Lighting The Road To The Future

Data Zone Page 6 CONGO SQUARE “The People’s Paper” February 11 - February 17, 2012 46th Year Volume 37 www.ladatanews.com

Experience New Orleans Black History

Page 2 Newsmaker Commentary Champion of RIP Don Change Cornelius Page 4 Page 8 Page 2 February 11 - February 17, 2012 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com Experience New Orleans Black History

New Orleans African-American Museum

enriching . So we have compiled a list of places we Diaspora . The Museum is housed in the beautiful Written and Edited by Edwin Buggage would like to suggest as we encourage you to be a Treme Villa, considered by some to be one of the tourist in your own City . Experience this cultural finest examples of a Creole Villa in the City . Built jewel we call New Orleans . A City that is truly the in 1828-29, the home retains many of its original New Orleans: A Cultural Jewel most African influenced City in America . decorative details . The grounds also house five New Orleans is a City with a rich cultural heri- restored buildings to visit . A centerpiece of the ex- tage . At Data News Weekly for over 45 years we New Orleans African-American Museum hibits at the African-American Museum is the Lou- continue to chronicle the living history of this Located in the heart of Treme, the oldest surviv- isiana-Congo: The Bertrand Donation, a collection amazing City . In the month of February we not ing Black community in the United States, the New of exquisite African beadwork, costumes, masks, only want you to encourage you to observe and Orleans African-American Museum is dedicated to textiles, musical instruments and divination objects celebrate Black History Month, we want you to go protecting, preserving, and promoting through is a major part of the museum¹s permanent collec- out and experience some of the wonderful things education the history, art, and communities of tion . This 70-piece assortment of original African there are to do in New Orleans that are culturally African-Americans in New Orleans and the African artwork from the Democratic Republic of Congo

Cover Story, Continued on next page.

DATA News Weekly P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 | Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 INSIDE DATA editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors CEO/Publisher Danny Bakewell Jr. Cover Story ...... 2 Commentary . . . . 8 Glenn Jones Brandon Brooks VP Advertising Edwin Buggage & Marketing Kichea S. Burt Newsmaker...... 4 Opinions...... 9 Cheryl Mainor NNPA Newswire Managing Editor Edwin Buggage Art Direction & Production State & Local News . . 5 National News . . . 11 Editor MainorMedia.com Lynesia Carson Editorial Submissions Executive Assistant [email protected] Data Zone ...... 6 June Hazeur Advertising Inquiries Accounting [email protected] Please call 504-309-9913 for subscription information or to obtain a back issue of the paper ONLY. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story February 11 - February 17, 2012 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

illuminates parallels between ev- eryday life in the Congo and Loui- siana folk culture .

Backstreet Museum Also located in Treme, is the Backstreet Cultural Museum which is where visitors find an amazing assortment of memora- bilia indigenous to Mardi Gras, jazz funerals and other traditions found only in New Orleans . The Backstreet Museum, once the home of the Blandin Funeral Home, houses the City’s largest collection of Mardi Gras Indian costumes . These brilliantly col- ored and elaborately designed costumes are hand-made by local artists who belong to the various Mardi Gras Indian groups and The George & Leah McKenna Museum of African-American Art Backstreet Cultural Museum are part of the continuation of this amazing tradition . Each costume marriage ceremonies and a host also features storytelling, poetry, seum presents works by local and leans, welcoming both free and boasts thousands of beads, shells, of other events . Today it is still music, dance and photography . internationally-renowned artists slave as worshippers . It continues rhinestones, sequins and feathers a place that is significant to the Other events have included plays such as Henry Ossawa Tanner, today as a beacon of humanity and and takes a year to make . These cultural contribution of African- about racism, film screenings of William Edouard Scott, Clemen- spirituality, both a history lesson costumes are artistic treasures . Americans to New Orleans . African-American documentaries tine Hunter, Ernie Barnes and Ul- and an example of 21st Century Over several generations, the and weekly samba, drumming rich Jean Pierre . Located in New Christianity in action . Mardi Gras Indians have been Ashé Cultural Center and wellness clinics . Orleans, the McKenna Museum an integral part of Mardi Gras Ashe Cultural Center has been is committed to the preservation Amistad Research Center history . The Mardi Gras Indians at the forefront of a revival on McKenna Museum of the distinct culture found within The Amistad Research Center tradition or “Masking Indian” is Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard The George & Leah McKenna the African-American community is the nation’s oldest, largest and a paying of homage to the Native formerly Dryades Street . Once a Museum of African-American of Louisiana . The McKenna’s also most comprehensive indepen- American from a bond beginning center of African-American com- Art is an institution that collects, have another museum dedicated dent archive specializing in the shared in the 18th and 19th Centu- merce, today there space is a interprets and preserves the vi- to free people of color and their History of African-Americans and ries, when runaway slaves sought multi-purpose facility used to pres- sual aesthetic of people of African contributions to America called other Ethnic Minorities . The Cen- safety among the various tribes ent the work of emerging artist in descent in North America and Le Musée de f .p .c . ter is housed in Tulane Univer- living in the area . Today more than 20 tribes are found in Louisi- ana—White Cloud Hunters, Wild Apache, Flaming Arrows and Yellow Pocahontas, and the Wild Magnolias to name a few . These tribes design and create elabo- rately beaded and feathered cos- tumes worn only on Mardi Gras day and the Sunday preceding or following St . Joseph’s Day . These costumes can be worn only in the year in which they are created .

