The Soul of New Orleans Celebrating Black History 2007

Lighting The Road To Freedom Data Zone Mardi Gras Parade Schedules Page 8

“The People’s Paper” February 10, 2007 40th Year Volume 36 www.ladatanews.com The Soul of New Orleans Celebrating Black History 2007

Page 2

Community Rallies Inside Data | To Right a Wrong Newsmaker | Spike Lee Returns Page 6 Page 4 Page February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com COVER STORY Black to the Future: African-Americans’ efforts to build on a glorious past

fountains, restaurants, restrooms and the like. Therefore, the fight is not the By: Eddie Francis same. Whereas protests were once a It is another Black History Month; surefire way to affect change, they are and speakers, historians and other now looked at with cynicism by the noted community figures are gearing descendants and beneficiaries of Civil up address pockets of black folks Rights warriors. across America. Churches, schools and community centers all over the country Relevance will reverberate with spirited renditions Perhaps the most argued point of of old Negro spirituals, Martin Luther African-American history is whether King, Jr. speeches and other staples of or not the current generation truly the African-American historical diet. understands it relevance. Dr. Dorothy Black History Month 2007 has Smith, a professor of African History at delivered a “twofer” to Black America. Dillard University, lived the Civil Rights While African-Americans begin to Movement. While she was a student celebrate one of the most recognized at the Freedom School in McComb, heritages in the history of the world, Mississippi, she saw Malcolm X speak. the biggest sports event of the year She definitely feels that today’s student featured two African-American coaches needs a better understanding of the for the first time. The bonus is that significance of African-Americans’ Tony Dungy’s Indianapolis Colts will achievements. square off against a Chicago Bears “As a teacher I’m far more radical team whose coach once worked under than you are,” she tells her students. Dr. Dungy---Lovie Smith. This year seems Smith explains that she comes from a to be an especially good time to be an time that has taught her to question the African-American. Despite the major issues put forth by mainstream society. Pop Culture success of Dungy and She is concerned that today’s youngster Smith there are those who agree that takes too much at face value. “For many there is much more to accomplish in of them, if it is written it is gospel,” Black American than having two black laments the professor. coaches featured in Super Bowl XLI. \That circumstance presents a Today’s African-American is faced quandary for Black America. Because with the daunting task of honoring African-American leaders achieved so his or her history while battling the much in the 20th Century, Black America racial inequities often not visible to the has more opportunities. The irony is common eye. In 21st Century America, that more access to opportunities has African-Americans no longer have the created a generation of young African- pain of dealing with segregated water Americans who are more trusting. Local radio personality and author Hal Clark. Continued next page.

On our Cover... A few of our distinguished ancestors, (l-r) Frederick Douglas, Mahalia Jackson, Shirley Chisolm, Carter G. Woodson

DATA News Weekly INSIDE DATA Mailing Address: PO Box 5033, Atlanta, GA 30302 (404) 223-5958 Fax (404) 223-5491 [email protected] Editorial & Business Office: 170 Northside Drive, Suite 506, Atlanta, GA 30313 Newsmaker Opinion Terry B. Jones Contributors Art Direction page 4 CEO/Publisher Edwin Buggage & Production Glenn Jones page 10 Hazel Trice Edney Cover State & Local News VP Advertising Paul Mainor for page 6 In The Spirit & Marketing Eddie Francis MainorMedia Edwin Buggage Dr. Aaron Harold page 12 Contributing Editor-in-Chief Dr. Calvin Mackie Story National News Photographers Cheryl Mainor Dollars & Sense Donald Smith page 2 page 14 Managing Editor Avery T. Brewton page 12 Marc Morial Data Zone Distribution Glenn Jones page 8 Glenn Jones James Wright Glenn Summers Please call (404) 223-5958 for subscription information. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com New Orleans Data News Weekly February 10, 2007 Page COVER STORY

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

Trust is a good thing except when through additional sources such Century is commonly regarded 1970’s black elected officials have of past leaders while constructing it comes to reading between the as “Sunday Journal” on WYLD as the voice of a proud people, reflected the tenacity of those a progressive political paradigm lines. FM and endless web sites. music since the â€˜80’s has been citizens who followed through on in the need of black leadership. Dr. Smith believes that the key Created specifically to address criticized for its lack of depth. the struggle for representation Senator Shepherd made history to progress in Black America is issues in New Orleans’ black Lebron Joseph of “Old School in local, state and the federal in Louisiana by becoming the first for adults to expose young people community “Sunday Journal” 102.9” knows about these trends governments. However, black black state senator from Jefferson to several angles of every issue. has been an important part of the first hand. Although he is known elected officials have been Parish and also through his “They should read books that are Crescent City’s black information for his work with “Old School” criticized in recent years for work to push a bill for the State network. “Sunday of Louisiana to recognize Martin Journal’s” current Luther King, Jr. Day. host, Hal Clark, insists Whereas the role of the black that black media has elected official has traditionally to do more to keep I feel that it is now been viewed as giving voice to the progress of Black underrepresented black folks, America in the front our jobs to be the Senator Shepherd feels that the of listeners’, viewers’ role of the black elected official and Internet users’ best elected official has changed. “I feel that it is now minds. our jobs to be the best elected “I believe it’s official as opposed to (being imperative that black as opposed to (being recognized as) the first black media promote Black elected official,” says the senator. History Month all recognized as) the first Like all African-American leaders Popular monring show host Lebron “LBJ” of KMEZ Old School year long,” says in his position, Senator Shepherd 102.9 FM Clark. He says that it shows reverence for the work of is the responsibility black elected official those who have come before him of black media outlets such as Avery Alexander and diametrically opposed,” says Dr. to continue to introduce their “Dutch” Morial. He continues, Smith. She feels that is one way audiences to black history facts “We have to look at things from more young African-Americans and personalities. Like Dr. Smith, Joseph once worked at Hip Hop merely riding the coat tails of a global perspective so that we will recognize institutional racism, Clark believes that there has to be and R and B powerhouse, “Q93”. those who represented Black enfranchise all people. Vote for namely in the critical areas of a balance in the information that A child of Soul Music from the America’s new found influence. me not because I’m black but public education, housing and job people consume. In his case Clark â€˜60’s and â€˜70’s, Joseph has Senator Derrick Shepherd because I’m the best.” equity for African-Americans. Dr. looks for influential figures from seen an attempt to return to is one of scores of black elected Smith maintains that the name of both the past and present in order music that positively expresses officials, who sees the need to the game is still equality; therefore, to provide that balance of views the motivating and progressive recognize the accomplishments Black America’s strategies to gain and accomplishments. spirit of African-Americans. equality must change. Clark, however, seeks to do that Joseph introduced New which is viewed as impractical Orleans to the Neo-Soul genre as This Is Not a Test nowadays. Commercial radio, in a program director at WYLD FM. Senator Landrieu Celebrates One of the major forces in particular, tends to let its content While local black radio basked in uniting Black America throughout be dictated by its audience. Clark the rapture of the “Gangsta Rap” the 20th Century had been the says, “We should . . . make these genre, Joseph took the initiative to Black History Month maturation of black media. In lieu facts come to life by encouraging serve those listeners who longed of Frederick Douglass’s North our audiences to adopt and to hear the positive expression Star African-American media had practice the principals that these of Black America’s spirit. Still he been nothing new but black voices accomplished individuals stood has been stuck with the difficult From citizens quietly working in several avenues of media grew for.” position of having to “give the by leaps and bounds during the people what they want.” each day to make a living and Civil Rights Movement. Expressing Change “(Black music has) continued raise their families, to world- The importance of black A major creative barometer of to make some pretty good stuff, representation in the media had the trends of African-American and ironically some of it gets renowned religious, business, certainly been realized in New history has been the music. airplay. But on the whole most political and entertainment Orleans. Aside from three print Perhaps there is no lightning rod of the stuff has been garbage.” publications, including Data in the issue of African-American Joseph points out that some of leaders, the contributions of News, black New Orleanians have expression like the music of the current artists who he feels have African Americans to our city and state have been able to take in issues from late 20th Century. Where black been positive influences include the African-American perspective music of the early to late 20th the likes of India.Arie, Outkast, been enormous in every way. John Legend and Mary J. Blige. At the same time Soul Music artists This legacy inspires us to do even greater have made a comeback through tours and guest appearances on things with our future. As we rebuild our guest artists’ projects. While their great state and city from the devastation of original fans have rejoiced their resurgence, new fans have used Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, we join together their music to make assessments in a new spirit of community, hope and of Black America’s collective consciousness. renewal. Building a New Army While music has served as an indicator of African-Americans’ hopes and dreams, Black America put its collective set of emotions to practical use by empowering Derrick Shepherd PAID FOR BY FRIENDS OF MARY LANDRIEU, INC. elected officials. Ever since the

