Lighting The Road To The Future Page 9 DataZone

New TD Jakes Movie Breaks Stereotypes

“The People’s Paper” January 3 - January 16, 2009 43rd Year Volume 19 www.ladatanews.com

Newsmaker Pipeline to the City Prepares for Reopening of People Mahalia Jackson Theater

Page 4 Page 11 Photos by Victor Holt

Page 2 January 3 - January 16, 2009 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

What’s2009 in store for the City of New Orleans?

Shaniece B. Bickham, Ph.D.

The year 2008 proved to be one of many ups and downs, and twists and turns for the City of New Orleans . The city has endured political scandals and controversies between the City Council and Mayor Ray Nagin’s administration, education strides and struggles, violent crimes, and continuous recovery efforts and initiatives . Last issue, Data News Weekly revisited the triumphant times of 2008 in the city, so what’s next? This week Data News Weekly will look ahead to the future and explore what the City of New Orleans will have to offer for its citizens in 2009 .

Keeping an Eye on Local Government In 2009, New Orleans residents should expect to hear more from the Office of the Inspector General, which Robert Cerasoli spearheads . The office has a staff of approximately 16, and is mainly responsible for en- suring the lawful operations and spending of the city’s money to hope-

Mayor Ray Nagin Continued next page.

DATA News Weekly INSIDE DATA 616 Barrone Street, Suite 584, New Orleans, LA 70113 Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors CEO/Publisher Benjamin Bates Cover Story ...... 2 State & Local . . . . 5 NNPA Glenn Jones The New Orleans Agenda VP Advertising & Marketing Art Direction & Production Newsmaker...... 4 @Issue...... 12 Edwin Buggage MainorMedia.com Editor-in-Chief Editorial Submissions Shaniece Bickham [email protected] Managing Editor Data Zone ...... 8 National News . . . 14 June Hazeur Advertising Inquiries Accounting [email protected] Please call (504) 284-3840 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 January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

fully rid city government of corrupt spend- tary School, being built to house 440 PreK also a much-anticipated recovery accom- ing and waste . The first public report from through 8th graders with an approximate plishment . The arts community in New Cerasoli and his office was released in mid- cost of $17 5. million for construction; (4) Orleans will now have the theater they call December and focused on the city’s use of Andrew Wilson Elementary School, which home to once again showcase ballets, the- take-home vehicles . Cerasoli and staff found will be renovated to modern standards atrical events, concerts and other perfor- among other is- while keeping the historical characteristics mances . sues that the city of the original building with an approximate has 273 take-home cost of $15 for construction, and (5) Fannie Looking Ahead vehicles when C . Williams Elementary School, being com- According the New Orleans Convention a city ordinance pletely renovated with an approximate con- and Visitors’ Bureau, New Orleans has a lot only allows a total struction cost of $13 million . to look forward to in 2009 . A boost in tour- of 60, no appropri- ate documentation Dealing with Crime in New Orleans exists regarding Since Hurricane Katrina, the New Or- assignments of leans Police Department now has over 1,500 vehicles, and fuel officers thanks to a new graduating class of usage is not prop- recruits . Fifty-four graduated in late De- erly monitored or cember, and the department is expecting at documented . least 40 more graduates by June 2009 . The This is just NOPD will also have assistance from the the first report of National Guard a while longer in 2009 . The many to come in state recently approved the National Guard the future from to remain in New Orleans until March 1, the Office of the 2009, at a cost of $1 .8 million . Dr. Ed Blakely heads the recovery efforts for the City Inspector General, On Dec . 30, 2008, the City had 178 report- of New Orleans overseeing the various phases of redevelopment. especially in light ed murders as compared to 208 around that of the fact that the time last year, which represents a small de- City Council has began to add on even more crease . As the police department continues Police Chief Warren Riley is expecting the New Orleans Police Department to grow duties for Cerasoli’s staff . Particularly, the to increase the size of its force, hopefully the to 1,550 officers in 2009. Council voted 6-1 for Cerasoli to offer advice murder rate and overall crime statistics will on how to revise the budget-review process . reflect a decrease at the end of 2009 . ism and conventions will be a definite boost He plans to have a report regarding the bud- On the prosecution end of crime-fighting, for the City, especially for downtown and get-review process to the Council by March Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon Can- French Quarter businesses that rely on the 30, 2009 . nizzaro also has big crime-fighting initia- tourism industry for stability . Recent stud- tives planned for 2009 . Just before the New ies also show that although the American Improving Public Education in New Year, Cannizzaro announced that he was economy is in a downward slope, the econo- Orleans disbanding the Violent Offenders Unit of his my in New Orleans is holding steady, mostly The Recovery School District has plans office . Lawyers who were assigned to this because of the active rebuilding work taking to open five new facilities for schools dam- unit have been reassigned to the Homicide place in the area . aged by Hurricane Katrina . Groundbreak- Screening Unit and the Trial Section of the It is difficult to say where the state stands ings for four of the five schools have already District Attorney’s Office . Cannizzaro said financially, however . Gov . Bobby Jindal re- taken place . The new buildings are part that his decision will make the office more of the Quick Start Initiative to increase the productive . number of new school constructions in New Orleans . Original plans have occupancy Continuing Recovery Initiatives scheduled for September 2009 for all five December 2008 proved to be a busy schools . month for the City’s recovery efforts . To name a few, the NOPD Third District was able to move into its new station after its original facility was destroyed in Hurricane Katrina and Irish Channel residents re- ceived much-needed street improvements . There are also plans in the works to reopen public libraries in the near future . Recovery efforts for the city have been overseen by Ed Blakely since 2007 . While progress has been made, there has been much criticism regarding the slow rate of recovery and re- building of the neighborhoods . In addition, the fate of Blakely’s stay in New Orleans is still in limbo as he decides how much lon- Gov. Bobby Jindal recently announced severe budget cuts for Louisiana due to a $341 million deficit in the state’s 2009 budget. ger he plans to remain in his post with New Inspector General Robert Cerasoli and his staff have the important job of Orleans . serving as a watchdog over local government. Other recovery plans include a new LSU- cently announced a $341 million deficit in VA hospital with a medical campus that will the State of Louisiana’s 2009 budget . The The schools receiving the new facilities spread westward from Claiborne Avenue governor’s proposed cuts to deal with the are: (1) Lake Area High School, being built towards the criminal courthouse at Tulane deficit include $118 million from the Depart- as a high-tech academy for 750 students Avenue and Broad Street . There is con- ment of Health and Hospitals, $20 million in grades 9-12 with an approximate cost of cern from this neighborhood’s residents, from the Department of Social Services, $11 $35 million for construction; (2) L .B . Lan- however, because residents and small busi- million from the Department of Education, dry High School, being built to accommo- ness owners will have to relocate in order to and $55 million from the Department of date 950 students from grades 9-12 with make room for the new hospital . Higher Education . an approximate cost of $40 million for con- The reopening of the Mahalia Jackson struction; (3) Langston Hughes Elemen- Theater of Performing Arts next week is Page 4 January 3 - January 16, 2009 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