Congo Square Considered the heartbeat of the African-American culture and cradles that gave birth to Black life in New Orleans, located in the southern corner of Arm- strong Park is Congo Square, an open space where slaves and free Blacks and some Whites gath- ered throughout the 19th Cen- St. Augustine Catholic Church of New Orleans Congo Square tury meetings, open markets con- sisting of food, and other items addition to being used as a space beyond . Through innovative pro- St. Augustine Catholic sity’s Tilton Memorial Hall . From for sale accompanied by African for community meetings and grams and exhibits that engage Church of New Orleans its beginnings as the first archives dance and drumming celebra- events . Ashé comes from a Yo- versatile audiences, the McKenna St Augustine Catholic Church documenting the modern Civil tions . This is arguably the begin- ruban word that closely translates Museum seeks to make African is the Oldest African-American Rights Movement, the Amistad ning of the second-line tradition to “amen ”. Ashé not only attracts Diasporan Fine Art accessible to Catholic Church in the U .S . dating Research Center has experienced and it also played a substantial role and inspires artists but activates visitors of all ages . The institution back into the antebellum period . considerable expansion and its in the development of jazz . For the artistic, creative and entrepre- also actively identifies and pres- Located in the Treme neighbor- mission continues to evolve . The some Congo Square continues to neurial possibilities available in ents emerging artists alongside hood of New Orleans, Louisiana, history of slavery, race relations, be a spiritual base and people use the community . From children to well-established fine arts masters . and since its dedication in 1842, the Square for rituals and events seniors, the organization works to Featuring the private collection of St . Augustine started as a church Cover Story, including religious ceremonies, involve the entire community and Dr . Dwight McKenna, the Mu- of the Black citizens of New Or- Continued on page 10. Page 4 February 11 - February 17, 2012 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

Local Business Leader Selected as a “Champion of Change” As Part of President Obama’s Winning the Future Initiative

Justin T . Augustine, III, Vice lighted each week ranging from est cities . This award in- President of Veolia Transporta- educators to entrepreneurs to spires me to continue to tion Services and General Man- community activists . The Office innovate, improve, and ager of the Regional Transit Au- of Public Engagement will host impact positive change thority in New Orleans has been an event at the White House to for the community,” con- selected by President Barack honor Augustine for “Winning cluded Augustine . Obama’s Administration as a the Future” and further empower- As a part of the Cham- ”Champion of Change”, which is ing and inspiring other members pions of Change events, part of the President’s Winning of the community . Mr . Augustine will meet the Future initiative . On Febru- “I am truly honored that the with fellow innovators ary 15th, the White House will be work I have done in New Orleans and participate in a featuring leaders who are innova- is being recognized by President discussion with other tors in infrastructure . Augustine Obama’s Administration,” com- Champions and White was nominated for his work and mented Mr . Augustine . “I have House representatives leadership of the New Orleans dedicated much of my profession- to discuss the work they Streetcar Recovery and Reinvest- al life to building a better trans- are doing . In addition to ment Act Project . portation system for this country the events and meetings, Each week, the White House and I am especially grateful that Augustine’s story and bi- features a group of Americans, the work I have done to assist in ography will be featured businesses or organizations who the revitalization of my hometown on the White House web- embody ‘Innovate, Educate, and is having a positive impact on the site at www .whitehouse . Build’ . Different groups are high- future of one of America’s great- gov/champions . www.ladatanews.com State & Local News February 11 - February 17, 2012 Page 5