AD FOR NEW ORLEANS DATA NEWS WEEKLY - 4.5” X 7” (“Mini 1/4”) Page February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com NEWSMAKER Spike Lee: Letting the voice of New Orleans be heard

stress, and proclamations of what title of politician but he stood needs. The Center is charged would be said to Spike Lee when very comfortable in his position with training many of the mental the opportunity was afforded as a leader with conviction, and healthcare professionals coming to approach the signing table. a man with great vision, respect, into the city, and will be using this New Orleanians have perfected and compassion for those who film for background information the fine art of waiting in line for survived the storm and are now for their program initiative. Lee’s services, information, money, fighting to rebuild their lives. His second installment of the series and help. It is the new place to words along with his laid back will focus on the slow progress be; a social gathering to check demeanor spoke volumes about of the recovery effort and the in with loved ones, make friends, his opinion about the gulf coast’s stories of victims from all over and network. This line was no snail pace recovery and our the Gulf Coast. Lee was adamant different. It was clear that upon nation’s highest leader unfulfilled about the fact that New Orleans arriving Lee was in the mood to promises to “make New Orleans was not back in full effect. He meet and greet his fans and to the greatest recovery in the history even believed the New Orleans continue to listen to their stories. Filmaker Spike Lee and Dr. Calvin Mackie, PhD. “You don’t have to buy anything to get my signature… Lets get By: Edwin Buggage filmmaker throughout the maze this party started and have a good Photos by Avery T. Brewton of books and dividers fashioned time!” Spike laughed and joked and Glenn Jones to accommodate the large crowd with admirers asking for a hug, An unidentified group of that even spilled out into the picture or signature. Lee believed excited people shouted loudly, parking lot. The three-tiered line this was his best project yet. “The “Spike Lee, We love you!” from was abuzz with a multitude of response to this project has been behind the tall bookshelves in conversations many centered very positive; people from all the Barnes & Nobles West bank on favorite scenes and quotes over are showing me lots of love. location. Hundreds of supportive from When the Levees Broke: A This project [When the Levees fans toting Spike Lee books Requiem in Four Acts, personal Broke] really moved people.” or movies stood and waited accounts of rebuilding homes and Nanette Matthews, native New patiently to meet their beloved maintaining sanity through the Orleanian of the upper ninth ward, agreed. “Lee did an Local fans lined up for hours outside the book store prior to start of the event for the chance to greet Lee excellent job of telling what really happened.” Although TheNewATT.com Matthews really identified of America.” He discounts Bush’s Saints football team’s phenomenal with the wrenching stories promises made in Jackson Square season may lead outsiders to of pain and loss, after losing a in the wake of the storm. Lee says think because the Saints were brother who lived in the lower President Bush has made it clear winning and the Superdome was ninth ward, she believed the to the suffering people across the restored that New Orleans as a movie was well balanced with Gulf Coast, through his deafening whole was back. Though that is many comical antedotes that silence about rebuilding efforts definitely not true, the spirit and was characteristically New in his recent state of the nation hope for a better city is here. My History. My Future. Orleans and the contagious speech, that they are on their Despite the 17 murders that music that has drawn many own. Native New Orleanian and have occurred in the first month What I do today and tomorrow will be New Orleanians and many visual artist, Frank Lewis III, of the New Year, the majority of because of what they did yesterday. others back to the Crescent disagrees wholeheartedly with New Orleanians are focused on City. “I’m not a politician, I am the idea that New Orleanians bringing the life back to the many When I go to school I remember the woman a filmmaker. A storyteller.” are on their own. Lewis insists vacant neighborhoods. Overall, who started a college with $5 and a dream. Spike Lee declares to the When the Levees broke coupled Spike Lee has essentially received media during a very brief with Lee’s commitment to seeing the blessing of this crowd many When I listen to music, I hear the beat of my meeting that occurred the ending of this story keeps because he allowed them to ancestors’ drum. before he began signing New Orleans on the radar of tell their own story. Stories that

I remember the men and women who shaped an array of past films that the world’s consciousness. Tina speak of a negligent and inept my future. depict the harsh truths of an Linden and Anthem Wingate government and a long history of unaccountable government of The Center for Mind- Body corruption. The dirty laundry has I celebrate Black History. system, the many rich Medicine in Washington DC been aired for the world to see, contradictions of the human agree. Both have been visiting and many of this city’s citizens feel I celebrate me. condition, and the resiliency New Orleans since February that this is the first step toward of a marginalized sector of 2006 surveying the mental health progress. society. He may refute the of the city and assessing their ©2007 AT&T Knowledge Ventures. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Knowledge Ventures. Knowledge of AT&T trademarks are logo and the AT&T AT&T reserved. All rights Ventures. Knowledge ©2007 AT&T

AT&T recognizes the rich history of African Americans and we thank the trailblazers of yesterday for inspiring the history makers of today and tomorrow. Rebuild Your Rental Property Through The Road Home Small Rental Property Program

Are you a rental property owner? Are you eligible? If so, we want to provide an incentive that encourages you to R You must be an owner of one- to four-unit restore your rental income and create affordable housing for rental properties, including single-family, Louisiana tenants. duplex, triplex, and fourplex buildings.* The Road Home is offering forgivable loans through a series of R You must have been a Louisiana resident application rounds. Eligible property owners are encouraged or business owner at the time of either to apply. Due to limited funding and considerable competition, Hurricane Katrina or Rita. The Road Home encourages applicants not selected in the fi rst round to reapply. R Your property must be located in Acadia, Calcasieu, Cameron, Iberia, Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Vermilion, or Washington Parish. Application period for all applicants except nonprofi t organizations is January 29 through March 15. Your property must have suffered R damage from Hurricane Katrina or Rita. Application period for nonprofi t organizations is

February 12 through March 22. *Owners of three- or four-unit properties who lived in one unit and rented out the other two or three units are strongly urged to apply. For more information on the Small Rental Property program or to request an application: • Visit www.road2LA.org/rental If you answer yes to all eligibility • Call 1.888.ROAD.2.LA (1.888.762.3252) criteria, we encourage you to apply. • TTY callers use 711 relay or 1.800.846.5277 By repairing your property through the Small Rental Property program, you are helping Louisiana residents return home.

