s right, four . All four, ing mother and grandmother who val on September 9, 2018 . resolve was this: “Let’s build a move- however, were overrun with sold-out pushed my sister and I to dream big,” King racked up a Golden Globe ment around ‘Beale Street .’”

2019 MLK Day Celebration Events: “Remember, Celebrate, Act”

The remaining celebration United Teachers of New Day of Service New Orleans MLK Monday, January 21 “Remember, Celebrate, events are as follows: Orleans Choral Concert 10:00 a.m. at Bayou Bienvenue Student Art Exhibition Act” MLK Day of Play 6:00 p.m. at McDonough 35 Wetland Triangle Lower 9th 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Opening Program beginning after march and Thursday, January 17 Preparatory High School, Ward Observation Deck, Rosa Keller Library Gallery, 9:00 a.m. at New Orleans Jazz lasting until 3:00 p.m. at 4000 Cadillac St. 2667 Caffin Ave. Register here. 4300 S. Broad St. Market. A.L. Davis Park New Orleans Public Speaker: The Honorable Marc Library Celebration Saturday, January 19 National Conference Stella Jones Gallery H. Morial, President and CEO 10:30 a.m. at East New Orleans of Artists 21st MLK 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at of the National Urban League Regional Library, Rev. Avery C. Alexander Exhibitions 201 St. Charles Ave. 5641 Read Blvd. Social Action Forum 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Official March 10:00 a.m. at Dryades YMCA, McKenna Museum of African Ashe Cultural Arts Center 10:00 a.m. beginning at Oretha 2220 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd American Art, Powerhouse Castle Haley Blvd. and ending 2300 Carondelet St. 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at at A.L. Davis Park 1712 Oretha C. Haley Blvd. Page 8 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

Short-Term Rentals Can Help with Affordable Housing Crisis—If We Can Find the Right Mix