St. Mary’s Academy Students Participate In Exhibition At New Orleans Museum Of Art

Ten student artworks from St . The following artists were cho- form newspaper to elevate the “trash” into a new Mary’s Academy were chosen sen to participate: Kayla Wright, covered card- aesthetic entity . to be exhibited in a city-wide art Alexis Brown, Torian Brown, Ze- board into new “The message of our work liter- show at the New Orleans Mu- nobia Johnson, Daphine Bindom, canvases which ally and figuratively is that our en- seum of Art on Friday, February Deja Davis, Jasmine Johnson, convey a fresh vironment can be enhanced and 3rd presented by Artfully Aware . Taylor Odom, Zhane’ Farbe, and composition and saved from decay and destitution Artfully AWARE (AfA) is an inter- Sydney Williams . MA Art Instruc- present an aes- through different efforts - one of national not-for-profit organiza- tor and noted Artist Christine Ba- thetic challenge which is using the artist’s creativ- tion that connects communities, gneris’ artwork was also featured for the viewer ”. ity (as an example of recycling) to collaborates with local partners as part of the exhibit . To conceive transform the discards into a new and generates positive change in According to Art Instructor the work, stu- form of aesthetic values,” said Ba- people’s lives through advocacy Christine Bagneris, the environ- dents tore scrap gneris . events and innovative commu- ment was the source of inspira- newspaper and The event also included perfor- nity development projects . The tion for the works . glued it onto mances by the Mardi Gras Indian organization endeavors to inspire “We live with man-made trea- c a r d b o a r d , tribe, the Guardians of the Flame people to recognize their power sures which we cherish and at which served and the New Orleans Dance Col- as individuals to promote change, the end of their life cycle, they get as the raw ma- lective . Additionally featured was whether advocating for human discarded,” said Bagneris . “We terial for their Michael Watson, the Musical rights, facilitating educational enter the picture at that point, and creations . Their Director of Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz workshops or teaching income as young artists, we recycle the objective was to Playhouse who performed with a generating skills in rural commu- scrap, the used “trash” and give it transform these four-piece band . nities . a new meaning and life . We trans- elements, and

FEMA Grant Helps Restore New Orleans’ Katrina- Are You or a Loved One Damaged Archives

The Federal Emergency Man- both water and mold damage to agement Agency announced to- many of the archives . At Risk for Diabetes? day approximately $1 7. million “The Katrina-affected materi- * in public assistance funding to als contain the original evidence restore New Orleans Notarial Ar- of transactions involving land Find out: Text HEALTH to 300400 chives’ book volumes and histori- transfers, business agreements, cal records damaged during Hur- mortgages, estates, agency rul- ricane Katrina . ings and other agreements relat- As a governmental agency un- ing to Orleans Parish properties . der the jurisdiction of the Clerk The volumes, which date from of Civil District Court of Orleans approximately 1965 to 2005, are Parish, NONA is responsible for critical for use in title examina- filing, maintaining and preserv- tions and serve as a rich supply of ing historical documents, land re- primary source materials for his- cords and other related contracts torical research on their period,” for Orleans Parish . Pre-Katrina, said Clerk of Civil District Court, NONA’s volumes were housed Hon . Dale N . Atkins . “I would like in the court building’s basement, to thank FEMA and the team who located at 421 Loyola Avenue . worked on this project to obtain During the storm, the basement its funding .” incurred floodwaters, resulting in

CELEBRA TE the An American Heart Association Memorial gift lets you honor your loved LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: txt4healthnola | FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: txt4healthnola P AST one and gives hope to others. b y GIVING i n th e For more information, please * Signing up for txt4health is FREE but standard text messaging rates do apply. Please contact your mobile phone carrier for call 1-800-AHA-USA-1 or visit us questions about text messaging rates. Txt4health is available for Greater New Orleans area residents. online at americanheart.org PRESENT For terms & conditions visit www.txt4health.com. Text ‘STOP’ to discontinue messages or ‘HELP’ to receive assistance. t o P R OMO T E our FUTURE 01MK4996 R01/12 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and incorporated as Louisiana Health Service & Indemnity Company. ©2008, American Heart Association. 1/08CB0243

