Lighting The Road To The Future

Hip Hop Data Zone Page 6 Legends Gather “The People’s Paper” May 28 - June 3, 2011 46th Year Volume 5 www.ladatanews.com

Page 2 Trailblazer Newsmaker Zakenya Perry LINKS Honor Locals

Page 4 Page 5 Page 2 May 28 - June 3, 2011 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

The Great Divide Gets Bigger Black-White Life Expectancy Gap Expands

By Janell Ross

For nearly two decades, the expected life spans of Black and White Americans steadily narrowed, offering a hopeful indication of both racial progress and medical success: Everyone was living longer, and the gap was closing . Then came 2009 . For all Americans, the aver- age life expectancy again nudged up for the year, reaching 78 years and two months according to preliminary figures from the Centers for Disease Control . But Black Americans saw no improve- ment in life expectancy, remaining at 74 years and three months . Some experts construe this unanticipated wid- ening of the Black-White life expectancy gap as a product of the Great Recession . The recession ex- tracted brutal economic costs from nearly every slice of American society, particularly from African- Americans . Nearly two years after the recession’s official end, Black unemployment remains at 16 .1 percent compared to the 8 percent of White Ameri- cans unable to find work . And it’s the stress that can come with a job loss that some experts say may explain the new size of the life expectancy gap . This photo depicting a senior Black couple, could become a distant memory if the current trends continue. In a country “We should regard this one year data as an where there are already multiple measures of health that show vast differences between the Black and White population, any increase in the life expectancy gap may be an indicator that our efforts to deal with health disparities may not be working. alarm,” said Kofi Kondwani, an Assistant Professor in Community Health and Preventative Medicine at the Morehouse School of Medicine . “In a coun- change in the data might eventually be explained right term but that would definitely set some priori- try where there are already multiple measures by myriad factors not related to Black unemploy- ties around here .” of health that show vast differences between the ment . Still, they said they were eager to see the Looking at data along demographic lines can Black and White population, any increase in the data for 2010 and would focus on the again-widen- reveal some of the factors that affect life expec- life expectancy gap may be an indicator that our ing Black-White gap . tancy . Suicide is more common among the White efforts to deal with health disparities may not be “If we did see the Black-White life expectancy population, and homicide is more common among working .” gap widen in a second year then we are going to be the Black population, said Kondwani . Thus social The federal researchers who compile the data very concerned,” said Bob Anderson, the CDC’s forces associated with a recession -- such as the reacted more cautiously, noting that one year’s chief of death data . “Freak out is probably not the disproportionate share of Black and Latino work-

Cover Story, Continued on next page. DATA News Weekly P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 INSIDE DATA Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors CEO/Publisher Edwin Buggage Cover Story ...... 2 Commentary . . . . 8 Glenn Jones George Curry VP Advertising Janell Ross & Marketing Dr. Phil Wilson Newsmaker...... 4 Health News . . . . 9 Cheryl Mainor Managing Editor Art Direction & Production Edwin Buggage MainorMedia.com Trailblazer . . . . 5 State & Local News . 10 Editor Melanie Mainor Editorial Submissions Copy Editor Intern [email protected] June Hazeur Advertising Inquiries Data Zone ...... 6 Accounting [email protected] Please call 504-309-9913 for subscription information or to obtain a back issue of the paper ONLY. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story May 28 - June 3, 2011 Page 3 Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

Americans wait on line for free medical services at Soon, families like the one pictured center, can be even The high cost of healthcare, expos popping up around the country. more scarce, as a lower life expectancy will affect men even decreases availability for adequate more than women. care, lowering life expectancy in Blacks.