Affordable Housing Crisis that has 1) property owners with homestead STRs to increased data sharing . policies to ensure rentals meet ba- been festering since Hurricane Ka- exemptions will continue to be able Even if short-term rentals were sic health and safety standards; and trina, the council continues to move rent out their home or units on completely eliminated from the 3) facilitating transit-oriented devel- in a direction to revamp the policies their property; 2) the City Council New Orleans’ housing market, opment in areas with strong public created in 2016 . Long before Airbnb intends to generate at least $20 mil- residents would still face a hous- transit access . and other Web-based platforms were lion in new revenue for Affordable ing affordability crisis . If the City This is an opportunity to con- available, New Orleanians were rent- Housing annually from an assort- Council stands firm and makes the tinue to work towards solutions ing out their homes during major ment of new fees and 3) the city can proposed and necessary changes that benefit all New Orleanians, and Andreanecia Morris events . Given that history, the City and will access untapped millions to properly regulate short-term we must encourage our elected of- Executive Director, Council is now proposing a series of to create an enforcement system rentals it will be a needed first step . ficials to #PutHousingFirst when HousingNOLA changes that would meet the needs to implement their new short- Alone however, it will not fix these making these decisions . In the com- On Thursday, January 10, 2019, of the majority of New Orleanians— term rental plan . The issues that problems for New Orleanians – in- ing months, Mayor Cantrell and the New Orleans City Council most of whom are cost burdened and are still undefined will be studied stead, it will ensure that a bad situ- City Council will have chance after unanimously voted to direct the paying more than they can afford on by the CPC . We will once again ation doesn’t get worse . It still falls chance to devote the resources and City Planning Commission (CPC) their housing . have to debate a proposed cap to our leaders to, in addition to fi- attention necessary to implement to draft changes that would revise However, there is still much that and matching Affordable Housing nalizing the changes to short-term solutions for long-term residents the current short-term rental poli- must be decided in the coming requirement in commercial areas rental regulations, implement poli- who have seen their housing be- cies and generate millions to create months and the council will have and we can expect heated discus- cy solutions designed to create the come less affordable and have been Affordable Housing . Responding to ample opportunity to clarify their sions around enforcement guide- right housing mix . These solutions pushed out of their neighborhoods . evidence that the short-term rental final position . Only three things lines that address the prohibition include: 1) full implementation of We have to be vigilant to ensure explosion has played a role in the were clearly established last week: of collecting fees from unlicensed the Smart Housing Mix; 2) creating that they take them . Remembering Dr. King and “The Other America” main as timely as they are timeless . tary, decent housing conditions .” the same levels experienced at the of a federal government shutdown “There are so many problems In 2019 the two Americas Dr . time of the 1968 Fair Housing Act’s are men and women – the military facing our nation and our world, King wrote about still remain . A na- passage . and civil servants – whose service that one could just take off any- to the country is deemed so essen- where,” Dr . King said in a speech tial that they must continue to work delivered on April 14, 1967 at Stan- Pull Quote “Little children in this without knowing when another pay- ford University . other America are forced to grow up check will arrive . Another 800,000 Entitled, “The Other America” furloughed federal workers may be Dr . King began by recapping the at home; but like others affected by Charlene Crowell with clouds of inferiority forming ev- NNPA Newswire Columnist nation’s bounty and beauty, noting the shutdown, they too still need to how “America is overflowing with ery day in their little mental skies . As pay their rent or mortgage, honor the milk of prosperity and the hon- their financial obligations and take Once again on the third Monday ey of opportunity”, and how “mil- we look at this other America, we see care of children as best they can . in January, much of the nation will lions of young people grow up in it as an arena of blasted hopes and Those who are unpaid or under- mark the anniversary of the death the sunlight of opportunity” . employed – those who are working of the late Rev . Dr . Martin Luther For his audience, those com- shattered dreams,” said Dr . King… but failing to earn a salary compara- King, Jr . Countless programs and ments almost certainly reflected ble to their education and training, events will no doubt recall several the lifestyles of the students attend- tion once lauded for its enviable and Housing also remains troubled student loan repayments can take a of his famous speeches from the ing one of the nation’s elite educa- expanding middle class has evolved for renters as well . According to the financial backseat to housing, utili- 1963 March on Washington’s “I tional institutions . into a nation of people who are ei- National Low-Income Housing Co- ties, or other daily living needs . Have A Dream to his “I’ve Been In his inimitable Baptist cadence, ther growing wealthy or growing alition, the nation lacks more than At press deadline, the federal to the Mountaintop” delivered in Dr . King then went on to speak of poor . In this unfortunate process, 7 million affordable rental homes shutdown was approaching the Memphis during the 1968 sanita- the “Other America” that was equal- the nation’s envied middle class is that affect 43 .8 million families . 1995 shutdown record of 21 days . tion workers’ strike . ly real but far removed from the vanishing . Moreover, 11 million families pay In 1967 Dr . King advised his In a life of only 39 years, Dr . commonplace privilege associated Historically, homeownership has more than half of their income on Stanford University audience, King captured global attention in with Stanford . been a reliable measure of the na- housing and are considered severe- “Somewhere we must come to see his valiant, nonviolent fight for “Little children in this other tion’s middle class . Late last year ly-cost burdened . that social progress never rolls in the values of freedom, justice and America are forced to grow up with it stood at 64 .4 according to the As of January 3, over 1,100 HUD on the wheels of inevitability . It equality . Preaching and fighting for clouds of inferiority forming every Census Bureau . Yet when race and contracts with landlords for its Section comes through the tireless efforts long overdue citizenship rights first day in their little mental skies . As ethnicity are added who owns a 8 rental voucher program expired . By and the persistent work of dedicat- promised to all in the Declaration we look at this other America, we home today discloses a far different February, another 1,000 more con- ed individuals… . And so, we must of Independence, he championed see it as an arena of blasted hopes picture . White homeownership was tracts are expected to expire . At press help time, and we must realize that economic justice – especially for and shattered dreams,” said Dr . higher than the national average at time, the stalemated federal govern- the time is always right to do right .” Blacks to have safe, decent, and af- King . “It’s more difficult today be- 73 .1 percent . ment shutdown continued, leaving This year, may we all honor Dr . fordable housing . He also called for cause we are struggling for genu- But Blacks still-suffering from millions of people uncertain about King and do our respective efforts full participation in the economy, ine equality . It’s much easier to the financial losses from the now their lives, or livelihoods or both . While to make America live up to its prom- and an end to financial exploitation . integrate a lunch counter than it is decade-old foreclosure crisis had landlords and HUD figure out the pa- ise of opportunity for all . Now 51 years since his assassi- to guarantee a livable income and a a homeownership rate of 41 .7 per- perwork, 1 .2 million families relying Charlene Crowell is the Center for nation, his words still strike a reso- good solid job . It’s much easier to cent, lower than its pre-housing on this vital rental support program Responsible Lending’s Communi- cations Deputy Director. She can nant chord . His words — written guarantee the right to vote than it is crisis rate of 47 .7 percent . Today’s remain at risk . be reached at Charlene.crowell@ as prose but markedly poetic — re- to guarantee the right to live in sani- Black homeownership resembles Also caught in partisan bickering responsiblelending.org. www.ladatanews.com In the Spirit January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Page 9