4.625x2.5 All ads are one color only (preferably black) Black border does print Page 6 February 11 - February 17, 2012 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Treme Sidewalk Steppers 2012 Second-Line The Treme Sidewalk Steppers held their 2012 Second-line last weekend, with a large crowd joining in the traditional celebration and Data was there! Photos by Kishea S . Burt C2012

Congo Square Drumming Circle Sunday afternoon Drumming Circle led by members of the Congo Square Preservation Society which seeks to preserve and foster respect for New Orleans indigenous traditions and historic places through cultural and educational programming . Photos by Kishea S . Burt C2012 www.ladatanews.com Data Zone February 11 - February 17, 2012 Page 7

XU Holds Discussions on “Race, Class and Employment in Film and Reality.”

Recently, Xavier University held a series of panel discussions on “Race, Class and Employment in Film and Reality ”. The topics discussed were the controversial book and film “The Help” and a screening of “Yes Ma’am, a documentary about Black domestics in New Orleans . New Orleans Data 6.37” x 10” 11RB-0033-CD ROUND 2 RUNS: February 2012

Xavier students attending the event

His efforts continue to move us forward today.

Panelists Xavier University’s Dr. Kim Vaz, Associate Dean He was the first African American to earn a Doctor of Medical Science degree. Yet Dr. Charles Richard College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Kimberly Chandler, XU Drew’s true legacy is his pioneering work in blood transfusion and storage. His innovations have helped Assistant Professor of Communications and Dr. Brenda Edgerton-Webster, XU Assistant Professor of Communications. to save millions of lives, including thousands of soldiers during World War II. Regions salutes Dr. Drew and all African Americans whose past efforts continue to move us forward today.

in honor of Black History month, regions is proud to offer the regions riding forward scholarship essay contest.*

Twenty-five $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors in Regions’ banking areas who will attend college this year. To enter, write a 500-word essay about an African American, past or present, who has inspired you. For more details and to enter, visit regions.com/ridingforward.

© 2012 Regions Bank. *NO PURCHASE OR BANKING RELATIONSHIP REQUIRED. PURCHASE OR BANKING RELATIONSHIP WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. The 2012 Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Essay Contest (the “Contest”) begins on 01/15/12 and ends on 02/29/12 at 11:59:59 PM Central Time (the “Contest Period”). The Data News Editor and moderator Edwin Buggage, Xavier Contest is open only to legal U.S. residents of AL, AR, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MS, MO, NC, SC, TN, TX, and VA (the “Eligible States”) who at the time of entry: (a) are 13 years of age or older; (b) are enrolled in 12th grade in a public or private school (or home school) located in one of the Eligible States (and have not yet graduated 12th grade); (c) have (and maintain through graduation) a minimum 2.0 University Quality Enhancement Plan Director, Dr. Jason Todd grade point average in school; and (d) plan to attend an accredited college or university in the Fall of 2012. To enter, Contestants must submit a completed Official Entry Form, a current high school transcript, and Xavier University Director of Human Resources Larry and a 500-word essay that addresses how an African American individual (living or deceased) has been an inspiration in the Contestant’s life. Please visit www.regions.com/ridingforward for Official Entry Form, entry/essay requirements, full Contest details, and Official Rules. Twenty-five (25) Contest Prizes will be awarded. Contest Prize consists of a check in the amount of $5,000 made out to winner’s college/ Calvin. university (ARV: $5,000). Sponsor/Operator: Regions Bank, 1900 5th Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35203. Regions is honored to have collaborated with the estate of Dr. Charles Drew and to contribute to his organization. Dr. Drew’s name and image are used with permission of the estate of Dr. Charles Drew. Page 8 February 11 - February 17, 2012 Commentary www.ladatanews.com Don Cornelius A Man Who Lived Spreading Love, Peace and Soul