The Mahalia Jackson Mayor Nagin And Local Arts Organizations Announce Theater’s Grand Opening Celebration!! Reopening of the Mahalia Jackson Theater The City of New Orleans announces the grand re-opening of Mahalia Jackson Theatre! Storm-damaged facility updat- Join us for a full week of great perfor- mances! ed with state-of-the-art features Mayor C . Ray Nagin, joined The New Orleans All Star Review by members of the New Orleans Thursday, Jan. 8, 2009, 7p.m. City Council and local arts orga- Featuring: Preservation Hall, Rebirth, nizations on Dec . 19, officially Kermit Ruffins, Irma Thomas, Marva announced the line-up of pro- Wright, Jeremy Davenport, Ingrid Lucia, Phillip Manuel, Michael Ward and Freddy grams and entertainers that will Omar highlight the re-opening of the Free Concert – Tickets required Mahalia Jackson Theater for the (limit 4 per person)– Tickets available Performing Arts . at Ticketmaster Outlets: Major Video, 3020 Veterans Blvd., Metairie and Major Opening events will begin on Video, 400 Lapalco Blvd, Gretna. Thursday, Jan . 8, with a special Irma Thomas Marva Wright Philip Manuel program featuring New Orleans An Evening of Music and Dance performers . The week-long cel- pletely renovated . The refur- for Dr . King at his funeral in 1968, His support secured the immedi- Presented by the Louisiana Philhar- ebration will include top singers, bished Mahalia Jackson Theater after which she disappeared from ate future of the opera company monic Orchestra and the New Orleans Ballet Association dancers and musicians, including, will serve as a symbol of the re- most public political activities . following Katrina and Rita . Featuring Itzhak Perlman, San Francisco among others, violinist Itzhak Per- juvenation of the city’s cultural Dr . King once said, “A voice like “The restoration of New Or- Ballet and Stars of the New York City lman, Gospel singer Yolanda Ad- assets . hers comes along once in a mil- leans Opera’s Mahalia Jackson Ballet ams and tenor Placido Domingo . The week will begin with a very lennium .” Theater is a symbol of new life for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, 7 p.m. The re-opening of the theater special concert, the New Orleans The National Academy of Re- the city following the devastation For tickets, contact the LPO at (504) marks a major accomplishment in All Star Revue . The show will fea- 523-6530 or NOBA at (504) 522-0996 the rebuilding of city infrastruc- ture a diverse offering of quintes- Or visit: www.lpomusic.com or www. ture . Along with public safety fa- sential New Orleans performers, nobadance.com cilities, Mayor Nagin prioritized including Grammy winning song- Family Day in the Park the complete refurbishment of stress Irma Thomas, Preserva- the Mahalia Jackson Theater im- tion Hall Jazz Band, Kermit Ruf- Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009, 12 Noon mediately after Hurricane Katrina fins, Rebirth Brass Band, Marva Yaya, KidsmART, Ashe Cultural Arts Cen- ter, Congo Square Drumming Circles, and the flooding that followed . Wright, Michael Ward, Phillip Kids Activities and more! “The re-opening of the Mahalia Manuel, Jeremy Davenport, In- Immediately followed by Jackson Theater will demonstrate grid Lucia and Fredy Omar . The to the world that New Orleans is free event will welcome the entire Family Day in the Theatre back – our culture is back, our community to celebrate the re- Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009, 1:00 p.m. city is rebuilding and we will be opening of this historic venue . Michael Ward Kermit Ruffins Featuring: NORD/NOBA Center for even better than before,” said One of the highlights of the Dance, Crescent City Lights Youth Mayor Nagin . “We have planned week will be a special tribute to cording Arts & Sciences created of 2005, but in these difficult eco- Theatre, GNOYO an outstanding week of activities gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, the Gospel Music or Other Re- nomic times it is also a symbol of Beethoven & The Blues that has something for every New during which Mayor Nagin will ligious Recording category for hope and of faith in the future on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2009, 6:30 p.m. Orleanian and we look forward to present the first “Mahalia Jack- Jackson, making her the first Gos- the part of a forward-looking ar- Featuring a special performance by this spectacular celebration ”. son Gospel Pioneer Award” to a pel Music Artist to win a Grammy tistic organization,” he said . Allen Toussaint The cost for the renovation of local citizen who has championed Award . She performed for Presi- On January 10, the New Or- Tickets $10 - $65 the theater is approximately $22 gospel music in the New Orleans dents Truman, Eisenhower, Ken- leans Ballet Association and the Tickets available at Ticketmaster by million . To date, FEMA has obli- community . Gospel superstar nedy, Johnson and Nixon . She Louisiana Philharmonic Orches- calling 1-800-982-2787 or online at gated $8 .9 million to the project . Yolanda Adams and trumpet vir- also sang for Queen Elizabeth II tra will collaborate to create An www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets may Inaugurated in 1973, when New tuoso Irvin Mayfield will headline and Sir Winston Churchill of the Evening of Music and Dance, also be purchased at LPO by calling Orleans native Norman Treigle the “Tribute to Mahalia Jackson,” United Kingdom, the King and which will feature the critically (504) 523-6530 on online at www. lpomusic.com. performed Giuseppe Verdi’s which was coordinated by the Queen of Denmark, the Presi- praised New York City Ballet prin- Messa di Requiem with the New New Orleans Jazz Orchestra . Ad- dents of France and Liberia, the cipal dancers Wendy Whelan and Louisiana Philharmonic Special Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra, ams will perform several of her Empress of Japan, Prime Minister Albert Evans and dancers from School Performance the Mahalia Jackson Theater was own songs and will be joined on Indira Gandhi of India, the prime the illustrious San Francisco Bal- Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, 10 a.m. severely damaged during Hur- selected songs by the One New ministers of several Caribbean is- let, as well as legendary violinist ricane Katrina . Wind damaged Orleans Chorus . Adams and lands and several other heads of Itzhak Perlman . An Evening with Irvin Mayfield the roof, read doors, stage and Mayfield will collaborate on one state and political figures world- “We are honored to be one of and Yolanda Adams other fixtures . It also shattered or more songs during the show . wide . She died in 1972 at the age the first companies to perform at Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, 7:30 p.m. an 8-foot-by-16-foot window . The Jackson is a native of the Black of 60 . the Mahalia Jackson Theater for Featuring Yolanda Adams, A New Or- basement of the theater received Pearl area of New Orleans’ Car- Another artist who has demon- the Performing Arts since its ren- leans All Star Gospel Choir and the more than 14 feet of water, which rollton neighborhood . With her strated a strong commitment also ovation following Hurricane Ka- New Orleans Jazz Orchestra – Featuring damaged the motor control cen- powerful, distinct voice, she be- is being honored as part of the trina,” said San Francisco Ballet Irvin Mayfield ter, orchestra lifts, HVAC con- came one of the most influential re-opening . Mayor Nagin and the Executive Director Glenn McCoy . Tickets $10 - $35 trols, sewerage ejector pumps gospel singers in the world and New Orleans City Council have “We hope, in our own way, that Tickets available at all Ticketmaster and other structural components . was the first person to be dubbed named the stage in honor of the this performance demonstrates outlets or by calling 1-800-982-2787 The repaired building will include the Queen of Gospel Music . She celebrated tenor Placido Domin- the respect and admiration we The New Orleans Opera a state-of-the-art sound system, a sang at President John F . Ken- go Stage . Domingo, who will per- hold for the city of New Orleans .” new orchestra shell and enhanced nedy’s inaugural ball . She was form during the theater’s opening The theater will again serve as Asociation presents lighting . The theater also features an ardent supporter of the Civil week, appeared with the New Or- the venue home for the New Or- PlacidoDomingo a removable floor exclusively for Rights Movement, and sang to a leans Opera Association in nine leans Ballet Association, the Loui- Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, 6:30 p.m. dance performances . crowd of 250,000 at the March on performances from 1962-1971 . siana Philharmonic Orchestra For Tickets call NOOA at 529-3000 or The theater is located at 801 Washington in 1963 at the request He appeared again on March 4, and the New Orleans Opera . online at www.neworleansopera.org North Rampart St . in Armstrong of her friend the Rev . Dr . Martin 2006 for the single largest oper- Park, which is also being com- Luther King, Jr . She sang again atic event ever in New Orleans . www.ladatanews.com State & Local January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 5

Rev. Dr. Marshall Truehill, Jr. Southern University System dies from heart attack approves budget reduction plan New Orleans loses an advocate for justice