ers who remain unemployed her work brought . She earned her eligible for a host of gov- self, just some standards for even worse, she said . or who have lost homes to more than she ever expected ernment work . She never had how I want to perform .” “There were a lot of lonely foreclosure -- could reasonably as a woman without a Bach- difficulty finding a job . days and a lot of lonely nights,” be assumed to affect different elor’s degree . Less than two months later, Lacy said . slices of the population in par- “I got pretty successful,” in January 2009, Lacy’s blood John Henryism As last summer gave way to ticular ways, he said . said Lacy, who is Black . “I pressure was under control, What was happening to fall, Lacy realized she would Those inclined to pin the went from earning maybe $12 but everything in the work- Lacy is not unique, said Sher- soon have to give up her apart- blame for the widening life ex- an hour as a temp to earning ing world seemed to have man James, an Epidemiologist ment for lack of rent money . pectancy gap on the recession $80,000 a year at my main changed . The financial crisis and Public Policy Professor She sent her son to live with point to one key factor that job .” has brought hiring to a virtual at Duke University in North his godfather so that he could generally accompanies unem- Lacy is a single mother who standstill . Food and gas prices Carolina . Sustained adversity continue attending his sub- ployment or worries about the says she has never received were soaring, slicing through can lead to medical problems, urban school . Lacy moved in ability to pay the bills: stress . child support . So, even as she Lacy’s savings at a faster pace he said . with an aunt in Washington, When people experience was thriving at her full-time than she had anticipated . James and other epidemiolo- D .C . stress, the body produces job, she worked a second job “It seemed like, six weeks gists have found evidence that Some experts argue that hormones such as adrena- -- mostly in retail --so she could earlier there had been so many such problems are particularly a weak economy perversely line and cortisol that produce manage the things she felt jobs I could have had my pick acute among African-Ameri- lowers the death rate, because short bursts of energy useful her son deserved, such as the of the litter,” said Lacy . “That cans . He suggested many are people out of work are less in weathering a crisis . When fees required for him to play dried up so fast it was astonish- so aware of negative racial ste- likely to engage in certain stress is sustained, the body football and the savings she ing .” reotypes that they labor extra high-risk activities . continues producing these stashed in his college fund . At the peak of her job hard and worry exceedingly The CDC last month re- hormones, which tend to be Her second job helped to ease search, Lacy says she sent out about their performance in leased a study that found sui- associated with medical prob- the cost of renting an apart- 35 to 40 resumes every day . an effort to counter damaging cides appeared to increase lems such as depression, high ment in Montgomery County, She worked with headhunters . generalizations . during the Great Recession, blood pressure, heart disease a Maryland suburb outside She called old contacts . Some academics call this the Great Depression and oth- and strokes, said Uma Rao, a Washington, DC . She worked “I was applying for all sorts “high-effort coping .” Sher- er recessions in between . In Professor of Psychiatry and so much that she missed ev- of stuff, everything from the man prefers the term “John 2009 suicide increased slightly Behavioral Health Sciences at ery one of her son’s freshman fields where I had worked to Henryism,” a reference to but just enough to move self- Meharry Medical College . year football games . scrubbing floors,” She said . an American folk legend . As inflicted harm into the top 10 “You have heard the expres- About six years ago, Lacy She cashed out her retirement the story goes, John Henry causes of death . sion fight or flight,” said Rao . embarked on a particularly ar- savings and used it to pay the worked building railroads, and Lacy feels certain that un- “Well, what happens to the duous project, managing elec- bills . “ I was really just trying his employer decided to try to employment and searching for body when it senses it must tronic medical records for the to maintain some normalcy for replace him with a machine . work made her health much fight and cannot flee for a long Navy . my son,” she said . Henry was so determined to worse . period of time is just as real . “It was a very, very stressful In the spring of 2010, Lacy demonstrate the unique abili- About three weeks into her And it can be ugly .” environment,” Lacy recalled . was granted an interview with ties of humans that he agreed family’s new living arrange- Her doctor eventually di- another government contrac- to face the machine in a con- ment, Lacy had a heart attack . agnosed her with high blood tor . But all the worrying about test . He beat the machine but She was 43 years old and ly- Too Stressed pressure and ordered her money, work and daily rejec- then died of exhaustion . ing in the emergency room . To Work to sharply curtail her work tions had rattled her nerves Workers who have lost jobs Since then, she has changed schedule . Either that, or she and her confidence . During a through no fault of their own her diet and lost 15 pounds . All of that sounds uncom- might not live long enough to group interview, one person are extra prone to develop She is eating more salad and fortably familiar to Bernadette see her son into adulthood . asked Lacy a question about health problems, according to preparing her meals at home . Lacy . At 45, she is looking for These were the factors that her approach to managing oth- a 2009 State University of New And she is eligible for Medi- a job that will replace her once prompted her to temporarily ers . Lacy’s mind went blank, York-Albany study . The study care because of her health . enviable income and career . stop working in late 2008 amid she said . found that 83 percent of peo- She is still searching for full She is a heart attack survivor . the worst economic downturn “I could hear myself saying ple who were healthy when time work while working part- Through most of the last since the Depression . ‘uh, uh ’. Then I think I made they lost their jobs reported time in retail, the pursuit of an two decades, Lacy made a She felt confident she would some little joke and nobody some sort of health problem ample paycheck still gnawing good living working for politi- be able to resume work once laughed,” Lacy said . “Honest- one year later . at her peace of mind . cal marketing companies and she was healthy . She had a ly, I can say I blew it . That was Lacy thought her job was then government contractors . stellar record and intact secu- truly embarrassing because I stressful . But struggling to She loved the challenges that rity clearances, which made have high expectations for my- overcome unemployment was Page 4 May 28 - June 3, 2011 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com

Civic Luncheon Honors Community Leaders during 41st Southern Area Conference of The Links, Incorporated