annually many times names come into the world of Black America . It up such as Dr . Martin Luther showcased and celebrated Black King Jr ,. Booker T . Washington, culture in a way never seen on Malcolm X, Sojourner Truth and television . I remember this time many other great activists, inven- vividly during my childhood be- tors, entertainers and others who fore there was 24 hours of tele- fought to break down social barri- vision; there was no BET, MTV, ers, so that all Americans can dine TV-ONE, Centric, or YouTube . I Edwin Buggage at the table of freedom and live a remember every Saturday morn- Editor-in-Chief life of liberty and dignity . ing after watching cartoons we Today I would like to write would gather around the televi- about a man who gave the world sion to catch the “Hippest Trip so much throughout his 75 years in America ”. In its many years During the month of February of life . Recently, the world lost on the air I can remember seeing since 1926 we have honored those Don Cornelius, and as opposed to many of the great performers who who have contributed to our rich rehashing the details of his death were part of the soundtrack of my history . The brainchild of noted I would like to spend this time re- childhood that I still listen to today Historian Dr . Carter G . Woodson, flecting and celebrating the life of this list includes: Al Green, Stevie it was first called Negro History a man who broke down racial bar- Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Week . A half a century later as riers in ways unimaginable with Mayfield, The Jackson 5, James the country celebrated its bicen- his television show Soul Train and Brown and so many others whose tennial in 1976 it was extended his impact on my life . music inspired a generation . through the entire month of Feb- During its 35 year run Soul And of course, I remember the ruary . As we observe this time Train gave the viewers a window man who was the host with the “Those Music Men”

– Architects of Sound and Culture Don Cornelius

most that always seemed as cool handed down from our fore par- as his guest and when he inter- ents in the motherland . viewed them he never pandered Today as I have traveled and to them and always came across met people from many places Solo Photography Exhibit as self-assured . This was a time across the globe, I’ve discovered when there were few Blacks on American soul music has been Images of Iconic New Orleans Musicians television . He along with Ed Brad- the soundtrack of so many lives ley of the CBS newsmagazine 60 and this transcends race and ge- Minutes who I had the opportu- ography . It seems true the maxim by Kichea S Burt nity to meet briefly at Jazz Fest that says music is a universal lan- in 2006 months before his death guage . And Mr . Cornelius’ pro- were two of the people I was in- gram was something that broke spired by when I chose to pursue down many barriers and helped a career in media . In which over to create bridges of understand- the years I have been a journal- ing and cultural appreciation of Opening: Sunday, February 12, 2012 @ 4:00 PM ist, television host and music African-Americans in a time of so- performer . Throughout the years cial change . I have been influenced and have And it is ironic and funny now incorporated what both men em- that as I look at today and see so Café Istanbul Performance Theater/ Upstairs Gallery bodied in their public personas . many Black faces on television For both men personified class, and even an African-American In The New Orleans Healing Center dignity, intelligence and style . President . It seems we have taken Soul Train was where we a step backwards in regards to 2372 St Claude Ave learned the latest dances and some of the images of African- styles of dress . During its hey- Americans in media and enter- day it was must see TV . It was a tainment . We are in an age where At the corner of St Claude & St Rock Avenues place where we celebrated us for crass having replaced class and the world to see . It was a modern serious-minded soul music has Contact: Chuck Perkins 504.975.0286 link to our history and a continu- been replaced with odes to hedo- ing of our lineage as Africans liv- nism accompanied by a beat . And or Kichea Burt 504.430.9492 ing in the diaspora . The “Soul Train Line” for example is in the Don Cornelius, tradition of the ring shout/dance Continued on page 10. www.ladatanews.com Opinion February 11 - February 17, 2012 Page 9