In response to the state’s im- Southern System . the number of temporary and New Orleans Agenda pending budget shortfall, the “We are all taken by surprise at part-time faculty and staff; reduc- Southern University Board of the magnitude of the reductions tions in expenditures for supplies Reverend Dr . Marshall True- Supervisors met in December to in our budgets, but nonetheless, and operational expenses; and in- hill, Jr . founder and Executive approve a budget reduction plan we must begin the difficult pro- creasing institutional cost sharing Director of Faith In Action Evan- that would reduce the Southern cess of identifying where the re- for critical services . gelistic Team, Inc ., and Pastor of University System’s budget by ductions can be made,” said SU “While we have already ad- First United Baptist Church, both $6,957,331 . The plan, which calls System President Ralph Slaugh- opted measures to reduce energy of New Orleans, died at the age of for the reduction to be shared by ter . use and conserve resources, we 60 after suffering a heart attack . the Board and System and each President Slaughter has out- will be looking at ways to further While an advocate of the re- campus within the System, is pre- lined several areas for the System reduce these costs on each of our cently passed Master Plan charter liminary and seeks to protect the and campuses to take immediate campuses,” added Slaughter . amendment, Truehill was also a Rev. Dr. Marshall Truehill core mission of the University as steps in reducing expenditures The University will also be con- vocal critic of HUD’s plan to de- much as possible from the nega- including – reductions in travel; ducting a thorough review and stroy the “Big Four” housing de- tive effects of budget cuts . freeze hiring, filling vacant posi- assessment of programs, offering velopments following hurricane He was known for his exper- The Southern University Sys- tions and issuing new profession- early retirement incentives for Katrina . Truehill doubted that tise in ministry in public housing tem along with the other higher al service contracts, except as es- employees as well as asking em- the units would be replaced with projects . Since 1973, he ardently education systems were required sential; reduction in the number ployees to bear a greater work- housing for the underserved . pursued his vision to improve to make budget adjustments by of adjunct faculty; requesting fac- load . It may require qualified ad- “I’m extremely skeptical that the quality of life in the projects Jan . 1, 2009 through the end of ulty to assume unpaid voluntary ministrators to teach courses . anything will be replaced,” said through the application of biblical the fiscal year, which equates to teaching overloads; increasing Truehill, an opponent of the de- principles . Dr . Truehill served as an annual budget reduction of ap- class sizes, consolidating sum- molitions who grew up in B .W . a consultant to the Home Mission proximately $14 million for the mer school sessions; reducing Cooper (then called the Calliope), Board of the Southern Baptist served on the City Planning Com- Convention in the area of Multi- mission, and oversaw social work family Housing and led training in the city’s 10 public-housing proj- seminars across the country on ects for all of his adult life . . “There Ministering in Public Housing is a deadline of 2010 to have those Projects . things completed,” he said . “But Additionally, Dr . Truehill we’re already on the cusp of 2009, served as Chairman of the Board and we haven’t seen a single pile of Multi-Family Missions Minis- driven ”. - Times-Picayune try of Louisiana, Assistant Direc- One of Rev . Truehill’s last pub- tor of the Institute for Resident lic appearances was before the Initiatives at Tulane University, New Orleans City Council in De- Vice-Chairman the Board of the cember where he expressed his New Orleans Jobs Initiative, and a concerns about the conduct of the member of the Board of Commis- body and its relationship with the sioners of the Desire- Florida Pub- citizens of New Orleans, particu- lic Benefits Corporation appointed larly the African-American com- by Mayor Marc Morial . Dr . True- munity . hill also served on the Metro Vi- Rev . Truehill was a native New sion and Ritz Carlton Workforce Orleanian and was educated in the Development Task Forces . public schools of New Orleans . Dr . Truehill was appointed by He received a Bachelor of Science Mayor Morial to the City Planning degree in Music Education from Commission in 1998 . He used his Xavier University in 1973 . He knowledge of planning and public received the Bachelor of Theol- policy with firsthand experience of ogy Degree from Christian Bible New Orleans neighborhoods and College in 1979, the Master of Di- its people to promote economic vinity Degree from New Orleans development and commerce Theological Seminary in 1986, while preserving the character and the Doctor of Ministry from and integrity of the city’s historic New Orleans Baptist Seminary neighborhoods . in May 1990 . Dr . Truehill’s doc- Dr . Truehill has been honored toral project is entitled Reclaiming as a U .S .A .A . All American Schol- Young Adult, Urban Black Males ar, and listed in Who’s Who in the into the Life and Work of Faith In South and Southwest, 1988; Who’s Action Baptist Church . He was Who in Religion, 1992; Who’s Who currently a Doctoral Fellow at the of Emerging Leaders in America, University of New Orleans in the 1991; Men of Achievement, 1989; Department of Urban Studies . His and others . doctoral dissertation was entitled, He is survived by his wife The Role of the Church in Ame- Miranda Farr Truehill, three liorating Societal Ills: Developing daughters and two sons . and Implementing a Comprehen- sive Grassroots Disaster Plan for the City of New Orleans . Page 6 January 3 - January 16, 2009 State & Local www.ladatanews.com

City mails property tax bills Property owners should have received bills by Dec. 31

Property owners in the City of New Orleans should have received their 2009 Real Estate and Per- sonal Property Business tax bills . The bills were mailed over the past several days . Taxpayers are encouraged to pay their property tax bills online by visiting www .cityofno .com . Property owners must have their tax bill number and a valid checking account or debit/credit card to complete the transaction . Tax payments also may be mailed to: City of New Orleans, P O. . Box 60047, New Orleans, LA 70160-0047 . Walk-in customers may go to City Hall, Bureau of Treasury, Room 1W39 for assistance . Office hours are 8:45 am – 4:40 pm, Monday through Friday . This option is not encouraged due to potential long lines . To ensure most efficient posting, the tax bill stub should be enclosed with payment . If no bill stub is available, taxpayers should write the tax bill number on the face of their check or money order . Payments must be payable to the City of New Orleans . Property owners who do not receive a tax bill for each parcel of realty and/or business property they own by December 31, 2008, should call 1-866-493-7407 to obtain the information they need to pay the bills in a timely manner . Property owners should provide the tax bill number for any property about which you are requesting information . Failure to receive a tax bill will not excuse property owners from delinquency interest and penal- Mychal Bell, who received much attention as part of the Jena 6, shot himself in the chest on Monday, Dec. 29. News of Bell’s shooting came days after reports that he was arrested on ties if the payment is not received on time . Property taxes become payable upon issuance of tax bills shoplifting charges on Christmas Eve. Initial news stories reported Bell’s shooting as being and will become delinquent on Feb . 1, 2009 accidental. Bell’s attorney and family members later issued statements suggesting that the negative media attention may have prompted the shooting, however.

7" Data News Weekly Moves into 2009 With New Initiatives

Data News Weekly also plans to cov- er issues that are plaguing the African- American community from an in-depth perspective . Some of these topics in- clude but are not limited to, domestic violence, crime, poverty, and education . Each issue, you will find something new to ponder about during the course of your week . On a lighter note, Data News Weekly Shaniece B. Bickham, Ph.D. will continue doing what it loves to do Data News Managing Editor most…showcase you—our readers . Starting next issue, we will launch a spe- cial section entitled: Shoot Data With

Your Best Shot! This section will be ded- 10" As we move ahead into a new year, Data icated to featuring photos submitted by News Weekly will continue providing the photographers and readers that place a same important news for the people as it has spotlight on everyday life, parties, births, been . Data News will also introduce new christenings…you name it . Shoot Data and exciting columns and special sections With Your Best Shot belongs to you! that are sure to stimulate the minds of our You can also expect Data News Week- readers . ly more visibly in the community . Our January and February are of special im- newspapers will soon be available in portance to Data News Weekly as we will more places and in bright newsstands begin covering the historical moment of that will definitely be eye-catchers . In the inauguration of America’s first African- addition, our future plans include host- American President, while also reflecting on ing community events that will allow our the historical implications of Rev . Dr . Martin readers an opportunity to become more Luther King Jr .’s contributions during the familiar with us and our initiatives . King Holiday . Not only that, the King Holi- So, with that being said, keep your day and Presidential Inauguration are per- eyes and ears open as Data News Week- STROKE TARGETS BY COLOR. fect backdrops to lead us into the celebration ly continues Lighting the Road to the Know where you stand. The odds are African Americans of Black History Month . During this month, Future! are twice as likely to suffer a stroke as white Americans. little-known Black History facts will be high- Beating the odds isn’t about winning, it’s about living. lighted in addition to Data News showcasing You have the power to end stroke. 1-888-4-STROKE / StrokeAssociation.org those African-American heroes who stood at Photographed by Sean Kennedy Santos the forefront of the Civil Rights era .

Full Page Magazine: 7”x10” (non-bleed) Black&White

Filename: 7x10_Mag_Football_BW_M1 www.ladatanews.com State & Local January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 7 Louisiana Revamps Small Rental Property Program to Advance Funding to Participants

The state of Louisiana is re- payments to reduce rents, but is repaired . Under the current members are reviewing files to assisted through this change, structuring its Small Rental Prop- also with cash to move construc- structure, landlords receive their flag applicants that are prime can- creating as many as 5,800 rental erty program to offer up-front tion along and create jobs in re- awards at a closing after their unit didates for the new program and units . Many of these applicants financing to existing property covery areas .” is rented . inspectors will begin visiting rent- already started their construction owners currently active in the Currently, the program is de- The up-front financing is an ad- al units to determine what level of work, but have not been able to program beginning in early 2009, signed as an incentive program, ditional option for program partic- construction remains to fully re- complete it because of a lack of Louisiana Recovery Authority Ex- meaning the state offers an award ipants, but it will not replace the pair them . Under the current pro- funding . ecutive Director Paul Rainwater when a unit is repaired and oc- current incentive program . Those gram structure, inspections occur In total, as of Dec . 8, the pro- announced at the LRA’s board cupied . Using program guidance who accept this option still will be at the end of the process when it gram has held 433 closings, meeting Wednesday . in a previously approved action held to the Small Rental Property is time for a participant to get an disbursing almost $29 million “There is a critical lack of af- plan, the state will begin paying program requirements as well as award from the program . and creating 620 units . As of De- fordable housing in many hur- “advances” of funds to some land- federal regulations and require- Based on very preliminary re- cember 8, another 110 closings ricane-affected areas and the lords through a housing reha- ments associated with rehabilita- views, the state anticipates that as were pending, representing 215 program wasn’t getting funds to bilitation program that will fully tion programs . Program partici- many as 3,000 current program units and more than $9 million in landlords quickly enough . When launch in early 2009 . As such, the pants who have their certificates properties with awards represent- awards . coupled with the current national change does not require a vote of of occupancy and are waiting ing almost $270 million could be economic crisis, it was clear that the LRA and has already been ap- for closing or who have already we had to make major changes to proved by the U .S . Department of scheduled a closing will continue get money in the hands of land- Housing and Urban Development in the incentive program . lords, which should create afford- (HUD) . Program participants will get able rental units more quickly,” This new option will provide letters informing them of the said Paul Rainwater, executive di- current program property own- change and the state will hold rector of the Louisiana Recovery ers up-front financing to cover closed outreach sessions in early Authority . “By advancing some repair and rebuilding expenses 2009 for landlords to get informa- funds, we’re hoping to infuse the in exchange for providing afford- tion about their projects and new market not only with incentive able housing once the property program options . In addition, staff