Several Baton Rouge and ers committed to bringing world- New Orleans’ community lead- class jazz performances and ers were honored May 27th at a educational opportunities to the Civic Luncheon, one of several Greater Baton Rouge community . activities that will be attended Gordon and Debbie Allen, friend by representatives of Seventy- and artistic collaborator, created Seven Chapters in the Southern a community dance residency, Area of The Links, Incorporated which has provided world-class meeting in New Orleans (LA) training and performance oppor- for the 41st Southern Area Con- tunities for young people of all ference May 25th through 29th . ages, races and socioeconomic Approximately 1,000 Links, status . The residency gives the family members, business and young people a culturally diverse community partners attended learning experience where they the four-day meeting, headquar- learn about dance and each other . tered at the Hilton New Orleans Gordon is committed to the en- Riverside and hosted by the gagement of all residents in expe- New Orleans, Crescent City and riencing the power of the arts to Pontchartrain (LA) Chapters . transform lives and communities . National President Margot René is an American Board of James Copeland served as the Obstetrics and Gynecology Cer- Diana Bajoie keynote speaker for the lun- tified Physician, with licenses in cheon . Honorees were recog- Louisiana and Mississippi . He nized for significant contributions serves as Clinical Associate Pro- to services to youth, national fessor of Obstetrics and Gynecol- trends and services, the arts, in- ogy at Tulane University School ternational trends and services, Derrick Tabb of Medicine . Dr . René has been and health and human services . actively committed to helping to Nominations for awards were improve health care in his native submitted by the host chapters . Haiti since the 1980s . He is co- The Services to Youth Facet founder of Association Haitienne recognized Derrick Tabb, Found- de Développement Humain, Inc ,. er of Roots of Music and Jerome a health and education program Smith, Founder, Tambourine to support Haitians in the United and Fan . The National Trends States and Haiti; Comité de Sup- and Services Facet recognized port pour Restauration de le Dé- Diana E . Bajoie, former Louisi- mocratie en Haiti, a program to ana State Senator, who is Direc- support Haitian refugees detained tor of Community Relations for in prisons in Louisiana; Fondation the LSU Health Sciences Center . Ertha Pascal Trouillot, a humani- The Arts Facet recognized Derek tarian project targeting women; Gordon, President and CEO of and Haitian Organization for Jerome Smith Dr. Charles René, M.D. the Arts Council of Greater Baton Health Services, a blueprint for a Rouge . The International Trends modern health system in Haiti af- and Services Facet recognized ing a city-wide marching band for A wide array of activities cancer screening and treatment ter the restoration of democracy . Dr . Charles René, Clinical As- students after Hurricane Katrina . and programs teach young- for low-income and uninsured Moore is a breast cancer sur- sociate Professor, Obstetrics & He launched Roots of Music in sters about civil rights, leader- women; mandated coverage of vivor who has dedicated her life Gynecology, Tulane University the Spring of 2008 . One hundred ship, and political engagement . mammography and other cancer to working with projects that sup- School of Medicine . The Health twenty-five students, ages 9- 14, In August 2010, General Mills screening tests; and increased port cancer survivors and their and Human Services Facet rec- participate in the program with “Feeding the Dreams Program” health care coverage for citizens families . A former teacher and ognized Julia B . Moore, Com- five hundred students on the wait- named Jerome Smith the New with mental health disorders . counselor, Mrs . Moore is a com- munity Organizer and Activist . ing list . Tabb owns and operates Orleans Community Champion Senator Bajoie currently serves munity organizer and activist . She Tabb, Smith, Bajoie, and Rene a full-service recording studio, for his involvement and activ- as Director of Community Rela- is also an author of Cooking with are New Orleanians . Gordon is and has extensive experience ism with youth in New Orleans . tions for the LSU Health Sciences an Attitude, which contains the from Baton Rouge . Tabb is one with school marching bands . Bajoie became the first African- Center, where she is responsible favorite recipes of cancer survi- of CNN’s Top 10 Heroes for 2009 . Smith is revered and respected American woman elected to the for defining strategic direction, vors . She has also written several He was chosen for his work as as a mentor, teacher, and nurturer Louisiana State Senate in 1991 . development, implementation articles and plays about surviving founder of Roots of Music, a men- of African-American youth in the She was elected to the Louisiana and operation of programs that cancer . Mrs . Moore has been in- toring program housed in the his- Seventh Ward and Treme neigh- House of Representatives in 1976 . provide education and health re- volved in a wide array of church toric Cabildo in Jackson Square, in borhoods of New Orleans . Mr . Bajoie became the first woman sources to New Orleans citizens . and community programs, proj- the heart of the French Quarter . A Smith is a dedicated activist, hu- in Louisiana history elected to Gordon is President and CEO ects, and activities . In April 2011, professional musician and major manitarian and former Freedom a leadership role in 2004 when of the Arts Council of Greater Ba- the Baton Rouge Council on Hu- contributor to the music industry, Rider . He is founder of Tambou- she was elected Senate President ton Rouge . Gordon is responsible man Relations named Moore as he has been the snare drum- rine & Fan, a community- based Pro Tempore . Bajoie led the ef- for revitalizing the Arts Council winner of the 32nd Annual Powell- mer with the renowned Rebirth organization that passes on the fort in the legislature to create and the development of the River Reznikoff Humanitarian Award for Brass Band for more than 15 history, culture, and heritage school-based health clinics, and City Jazz Coalition, a culturally her community health activism . years . Tabb had a dream of build- of Black Americans to youth . wrote legislation to provide breast diverse group of community lead- www.ladatanews.com TrailblazerTrailblazer May 28 - June 3, 2011 Page 5