Spiritually Speaking Faith Tested is Real or Maybe Not

to me is a direct result of my doing, That faith, or lack thereof, sanction in the midst of what the world is feeling like I’m going through hell the choices I’ve made, the lack of so called terrorist attacks, suicide facing with you and me in it? That on some things; a lack of having having God internalized and called bombers and of course righteous is not a rhetorical question . I find the one true God imbedded in the upon throughout my decision mak- retaliation . The God Christians myself in prayer asking God to give decision making process . When ing process . In not doing so, a lot of serve merely has a very different me the wisdom to learn from what- that happens, peace (peace of mind the goings on in this world get sim- point of view and thereby dictates ever the experience is that I’m go- in my case) prevails because the plistically reduced to what I call the a different course of action for us . ing through, goo or bad . Likewise outcome is known . I win based on view from a religious perspective . I Jesus teaches peace, love and un- I’m also praying for the wisdom to my faith in and acceptance of Jesus mean think about it . Most of today’s derstanding and yes, I do know how understand what in the world is go- as Lord and all that brings with it . James A. Washington tension and conflict get interpreted trite and contrived that sounds . But ing on in the world in which we live . The world could use some rigorous NNPA News Wire Columnist at a very base level in terms of radi- the Man was killed for living a life The end result is usually the same . training in this . When it doesn’t hap- cal religious behavior in the name predicated on love for fellow human I ultimately have to put all things in pen, chaos reigns . Because in the With the world in such a tu- of one God or another . News media beings and a definite intolerance the Lord’s hands . Faith demands end, I know what the outcome is go- multuous state, you could say that at times tend to minimize, if not ig- of institutionalized persecution that I do . His Divine Will certainly ing to be . God wins which means I this is when faith can and is tested . nore, this and explain it in terms of and oppression, particularly by the supersedes my secular understand- win . Those who believe in Him will For some, tragic world events just territorial disputes, political power church, His . ing and that is as it should be . I also be victorious . Simply put you might make you question the ex- grabs, oil, and in some cases money We all know the source of His must admit to you though, that I do, win too . Think about it and you’ll istence of the God we profess to and greed . But those who die in strength in the midst of what He at times, think that man has forced know where your faith is . May God believe in . I have to often remind these conflicts are usually killed faced . I guess my question to you these issues and situations for the bless and keep you always . myself that most of what happens by someone of a different faith . is what is the source of your faith same reasons that I find myself

100 Black Men Hosts 4th Annual Resource Fair

and health and wellness . Growing Healthy, The event will take place Satur- day, January 19, 2019 from 10:00 Wealthy and Wise, am to 3:00 p .m . at Capdau Char- event to celebrate ter School, located in the Gentilly Neighborhood . New Orleans’ culture Our 2019 event theme cel- and Mardi Gras ebrates the rich history of New Orleans Culture and the Mardi traditions to be held Gras Traditions during the week- end we honor Dr . Martin Luther on MLK Weekend . King’s Legacy . more photos You are cordially invited to Featured workshops from more stories join the 100 Black Men of Metro STEM NOLA, The US Army, New Orleans for one of the big- and Enroll NOLA and much more data gest resource fairs in New Or- more . For more information and leans promoting education, lit- a full schedule of events, visit eracy, economic empowerment www .100blackmennola .org . Page 10 January 19 - January 25 , 2019 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com State & Local, Continued from page 5.