Program Sponsored by: Program Funded by: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Housing centers are accessible and reasonable accommodations will be provided as requested.

ICFE06-37 DataNW 10.75x11.indd 1 2/2/07 10:59:50 AM Page February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com STATE & LOCAL NEWS

Katrina/New Orleans Recovery Drama In Effect: City’s Black Businesses and Middle Class Cite Neglect From Govt. & Corporate America

New Orleans Realtor Danette Oneal, surrounded by supporters at recent press conference.

photo by: Glenn Summers “We are not seeking a hand BlackEurweb.com NEW out, but a hand up,” says Belinda ORLEANS -- A consortium of Little-Wood of 10th Capital Small small business leaders in New Business Advisors. “There is a Orleans are demanding an end nationwide lack of recognition to the relentless strong arm of the challenges facing these tactics being levied against them companies from draconian by some of America’s biggest insurance premiums to corporate corporations. owners who don’t understand During a recent gathering in the market in New Orleans. support of local realtor Danette Businesses aren’t starting from O’Neal’s ongoing lawsuit with zero; they’re starting in the hole” mortgage giant Coldwell Banker, and from the Small Business elected officials, the NAACP and Administration to other agencies other prominent business people and programs, help is simply not charged both the government coming fast enough,” Little-Wood and corporate America with said. creating barriers that have The Louisiana Chapter of severely crippled their ability to the NAACP has also joined the reestablish their business in the growing nationwide outcry wake of Hurricane Katrina. around Danette O’Neal and New More than a year after the Orleans recovery efforts. Chapter storm, recovery efforts for president Traci Washington most of the city’s small business announced that if it came to it, she community have been swallowed would ask the national leadership by a confluence of debt and of the NAACP to ask members bureaucratic red tape. to boycott Coldwell Banker Bankruptcy filings have franchises. reached historic highs amongst “The NAACP 100 years fighting the middle income class and the Goliaths, and we’re pretty good small business community, which fighting some bullies,” she said. has severely hampered New Her sentiments were echoed by Orleans recovery. State Rep. Cedric Richmond who Now more than 17 months added that “if the NAACP says, after Katrina, entrepreneurs and ‘Don’t buy Coldwell Banker,’ homeowners are saying enough there won’t be no buying… You is enough and want to know why can’t mess with one of us without help is not forthcoming. messing with all of us.”

District 4 www.ladatanews.com

1540 N. Broad Ave. • New Orleans, LA 70119 WWW.EDWINMURRAY.COM www.ladatanews.com New Orleans Data News Weekly February 10, 2007 Page STATE & LOCAL NEWS

Louisiana Road Home Launches Mayor Nagin Continues ONE NEW ORLEANS New Program to Assist Own- Community meetings in 2007

ers of Rental Properties (NEW ORLEANS, LA) January the city’s recovery, as well as, conversation with The Metro 31, 2007 -Mayor C. Ray Nagin listen to citizens’ concerns on New Orleans Student Leadership continues his One New Orleans various issues. Council which consists of 50 high Conversations this year with This afternoon, Mayor school students from different citizens to discuss the status of Nagin held his 9th community schools around New Orleans to rents at an affordable rate for ten Continued page 15. By: Edwin Buggage years.” CL-07-N-3110 Black History Month 1/4 pg. Vertical 5.75” X 10.5” The program also has other The Louisiana Road Home added incentives for those who Program recently launched a provide housing for the elderly, or program aimed at the repairing, those who are affiliated with non- rebuilding, and putting back into profit organizations. The program commerce an estimated 82,000 has set aside 10 million dollars in rental housing units damaged by the first round of applications to hurricane Katrina across the state assist those non-profits who house of Louisiana. The owners of small persons with special needs, which rental properties are now able includes people with disabilities, to apply for financial incentives the elderly, homeless families, or which are aimed at helping to those who house at risk youth. As rehabilitate their properties. an additional incentive all persons The program’s Director Vanessa who agree to provide housing for Brower announced its launch special needs persons will receive on January 29, 2007 and said an additional fifteen percent bonus the initial round for accepting in the amount of their award for applications will run through the usage of these units. March 15, 2007 with ensuing Brower, who is optimistic rounds to follow. The program is about the implementation and designed as a multiyear program. moving forward of this program The program has been funded says that while the amount by a block grant provided by the allocated is a great amount it United States Office of Housing will only cover approximately and Urban Development (HUD) 18,000 of the estimated 82,000 to be used by the Louisiana Office damaged units across the state. 1VWQOU] &'! <]`bV>]ZS '' 6O`ZS[ ' ¸a BcaYSUSS '" of Community Development This coupled with other concerns 0ZOQYR]Qb]`^S`T]`[aTWàb /PZOQY[O\Wa]\b]^ /\/[S`WQO\@S\OWaaO\QS >WZ]ba^`]dSVS`]Wa[ (OCD). The amount allocated about how will neighborhoods acQQSaaTcZVSO`b]^SÒbW]\ ]TbVSe]`ZR VOa\]Q]Z]` for the program is eight-hundred and /or properties figure into and sixty-nine million dollars with what those municipalities have nearly five hundred seventy-eight in mind for those areas. Director million dollars allotted to assisted Brower says it has some affects rental property owners in Orleans on the implementation of program Parish. and how and who applies, but In recent months many critics encourages everyone who is have voiced concerns over issues eligible to apply, “We have invited such as affordable housing; this the neighborhood plans in the program according to its director parishes that have rebuilding Vanessa Brower has incentives plans, and the LRA has invited in place that may help to provide jurisdictions to participate in more affordable housing units for the program and to provide us present and returning citizens of with information about priority New Orleans, “The program is areas so we can do a better job designed as an incentive program, of serving applicants.” To apply so if a property owner is willing to the program or get specific to provide affordable rent they information and eligibility would get the largest amount of requirements go to their website: incentive, also the program will www.road2la.org or call 1-888-762- forgive the loan amount if the 3252. 0`]]YZg\ '"% ;]\bU][S`g '## 21 '$! 1SZSPÒbSa property owner agrees to keep 0OaSPOZZaV]eaca E][O\`S[OW\aaSObSR /[O\W\a^W`SaO\ObW]\ Q]cÒUSWba" /\RabO\RaT]`XcabWQS b]R`SO[b]USbVS` 0ZOQY6Wab]`g

WELCOME TO THE MARDI GRAS

Dear Mardi Gras Revelers,

As Mayor of New Orleans, I want to wish you a happy and safe Carnival season.

The French settlers of New Orleans brought with them the tradition of celebrating Mardi Gras. Fat Tuesday is one final chance to indulge before the sacrifices that come with Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent.

In the mid-1700, New Orleans Creoles celebrated carnival at masked balls. One hundred years later, the first organized carnival krewes began parading on the streets of New Orleans. That tradition has been going strong for more than 150 years.

I’m sure you will discover when the marching bands kick in you won’t be able to keep your feet still. When float riders taunt you with beads you will be screaming ‘Throw me something, Mister.’