Zakenya Perry Dedicated to Making It Right by: Edwin Buggage

Zakenya Perry is a woman her house washed away as the water came whose life has been committed to uplift- pouring in destroying her home . But this ing her community . “As a girl in Uptown did not stop her will to rebuild, and to coin a New Orleans, I grew up in a neighborhood phrase, ‘Make It Right’ she began to rebuild where people looked out for each other; to- the pieces of her life while helping others day although some things have changed, I in the ravaged Lower Ninth Ward . Helping live my life in the spirit of the tradition that others was part of her job, but simultane- was planted in me from a young age and I ously she was piecing her own life together continue to live by today .” attempting to make it whole again . “It was a Perry holds a Master’s Degree in Orga- very trying time for me helping people while nizational Management and has for over a I too was in need, but it was a time all of us decade, connected resources to those who had to be strong for each other and that is are most needy, “Giving back is important one of the amazing things about the people and I have been fortunate to have chosen in New Orleans; our connectedness in know- a career that married my passion with my ing we all were determined to put our lives larger purpose of serving humanity,” says back together .” Perry . Today Zakenya is back in her house and In her years of working in the community still helping people make it right . She says she has assisted people of all ages . She has what keeps her inspired are her two young worked with Operation Reach, a program sons Zyrian and Michael . “My sons are very committed to helping young people through important to me; they are two young Black tutoring and mentoring; she has also worked men who have overcome obstacles and are with Community in Schools, the NFL Boys growing up to be positive young Black men and Girls Club and with the Brad Pitt “Make from the Lower Ninth Ward, they both in- It Right Foundation” . “Through all these or- spire their peers to better themselves and ganizations, all of them are aimed at helping are leaders in their own right and that makes people gives me a great feeling, but I have me proud .” also grown through giving to others,” says She is a woman who continues to work Perry . Continuing she says, “I have found to make it right in all areas of life and com- that in giving you also learn about yourself munity . Zakenya Perry is a woman who has in the process .” dedicated her life to helping people and has This was tested in the aftermath of Hur- poured positivity into the cup of life of so ricane Katrina when Zakenya, who pur- many others . Today, she is being honored chased a home located in the Lower Ninth by Data News Weekly as our Trailblazer for Ward two months before the storm, saw May of 2011 .

JMJ Joseph M. Jones Continuing Education Fund Page 6 May 28 - June 3, 2011 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Gregory D Hosts Record Listening Party Story and Photos by Edwin Buggage Recently, local hip-hop pioneer Gregory D, New Orleans first hip-hop artist to make a record and later the first to receive a national record deal, hosted a listening party for his upcoming album . This release will feature star studded productions from Mannie Fresh who D worked with before he went on to fame with Cash Money Records, local standout Black and Mild, also KLC, the man behind some of No Limit biggest hits and a host of others beat makers . Gregory D promises this album will be a standout summer smash . This event was a who’s who of industry insiders from club owners, radio DJ’s record store owners and many others came out to support this legendary artist who put New Orleans rap on the map .

Legends in the building:Full Pack Don Juan, KLC of Beats by the Pound/Medicine Data News Editor Edwin Buggage and Local Hip-Hop Icon Gregory D. Men, the architect of Southern Hip-Hop, Rapper and DJ 2XL and Fess of Full Pack.

Peaches Record Store Owner Shirani Rea and Daughter Lillie Rea.

For more pictures check us out on Facebook.

Page 8 May 28 - June 3, 2011 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