Letter To the Editor NAACP and the Community Celebrates Civil Rights Victories

In the Civil Rights struggle, achieved through the sacrifice, Suber; Edward Parker; Ernest rent Superintendent has not Rev . Raymond Brown, Diane victories are few and far between . hard work and persistence of the Charles; Norbert Rome; Parnell been effective- the murder rate French Cole and Tracie Wash- That is why it is so important for New Orleans NAACP and other Herbert; Diane French Cole, and continues to increase - the rank ington; us to celebrate those victories community organizations and Tracie Washington . Although we and file of the police department 3 . a clear, written description of when they are achieved . Recently, individuals . Countless organiza- claim victory for the appointment have lost faith in the current Su- the powers, duties, functions the New Orleans Branch NAACP tions and individuals met, made of the NAACP President to the perintendent and that loss of and roles of the Action Team (“New Orleans NAACP”) and phone calls to the City adminis- Action Team, that appointment faith is resulting in decreased members must be published to other community organizations tration and other elected officials, will not be accepted until the morale which in turn has result- the community . and individuals achieved two Civil sent e-mails, picketed and took NAACP and the community are ed in a decreased effectiveness As we celebrate our victories, Rights victories . The first vic- other actions to attain these victo- assured that the Action Team is a - the community has lost faith we acknowledge that the war is tory was the appointment of the ries . Particularly noteworthy are genuine effort to include the com- in the current Superintendent, not over, there are still battles to NAACP President to the recently the efforts of: WBOK 1230 AM ra- munity in a real effort to reduce that loss of faith prevents effec- be fought . Although victories are formed Community Service Pro- dio, its Program Manager, Gerod murders and not merely another tive community policing; few and far between, when they vider Action Team of the Mayor’s Stevens, and its listeners; Com- prop to be used for photo oppor- 2 . to assure the Action Team is a do come, they encourage us to Strategic Command to Reduce munity United for Change and tunities to deflect criticism away true community effort, the fol- continue the fight . Murders (“Action Team”) . The its President, W C. . Johnson; Safe from elected officials . lowing must be appointed as second victory was the decision Streets Strong Communities and That assurance must include members: Gerod Stevens, W C. . Danatus N . King made by the New Orleans Super- its President, Robert Goodman; the following from the Action Johnson, Robert Goodman, Ne- President intendent of Police to stop pub- New Orleans Chapter National Team: dra Enzi, Malcolm Suber, Ed- New Orleans Branch NAACP licizing the criminal records of Action Network and its President, 1 . a commitment to demand the ward Parker, Ernest Charles, 504-821-3221 murder victims . Rev . Raymond Brown; Nedra immediate hiring of a new Su- Norbert Rome, Minister Willie These two victories were “Captain Black” Enzi; Malcolm perintendent of police- the cur- Muhammad, Parnell Herbert, Get the refund • Earned Income Tax Credit of up to $5,700 you deserve. • Free tax preparation (IRS-certified) SUPER TAX DAY • Saturday, February 25 • 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. Mahalia Jackson Center • 2405 Jackson Avenue

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7670-Entergy-TaxDay-NewO-10.5x7.indd 1 2/7/12 4:48 PM Page 10 February 11 - February 17, 2012 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com

City Councilmember Jon Johnson Last Chance to Supports Opening of New 7th District Commission a Police Station in New Orleans East YAYA Ladder

District “E” Councilmember there was a ribbon cutting cere- ribbon cutting celebrating the This week is your last chance Also this season, the Artists of Jon D . Johnson, Mayor Mitch mony for the new $6 .2 million Po- opening of the 7th District Police to commission a 2012 YAYA Mar- YAYA are once again partnering Landrieu, NOPD Superintendent lice Station, located at 10101 Dw- Station is yet another example of di Gras ladder in time for Mardi with the Krewe of Orpheus, as Ronal Serpas and City officials of- yer Road in New Orleans East . progress in District “E” . I will con- Gras weekend . You can view the well as families around New Or- ficially opened a new 7th District District “E” Councilmember tinue to work with the administra- new 2012 YAYA designs here, leans, to bring a YAYA flair to the Police Station in New Orleans Johnson said, “It is satisfying to tion to make life better for those http://www .yayainc .com/2011- Carnival scene . Watch for YAYA East . The former facility was se- be a part of the accomplishment who reside in the community and mardi-gras-ladders/ or visit Pip- Artists riding on the Orpheus title verely damaged by Hurricane Ka- of another milestone in the devel- look forward to many more such pen Lane at 2929 Magazine to get float; for YAYA-designed krewe trina . At 1:30 p .m . this afternoon opment of New Orleans East . The events in the future ”. a glimpse of one in person . cups thrown during the Lundi Time is limited, so please com- Gras parade; and for YAYA-creat- mission your ladder no later than ed Mardi Gras ladders along ev- Don Cornelius/ Continued from page 8. Friday February 10 online or call ery parade route! (504) 529-3306 .