leans Bounce on the map . Bounce Music Breaking As one of the pioneering produc- New Ground ers of the genre he says of its evo- In addition to creating music lution, “I am humbled and grateful JMK is involved in other busi- and there are a lot of good produc- ness ventures including shooting ers doing bounce .” Distinguishing videos, making films and bring- himself from them he remarks, “I ing Bounce Music to new audi- think I am different in some ways ences and cementing its social because I make nationwide club and historical significance . “I just music . Songs that can go anywhere . came back doing some work with To have the New Orleans stamp, Legendary Bounce Artist Ricky but still be different . I think that is B for a festival called the Rich- one of the reasons ‘Choppa Style” mond Folk Fest, we are the first stood out .” rap group to be at that festival and because of that we are going to in Bouncing to the Bank the Library of Congress and also and Business Basics in the Guinness Book of World Re- In the music business many of- cords for that .” ten forget the 90 percent part of it that is business . There are so many Who Dat, Saints Pride stories of artist who had hit records and Being 5-0-4-ever and may have made money in the Just like many, JMK, is a proud industry who find themselves New Orleanian and a Saints Fan . broke because of poor business He believes as many does and is moves and financial decisions . excited about the possibility of a JMK is not one of them; he says Super Bowl Victory and what it Saints Players Michael Thomas, Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara celebrate on sideline doing the of how he structured his deal with could do for the city . While also Choppa Style. “Choppa Style,” “Take Fo Records noting the creativity and the spirit stated if the song secured a na- of resiliency is what makes the reached out to them . Slightly swiv- is in talks with them and also a rep- eling his chair as to face his record- resentative from Master P called ing console he says, “I have a couple me and talked about it . There was of tracks in the computer for him, also talk about DJ Black and Mild but his direction with financing on a being involved in a collabo between label he was once with Take Fo; he me and him .”

JMK, the Producer of the Original version of Just like many, JMK, is a proud New Orleanian and a Saints Choppa Style in the studio with Data News Fan. Speaking of the new interest in the song he created Weekly Editor Edwin Buggage. nearly two decades ago he says, “I am honored to be part of the tradition of making people dance and seeing a song I help create “Choppa Style” come to mean so much to the people of our City.”

New Orleans Music and tional deal, I would get 30 percent city and its people special . “You its Nationwide Impact of whatever was made off it . They have to be a survivor to be here Bounce music elements have did a joint release with Master P and that was before Katrina . And shown up in many hits by national and Universal records, so my pub- there is a pride that comes with artist, most notably Beyonce’, who lishing checks were coming from being from New Orleans in all that have incorporated elements of New Japan, Romania, the UK, because we do and how we live life . In spite Orleans music and dancing through- Master P was able to put the song of the problems we sometimes out her career . Pop artist Miley out there worldwide . In the record- have we find ways to enjoy life . Cyrus Twerking and Drake, who is ing industry it is about publishing And that is why dancing is such a signed to Cash Money/Young Mon- and keeping money coming in and part of who we are and have been ey records owned by New Orleans that is where the longevity is in throughout our history . I am hon- natives Bryan “Birdman” Williams terms of making money in the mu- ored to be part of that tradition by and brother Ronald “Slim” Williams sic industry . So, I am glad there is making people dance to many of borrowing elements of New Orleans a renewed interest in music I made the songs I have created and see- music and dance . with Choppa to continue to mon- ing “Choppa Style” come to mean And one who is making a ma- etize something I created .” so much to the people of our City .” jor impact is New Orleans native, Queen Diva Big Freedia, who has a reality show and music is blowing up is putting New Or- www.ladatanews.com National News January 19 - January 25 , 2019 Page 11 DATA CLASSIFIED Call 504-821-7421 to place your classified ad. Soar12 African-American Like an Teens Reach Eagle the Pinnacle of Success in The Boy Scouts Job Opportunity Freelance By Jeffrey L. Boney Writers NNPA Newswire Contributor Wanted