Mardi Gras is just one of the many traditions that have contributed to the romance and lore of New Orleans. I hope you have a chance to visit New Orleans, to see our city and to taste our unique cultural heritage. On Mardi Gras day, New Orleans puts its lust for life on parade. But you will also find that every day is cause for celebration in a city that is imbued with the Carnival spirit.

Sincerely,

C. Ray Nagin

Mayor of New Orleans Mardi Gras Parade Schedule This 2007 parade schedule is subject to change pending the City of New Orleans Official determination of the exact dates and times of Mardi Gras 2007.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Pontchartrain Noon Hermes 5:45 pm Proteus 5:15 pm Shangri-La follows Pontchar- D’Etat 6:30 pm Orpheus 5:45 pm train Morpheus 7:15 pm Pygmalion follows Shangri-La MARDI GRAS, FEBRUARY 20 Sparta follows Pygmalion SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Zulu 8:00 am Pegasus follows Sparta Iris 11:00 am Rex 10:00 am Tucks noon Elks Orleans will follow Rex SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Endymion 3:30 pm Crescent City will follow Elks Carrollton Noon Orleans King Arthur will follow Carrollton SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Bards of Bohemia will follow Okeanos 11:30 am King Arthur Thoth 11:30 am Mid-City 1:30 pm THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Bacchus 5:15 pm Babylon 5:30 pm Chaos 6:15 pm Muses 7:00 pm Words of Wisdom live in all of us. How will you share yours?

In support of Black History Month, Alltel Wireless is inviting HBCU students to enter our Words of Wisdom: Lessons in Courage essay contest.

Fifty years ago, the Little Rock Nine personiﬁ ed courage and spirit. Write an essay showing how you will personify courage and spirit today. Winners will receive a scholarship to the HBCU of their choice and will be presented awards personally by Dr. Maya Angelou.

Visit www.alltel.com/wordsofwisdom to ﬁ nd out more.

Dr. Maya Angelou

1-800-alltel-1

Alltel Retail Stores Kenner Shop at a participating retailer: LaPlace Metairie • These Retail Stores Now Open Sunday. • 1000 W. Esplanade Ave. | (504) 468-8334 Equipment & promotional offers at these Superior Comm. | (985) 652-6659 Bobby April Wireless | (504) 835-9600 locations may vary. Covington Larose Mandeville 808 Hwy. 190 | (985) 893-7313 115 W. 10th St. | (985) 798-2323 Destrehan Nationwide Comm. | (985) 626-1272 NexGeneration | (985) 764-2021 Nationwide Comm. | (985) 626-1282 Harvey Metairie Proud Sponsor of: 1818 Manhattan Blvd. | (504) 367-0897 2701 N. Causeway Blvd. | (504) 835-1105 Gretna Marrero Cell Phone Depot | (504) 433-1921 V. Telecom | (504) 349-4912 Houma Slidell 1043 W. Tunnel Blvd. | (985) 851-2355 • 1302 Corporate Sq. | (985) 847-0891 Southland Mall | (985) 804-2355 For Business & Government Accounts call 1-877-BIZ-CNTR or visit alltelbusiness.com

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Must be 17 or older, a legal resident and citizen of the 50 United States (including the District of Columbia), and a current, full-time student in good standing or a high school senior who has been accepted to a participating college/university. For the list of participating institutions, refer to www.alltel.com/wordsofwisdom. Promotion starts January 29, 2007 and ends March 4, 2007. ©2007 Alltel. All rights reserved.

NPR1106_5.10.5x11.1C.LA2.indd 1 1/22/07 3:49:37 PM

Monday, February 12 Tuesday, February 13 Wednesday, February 14 Thursday, February 15 5:30 ~ Amasa Miller 5:30 ~ Amasa Miller 5:30 ~ Joe Krown 5:30 ~ John Royen 8:00 ~ Hot Club of New Orleans 8:00 ~ Sharon Martin 8:00 ~ John Boutte 8:00 ~ Anais St. John

Friday, February 16 Saturday, February 17 Sunday, February 18 7:00 ~ Fred Sanders 7:00 ~ John Royen 5:30 ~ John Royen 9:30 ~ Ingrid Lucia 9:30 ~ Leah Chase 8:00 ~ Sharon Martin

Entertainment subject to change. Page 10 February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com OPINION “Value” Based The Great 28… Grants Discriminate The Making Of History