Entergy Hurricane Relief Fund Announces $700,000 in Grants to Louisiana and Texas Agencies PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Entergy Hurricane Relief Fund announced $700,000 in grants to 39 nonprofits helping victims of hurricanes Gustav and Ike rebuild their lives and communities after the devastating storms . Louisiana groups received 20 grants totaling $430,000 and 19 Texas agencies were awarded $270,000 from the fund . The fund was created by Entergy Corporation and the Foundation for the Mid South in the days after the storms hit Entergy’s service territory less than two weeks apart in September . The storms knocked out power to more than 1 6. million Entergy customers . Winds and flooding damaged thousands of homes and businesses in communities from south Louisiana to the upper Texas coast . “We targeted funding groups that will have an impact on the long-term economic health and vi- ability of the communities hit hardest by the storms,” said Patty Riddlebarger, director of corporate social responsibility . “Too many of our customers and neighbors are still struggling to recover from Ike,” said Joe Domino, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Texas, Inc . “We hope these grants will help as they rebuild their homes and their lives .” Renae Conley, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Entergy Gulf States Utilities Louisiana, L L. C. ,. said, “After two such devastating storms, one of our goals was to work with our community partners to reach out to our customers who needed the most help getting back on their feet . “The agencies receiving these grants are doing tremendous work, and we’re humbled by their determination to help those in need,” she said . The agencies receiving the grants were selected by a committee chosen by the Foundation for the Mid South . The agencies range from Habitat for Humanity in Jefferson County, Texas, to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans .

www .ladatanews .com Page 8 January 3 - January 16, 2009 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com Pipeline to the People by Benjamin Bates It is the New Year and like every other it is a time when people reflect on the previous year and make resolutions and set goals for the incoming year. New Orleans Data News Weekly caught up with some people who shared their thoughts about what’s in store for them in 2009.

Tamika L. Carter Kristin Dickerson

I’ve sat and thought about my resolutions My first reso- for the New Year. I would like to start by lution is to taking better care of myself and becoming continue to be more fit, which means going to the gym the support more often and eating healthier. Also, I am system to my striving to work harder to advance myself husband, fam- on my job and hopefully purchase another ily and friends. home and treat myself with a new vehicle. Secondly, to become more health con- scious as it relates to my diabetes that I have had for the past 18 years. I want to be an inspiration to young chil- Derek Bardell dren that have been affected by Type 1 Juvenile Diabetes by getting involved in the Juvenile Diabe- I want to continue to strive to pursue tes Research Foundation as well as the American excellence in all my endeavors and Diabetes Association. Lastly, I plan to further edu- become a more spiritual and effective cate myself. One can never have enough education leader. And in my role as an educator, I in life. I plan to further my education in counseling hope to continue educating young minds for both adults and children. I believe I have that with the hopes of producing a more civil gift of listening and providing a support system that and learned society. is sometimes greatly needed.

Overall, we as a people need to understand that when making resolutions, [we must] make sure that the resolutions are realistic. We don’t need unnecessary pressure on ourselves. I’d like to instill in others, as well as myself that as the New Year approaches, strive for a positive change, never settle, inspire and encourage someone, and always keep God first in all that you do.

Data News Trailblazer Janice Meredith Appears on Good Morning America

Edwin Buggage Atlanta area . Daily, who as one of many quiet heroes, Editor-in-Chief offered a home she had in the Atlanta area to Mer- edith and taking it off the market to let the Meredith Janice Meredith’s story is an inspiration, as she family use it as their temporary safe haven . The home has persevered after Hurricane Katrina when she was would be Meredith and her extended family’s home forced out her home in New Orleans . Left without a for nine months . As the Merediths began to put the home and the business she built as the owner of a hair pieces of their lives back together, they eventually re- salon, she and husband Jules Meredith, Jr . and their turned to New Orleans and have rebuilt their home infant child fled to the Atlanta area . Like so many af- and business . fected by the storm and the breaching of the levees, The two women have corresponded via email, but their resources soon became scant as they didn’t know never met . The two finally met recently on the set of what their future would hold . Good Morning America with Diane Sawyer . Meredith “We were used to doing for ourselves and it was was accompanied by her husband and small son . It hard thinking that the basic things we take for grant- was a tearful meeting . The Meredith family thanked ed, we actually lost,” Meredith said . Ms . Daily for her selfless act of kindness . She says of While Meredith and her family didn’t know what their meeting, “I am glad we finally got to meet and I Janice Meredith appears with her family and Donna Daily who opened her would transpire next in their struggle, help came will always love her for what she did for me and my home in Atlanta to them after Hurricane Katrina. when she answered an ad on Craigslist from a Donna family in our time of need .” Daily, a North Carolina woman who had a home in the www.ladatanews.com Data Zone January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 9 Not Easily Broken Breaks Stereotypes

Edwin Buggage helps ”. I think Bishop Jakes, being in it screen- Editor-in-Chief in the position that he is in, he has al- ings according lowed me the opportunity to become to Jakes . In an age where the U .S . just elected the executive producer on this film and “Some peo- Barack Obama its first African-Ameri- to wear more than just an actor’s hat .” ple are saying can President, perceptions of what race Speaking of how he would like to do it’s a male ver- has represented has been forever al- more work behind the scenes Chest- sion of Wait- tered . In many areas of American life nut said, “If I get the opportunity in the ing to Exhale . the still thorny issue of race plays a part future, I will do the same thing . I think I don’t know, in how people perceive one another in that most of our friends in the industry but what I do this country . who are working actors [are] trying to know is that it This has been evident in many areas work towards that as well ”. really touches of American life, but has been preva- Chestnut added, “It is a very difficult on some is- lent in the entertainment business . industry to be in, especially when you sues and areas Since its inception, opportunities for are a minority . Just to have an opportu- that are really African-Americans have been limited nity such as this--you have to treasure it significant to and African-American actors have been once it comes--and then when you have men ”. relegated to playing roles that depict the opportunity, you have to give some- them in a less than favorable light . And one else the opportunity to go behind The film is Morris Chestnut and Taraji P. Henson star in Not Easily Broken. because of the power of these images the scenes and produce films and do different in being broadcast across various medi- things like that .” that it shows ums, the lives and stories of African- The film is unusual for its genre in a male going through the full gamut we don’t have the appropriate outlet to Americans have been seen through a that it is told from the male viewpoint . of emotions, something that is seldom express who we are,” said Jakes . very narrow lens . Bishop Jakes said of the film, “In refer- seen in films or in real life in a coun- The story centers on a professional In the third millennium this practice ence to the male perspective on love, try where males are taught to suppress couple played by Chestnut and actress has been challenged as more African- the film is a derivative of the book and their emotions . “I think we do have dif- Taraji P . Henson and the ups and downs Americans are taking the reins working the book was written by a man, …, and ficulty because we’ve been trained not that tests their relationship . The film’s topic is very real and passions arise surrounding the topic, and in doing a film that surrounds something so realistic there is a fragile balance between character, caricature, and stereotypes . The controversial issue of African-American women being materialistic is one of the topics that is addressed in the film . Jakes said that African-Americans should not be afraid to address these issues and others in films saying that African- Americans are not monolithic, so there should be no controversy re- garding this issue . “There is no stereotypical woman . Morris Chestnut TD Jakes Chestnut and Henson appear in a scene together from Not Easily Broken. They are very, very diverse, but we’re living in a capitalistic society and a materialistic society . I don’t think we in front of, as well as behind, the camera it was written from a male perspective, to share our emotions . The first time a should paint all black women with one to produce a more balanced portrait of that is, from the character of Dave, who boy falls off his tricycle, his father runs paintbrush because that would be a the African-American community . On Morris Chestnut plays .” out there and says ‘Stand up, be a man, misappropriation of truth,” Jakes said . Jan . 9 Bishop T .D . Jakes along with ex- Jakes said that this is done not just don’t cry .’ You’re telling a three-year- This film is a movie about spirituality ecutive producer and film star Morris for entertainment sake but is instruc- old to deny his emotions . When he is as well and holding onto faith when life Chestnut will release Not Easily Bro- tive as well . on a football team or a little league as a becomes hard . Bishop Jakes says of the ken, a film about relationships and the “We did it precisely because so young boy, we tell him, ‘Man up, suck title and its meaning and significance, redemptive power of love . many women today really do not know it up, handle it, you can do it .’ Over “As it relates to the [title of] Not Eas- Chestnut, who has been an actor in how men feel about relationships--how and over it’s reinforced in us not to be ily Broken, it’s taken from the book of front of the camera, and is now work- they really feel about them--because emotional or transparent about feel- Ecclesiastes; and it really deals with a ing behind the scenes, said he feels traditionally most love stories, roman- ings . After a while we are in a conun- three-fold cord that is not easily bro- good about how this project portrays tic stories are written from a woman’s drum because we are unable to find the ken . The premise that we are using in African-Americans and says it is be- perspective . We thought it might be in- valve that opens up who we are inside, the movie is to say you need something cause controlling the images is an es- teresting to do it from a male perspec- and we either implode or explode emo- outside of a man and a woman to hold sential part of that . tive,” he said . tionally in terms of violence, domestic a relationship together . For us, it is our “I think us being in control definitely The movie has received rave reviews violence, rage, crime, or drugs because faith ”.