Demonizing the Poor for being Poor

stamps; there was a time when people were or Medicaid . conservatives get to play up their own form embarrassed to be on unemployment for Rep . Lonnie Napier, of Lancaster, KY ,. of racial grievance politics .” six months, let alone demanding to be on introduced Kentucky House Bill 208 that Nearly 12 percent of Americans are ben- for more than two years… No longer is the would immediately terminate benefits to eficiaries of the Food Stamp program – 28 man being told to look in the mirror and recipients who fail a drug test . He told the percent of Blacks, 15 percent of Latinos, cast down a judgment on himself; it’s some- Huffington Post, “This program is gonna and 8 percent of Whites . one else’s fault . So, food stamps, unemploy- save us a lot of money, because there’s gon- Recipients, who are at or below the pov- ment, all this stuff is something that they na be a lot of people showing up on illegal erty line, are given a plastic card to pur- probably earned in some indirect way .” drugs and they will lose their assistance .” chase food, seeds, and food plants . The The host of the business show, Stuart There is no evidence that people ben- card cannot be used to purchase alcohol, George C. Curry Varney, called food stamps, Medicaid, and efiting from anti-poverty programs are any tobacco, paper goods or pet food . Despite NNPA Columnist the Earned Income Tax Credit “a form of more prone to becoming drug addicts than those restrictions, the users of food stamps welfare, income redistribution” benefiting those who do not receive such aid . Profes- are still used as a political football . people with an “entitlement mentality .” sor Harold Pollack, of the University of “If people buy fresh vegetables or other Varney and Payne, in effect, dismissed Chicago, pointed out that Michigan imple- relatively expensive though nutritious In the 1960s, we had the War on Poverty . the findings by the National Bureau of Eco- mented a mandatory drug testing program foods, they are considered to be living high In 2011, we’re now seeing a War on People nomic Research that showed that such pro- 10 years ago at three of its welfare offices . on the hog at the taxpayers’ expense,” the Who Live in Poverty . grams keep 1 in 6 Americans out of pover- Of the 258 welfare applicants tested, only New York Times observed in 2009 . “But if One of the most callous examples of this ty, mostly the elderly, the disabled, and the 21 tested positive for illegal drugs . Of the they buy cheap foods like hot dogs they are occurred on – you guessed it – Fox News . working poor . According to the Center on 21 failing, 18 tested positive for marijuana . criticized for poor health habits ”. Charles Payne, in a business segment, ac- Budget and Policy Priorities, without those Newt Gingrich, who is testing the GOP Many people who were quick to criticize knowledged that anti-poverty programs, programs, the poverty rate would double . presidential waters, has tried to indirectly the Food Stamp Program in the past are food stamps, and unemployment insurance As states continue to struggle to balance inject race into his campaign . Speaking to now embracing it after they have lost their were “good programs”, but then went on to their budgets, as required by their constitu- a group of Republicans in his home state job . More than 36 million people are food attack recipients of those programs . tions, some state lawmakers are directing of Georgia, he said: “President Obama is stamp recipients, with an additional 15 mil- “I think the real narrative here, though, their anger at the poor . the most successful food stamp president lion eligible for enrollment . is that people aren’t embarrassed by it,” In Kentucky, a Republican State Rep- in American history . I would like to be the “This is the most urgent time for our Payne said . “People aren’t ashamed by resentative has introduced a bill that, if most successful paycheck president in feeding program in our lifetime, with the it . In other words, there was a time when passed, would require random drug testing American history .” exception of the Depression,” Under Sec- people were embarrassed to be on food for all adults receiving welfare, food stamps When asked about the comment on retary of Agriculture Kevin Concannon Meet the Press, Gingrich denied his com- told the New York Times . “It’s time for us ment contained racial overtones . He as- to face up to the fact that in this country of serted, “…I have never said anything about plenty, there are hungry people .” President Obama which is racist .” And, those hungry people – many of Perhaps not overtly, but certainly covert- them facing unemployment for the first ly . That point was not lost on Adam Serwer time in their adult life – should not be stig- of the Washington Post . “I don’t think Ging- matized by candidates for public office rich lacks the sophistication to understand seeking to score cheap political points . how it sounds when he calls for poll tests George E . Curry, former Editor-in-Chief and refers to the first Black President as of Emerge Magazine and the NNPA News ‘the food stamp president,’” Serwer wrote . Service, is a keynote speaker, modera- “…He gets to play the victim of a politically tor, and media coach . He can be reached correct world where liberals try to stifle all through his Web site, www .georgecurry . criticism of Obama by characterizing any com You can also follow him atwww .twitter . such criticism as racism . His dog whistle com/currygeorge . is thus amplified by enraged liberals, while www.ladatanews.com www.ladatanews.com Health News May 28 - June 3, 2011 Page 9