does not discriminate. The broken down shotgun in Lakeview would be treated fairly as would any home, the race and class of the neighbors notwithstanding. The only time the market value of a property would of yesterday where legal barriers barred be useful is in those situations where a many Blacks to strive for excellence are person wants out of the property and is a distant memory. Albeit America is not selling to the state. where it should be, it has moved from How or why the state chose to base beyond the shadows of the times before the The Love Dr. their policy on something that is so loaded Edwin Buggage Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Acts of Data Columnist with race and class distinction worries me. Data Editor the 1960’s when a large number of Blacks A part of me really wants to believe that it could not exercise their most basic human was simply people thinking “in the box”, rights in a country that at that time and still people who are used to associating real- to this very day espouses the principle of I’m on a mission, and that mission is estate transactions with financing and the February is upon us once again, and democracy, fairness and equality to the rest to change the policy of the Road Home need for collateral that has a certain value. as we all know it is Black History Month. of the world. Program from using “value“ to using There is another part of me that believes That time of year where we pay homage For some African-Americans today is a repair/replacement cost as the basis for that mean spirited individuals knew and acknowledge those figures that have new frontier of opportunities: Blacks today grants. exactly what they were doing, creating an helped shape America and the world. own homes in places where they were once You may have never thought of it but almost billion dollar opportunity for ICF Initially conceived by Dr. Carter G. denied access through restrictive covenants, basing a program to rebuild lives on the and making sure that the affluent were Woodson author of the classic book, ‘The they own land today where their ancestors “value” of peoples homes is discriminatory made whole and the working classes and Miseducation of the Negro,’ during the toiled tirelessly on land owned by others based on race and class no mater whether poor become poorer, simply because they year of its inception 1926, this one week without adequate compensation or treated the “values“ are pre or post Katrina. Anyone live where they live. celebration occurred during the second with basic human decency. Today many are who has ever purchased real estate learns Following my suggestion would open week of February to coincide with the teaching and being educated in institutions really soon that homes in neighborhoods the doors to simpler solutions for everyone birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln once closed to them, and today these in which poorer people live cost less (have who is trying to repair or rebuild their and abolitionist and statesman Frederick places where they were once denied access less market “value”) than even identical homes and still reduce the likelihood of Douglass. This week was a time for reading, provide them with the tools necessary to homes that are located in more affluent fraud, because the state can pay contractors reflecting, and enlightening citizens of the be competitive in the workforce. Today we neighborhoods. directly. Imagine being able to signoff and struggles, triumphs and accomplishments see that there is possibly light at the end A broken down 1200 square foot shotgun have a converted Road Home Program of African-American people. In 1976 while of this ‘Underground Railroad’ and that the house in Lakeview will sell for more than repair and rebuild your home without the country was celebrating its bicentennial efforts of our fore parents had not been in a well maintained home twice that size, having to come live in a dangerous trailer. Black History Week was extended into an vain. but located in the lower ninth ward. With What an opportunity this would create for entire month. Yes the accomplishments of Blacks current policies the person in Lakeview so many of our elder homeowners. Woodson’s idea for observing these today are unprecedented, but we must can get more than enough to repair their I am doing my part. I’m pushing this accomplishments were to refute the remember today we are no smarter or home, but the person in the lower nine policy change on our “Between The Lines” popular notion that posed as irrefutable better than those who came before us; gets less simply because of the location television show. I’ve dedicated this week’s truths at that time in this country’s history we have just been provided with more of their property in a poorer and black column to the same and I’m talking to that African-Americans contributed nothing opportunities and access. Today we neighborhood. every legislator and LRA official I can. to the advancement of mankind. Over the are standing on the shoulders of giants. There is nothing in any law that requires So I’ve laid it out for you to clearly years this celebration has highlighted Whether it’s well known historical figures that the grants be based on “value”, and understand. You must begin to spread this what Blacks have been able to achieve like Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Daniel the intent of the Congress was to replace understanding, which is not very difficult; sometimes facing the most adverse of Hale Williams, Nat Turner, Mary McCloud and repair people’s homes, but the way our truth rings like a bell when people hear or circumstances. And with courage, fortitude Bethune and Harriet Tubman or everyday state government has chosen to use market read it. And since I am only one voter with and perseverance; accomplishing great people who have sacrificed so that we can value means that all the discrimination one vote, the rest of you voters have to things in spite of the road blocks placed have a chance at a better life. Our personal of the past is now included in the official make noise with your elected officials, get before them by those who attempted to heroes and mentors, the mothers, fathers, recovery policy of the State of Louisiana. I them to understand that it got to be this impede their progress, but many blazed a grandparents, coaches, friends, teachers have found no one who disagrees with that way or, like they say, “the highway”. trail for future generations forging ahead and preachers who gave us words of statement. This is about right and wrong, something making their mark in many fields of encouragement and the love we needed In addition to being discriminatory, since that can work versus something that hasn’t endeavor. when times got tough to persevere and “value” is simply based on what people and its about not allowing housing and As those who came before us toiled keep our eyes on the prize. are willing to pay, it is hard to determine, employment discrimination of the past to away breaking new ground, today we see Today we are a living testament of those particularly when they are trying to determine people’s ability to have their the results of their struggles. In today’s who have come before us. In our actions determine what someone might have been homes repaired or rebuilt today. America there aren’t many places in our we reflect the best and worse of our past. willing to pay before Katrina, a hypothetical Not everyone has my gift for words, so society where Black people are not visible. And we must remember that every one of number, which is the source of confusion yes I would be deeply honored if you copy African-Americans in 2007 are CEO’s and us is a gatekeeper of our history; making and probably the most difficult (and costly) this column and mail it with your personal high ranking executives in companies a contribution to the beauty and ugliness part of the process for determining grants. note to the Governor and your elected where fifty years ago they were either of our existence in America. And today we On the other hand, every contractor state representatives and senators. They barred from employment, or worked must work together to emulate the best and in town knows how much it cost to repair still have an opportunity to claim that the performing the most menial tasks, in the goodness that’s in all of us, realizing we will or replace homes in the various stages of “value” policy was a simple mistake and world of politics African-Americans are as any other people never be perfect, but destruction. Their estimates are based on not a plot against the property owners who reaching unprecedented highs; running hopefully, just better than we are presently, square footage, the level of repairs needed do not live in affluent neighbors. and winning elected offices at the local, because as the days pass we are all part of and the real and present cost of materials However, failure to do so would prove state and national levels. The dark days history. and labor. The repair/replacement cost is that evil was intended, is being and will relatively simple to arrive at because it is continue to be perpetrated against the folk based or the clear and present reality. who can afford it the least. Do what you Changing to repair/ replacement cost have to do… and do it now! www.ladatanews.com New Orleans Data News Weekly February 10, 2007 Page 11 COMMENTARY KEYS TO MENTORING OUR CHILDREN: Defining Mentoring!

Dr. Calvin Mackie, PhD. their souls. 100 Black Men, Each One Teach must ensure that mentoring Beethoven, Dr. Benjamin Mays Data Columnist Our youth have challenges that One, Boys and Girls Club and relationships do not reinforce any to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and In New Orleans and across are difficult to identify because other organizations continue to negative perception our youth Charles Houston to Thurgood the country, Americans are increasingly those challenges are offer individual and/or group may have of adults. Marshall. struggling to understand and deal often presented by someone who activities for youth. Unfortunately, Mentoring is not a new term, Understanding what a mentor with the state of the community: looks like them and lives amongst these organizations only reach and the process is more than just is lays a foundation to develop senseless violence perpetrated them. They are bombarded a small portion of the youth who physically “being” in the life of better mentoring programs and by the youth, the exploitation by self-destructive images and need mentoring. Given the depth a youth. The term is over three recruit more adults, especially and marginalization of women, words regularly. Our youth and breadth of problems in New thousand years old and has its men, as mentors. There are three and the general disinterest in are not growing up in healthy Orleans, it seems as if mentor- origins in Greek mythology. common misconceptions about the educational process and environments and it is not their focused organizations should be When Odysseus went off to mentoring and to better define career development. Many of our fault. In a healthy society, adults and are forming everyday. fight in the Trojan War, he left what mentoring is, let us identify youth resemble rudderless ships should nurture, protect and direct I have committed my life to the his trusted friend Mentor in what it is not: wandering amongst the abyss the most valuable asset: the youth. mentoring of youth and for the charge of his household and his • Mentoring is not paternalism. without direction or hope. On a We are not healthy, our youth are past twenty years, I have been son’s (Telemachus’) education. • Mentoring is not a marriage. daily basis in New Orleans and suffering, and the behavior of our involved in mentoring programs Mentor’s name has since been • Mentoring is not servitude. most urban areas, the evening youth is bitter proof of our failure either as a ‘mentee’ or mentor. attached to the process of education Mentroing is not paternalism, news leads with a story about as a community. Thus I am very concerned, and care by an older, experienced marriage, or servitude because the police seeking or escorting a Over the last ten years, several informed, and engaged in the person. In time, the word Mentor each of the inherent equality or young black male with dreadlocks organizations at the national and mentoring process. If we are going became synonymous with trusted inequality of the relationships. or twisted-hair dressed in baggy local level have provided positive to help our youth via mentoring, advisor, friend, and teacher. As a parent, the relationship is blue jeans and a white tee (shirt). guidance that youth may not get then we must know what it means History offers many examples of typically unequal. A “parent” It is painfully clear that our youth at home, in their community or to mentor and, more importantly, helpful mentoring relationships imposes his or her will on the are caught in a complex battle for at school. In New Orleans, the what mentoring is not. We - Socrates to Plato, Hayden to “child” in the name of what is in

Continued page 15.

Make plans to be at the Fair Grounds this February for all the excitement, both on and off the track! Now racing Thursday-Monday each week in February.

• February 3rd: Pan Zareta Stakes • February 10th: Louisiana Derby Preview Day. The first 3,000 guests through the gates will get a FREE Louisiana Derby ball cap! • February 11th & 25th: Coca-Cola presents: Family Day! Free rides and fun activities will be on hand for all the race fans, both young and old! • February 17th: Chou Croute Handicap and Sara Lane’s Oates Stakes • February 24th: Bayou Breeders Cup Handicap

Interested in planning a day at the races for you and a few friends? Call 504-943-2200 for reservations. Admission: Grandstand $2 and Clubhouse $5 (proper attire required). Gates open at 11:00 a.m.