See Not Easily Broken continued on next page. Page 10 January 3 - January 16, 2009 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

A New Beginning for a New Year Not Easily Broken continued from previous page. For a country on the verge of having an African- American President, Chestnut said he feels this is a great time to have a film like this in theaters to own business . A new year, a new be- the land ready, he didn’t get discour- change the perception of African-American males . ginning could mean to someone “I’m aged to give up farming . This is what “I think image is extremely powerful . Just hav- tired about the way I look” and this he said to himself, “I’m going to let ing an African-American man as the president of our year you’re going to lose the weight this be a learning experience to me country, and people seeing that over and over again, once and for all . and next year’s crop is going to be time and time again, I know it won’t erase that color The question comes to mind, great . What I’m saying to you is that barrier, but hopefully it will make it more common “What do you want to do this New we all have made some mistakes in and more familiar to people who really are not used Year that you didn’t get a chance to 2008 . All of us have fallen short in to seeing men of color in power,” said Chestnut . do in 2008?” Come on family, have some area of our lives . It may have In this age it is a time to challenge stereotypes us- Dr. Aaron E. Harold you asked yourself that question been in the area of not being the best ing art to show the diversity in the community, ac- Data Columnist yet? Come on, think about it people, mother you should have been to your cording to Jakes . and if you haven’t asked, you should . child or children . It may have been in “Now more than ever, we need art to give a more Tell yourself, “I’m going to do better the area of a man and a woman who total comprehensive reflection of who we are as a this year even though I did alright in have been dating each other . people, not only as African-Americans, not only as Hi Family, we’re facing a new 2008 .” We all should want to get bet- It may have been in the area of people of faith, but the great thing about this movie year . I’m excited about that, and you ter in what we do, right? not being a good spouse . It may have is that the cast is diverse,” said Jakes . should be too . A new year means a We should not want to sit around been in the area of not being a good Continuing his thought and talking about the brand new start in your life . A and complain and do nothing with son or daughter, or employee . Fam- multi-racial cast in the film Jakes said, “So it brings new year means a new look on life . our lives, and just let life year in and ily, let’s not look back and feel sorry the Caucasians to the table as well and says ‘Why A new year means a fresh start . Also, year out pass us by . Let me tell you for ourselves, but let’s look forward can’t we work together, why can’t we be friends, why a new year could mean to someone this short story . “There was a man to a New Year and a new beginning . can’t we hang out at the gym together, why can’t we that “I’m going back to school,” or who planted a large crop . He was a Donnie McClurklin sang in his song, approach crises together, ride around in the car and “I’m going back to college to get my beginner or some would call him a “We fall down, but we can get back listen to that music?’ In the movie you’ve got two degree .” beginner farmer . He prepared the up again .” The Bible tells us this in black guys riding around in a car with the white guy It can mean to someone else that ground to put his seeds in for plant- Philippians 3:13, “Forgetting those who is playing hip hop . How American is that? It’s you’ve been sitting around all year ing . After a while, he noticed that things that are behind us and move really a diverse opportunity for us to find out how to worrying about things that you really his crop was not growing the way it on to the future .” better get along with one another ”. don’t have any control over, and you should have been . When he finally God bless you and have a happy have made a decision that this new figured out what had happened, he and prosperous New Year . You can year you’re not going to let the trials forgot to fertilize the ground before call me @ 504-813-5767 with your of life get you down anymore . It could he planted his seeds ”. comment . also mean for somebody that you’ve What we need to understand about decided to stop dreaming and start the farmer is that even though he American Stroke Association Memorials living your dream by starting your spent a lot of time and money getting A gift that New Orleans Producer Darius ‘Deezle’ Harrison warms the heart. Nominated for Three Grammy Awards

“I’ve worked so hard to get to this point in my career . Mark special events in Producer Helps Make ‘Tha This is the key that will open many doors to what I see is the start to what God has planned for me,” states Deezle . the life of a friend, relative or Carter III’ One of 2008’s “Working on this album was a great experience and I’m honored to be nominated for my work on Tha Carter Top Albums of The Year III .” colleague — and continue In addition to his Grammy nominated work on Lil One of New Orleans’ best kept secrets, producer & Wayne’s Tha Carter III, Deezle has produced songs for the fight against stroke — with vocal engineer Darius “Deezle” Harrison is smiling due Cash Money, Yung Joc, Huey, Teena Marie and even to the three Grammy nominations for his work with Lil jazz artist Donald Harrison . Deezle also worked on Lil an American Stroke Wayne this past year . Deezle has been nominated for one Wayne’s first two Carter albums which released to rave (1) Grammy as a Songwriter for Best Rap Song of the reviews . He has engineered tracks like Destiny’s Child Year “Lollipop” and for two (2) Grammys as a producer “Soldier,” featuring Lil Wayne, “Crying Out for Me,” by Association Memorial. and mixer/engineer for Album of the Year “Tha Carter Mario, the “Just Fine” remix by Mary J . Blige and Lloyd’s III .” “Girls around the World,” also featuring Lil Wayne . Known for his innovative and distinct sound, Deezle A classically trained dancer as well as an accomplished For more information, please call earned a tag as the “go to producer” after producing sev- vocalist and musician who plays the guitar, drums, bass 1-888-4-STROKE or visit us en tracks on Wayne’s latest album including fan favorites and saxophone, Deezle is currently growing his DRUM online at StrokeAssociation.org “Mrs . Officer” and the mega hit “Lollipop” which was the MAJOR Music label and brand . He says the DRUM MA- most downloaded ring tone for 2008 according to Nielsen JOR Music movement will be strong, with a sound easily Soundscan . The chemistry between the duo is noticeable recognizable, but difficult to copy . to any fan; so much so that Lil Wayne name drops Deezle on the track “Let The Beat Build,” which he co-produced with Kanye West .

©2008, American Heart Association. 1/08CB0243

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Know where you stand. The odds are African Americans are twice as likely to suffer a stroke as white Americans. Beating the odds isn’t about winning, it’s about living. You have the power to end stroke. 1-888-4-STROKE / StrokeAssociation.org Photographed by Sean Kennedy Santos