An Ounce of Treatment is Worth a Pound of Prevention

By Phill Wilson treatment had been started right away . waiting lists . diagnosed at a later point in their disease, NNPA Columnist This suggests that if a person with HIV 3 . Raise HIV science and treatment and die faster than any other racial ethnic As we prepare to commemorate 30 years takes antiretroviral (ARV) treatment they literacy in vulnerable communities . group . Our lack of scientific understanding since the first AIDS case was diagnosed in are 96 percent less likely to pass on the vi- People need to know their HIV status, about how the virus behaves in the body America, we now have the tools that could rus than someone who is HIV-negative and and those who are HIV positive need to be and what options exist to treat it is one of end the HIV pandemic . not taking preventive ARVs . linked to appropriate care immediately . the biggest barriers to efforts to confront Last week the National Institute of Aller- These findings definitively end the pre- Federal and state governments must ad- HIV in our communities . gy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the vious debate about whether to invest in pre- dress the ongoing funding crisis facing the Lacking this knowledge too many of us National Institute of Health (NIH) released vention or treatment . There is no longer a AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), in the Black community become distracted the results of a historic study demonstrat- “prevention strategy”; there is no longer a which provides HIV-related prescription by myths and misinformation . When we ing the efficacy of treating HIV patients “treatment strategy .” From now on there drugs to those who are underinsured or don’t understand the science of HIV/AIDS, with antiretroviral drugs as a method of should only be a coordinated “end the without insurance . Over 30 percent of all we are unable to protect ourselves, we put HIV prevention . AIDS epidemic strategy”; for if the results people diagnosed with AIDS are enrolled off getting tested, delay starting treatment, The study involved 1,763 couples in of this study are confirmed, treatment is in ADAP . Over 60 percent are uninsured, fail to adhere to the treatment regimens, which one partner was HIV negative (not prevention! and 55 percent are Black or Hispanic . and are reluctant to own the disease and/ infected with HIV); the other partner was These results come on the heels of Nationally nearly 8000 people remain on or our responsibility for ending it . HIV positive (infected with HIV) . All of promising clinical trial findings about the ADAP waiting lists . Fourteen states have If we don’t raise HIV-related science lit- the HIV positive participants had a T-cell efficacy of vaginal microbicides for women reduced the number and types of drugs eracy, capacity and infrastructure in Black count—a measure of their immune sys- and pre-exposure prophylaxis for men who they will pay for . A number of states have communities, Black people will continue tem’s strength—of between 350 and 550 . have sex with men . stiffened financial eligibility requirements, to be left behind, and we won’t succeed in The participants were randomly divided We have reached a deciding moment: capped enrollment or removed some peo- ending the disparities, despite the biomedi- into two groups . One group started on an- HIV is 100 percent preventable, 100 percent ple who were already enrolled . Other states cal advances we’re making . tiretroviral treatment right away, while re- diagnosable and in many cases treatable . are considering doing the same . As the saying goes, “An ounce of pre- searchers delayed treatment for the other Our prevention toolbox is now exploding This approach is outrageous . Not only vention is worth a pound of cure ”. We may group until the HIV-positive partner exhib- with options . We now have the tools to end are such cuts immoral and financially have reached a time where we can get both ited symptoms of an AIDS-related illness the AIDS epidemic! shortsighted, as these recent data prove, a pound of prevention and a pound of cure/ or his or her T-cells fell to 250 (the recom- But, the question remains whether we starving ADAP programs creates a public treatment on the same dime—if only we’re mended time to start antiretroviral therapy have the political will to invest in using health threat . willing to spend the dime . for most of the world at the time the study these tools strategically, effectively, and We also need to finally invest in HIV treat- Phill Wilson, President and CEO of the began) . All participants were given con- compassionately . ment education in vulnerable communities . Black AIDS Institute, is available for in- doms and provided HIV- and STI-preven- It’s time to call on Congress, the Obama HIV health disparities are growing in the terviews and press queries . PhillWilson@ tion services . Administration, and federal and state agen- U .S ., and Black people are disproportion- BlackAIDS org. or (213) 353-3610 ext . 105, During the study’s 6-year duration, 28 cies to do three things: ately impacted . Black Americans become www .BlackAIDS .org infections were genetically linked to the 1 . Invest in expanded access to test- infected at a HIV-positive partner . Of those, 27 occurred ing and linkages to care . younger age in the group whose treatment was delayed; 2 . Increase access to care for vul- and at high- only one took place in the group where nerable communities including the ADAP er rates, are Dr. Robert J. Spears, DDS General Dentistry