Here in the United States, the Data News Weekly, “The Boy Scouts of America is consid- People’s Paper, is looking for freelence writers to ered to be one of the most revered join our team print and institutions for the development of digital team. We want young boys . to hear from you if you In the Boy Scouts of America, are a working journalist, or an aspiring journalist the highest achievement or rank who has 2 years or more that one can attain is the designa- of newspaper or PR tion of Eagle Scout and reaching writing experience. We that accomplishment is not an need writers who can easy task . cover New Orleans news stories, ranging from The Eagle Scout designation local high school sports, is highly respected because only community events, City 4 percent of all Boy Scouts are Hall and entertainment. ever granted this prestigious Experience in print is necessary, experience in rank after fulfilling the many digital and social media years of requirements that must are encouraged. be achieved . On Saturday, Janu- ary 5th, twelve African-American Compensation is young men reached the ultimate Boy Scout Troop 242, led by Scoutmaster Dameion Crook, Sr., presented the 12 African-American Eagle competitive and great milestone of being awarded the Scouts during the Eagle Court of Honor ceremony that was held at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. His son story ideas will be Eagle Scout distinction . was one of the newest Eagle Scouts, which is the cherry on the top of Scoutmaster Crook’s two years lead- ing Boy Scout Troop 242. appreciated. Shane Bennett, Dameion Crook II, Dylan Gaines, Kyle Gaines, “We have a long tradition of creat- mum of 21 merit badges, but most in various endeavors such as Order If you are interested, please email your resume Chandler Green, Daniel Hinton, ing Eagle Scouts and to have these of these Eagles have more than 30 of the Arrow (scouting’s Honor So- and 3 writing samples to: Marshall Hudson, Marcellus Jor- 12 young men complete the Boy merit badges . Only through plan- ciety), National Youth Leadership terrybjones@bellsouth. dan III, Eron Lord, Eric Sims, Asa Scouts of America program is a tes- ning and carrying out a community Training (premier leadership train- net and datanewseditor@ Singleton and Benjamin White are tament to our legacy and our scout- service project, coupled with dem- ing for Scouts), participating in the bellsouth.net. all a part of Boy Scout Troop 242, ing program .” onstrated leadership in and out of Philmont Trek, representing Troop a historic troop located at Wheeler Twelve Eagles at one time is the Troop, can a scout who lives 242 in Switzerland, etc . Ave Baptist Church . pretty much unheard of for any the scout oath be considered for an Often overlooked by families We can’t wait to Boy Scout Troop 242, led by troop and definitely for an African- Eagle Board of Review that consists seeking to engage their sons in hear from you! Scoutmaster Dameion Crook, Sr ., American troop like Troop 242 . of the District and Council repre- meaningful, positive activities, the presented the 12 African-American All 12 of these young men have sentatives from the Boy Scouts . All Boy Scouts have proven to be an Eagle Scouts during the Eagle had their “eye on Eagle” through of these things must be done before old, but tried and true method that Court of Honor ceremony that years of hard work, fulfilling the Scout turns 18 . has not lost its effectiveness . These was held at Wheeler Avenue Bap- their obligations with more than Although the average age for at- twelve young men have taken full tist Church . His son was one of just the minimum obligations re- taining the rank is 17 .5 years old, advantage of all that the scouting the newest Eagle Scouts, which is quired for the honor to be called at least five (5) of these new Eagle world has to offer . the cherry on the top of Scoutmas- an Eagle Scout . Scouts fulfilled the commitment be- Troop 242 and the parents of ter Crook’s two years leading Boy This group of talented young fore turning 16 . these young men should be ex- This space can be Scout Troop 242 . men not only achieved the rank of These young men have gone tremely proud of their accomplish- “This event marks a tremendous Eagle Scout, they did so in historic beyond their Troop and have rep- ments and dedication . We look milestone in the history of our and memorable fashion . resented scouting locally, region- forward to all they will achieve in troop,” said Scoutmaster Crook . The Boy Scouts requires a mini- ally, nationally and internationally the future . yours for only $80

This space can be yours for only $80 Call Now! follow us on

CALL NOW!!! 504-821-7421 504-821-7421 @DataNewsWeek

ladatanews.com - The People’s Website “I DEFINITELY DIDN’T DO IT ALONE.” If you’re thinking of fi nishing your high school diploma, you have more support than you realize. Find teachers and free adult education classes near you at FinishYourDiploma.org.