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Filename: 7x10_Mag_Rain_BW_M1 Page 12 January 3 - January 16, 2009 @Issue www.ladatanews.com Darkest Before Dawn sonal income paid the bills for most; Ameri- terrorism - wherever evidence led to such; short, the near decade of darkness was can jobs were in America; school children and address reparations for indigenous governed by a dim-witted White House had classes such as art, band, and drama people, oppressed and exploited by govern- that subverted the intent of laws, while not as educational options; and the world com- ments . Four days later, the Conference’s enforcing laws as they were intended . And munity actually liked the president of the light dimmed by the unbelievable events of an Iraqi journalist threw shoes at an Ameri- United States . September 11, 2001 in New York . can president for the orphans and widows And then the lights went out . What a dif- Soon, the Bush Administration attacked of his war, to boot (pun intended) . ference eight years makes . The 2000 presi- the sovereign nation of Iraq without provo- But joy comes in the morning . Since the dential elections were so illegitimate that cation, occupied it, and declared war with- dawn of civilization on African horizons the only one other time in American history out end - The War on Terrorism . Winter Solstice - December 21 - records had the winner of the popular vote lost the As bombs lighted the legendary land of the yearly date when the sun is at its lowest Gary L Flowers election; and the loser won (Hayes/Tilden Abraham, innocent people, including chil- point in the southern sky and seems to re- Compromise, 1877) . The deal in the elec- dren, died in the darkness of destruction main still for three days . On the fourth day, Data Columnist tion of 1876 was that Rutherford B . Hayes and dispossession . None other than a jour- December 25, the sun appears to rise in the would be declared the President in consid- nalist known as the Prince of Darkness met sky until the vernal equinox - March 21 (I eration for the removal of federal troops in criticism of the war by American diplomat know, enough with astronomical facts) . My paternal grandfather, who stood tall the south who were dispatched, in part, to with the exposure of his wife’s secret iden- As we bury the Bush Administration, a in height and wisdom, would often teach life protect newly freed African-Americans by tity as a CIA agent . new day is dawning in America, with a new lessons from his observation that the dark- the Reconstruction Congress, following At home, bombs dropped on Iraq, ex- light for the world provided by the enlight- est portion of the night sky is just before the American Civil War . ploded in American cities with drastic re- enment of a new son - President Barack dawn . Likewise, my maternal grandmoth- Like 1876, the 2000 elections would por- ductions in domestic programs such as Hussein Obama . er’s face seemed to metaphorically convey tend bad times . Within eight months of the health benefits for veterans, The National While it is true that the darkness yields her belief that we cannot see daylight until Bush Administration (August, 2001) the Endowment of the Arts, education budgets, to light over time, and the sun takes many we make it through the night . How true national treasury had been drained to the infrastructure construction projects, and minutes to rise, we must be patient and today, as many celebrate a new year, brim- extent that the $230 million dollar national emergency responders . As global lights keep our heads to the heavens as the son ming with the pleasant possibilities . surplus of a year before had become a defi- lowered, so did brilliance of the American rises . In the words of poet Maya Angelou, As the sun sets on the Bush Administra- cit . Half way around the world, and to their Presidency . The White House pushed the let the “yet-to-be United States of America” tion, the past eight years may be recorded credit, on September 7, 2001, an interna- passage of the Patriot Act (1 and 2) by Con- be the light of the world . as the “unenlightened years” of American tional delegation met in Durbin, South Af- gress, resulting in the suspension of Con- history . After all, just before the elections rica at the World Conference Against Rac- stitutional protections of personal privacy . Gary L. Flowers is executive director and CEO of 2000, the national budget surplus was ism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, Federal surveillance of private citizens of the Black Leadership Forum. $230 million; the nation was in peacetime; and Related Intolerance . was approved and purchased from Ameri- citizens enjoyed the privacy of home; per- That delegation agreed to shed light on can telecommunications companies . In Too Many Bowls, Too Few Black Coaches

An oversaturation of bowl games is not largely because the league adopted the Barkley, was livid . my No .1 complaint against college foot- Rooney Rule requiring teams to interview “I think race was the No . 1 factor,” said ball . at least one person of color for all head Barkley . “You can say it’s not about race, Rather, it’s the fact that approximately coach vacancies . If African-Americans can but you can’t compare the two resumes and half of the players are African-Americans coach in the pros, they certainly can suc- say [Chizik] deserved the job . Out of all the yet only 3 .4 percent of the college football ceed at the college level . coaches they interviewed, Chizik probably coaches are Black . That’s four among the In addition to the failure to interview an had the worst resume ”. 119 major division coaches . ample number of top-flight Black assistant According to the Institute for Diversity coaches for openings, many universities How do we put an end to this non- and Ethics in Sports at Central Florida Uni- are still more willing to recycle failed White sense? versity, that’s the fewest Black coaches in coaches than take a chance on a promising One approach would be to adopt a col- George C. Curry 15 years . As recently as 1997, there were African-American . Two examples immedi- lege version of the Rooney Rule . Some have NNPA twice as many African-American coaches ately come to mind . suggested calling it the Robinson Rule, in as there are now . Auburn University hired Gene Chizik honor Doug Williams’ former coach, Ed- Evidently, the football sidelines suffer as its new head coach after he went 5-19 die Robinson of Grambling . For that to from the same on-field racial stereotypes over two seasons at Iowa State, including work, however, penalties must be assessed Basketball’s “March Madness” has noth- of the past . For years, they said Blacks 10 straight losses . Meanwhile, the Univer- against universities that fail to cooperate . ing on the college football bowl frenzy – 34 were excellent players but didn’t have the sity of Tennessee, eager to get back on the A sure-fire way of forcing change would games over a 19-day period spanning the intellect to play the so-called “thinking posi- winning track after forcing out Phillip Ful- be for star high school players and their last month of the old year and the first tions” – quarterback and middle lineback- mer, hired another losing coach, Lane Kif- parents to spurn athletic programs that month of the new one . Let’s face it, not all er . Of course, that was pure hogwash . For fin, formerly of the Oakland Raiders . Kiffin spurn Black leadership . If players refuse to 68 teams deserve to be in a bowl . Some -- years, Grambling, Florida A&M and Ten- was fired by the NFL team after compiling enroll in universities that have never hired including North Carolina State, Kentucky, nessee State were football powerhouses a record of 5-15 . a Black head coach in any sport or an Afri- Bowling Green, Southern Mississippi, and it wasn’t because they played 10 men These two losers were hired while prom- can-American athletic director at any time, Northern Illinois, Notre Dame and Vander- on each side of the ball – or without a coach ising African-American coaches were ig- universities would finally get the message . bilt – got invitations after winning only 50 on the sideline . nored, some of whom had turned around What I like about this approach is that it percent of their games . And if there were any lingering doubts losing programs . For example, Turner Gill empowers the athlete and does not rely on Even worse, nine teams – including Flor- about the Black gridiron intellect, they were took over a program at Buffalo that had not the so-called good will of schools eager to ida Atlantic and Memphis – went to bowls removed by Washington Redskins quarter- won five games in a season for nearly a de- exploit Black athletes . after accumulating losing records . Unfortu- back Doug Williams’ MVP performance in cade . Within three years he turned it into nately, bowl games are no longer rewards Super Bowl XXII and when two Black head Mid-American Conference champion and George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA News Ser- for an excellent season . Now, it’s all about coaches, Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith, this year had a record of 8-5 . vice, is a keynote speaker, moderator, and the money . And the more bowls, the more paced the sidelines in Super Bowl XLI . When Auburn selected Gene Chizik over media coach. He can be reached through his money . Of the 32 NFL coaches, seven are Black, Gill, one of its most famous alums, Charles Web site, www.georgecurry.com. www.ladatanews.com January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 13