Find us on Extrac�ons Fillings facebook Dentures Crowns Data Root Canals Cleanings Schedule an appointment today!! News Financial Fitness Training: Jun 6th - 9th Homeownership 9235 Lake Forest Blvd. Training: Jun 13th - 16th Landlording: June 22nd Weekly New Orleans, LA 70127 (504) 241‐8214 Happy Father’s Day Page 10 May 28 - June 3, 2011 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com

Dillard University Appoints Urban League of Greater New Orleans and the Women’s Business Dr. James Lyons to Interim Resource Center announce Presidency, Effective July 1 Entrepreneurial Training Series WBRC Entrepreneurial Train- 4. Operating for Success Dillard University announced State University . Most recently, ing Series is a multi-week course 5. Marketing & Understanding who recently that Dr . James Lyons, a he served as Secretary of the to teach entrepreneurs better busi- the Customers Are three-time University President Maryland Higher Education ness planning skills, from concept 6. Marketing & Networking: How to and Member of Dillard’s Board Commission . development to actual preparation Connect to the People of Trustees, will assume the post A native of New Haven, Conn ., of a comprehensive business plan . 7. Understanding Business Finan- of Interim President on July 1, Dr . Lyons attended the Univer- The course enables participants to cials, Projections, Cash Flow and 2011 . Dillard University is cur- sity of Connecticut, where he work through the various stages Budgeting rently conducting a presidential earned a Bachelor’s in Spanish, of business growth and develop- 8. Finding the Money /Series Wrap Up search, and Dr . Lyons will pro- a Master’s in Student Personnel, ment . WBRC Classes address the vide leadership until a perma- and a Ph .D . in Professional High- special needs of entrepreneurs by June 2011 Entrepreneurial Training nent president is named . er Education Administration . He providing a practical approach to Registration is open until June 1, 2011 Dillard University President later attended the Harvard Uni- developing their small business Fee: $60 for 8 Classes Marvalene Hughes, who an- versity Institute for Education whether just starting or ready to (Fees cover cost of Materials/Speakers) nounced her intention to step Management . grow . These classes are offered to Attend individual classes for only $10 each. down in February, will conclude Dillard University has re- help individuals turn their ideas Class Info: her six-year tenure on June 30 . tained the services of the Isaac- and concepts into reality . Dr. James Lyons 2475 Canal St., NOLA 70119 “We are aware of the impor- son, Miller Firm to help conduct Workshop Classes offered Mondays & Thursdays tance of an efficient transition the search for its seventh presi- June 2, 2011-June 27, 2011 to new leadership,” said Joyce dent . The university’s board of include: 1. 50 Steps for Starting Your 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Rochѐ, Chair of Dillard’s Board trustees has also assembled an Rserve Your Seat Today: Contact of Trustees . “Dr . Lyons has an internal search committee com- Business/Organizational Structure 2. How & Why to Write a Business Sheenan Green, Event Manager outstanding record of accom- prised of trustees, faculty, staff (504)620-9647 plishment, and we are so excited and students to facilitate the Plan 3. Business Management: The Right [email protected] that he has agreed to take on this search process . Seating is Limited position . He is an experienced For up-to-date information People academic leader who is passion- about the search for Dillard Uni- ate about Dillard’s mission .” dent of California State Univer- versity’s next president, please Over the past three decades, sity, Dominquez Hills; Jackson visit Dillard’s official Web site at Dr . Lyons has served as Presi- State University; and Bowie www .dillard .edu . 100 Black Men Of Metro New Orleans, Inc. Presents The 3rd Annual The Second Annual New Orleans Trad Tommie Smith Youth Track Meet 100 Black Men more than $200,000 of America, Inc ,. in academic scholar- Jazz Camp Swings In The French Quarter Metro New Or- ships to deserving leans Chapter will students, since its in- The New Orleans Traditional Morning sessions begin with June 11th will be the first ever host its 3rd Annu- ception in 1992 . Ad- Jazz Camp for adults is kick- our guest speakers who include: New Orleans Traditional Jazz al Tommie Smith ditionally, the chap- ing off its second season June Bruce Raeburn from the Ho- Festival at the Palm Court Jazz Youth Track Meet ter has, for the past 5-10, 2011 . The camp is held in gan Jazz Archives, John Joyce Cafe from 11 a m. . – 4 p m. . on Saturday, May 19 years, sponsored the heart of the French Quarter Jazz Studies Professor at Tulane 28th, 2011 at Tad and facilitated youth at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel . University, Grammy nominated Schedule of Events: Gormley Stadium, mentoring activities Campers from 18 states as well musician David Sager from the gates opening at in the Greater New as Canada, Switzerland and Ar- Library of Congress and John June 5th - Bourbon Orleans 7:30 a .m . Orleans Area . gentina are attending the camp to McCusker a local Photographer Hotel - Meet and Greet and Pro- “This year’s Youth interested Tommie Smith at the 1968 hone their music skills with some and expert on Jazz . Their focus is fessor Performance – 7 p .m . Pri- youth track meet Olympics in Mexico City, in participating in of the best Traditional Jazz Musi- on the Musical Heritage of New vate (press are welcome) will further build Mexico the Tommie Smith cians in the City . The camp was Orleans . on the develop- Youth Track Meet started in 2009 by Banu Gibson, The major part of the day June 7th - Second Line Pa- ment of healthy families dealing can sign up online at www .coa- Leslie Cooper and Nita Hemeter is spent in music classes with rade through the Quarter - pa- with childhood obesity issues ”. cho com. . Meet registration for to promote and preserve Tra- instructors specific to their in- rade rules apply said Sam Castle III, Chairman AAU members is $5 .00 per par- ditional Jazz in New Orleans . strument and in bands where of Metro New Orleans Chapter’s ticipant . Admission to the event Established trad jazz camps for musicians will hone their skills June 9th - Preservation Hall Health and Wellness Committee . is $5 00,. children under 12 years adults already exist in Sacramen- learning selected songs . Eve- Party – 6 – 8 p m. . – Private (press 100 Black Men of America, old are free . This is an AAU sanc- to and San Diego, but there’s no nings are spent jamming in the are welcome) Inc ,. with more than 106 chapters tioned activity, and has drawn place like home, the place where hotel and around town in the throughout the United States over 1,000 participants in previ- it all began . clubs . On Thursday night camp- June 10th - Camper Concert and abroad, is dedicated to im- ous years . This year the camp is excited ers will go to Preservation Hall - Grand Ballroom Bourbon Or- proving the quality of life for Af- 100 Black Men of Metro New to award scholarships to ten as their dreams come true to per- leans Hotel - 7 p m. . Public Invited rican-American youth in their re- Orleans, Inc ., is a 501(c) (3) or- student musicians from local form in the Mecca of Traditional - Free spective communities . Likewise, ganization . For media contact schools . The scholarships were Jazz . Friday, June 10th is the free the Metro New Orleans Chapter or more information, Reuben made possible by contributions and open to the public Camper June 11th - New Orleans has established a strong legacy DeTiege, rdetiege@ hotmail . from local jazz lovers and as well Concert . Campers will perform Trad Jazz Festival - Palm Court and rich history of success of com or call 504-208-9337 at the as supporters from across the the songs they have been work- Jazz Cafe 11 a m. . – 4 p m. . Public its own, boasting the award of 100 Black Men offices . country . ing on for the week . Saturday, invited - Free www.ladatanews.com State & Local News May 28 - June 3, 2011 Page 11

Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. 8th Biennial Conference, June 2-5, 2011