Newyour Orleans, track is back

FOR INFORMATION, CALL 504-944-5515 A Churchill Downs Company WWW.FAIRGROUNDSRACECOURSE.COM Page 12 February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com IN THE SPIRIT DOLLARS & SENSE “I Love You Mean More Than AXA Achievement Words Can Say”

and identify skills and talents you can incorporate into your scholarship and college application essays. and even those who are neighbors true • Plan ahead –students should research Dr. Aaron E. Harold love, God will smile upon these actions. Donald Smith scholarships for the first year of college Data Columnist My brothers and sisters God is love. He GE-31651 (03/05) (exp. 03/07) in their junior year of high school demonstrated his love towards us by giving • Keep an open mind and take the time to of himself. God told us that in John 3-16, review all scholarship descriptions and “For God so love the world that he gave his qualifications. Many of us will be celebrating Valentine’s only begotten son that whosoever should • Seek out academic counseling because Day all across the nation. Some of us are believe in him shall not perish, but have With the cost of college tuition rising counselors have resources and can going to go to the extreme to express our everlasting life.” faster than inflation, paying for college can recommend the most appropriate feelings towards the one or ones that we God also shows his love through be an obstacle for many families. scholarships say we love. In most cases, it’s easy to say I others such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Families can help offset tuition bills by • Be sure to select valid scholarships love you with your mouth, because it really who fought for freedom and civil rights, identifying and accessing scholarships and and be wary of scholarships that are doesn’t take too much to tell someone and Mother Teresa who labored to help other resources. To help students and their “guaranteed” or require fees upfront. verbally that you love them. But when you the poor for many years. When you were families, AXA Foundation, the philanthropic • Be sure to look to employers, labor truly love a spouse, your child or children, a child your mother stayed up through the arm of AXA Financial, has created AXA unions and associations –they often offer friends, family members, or couples who night to take care of you. This represents a Achievement. AXA Achievement is a scholarships to children have been dating for a period of time, true mother’s unconditional love for her child. philanthropic program dedicated to • Explore community resources such as love means more than words can say. God’s love speaks in many voices and those providing the advice and access to help local foundations, service clubs, and True love is giving of oneself without who love him will always hear it. Look at youth succeed in college and beyond. religious organizations that may sponsor looking for something in return. It means what David says in the 23rd Psalm; “The Through AXA Achievement, AXA is one scholarships for which membership is loving someone with your heart, your Lord is my Shepherd and I shall not want.” of the nation’s largest corporate providers not a requirement. mind, and with all of the strength that is This means that God’s love will take care of of scholarships and a comprehensive • Contact Dollars for Scholars which is inside of you. Some people give, but they you and me to the point that we don’t have resource for students and their parents a network of scholarship foundations give without the presence of love in their to worry about tomorrow’s problems. to pursue their dreams of college. AXA based in communities throughout the hearts. However, you cannot love without Love is also not being afraid to love, even Achievement provides: United States. Chapters often coordinate giving. Love shows in so many ways, when you have been hurt in relationships in local scholarships via a single application because those who love always see it. the past or present. God loves you and me Advice, including: process. For more information visit Love in the spiritual sense, or in the unconditionally, which means even when • materials and resources for students and www.dollarsforscholars.com for local eyes of the Creator, is greater than any we have made huge mistakes in our lives, parents on how to financially prepare and community listings kind of love. In Luke Chapter 10 verses he still will forgive us. Therefore, if God still pay for college • Start logging onto Web sites that provide 30-37, Jesus is teaching in a parable. He is can love us no matter what, we need to act • increasing national awareness of the scholarship guidance. To start: trying to show a lawyer who was present on our love toward each other by not just need for scholarship support and higher - Scholarship Americasm (www. along with his disciples the true meaning saying I love you through words, but with education, such as by sponsoring scholarshipamerica.org) of love towards your neighbor. He talks selfless acts of kindness, because “I love National Scholarship Month - National Association of Student about a certain man who went down from you mean more than words can say.” Let’s Financial Aid Administrators’ Website Jerusalem to Jericho who was robbed of not reserve one or several days to give to Access, including: (www.nasfaa.org) his clothes by thieves. They also wounded one and other in the spirit of love, but let’s • national and local scholarship programs - FinAidSmartStudent Guide (www. him severely leaving him almost dead. treat each other as if every day is a holiday awarding scholarships ranging from finaid.org) There were others who saw this man and give of oneself in the spirit of love to $2,000 to $25,000 • Visit local libraries and bookstores where who desperately needed help because he your fellow man and woman, and in closing • support for local scholarship foundations you will find a vast quantity of resources was dying in the road. The men looked let me say Happy Valentine’s Day and may in communities across the country on scholarships that can help you find at the man and the condition he was in, God always Bless You. To learn more, visit www.axaonline. ones that are applicable. but they kept going. On the other hand, Dr. Aaron E. Harold is the pastor of New com/axafoundation. a Samaritan who was not like the other Millennium Breakthrough Ministries. AXA Achievement also wants to help two men took the time out to go to the students and their families find scholarships extreme to help this man. This is what love To contact Dr. Harold with your comments or that are right for them. Here are some tips Don Smith offers securities through AXA Advisors, suggested topics you can e-mail him at rharold@cox. LLC, (member NASD, SIPC) 1555 Poydras Street, truly is. When we take the time to show net or call (504) 813-5767 that students can use before they apply for Suite 2000, New Orleans, LA 70112, 504-524-8771 and those persons who are closes to our hearts scholarships: offers annuity and insurance products through an • Ask yourself what am I involved in— insurance general agency affiliate, AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. music, athletics? Your answers will help select scholarships that fit well, I want mass transit options.

I want protection for our wetlands.

I want stronger levees.

I want good job opportunities.

I want a better Louisiana.

I need you to speak up.

The choices we make today will shape South Louisiana for generations. Right now, you have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to voice your opinion on choices that will shape the future of our region. Everyone wants the best for South Louisiana. This is your chance to make it happen, so speak up.

LEARN MORE. WEIGH IN. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

To weigh in on your vision for Louisiana, call Louisiana Speaks at 1-888-PLAN-2050 or visit www.LouisianaSpeaks.org This ad was paid for with private funds by the Louisiana Recovery Authority Support Foundation.