The Greatest Gift of All at Christmas and In the New Year

mega-lies, cronyism, unbridled greed, cor- give to our first Black President is to put Second on my wish list that we can’t ex- ruption have destroyed our economy, tar- forth our best efforts on all fronts: the best pect President Obama to fix is the obsession nished our image around the world and at parents, the best students, the best politi- with thug culture . The spectacle of so many the very worst cost the lives of thousands cians, and the best caretakers of our senior “credible” adults standing and applauding of our own soldiers and Iraqi civilians need- citizens . Lil Wayne at a recent BET event was typi- lessly . For those who believe in miracles, there cal of why so many of our young people Today with the election of President are a few more we need . Barack cannot are drugging, gang-banging and busting Obama we see the re-birth in the American fix all our problems; some solutions must through the charts with HIV/AIDS . character of the blessings of hard work, come from above . Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr . (Lil Wayne) integrity and the pursuit of excellence as For example, my Christmas wish is that has a CD on the charts called, “The Lolli- realities rather than storybook fantasies . a lightning bolt hits the Supreme Court pop .” While the lewd lyrics are too porno- Rev. Barbara Reynolds I see the torch passing, not just from Dr . building and knocks Justice Clarence graphic to be quoted here, I assure you the NNPA Columnist Martin Luther King Jr, to Barack Obama, Thomas to the floor, and miraculously re- lollipop Little Wayne is encouraging our but from our African slave ancestors to vives him as a principled Black man . He boys and girls to lick is not candy . Yet, re- every living soul with a vision, a dream, a continues to be an embarrassment . spectable adults who appear to be in their legacy to be built and to pass on . The latest scandal is how Uncle Thomas right minds stand and cheer this porno- The greatest gift of all this Christmas I first noticed that foreigners were took up the cause to deny Barack Obama graphic rapper with his pants down show- was the emancipation of the human spirit, a looking at African-Americans differently, his history-making presidency based on ing his underwear . present everyone can receive, but virtually perhaps as an extension or a reflection of the stupid challenge that he was not a “nat- Lil Wayne, who is up for several Gram- no one can buy . a rejuvenated spirit, when I was touring ural born” American, which would forbid my awards, is a hero to many young peo- With plant closings, homeowner evic- Egypt this summer along with a group him from becoming president under the ple partly because of his thug credentials, tions and unemployment on a frightening from the Howard University School of Di- Constitution . which includes several arrests for posses- rise, this Christmas was not just another vinity . Other tourists, not only from Africa, None other than Republican Alan Keyes, sion of drugs and guns . celebration of the acquisition of more stuff . but European countries were smiling and who had parachuted into Illinois to run The rappers and the thug culture are As we lost stuff—wages, stocks, houses - waving at us calling us “Obamas,” which against Obama for president, teamed up creating a homicidal environment for our we were forced to see what else there is based on past experiences abroad I found with Thomas to press the case even after young people as more Blacks die in Black- about ourselves that gives us meaning and surprising . other Justices ignored it . The argument on-Black violence than soldiers killed in a purpose . Now as the entire world looks at African- was that since Obama was born in Ha- declared war in Iraq . Again, as HIV is pan- And when the euphoria fades from the Americans differently because not only is waii and his father was a Kenyan national, demic in our community, those who sing election of our first Black President Barack one of our own the leader of the most pow- Obama had dual citizenship at birth, which about rampant sex are cheered instead of Obama, we must still face those issues of erful government on Earth but also the disqualified him from the presidency . Hap- denounced . self-hate and cultural rot that no one person new face or symbol of a professional excel- pily on December 8, the Court rejected the If we can elect a Black president surely in the White House can fix . lence and morality . case . Only a lightning bolt from heaven we can achieve the next miracle of creating But for now at the highest level, virtue is Nevertheless there is still a demand for could release Thomas of his inbred self- a culture where a Supreme Court Justice to making a comeback . For eight long years a change in our culture to embrace this hatred, which he bitterly projects on other a pornographic rapper can stop projecting under George Bush we have seen how new global reality . The greatest gift we can Blacks . values that kill and destroy . Navigating the Road Ahead of the game at the start with a bundle of stage or a runner dashing to the finish order to move forward . Think through ev- natural skills for a particular subject . That’s line at the Olympics, we forget to consider ery step and direction you decide to take . when you’re likely to take too many un- all the manufacturing that went into that Consider other options along the way . Be calculated risks and enter a minefield ill- single, winning moment . We skip over the open to circumstances that change your equipped . hours upon hours of missed attempts and surroundings . Study your chosen profession . You can fine-tunings that helped usher out that now A: Act based on experience and self- acquire that knowledge in school or in life . dazzling performance of talent . We are in examination . Make calculated moves . Like Mentors and teachers come hugely in to awe of the outcome but fail to acknowledge the game of chess, see if you can act with play here . These are the people who can and appreciate all the in-come leading up your third move in mind . give you the information you need to move to it . D: Discern between what’s working and forward, especially at the start line . They For example, every singer has a sound what’s not working to continue forward . Farrah Gray often make for great cheerleaders, too . check before any performance . So will you This is when you need to perhaps plan a Even the cream of the crop has coaches, before you go out and do whatever it is new direction . NNPA Columnist teachers, and mentors . Famous singers you’re intended to do . We all hit walls once in a while . That have singing coaches . Olympic athletes For those who need more structure and doesn’t mean we have to stop . We turn have coaches . Actors have acting teachers . a process to handling decision-making, let around and find another way onward . We Bestselling authors have editors . me share with you my A .H .E .A .D . method- have to be willing to let go of ideas and Getting you where you need to go takes Professionals like lawyers, doctors, and ology . It can help you track your options pursuits that clearly aren’t working . They two separate efforts - one to look at the scientists have mentors — those senior mentally and stay in tune with yourself: should be placed in the desire category map and the other to look out of the wind- to them who know more through more A: Assess risks from an educated stand- instead of the known-skills category . If you shield . experience, and can inspire new ways of point . Do the research necessary to learn hit a wall, there’s an open road to be taken Once you have defined your goals and thinking and problem-solving . We all need all the potential risks involved in a pursuit . elsewhere with another set of skills innate vision, you have to learn what it takes to get someone who can take our raw talent and Don’t overlook any of them . to you . there . transform it into polished talent . We also H: Hear what enters your mind . Don’t Education and training is important; it’s need people who can challenge our think- underestimate the power of gut instinct Farrah Gray is the author of Get Real, Get Rich: Conquer the 7 Lies Blocking You from the second component to “doing the knowl- ing, and get us to acknowledge a different when weighing pros and cons and taking Success and the international best-seller Re- edge .” And you have to have root knowl- perspective from time to time . on honest look at risks . allionaire: Nine Steps to Becoming Rich from edge, not branch knowledge . This means Trouble is, as witnesses to (and for E: Evaluate thoughts and potential solu- the Inside Out. He is chairman of the Farrah Gray Foundation. Dr. Gray can be reached via you can’t just skim the surface of a subject some, envious admirers of) others’ success tions to problems . You’ll likely be problem email at [email protected] or his web site matter and suddenly become the master of we typically see the end result rather than a solving from the day you ask yourself those at www.drfarrahgray.com it . Having a comprehensive knowledge re- progression of practice, practice, practice . critical three questions . Take your time quires digging deep, even if you are ahead When we watch a star perform on the thinking through what you need to do in Page 14 January 3 - January 16, 2009 National News www.ladatanews.com

Allstate Invites America to Put Its “Good Hands®” to Use The Legendary on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Beyond February

Eartha Kitt Succumbs Allstate Insurance Company morning of January 19 . During community well beyond just the announced it is designating Mar- the event, Allstate and King fam- month of February, Beyond Feb- tin Luther King, Jr . Day 2009 as ily representatives will encourage ruary was established in 2007 as to Colon Cancer Allstate Beyond February Give the thousands of people in atten- an ongoing initiative that creates, Back Day, to be observed in At- dance to put their good hands to supports and sponsors programs lanta and cities across the coun- good use by visiting BeyondFeb- that empower and enrich African- Special to the NNPA from try on Jan . 19, 2009 . ruary .com to learn about volun- American communities across the St . Louis American As part of the company’s com- teer opportunities they can sign the United States . The program (NNPA) - Legendary sing- mitment to the African-American up for in their communities . is highlighted by the interac- er, dancer and actress Eartha community and continued com- During the rally, more than tive Web site, which, in addition Kitt passed away from colon mitment to volunteerism, this 1,000 volunteers, organized lo- to providing access to informa- cancer on Christmas Day at special initiative will further the cally by Allstate, will spread out tion on volunteer opportunities the age of 81 . Her career be- ideals and vision of Dr . King in across Atlanta to donate their for Beyond February Give Back gan with dance icon Kather- his hometown and nationally by time and efforts to a variety of Day, also highlights the various ine Dunham and resulted in inspiring people to donate their charities and non-profit organi- programs and events Allstate sup- a career that spanned more time to worthy causes in their own zations, including the 100 Black ports throughout the year via an than six decades and includ- communities on January 19th and Men of America, 100 Black Wom- artistic and visual mural . ed dance, film, television and throughout the entire year . en of America, the Ryan Cameron “At Allstate, we want to make it music . “Beyond February Give Back Foundation, the Atlanta Tool- easy for people to put their good She was born in South Car- Day reinforces the importance of Bank, and several public schools, hands to work for the betterment olina, but left as a young girl giving back to your community in in honor of Dr . King . of the community,” said Anise to live in New York City with the spirit of my father and every- Allstate is encouraging all con- Wiley-Little, assistant vice presi- an aunt . It was in New York thing he fought for,” said Bernice sumers to visit BeyondFebruary . dent and chief diversity officer for that Kitt auditioned for the Eartha Kitt King, Dr . King’s youngest daugh- com to find out how to find vol- Allstate . “Beyond February and Katherine Dunham Dance ter . “But an even greater tribute to unteer opportunities in their zip Allstate Beyond February Give Troupe on a dare and landed a Emmy awards and was honored my father’s legacy is evidenced by codes on Beyond February Give Back Day will empower people to spot as a featured dancer and vo- with a star on Hollywood’s Walk the people who demonstrate the Back Day (January 19, 2009) . embrace volunteerism while pro- calist . of Fame in 1960 . passion and the commitment to This interactive Web site high- viding them with the resources Kitt would soon become famous She had just taped a PBS spe- serve their communities through- lights Allstate’s commitment to to carry on the spirit of Dr . King for her raspy voice and her role as cial six weeks ago in Chicago, out the year, not just on MLK Day the African-American community throughout the year .” Catwoman on the “Batman” televi- which will air in February . Her or during Black History Month .” and links to VolunteerMatch, an Highlights of Beyond Febru- sion series as well as for being the single “Santa Baby”, originally re- To kick off Allstate Beyond online search engine that pro- ary since its inception in October original vocalist on the Christmas corded in 1954, was certified gold February Give Back Day, Allstate motes volunteerism and civic en- 2007 have included sponsorships Classic “Santa Baby .” last week . has partnered with The King Cen- gagement by matching volunteers of the Tom Joyner Family Re- During her career, Kitt was Information from CNN com,. ter in Atlanta to host a volunteer with charitable organizations and union, the American Black Film nominated for three Tony awards, and people .com contributed to rally after the annual ecumeni- non-profits . Festival, State of the Black Union, two Grammy awards, won two this report . cal service honoring Dr . King at Because Allstate believes in the Gospel Superfest, and more . Ebenezer Baptist Church on the supporting the African-American Plaintiff Happy With Settlement in $225 Million Race Discrimination Suit Against NASCAR