The Jackson State University hance Jackson State University; 2008, 2009 and 2010 . The con- include a community service welcome alumni from across the National Alumni Association, Inc ., 3) transact the business of the ference will also feature a panel project at the Ronald McDonald country to enjoy the city and ev- (JSUNAA) and the New Orleans JSU National Alumni Association; discussion regarding the health House, a Job Fair, The Campaign erything it has to offer, along Metro Alumni Chapter will host and 4) provide opportunities for of African-Americans and a dis- for JSU, awards banquet and gos- with the various activities that the 8th Biennial Conference in fellowship and networking while cussion regarding the future of pel send off . The banquet, which have been planned for this con- New Orleans, June 2-5, 2011 . The fostering “esprit de corps” in a Historically Black Colleges and features the keynote, Roland S . ference .” theme for the conference is, “Re- major tourist destination - New Universities with the Presidents Martin, is open to the public and The 8th Biennial Conference newed Alumni: Preserving the Orleans! of Jackson State, Dillard Univer- you may purchase tickets for $75 offers various sponsorship levels Legacy, Embracing the Future ”. Highlights of the conference sity and Southern University of or register for the conference on- and souvenir booklet advertising The purpose of the 8th Bien- include a dynamic keynote ad- New Orleans . line at www .jsunaa .com by May opportunities for the business nial Conference is to: 1) provide dress by Roland S . Martin, a The New Orleans Metro Alum- 26, 2011 . community . Please contact Gwen enlightening and engaging work- CNN Analyst, National Award- ni Chapter will host a reception The New Orleans Chapter is Caples, Director of Alumni and shops, panel discussions, and oth- Winning Journalist and Commen- for Mr . Terry Woodard, Presi- a member of the “Southwest Re- Constituency Relations at (601) er activities for over 200 confer- tator for TV One Cable Network . dent of the JSUNAA, Dr . Carolyn gion” of the JSUNAA and is the 979-6944, if you would like to ence attendees from across the Martin is the host of “Washington Meyer, President, Jackson State only active chapter in Louisiana, serve as a sponsor . U S. ;. 2) encourage stimulating Watch with Roland Martin,” and University and Mrs . Lydia Payne says Lydia Monie, President of conversation to obtain feedback was named one of the 150 Most Monie, President, New Orleans the Chapter . “We are excited on ways to strengthen and en- Influential African-Americans in Metro Chapter . Other activities about hosting this event and

“Time Out” New St. Katharine Talk Show Brings Drexel Parish Community Catholic Gospel Voices on Air Extravaganza

Do you wish there was a place St . Katharine Drexel Par- where you could call in and voice ish invites you to attend their your opinions instead of talking to Catholic Gospel Extravaganza the radio in your car or the tv in your on Friday Evening June 3, kitchen? Now there is . The new ra- 2011 at 6:30 PM at the Church . dio talk show “Time Out” which airs St . Katharine Drexel Parish is on WGSO 990 AM radio from 3 p .m . located at 2015 Louisiana Ave . to 4 p m. . on Saturdays offers New New Orleans , LA 70115-5228 . Orleanians just that chance . This year’s Extravaganza “Time Out” host New Orleans celebrates “ It Is Good to own Eustis Guillemet says of his Praise the Lord in Music” and show, “It’s for everybody, it is not will feature the St . Katharine all Black or all White . I want to deal Drexel Parish Gospel Choir with all the communities, let us all with specials guest including build together .” The Golden Voices Commu- Guillemet, a native New Orlea- nity Choir along with other so- nian, is also a musician, with a long loists, guest choirs and liturgi- career playing New Orleans music, cal dancers and drummers . classical music in Europe, R&B, This event is free and open and modern jazz . For the past 30 to the public . For more infor- years he was in New York playing in mation, contact the St . Katha- Broadway shows: Ain”t Misbehavin rine Drexel Catholic Parish And “Ubie Blake” . As A Bass Player at 504-891-3172 or visit their Guillemet worked with such names website stkatharine@archdio- as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, cese-no .org . Motown/Stevie Wonder/ and the Spinners, Sammy Davis, Gladys Knight and others . The call in number for “Time Ou”t on the radio is (504) 556-9696 and the show can also be seen on Ch .76 NOACTV, on Mondays at 8 a .m . and 7:30 p .m . and on Thurs- days 6 a .m . and 7 p .m . Newly eligible for Medicare?

When Can I Enroll? If you’re turning 65, you can sign Adele Knatt up for a Peoples Health plan: Orleans Parish resident Peoples Health plan member • as early as 3 months before the month of your birthday, If you’re new to Medicare you have a lot of options and probably a lot of • the month of your birthday, or • up to 3 months after the month questions. Is Medicare enough by itself? Do I need to buy a supplement? of your birthday. What about Part D drug coverage? Or a Medicare Advantage plan that combines bene ts and Part D? If you already have Medicare coverage, Medicare may make you wait until later in the year to Make a phone call and nd out why so many Louisiana residents get their change your plan. But you may Medicare bene ts – including their Part D prescription drug coverage – qualify for an exception and be able to join Peoples Health now – through a $0 plan premium Peoples Health plan. for example, if you... Call Peoples Health today. There’s no obligation. • have just moved into the area, • are losing your coverage through your employer and Call toll-free 24 hours a day, you’re eligible for Medicare, 7 days a week • make less than $1,353 per month, or 1-800-398-5672 • have Medicaid too. TTY users, please call 711 www.peopleshealth.com

The benefi t information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefi ts. For more information, contact the plan. You must be eligible for Medicare Parts A, B and D; live in the plan service area and continue to pay your Part B premium. Enrollment limitations may apply. Peoples Health is a MedicareAdvantage organization with a Medicare contract. H1961_11N2MAKPA_CMSApproved05282011