Cover Story/ Continued from page 3. many of the presenters on music of Don Cornelius . of Ghana means taking what is television shows are bawdy, un- It is in this time in our great good from the past to bring it for- refined and vapid . Long gone are history for us to think of “Sanko- ward . And this is what we must African- American community Black New Orleans: A the days of the urbane swagger fa” which in the Akan Language do in the memory and legacy development and the Civil Rights Journey Through History left not just by Don Cornelius, Movement has received new and In a City that is in transition, it but all who have come before us . thought-provoking interpretations is important that the cultural fab- Today we stand on the shoulders as the result of scholarly research ric of what keeps it the marvelous of so many giants in our history using Amistad’s resources . The jewel is its remains . The history who had the courage, fortitude holdings include the papers of art- of Black New Orleans, its people and vision that is lacking in our ists, educators, authors, business and places have given the City community . So today let’s make leaders, clergy, lawyers, factory its main ingredient in its unique a pledge to be better and work workers, farmers and musicians . gumbo . The African influence hard to contribute to making his- The collection contains approxi- has been and continues to be its tory not simply being victims of mately 250,000 photographs dat- “secret ingredient ”. So today it it . Let us in the tradition of those ing from 1859 . Literary manu- is important that not only people we celebrate in the month of script holdings contain letters and from other places, but us the local February not just vow to make a original manuscripts from promi- people understand how important difference this month but make nent Harlem Renaissance writers we are to the City and its evolu- it a yearlong commitment to and poets . The Center holds more tion, development and history . So make the world a better place . than 400 works of African and we at Data News Weekly, say go Let us learn to respect and uplift African-American art, including out and become a tourist in your one another again . And as I sign works by several internationally own City . Go and experience the off I wish you all in the words of renowned 19th and 20th Century rich culture that is Black New Or- the great Don Cornelius, “Love, African-American Masters . leans . Peace and Soul . “ www.ladatanews.com National News February 11 - February 17, 2012 Page 11

DATA CLASSIFIED Remembering the Legendary and Visionary Call 504-821-7421 to ‘Soul Train’ Creator, Host and Producer Don Cornelius place your classified ad.