Jenna Fryer ened by one official who routinely leave it out there ”. CHARLOTTE, N .C . (NNPA) made Ku Klux Klan references . Grant worked as a technical - The former official who filed a Grant also alleged she was sub- inspector responsible for certify- $225 million racial discrimination jected to sexual advances from ing cars in NASCAR’s second-tier and sexual harassment lawsuit male co-workers, two of whom Nationwide Series from January against NASCAR is very pleased allegedly exposed themselves to 2005 until her October 2007 termi- with her settlement and looking her . nation . In the federal lawsuit she forward to moving on, her attor- “We thought it was in the best filed in June in New York, Grant ney said . interest of our client not to drag alleged 23 specific incidents of al- Mauricia Grant reached a con- this out two to three years,” said leged sexual harassment and 34 fidential settlement with NASCAR her lawyer Benedict P . Morelli of specific incidents of alleged racial following 12 hours of mediation New York-based Morelli Ratner and gender discrimination dur- in December in New York . The PC . “She needed closure . She’s ing her employment . session was suggested by U S. . a young woman, and when you NASCAR chairman Brian District Court Judge Deborah A . make the sort of allegations she France denied Grant ever com- Batts after the first court appear- did, it’s difficult to move forward plained to her supervisors about ance in what was expected to be a and get on with your life .” anything listed in her lawsuit . But lengthy court fight . Settlement terms were confi- an internal investigation into her Grant claimed she was referred dential, and neither side admitted claims ultimately resulted in the to as “Nappy Headed Mo” and liability or wrongdoing . firing of two of the 17 officials “Queen Sheba,” by co-workers, “She’s very, very happy with named in her suit . was often told she worked on “col- the resolution,” Morelli said . “And Mauricia Grant ored people time,” and was fright- I don’t think NASCAR wanted to www.ladatanews.com National News January 3 - January 16, 2009 Page 15 NAACP Report Shows TV Industry “Seriously Short” in Achieving Diversity

BALTIMORE (NNPA) - Threat- decisions, which has translated time television can also be traced, ening political action if the situa- into a critical lack of primetime in part, to the “virtual disappear- tion doesn’t improve, the nation’s programming by, for, or about ance” of Black programming largest civil rights organization people of color,” added NAACP since the merger of UPN and WB has blasted the television indus- Hollywood Bureau Executive Di- networks into The CW network . try for falling “seriously short” in rector Vicangelo Bulluck . Before, Black-oriented shows achieving diversity by not increas- According to the report, the such as “Moesha” and “The Steve ing minority representation on number of minority actors in Harvey Show” were prominently programs and in decision-making prime-time shows has remained featured . positions . flat or even declined in recent CW’s lineup now includes Benjamin Jealous, president years, decreasing from 333 in the many White-oriented shows such and chief executive officer of the 2002-03 season to 307 in 2006-07 . as “Gossip Girl” and “90210,” al- NAACP, said, “At a time when the The number of minority writers though it also airs the Black sit- country is excited about the elec- working during the 2006-07 sea- coms “Everybody Hates Chris” tion of the first African-American son was 173, a drop from the 206 and “The Game .” president in U .S . history, it is un- employed during the previous Despite the NAACP’s dissatis- thinkable that minorities would season, the report said . faction with the overall industry, be so grossly under-represented Perhaps one bright spot in the the report noted that the four ma- on broadcast television . television industry is reality pro- jor broadcast networks have made Jealous was responding to a 40- gramming which, typically, has “important strides” in increasing page report released on Thursday reduced employment prospects diversity – but not enough . NAACP President, Ben Jealous by the NAACP Hollywood Bureau for White as well as minority ac- The NAACP report called for titled “Out of Focus, Out of Sync tors and writers . But on some the creation of a task force with tice standards throughout the in- The report raised the possibil- – Take 4 .” shows like “Survivor” and “Ameri- network executives, educators dustry . ity of political action if progress “Perpetrating the situation is can Idol,” the cast is likely to be and other advocacy groups simi- The “Take 4” report called on isn’t made, including a boycott the fact that the few African-Amer- more diverse than most scripted lar to a coalition formed several networks to revisit a 2000 agree- against an unspecified network icans in higher positions in that in- series, the NAACP noted . years ago with Asian American, ment to diversify the ranks of ac- and its major advertisers or class- dustry lack power to green light The report said that the short- Hispanic and Indian groups . The tors, writers, directors and execu- action litigation against the net- new series or make final creative age of minority faces on prime- goal would be to create best prac- tives . works and parent companies . Back on Their Feet: Former Inmates Thankful for New Life

Leiloni De Gruy to all persons . Currently, Lewis together . We learned so much, I is receiving legal services from mean I got certified in fiber,” War- LOS ANGELES (NNPA) - With Shields in order to get her record rington said . “We learned how to the help of a program designed for expunged . climb the poles, we learned how their needs, people whose back- Dawn Warrington, who also to hook up cable, how to do tele- grounds make it difficult to find graduated from the program’s phone lines by installing them work receive a second chance at first class Nov . 13 and received from the pole, from the hub, all of starting a career . a certificate in fiber optics and that . It was a great class .” La-Shell Lewis first went to telecommunications, has had her With three months left to go prison for drug possession in own road to recovery . in the recovery program, War- 1988 . After her release, she was The mother of two lost her job rington is excited about the pos- clean for two years . But a relapse as a florist three years ago when sibilities of employment . sent her back in 1996 . Two more she went to prison . “I never want- “I have gotten so much out of years of sobriety were met with La-shell Lewis had been incarcerated several times before turning her life around in 2001. A ed to be away from my children it,” she said . “I have learned how another relapse and another visit graduate of the Shields for Families program, she now works as a medical file clerk. again,” she said . to stand on my own two feet . I’ve to prison in 2000 . It was then that she began look- been unable to work so that has But prior to her release in 2001, men and women carrying ladders . . Say our phone lines go down ing to enter a drug rehab program humbled me as far as finances but Lewis’ life was changed when and working on telephone poles . at our company I am [now] able that would allow her to have both I am presently on aid . I am learn- Bishop Noel Jones, pastor of City Her curiosity caused her to in- to help see why the phones don’t of her children with her . After a ing how to stand on my two feet of Refuge, visited the women’s quire . It was then that she made work . . . I can go into our telecom- long, in-depth search, she found without having to break the law to detention center and gave her the decision to expand her skills munications box and see what’s Shields and for the past 14 months get it and I’ve learned to be a bet- the message she so desperately by joining Shields’ vocational cer- the problem, whether it’s the tele- has been in its Exodus Day Treat- ter parent,’’ she said . needed . tification program, which would phone jack or the phone [itself] .” ment Program, which helps “I’m learning how to live with- Lewis began working with certify her in fiber optics and tele- Shields for Families, in partner- women with substance abuse and out the use of drugs . My life is mentally disabled children, then communications . ship with the county Department mental health problems and those good today . This program is just in 2003 she went back to school to “I learned fiber optic cable of Children and Family Services, at risk for homelessness . awesome . They help you in every get her high school diploma . wiring, telephone jacks . . just do- has been providing career oppor- Four months ago, she too be- aspect of your life . I am working Now eight years sober, the ing the basics such as punching tunities in medical billing, fiber came aware of the organization’s now on getting my high school mother of six, two of whom are down, learning how to do video optics and telecommunications Vocational Certification Program diploma through Shields for deceased, is a medical file clerk sound and network,” said Lewis, for residents like Lewis, many of and began the 12-to-14-week class Families . . . They have life skills for Lynwood-based Barbour & who had no prior skills in the whom have prior drug and crimi- designed to give people the skills classes, relapse prevention, an- Floyd Medical Associates . area . “My office has a telecommu- nal records . they need to find jobs, be self- ger management and I have my Approximately four months nications room . . so by looking In addition, Shields provides employed or perform additional two children here . . . I know good ago, her life took another turn into the [program], I was [able to community workshops, voca- tasks at their current job . things are going to come .” when she passed by Shields for see] this is the same stuff and I tional services, legal services and “We learned everything from Families main office and noticed love doing things with my hands . linkage and referral resources ladder control to fusing the fiber