LARA07-03DatNW_A_10.75x11.indd 1 1/18/07 2:41:02 PM talkback www.ladatanews.com/talkback It’s your place, It’s your space. Make your voice heard! Page 14 February 10, 2007 New Orleans Data News Weekly www.ladatanews.com NATIONAL NEWS Blacks March Against War Katrina Recovery in Major Need of National Summit

by Marc Morial process marked by insufficient recovery and rebuilding as well NNPA coordination, unnecessary as ensure greater coordination Congresswoman Maxine Waters, (D-CA) addresses press during a recent Anti-war rally in political infighting, and a and collaboration going forward Washington DC. This year’s State of the Union great deal of both human and than there has been in the past. By. James Wright it clear that she is not afraid to Address by President George W. institutional suffering that I must say that I am encouraged Special to the NNPA from the speak out against the war. “My Bush offered little hope for the continues to this day. that the Congressional Black Afro-American Newspapers name is Maxine Waters and I thousands of New Orleanians President Bush appointed Caucus called upon U.S. House am not afraid of George Bush,’’ who fled the city in the wake of a rebuilding czar in Donald Speaker Nancy Pelosi to create WASHINGTON (NNPA) - she said. “I am not intimidated Hurricane Katrina and never Powell but he failed to give him a select House committee on Blacks were active participants by Dick Cheney. I worked to get returned and those who did any power. Powell is merely a Katrina. Maybe this will light a in the anti-war demonstration rid of Donald Rumsfeld. “Condi return home. Not a reference diplomat assigned to ensuring fire in Washington under efforts that took place on Jan. 27 at the Rice (Black secretary of state) to the tragedy that halved the that the local, state and federal to bring New Orleans back to National Mall in Washington, is a neo-con and she does not population and left in the region governments play nice with each life. D.C. An estimated 100,000 people represent me. George Bush said in ruins was made. other. There is little coordination I am making a call for the from across the country came to that he was the decider. “He is What a difference over one between the various federal, state collective leadership on the Washington to protest the Bush not the decider, he is a liar.’’ Rep. and one-half years make after the and local agencies charged with federal, state and local levels to administration’s escalation of John Conyers (D-Mich.) said that president vowed to restore New cleaning up the city. Mississippi is ensure the survival of one of our the war in Iraq. The protestors a group of progressive Democrats Orleans to its former and greater entitled to as much federal aid as nation’s greatest cities. Instead of said that the war was wrong, the in the Congress will attempt to glory in a poignant speech in Louisiana even though it wasn’t finding fault and pointing fingers, troops should come home and stop the funding of the war in the historic Jackson Square with as hard-hit because Congress I’d rather get our collective wits if the troops do not come home, Congress. Conyers said that the much of the city under water and decided to cap aid a single state around the table to address this Congress should cut off funding. president is off track. “Bush fired the National Guard patrolling could get. How illogical is that? debacle before it becomes our The march was facilitated by his military leaders when they around. And state and local officials – nation’s greatest shame. As Sen. the New York-based United for told him he was wrong,’’ Conyers But Capitol Hill Democrats Gov. Kathleen Blanco and Mayor Joseph Lieberman, who chaired Peace and Justice. Its mission is said. “Cheney said that we cannot are hardly great saviors of Ray Nagin – have hardly risen to the recent Katrina hearing, said, to educate the American people do anything about the war. That’s New Orleans. They also failed the occasion and taken the reins the days of playing “gotcha” over about the war and to demonstrate not true, we can fire Bush and we to reference Katrina in their of the recovery. Any wonder why the Katrina recovery are over. how social change can take place need to remember that.’’ The Rev. response to the president’s State New Orleans is still a wreck and The wealthiest nation in the within the context of democracy Jesse Jackson, president of the of the Union. They put nothing its current and former residents world can spend unprecedented through protest, education Rainbow-Push Coalition, said that in their first 100 hours agenda are still suffering? Does anyone amounts of money to rebuild and activism. “Bring home the “peace is possible’’ and “peace is that addressed the rebuilding of really care about losing one of Iraq but cannot save one of its troops,’’ the Rev. Graylon Hagler imperative.’’ “Today we march for the Gulf Coast Region. our nation’s greatest cities? greatest and most colorful cities? told the crowd. “We aim to be the soul of our nation, to preserve Not until the press and In a New York Times column That’s downright pathetic. In heard by the Congress of the our nation’s honor,’’ he said. “The activists noted the glaring from January, Bob Herbert a recent editorial, The New United States and by George war in Iraq is causing a war on the absence of Katrina in the two summed up the situation York Times observed that the Bush. “We are going to push to poor at home. “Money needed for parties’ recent addresses did perfectly. “If you talk to public current state of New Orleans is end this war.’’ Hagler, a candidate the working poor, the aged and the they begin to do anything. But officials, you will hear about a “sad monument to impotence” for the Ward 4 position on the young, are being sacrificed for this better late then never, I guess. billions of dollars in aid being of the world’s last surviving D.C. City Council and the pastor misadventure.’’ Jackson said that Still. How interesting that Senate funneled through this program superpower. We’ve got plenty of Plymouth Congregational the war in Iraq is part of a larger Democrats would hold a field or that. The maze of bureaucratic of resources for a war in Iraq United Church of Christ, said that problem in the country. “We need hearing on the rebuilding efforts initiatives is dizzying. But when but when it comes to helping people are outraged by the loss more than new leaders; we need in New Orleans not too long you talk to the people most in our own people. They’re off the of life and the administration’s new direction, new priorities, and after the hubbub, and that a need of help -- the poor, the radar screen. What does that say casual attitude toward the death a new way for a new day,’’ he said. presidential candidate would be elderly, the disabled, the children about our nation’s priorities? We of Americans and the Iraqi The speakers throughout the present. CNN even suggested -- you will find in most cases that must act now or risk allowing people. Felicia Eaves, president rally encouraged the protestors that the road to the White House the help is not reaching them. New Orleans to become an ugly of Black Voices for Peace, said to support the bill, Bring Our in 2008 may very well go though There is no massive effort, no footnote in history. that Bush has shown little regard Troops Home and Sovereignty my hometown. master plan, to bring back the Shudder to think that in a for life in the past. “When Bush of Iraq Restoration Act of 2007 I can only hope and pray people who were driven from the decade from now when assessing gave his “State of the Union,’’ he sponsored by Waters, Rep. Lynn that that’s not true. And that city and left destitute by Katrina,” the Katrina tragedy, we realize, did not mention Katrina at all,’’ Woolsey (D-Calif.) and Rep. lawmakers are casting attention he wrote. that as the Times notes in its Eaves said. “That should tell you Barbara Lee (D-Calif.). The bill to the debacle that is the Katrina Back in July during our 2006 recent editorial, “our grand plans that George Bush does not care calls for an immediate withdrawal recovery because they want to annual conference, I suggested were never laid, our brightest for Black people. “We have to of troops from Iraq and mandates do something about it – and not that our nation’s leaders convene minds were never assembled, stop this war. We have to.’’ Rep. that the administration allow the just reacting for fear it’ll hurt a national summit on rebuilding our nation’s muscle and ingenuity Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) said that Iraq government to function by their political prospects. They the Gulf Coast. I stand by that were never brought to bear in the Congress needs to be pressed itself. On Jan. 29, the protestors should be there because it’s the suggestion and reiterated it in any concerted way to overcome to cut off funding for the war. “We took their case to the members right thing to do. The victims of a recent letter to our nation’s the crisis of the Gulf.” are going to push, push, and push of Congress on Capitol Hill. They Katrina cannot be forgotten and leaders. should never be used as some It’s time to assemble America’s Marc C. Morial is president and CEO, to keep the debate going,’’ Waters lobbied the lawmakers to stop National Urban League said. Speaking to the protestors, the war by cutting off funding by kind of political football being greatest minds with its most she said, “You have come here visiting their offices and talking tossed about to win elections. powerful leaders and resolve to to save your country and you are to the members or high ranking By most accounts, the get the job done. I’m asking for the real patriots.’’ Waters made staff members. rebuilding of New Orleans the development of a 12- to 24- has been a slow and torturous month action plan to reinvigorate www.ladatanews.com New Orleans Data News Weekly February 10, 2007 Page 15 NEWS