Mailboxes by Mark Danny J. Bakewell, Jr. the passing of our dear friend, & Brandon I. Brooks brother and colleague Don Cor- Special to the NNPA from the nelius .” . Los Angeles Sentinel Earvin “Magic” Johnson You pay for the bricks or maybe you Don Cornelius launched the who purchased the “Soul Train” have bricks already. You provide the mailbox. world famous “Soul Train” televi- Brand several years ago posted I will provide the cement, wood, sion series in the early 70’s after on his Twitter “Don Cornelius mortar, nails etc. You choose or working as a Journalist during was a pioneer & a trailblazer . create the design. Prices vary the Civil Rights Movement . The He was the first African-Amer- according to the design. movement inspired him to create ican to create, produce, host Contact: Mark (504) 723‐7318 an avenue for Black artists to dis- & more importantly OWN his play their talents to America and own show” . “Don’s contribution ultimately the world . to us all is immeasurable . My $$$ $$$ $$$ “There was not programming condolences to his son & my AVON Do you need that targeted any particular eth- good friend Tony Cornelius & money? nicity,” Cornelius said in a 2006 the entire Cornelius family .” The company for women Can you use interview . “I’m trying to use eu- Reverend Jesse Jackson, Sr. some extra phemisms here; trying to avoid We are all saddened by the cash? Try Avon!!! Avon is easy to saying there was no television for passing of my friend and Brother sell, no experience necessary. Black folks, which they knew was Beloved, Don Cornelius . At this It cost only $10.00 to start. You for them .” moment, “Precious Memories” can become your own boss or “Soul Train” would go on to flood my soul as I remember all just earn extra money. Whether become one of the most success- that this great man contributed you are interested in purchasing ful television series in history as to the popular culture—and all Avon products or becoming an the show was syndicated for over that he gave to me personally . Avon Representa�ve yourself, I 35 years . Cornelius would serve I first met Don in 1964 when can assist you. as the show’s host and Executive he was a Reporter with the icon- Producer for over 20 years until Don Cornelius ic WVON Radio Station . Call June ‐ 504‐606‐1362 stepping down as host in the 90‘s Then, and throughout the I will explain everything and help and just focusing on producing cial, official stamp of the industry . Don’s family and loved ones .” course of his lifetime, Don was you to get started. and building the brand . You had to go on “Soul Train” if Clarence Avant – Music Ex- driven by a singular determina- The franchise still boasts being you wanted to make it in the busi- ecutive tion to tell the story of the Afri- the “longest-running, first-run, ness . “Let me put it like this . Don can-American experience . In- PROMPT PROFESSIONAL nationally syndicated program in Upon learning of his passing Cornelius was my friend — a real, deed, his coverage of Dr . King’s TAX SERVICE television history ”. During that thousands of prayers for him and real, friend . I’ve known him since charge for open housing in the period of time, tons of artists and his family immediately took to the inception of “Soul Train” . But City of Chicago gave voice to 4639 Magazine Street dancers have graced the stage the airwaves of social media as without “Soul Train”, we wouldn’t the legitimate hopes and aspi- (located inside and influenced millions around well comments from many of his be where we are today in this mu- rations of a community pinned Ace Cash Express) the world with what Cornelius has friends poured into the Sentinel sic business . under the historical weight of coined as the “Soul of America .” remembering the legendary busi- There are two people that made disadvantage . Ask for LISA Who could forget the world fa- nessman, civil rights leader and a tremendous impact on African- We are beneficiaries of his CALL - 504-298-6407 mous ““Soul Train” Line” which music icon . Americans – Berry Gordy with special kind of genius . Let us has become a party staple at not Berry Gordy – Founder of Motown and Don Cornelius with all wish him, “Love! Peace! And, Referral Fees and Register to win up to $20,000.00 in cash. only Black events around the Motown “Soul Train” . Soul!” world but in almost every culture “Don was a pioneer, the first to “Soul Train” dedicated itself The Rev. Al Sharpton said Mention you saw the ad in around the globe? present Soul music to the masses 99 9. percent to Afro-American he was shocked and grief-strick- DATA NEWS WEEKLY Cornelius has been a king- via television . His “Soul Train” artists and without that, there’s en . maker for decades opening the show was an important and timely a whole lot of artists that have “I have known him since I To receive a $25.00 discount doors for some of the greatest vehicle that showcased Black tal- gone on before Don, that are still was 19-years-old and James on your Tax Preparation. musicians in music history . “Soul ent and their new releases to the here, and their careers would not Brown had me speak on “Soul Train,” exposed Black artist to public . From his unique “Soul have been the same without “Soul Train”’, Sharpton said in a a worldwide audience and cata- Train” dances to his brilliant com- Train” . He made a tremendous statement from New York . “He pulted the careers of some of the mentary, there are not enough impact on these artists” . brought soul music and dance greatest entertainers music has adjectives to describe how impor- You only had the three net- to the world in a way that it had ever witnessed . tant his role was to our society . works back then and certainly the never been shown and he was Red Hot Deals! The “Soul Train” era has seen Quincy Jones South wouldn’t carry him . But a cultural game changer on a Data News Weekly special the likes of great entertainers “I am shocked and deeply sad- then, he finally got syndicated global level .” such as Michael Jackson, Aretha dened at the sudden passing of and the rest is history . Don Cornelius will forever be offer for Non-Profits and Small Franklin, James Brown, Al Green, my friend, colleague, and busi- But his impact, in terms of part of American music history Businesses Marvin Gaye, Tina Turner, Cha- ness partner Don Cornelius,” said the media, he had more impact and a vital part of Black history ka Khan, George Clinton, Cur- Quincy Jones . “Don was a vision- on African-American artists than to the world . He fought during Call Now! tis Mayfield and in recent years ary pioneer and a giant in our anybody in this industry period, the Civil Rights Movement and (504) 821-7421 Destiny’s Child, Beyonce, Luther business . Before MTV there was bar none” . helped to lead four generations Vandross and just about any and ‘Soul Train,’ that will be the great Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. Pub- out of the streets and onto the every Black musician you can legacy of Don Cornelius . His con- lisher of the Los Angeles Senti- dance floor . His influence and think of that had relevance in the tributions to television, music and nel had this to say . “Words cannot impact on the music world will last 40 years of popular music . our culture as a whole will never express how shocked and deeply be felt for decades to come . “Soul Train” was made the unoffi- be matched . My heart goes out to saddened my family and I are, at The Bostic Family Midlothian, VA

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