Commentary Cont. form page 5 Commentary Cont. form page 7 the best interest of the child. The Black Publishers relationship between mentor and ‘mentee’ is a voluntary one. Thus either party can disengage at any time; unlike the parent-child Told to Keep Pleading relationship. Ideally, marriage refers to a relationship between Causes Amidst Change equal parties with shared responsibilities because both parties have committed to the couple as a unit and the marriage as an entity. Similar to the parent- child relationship, marriage is Three members of the Mayor’s Young Leadership Council By: Hazel Trice Edney A die-hard civil rights and not a proper description because NNPA economic justice advocate, who the parties in the mentoring engage them on topics such as get some dialogue going on about PHOENIX (NNPA) – Nearly is a recipient of the Martin Luther relationship do not enter as education, housing and crime. some of or city’s challenges post- two centuries since the founding King Jr. Distinguished Service equals. At the same time, the Following his meeting with the Katrina.” said Howard Rodgers, of the first Black Newspaper, Award, Dortch says social relationship in and of itself is not student council, Mayor Nagin Executive Director of the New Freedom’s Journal, publishers and political separatism in the exclusive – either the mentor can hosted a small press briefing. Orleans Council on Aging. of the National Newspaper Black community has become have other mentees or the mentee “Our meeting was very On January 13, the Mayor Publishers Association, the Black detrimental to progress. can multiple mentors. helpful. Mayor Nagin gave us along with Councilwoman Press of America, kicked off their “It is amazing how we get Servitude typically refers to a his support and encouraged us Cynthia Hedge-Morrell hosted 180th anniversary year hearing hung up on, ‘I’m not going to deal relationship between completely to lead our educational system the Seventh One New Orleans exhortations to continue pleading with him or her because they’re unequal parties where a “master” forward. In order for us to have Conversation with District D their “own cause” even though Republican or they’re Democrat has total control over the activities a good education, we must seize constituents. The meeting was the battles have significantly or I’m not going to deal with him of a so-called “slave”. Mentoring is all opportunities,” said Ashleigh attended by State Senator Derrick changed. or her because she’s a member of not servitude because the parties Joplin, an 11th grader at The Math Sheppard, State Representatives “When we look at NNPA and Delta and I’m a member of Alpha in the relationship exist in the and Science School. Juan LaFonta and J.P. Morrell. all of the publishers, you’re our and he’s Omega and there’s an relationship voluntarily. Finally, The One New Orleans Nearly 200 citizens filled the number one resource for finding AKA over here or whether they’re the mentee is not there to “serve” Conversations are a combination University of New Orleans (UNO) out the real truth in our community an Alpha or a Kappa.’ We let little the mentor. of citizen gatherings based on Business auditorium to hear the and you are important to us,” says stupid stuff separate us. In fact, the Mentoring is a process of organization and/or professional latest information about the city’s Thomas W. Dortch, president one common denominator that building a mutually beneficial affiliations, meetings are also recovery and news specifically of the Atlanta-based 100 Black we all have is that we’re all Black partnership between experienced coordinated in small groups affecting Men of America, Inc., among a and we aren’t like the rainbow. persons (mentors) and less by citizens in neighborhoods their community. Key issues string of noted speakers at the We come in different hues and all, experienced persons (mentees) to throughout the city. In addition, were addressed such as education organization’s annual Winter but it’s not the color of your skin, help develop the skills, behaviors One New Orleans district meetings and condition Conference held in Phoenix, but it’s what’s in here and what’s and insights necessary to reach are organized in conjunction with of schools in New Orleans and Ariz. “Unless they’re shooting up here and how you use it,” says the partnership’s goals. The City Council members. There are the restoration of key retail outlets somebody, stabbing somebody, Dortch, pointing to his heart and mentor has four roles: at least two (2) One New Orleans in the area. cutting somebody, stealing from his head. • Advisor who shares and Conversations with Mayor Nagin On August 21, 2006, Mayor somebody, that’s the only time When Samuel Cornish and gives advice regarding career and each month. C. Ray Nagin hosted the first the other major press wants to John B. Russwurm founded the personal development within an “The Mayor’s Office has been One New Orleans Conversation write something about us. At Freedom’s Journal in New York organization. very helpful with assisting the hosting small, minority owned least we can come to the Black City in 1827, Black people were • Net-worker who helps New Orleans Council on Aging business owners. Seven months Press and we can read about still in slavery. Therefore, when the mentee build internal and in helping bring Seniors back to later, Mayor Nagin continues to good things that are happening its inaugural article stated, “We external relationships and New Orleans. These One New engage the community with One in our community…I want to say wish to plead our own cause,” the resource networks. Orleans Conversation meetings New Orleans Conversations. to you, Thank you. I want to also paper was declaring its own First • Facilitator who teaches are very helpful because we can say to you, good is good but good Amendment right to free speech. the mentee how to solve means there’s room to be better Dortch, also known for his problems more independently and better means you need to be stance along side Atlanta Mayor and confidently. best.” Maynard Jackson for significant • Coach who guides With that, Dortch exhorted Black economic participation in the mentee toward delivering NNPA, the nation’s largest the construction and vending the expected performance membership of Black-owned at the now Hartsfield-Jackson by encouraging and giving newspapers with more than 200 Atlanta International Airport, feedback. publishers, to resist separatism challenge the publishers to not Anyone interested in mentoring among Blacks by closing ranks, back down from justice. youth should be committed fighting against ills within the “I challenge you to be to the mentoring relationship. community and remembering the courageous. Write the truth The last thing our youth need global struggle. even if the truth hurts. But, do to see, witness or experience “We will trust everybody else it professionally, make it hard- again is an adult abdicating their who doesn’t look like us, who hitting because it’s you and only responsibility and commitment doesn’t sound like us, who doesn’t you that we can depend on to get and walking out of their life as soon have the historical perspective the news and get it right,” he says. as things get tough. Mentoring in life and the background that “And the minute that you sell your is a process and a relationship comes from the environment that soul for the all mighty dollar is which should be entered into by we do. We will trust everybody the minute and the very day that committed individuals. We must else before we are willing to trust you really should pack your bags, demonstrate the characteristics ourselves,” says Dortch. close your operations and go off that we want to exist in our youth, ATLANTA (NNPA) - Clark Atlanta University emerged as the winner of the fifth annual Honda and find something else to do.” because they are truly watching Battle of the Bands. Ten of America’s top Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching bands participated in the competition. The event took place before a sold-out Georgia US. Dome on Jan. 27. TheNewATT.com

You’re going to find that the new kid on the block is very familiar with the neighborhood.

BellSouth, along with Cingular, is joining the new AT&T, America’s largest provider of broadband DSL. Connecting you to the nation’s most complete and secure network. But you’ll find that while the technology is high, the company stays grounded. That means you’ll still feel the BellSouth tradition of customer focus. You’ll still experience affordable innovations that you can explain to your grandparents. All from a global company that’s involved in your community. So get ready for more of what you’ve come to expect from your local service provider, only now, it’s all backed by the power of the new AT&T. When good things intersect, you create a very special place. Welcome to the new AT&T. ©2007 AT&T Knowledge Ventures. All rights reserved. AT&T is a registered trademark of AT&T Knowledge Ventures.