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THURSDAY, December 10, 2009
Tax Amnesty Program Nets $466 Million
BATON ROUGE,— Estimates of $150 million in collections from a recent tax amnesty program were far too frugal. The governor’s office is saying the program instead raised nearly $466 million for Louisiana’s coffers. That tally, released Monday, is good news for a state facing midyear budget shortfalls and a nearly $1 billion budget hole next year. The amnesty numbers aren’t final yet. The Department of Revenue still is processing applications and doesn’t expect to have a final figure of the money raised until later this month. Under the law, a $176 million slice of the money is required to go into the state’s “rainy day” fund and to pay for coastal protection projects. The rest of the spending will be decided by Jindal and lawmakers.
Board Votes to Move New Schools Forward B ATO N R O U G E — Baton Rouge could will be getting two new public charter schools, after approval Thursday night from the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board. The technology-based schools will be a first in the state, taking students from their regular classroom, to the working world. With the green light, Helix Group gives 250 ninth graders two new schools in the Shaw center. “One of the schools focus on arts and digital media. While the other will be focused on science, technology, engineering and math,” says Bryan Jones. Jones says the schools are following the technology trend that is moving the Capitol City. He says seeing businesses like E. A. move here, is a definite sign that the arts need to be part of school curriculum. And that could also lead to more students staying here to take jobs. So far, Jones believes the idea is catching on. “Have said this is something Baton Rouge has needed for a long time,” Jones points out. Instead of having students at desks, watching a teacher at the board, these schools will group students with local businesses and non-profit groups, so they understand real world working knowledge. See Board, on page 2
rouge,
louisiana
Obama Lays Out Strategy for Jobs
President Barack Obama speaks on the economy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009.
President Obama outlined a response to the nation’s intensifying job crisis Tuesday that encourages businesses to hire new workers by easing the flow of credit and implementing a series of tax cuts, but leaves important details -- including the
Vol. 34 • No. 34
a people’s publication
cost of the plan -- to be hashed out by Congress. Obama’s job-creation ideas build largely on elements of the $787 billion economic stimulus package passed this year, including tax cuts for small businesses, incentives to hire new workers
and a fresh round of infrastructure spending. The president also recommended that Congress pass a “cash for caulkers” plan that would offer financial incentives See obama, on page 2
Southern Fires Coach Pete Richardson
BATON ROUGE— Southern University fired longtime head football coach Pete Richardson on Monday. He led the Jags for 17 seasons. Athletic Director Greg LaFleur said Richardson was informed of the decision at 3 p.m. According to LaFleur, he fired Richardson because he wanted to see the program taken in a “different direction.” “We sat down and did what was in the best interest of Southern University,” LaFleur said. “I really enjoyed working with Coach Richardson over the past five years. I worked with a lot of good coaches and I have to say he was one of the best to work with.” Damon Nivens, offensive line coach, will serve as interim coach until a replacement is named. Defensive backs coach Jackie Mitchell said Richardson called a staff meeting Monday afternoon to inform the personnel he had been terminated. No timetable was set for bringing in a new coach, but LaFleur added the process would begin immediately. Some of Richardson’s players said they, just like everyone else, heard rumors flying in the last few weeks about the coach and the university at odds over keeping him around for the final year of his contract. “Yeah, you gotta realize that he’s not gonna be there anymore,” senior wide re-
Pete Richardson
ceiver Juamorris Stewart said. “He’s been coaching for like, 17 years. So, in a way, you’re shocked. The past three seasons have been tough. At some point, they’re gonna make some changes.” “Don’t know how everybody’s gonna feel about it,” said junior running back Gary Hollimon. “But I can speak for myself, though, and I’m kind of hurt, devastated that Coach is gone.” After the team lost the Bayou Classic to Grambling 31-13, Richardson told reporters there were other opportunities out there for him and suddenly, there was a snowball effect. The university gave him permission to pursue those opportunities and then relieved him of his duties as head coach. Hours after his firing, See Richardson, on page 3
SU Honors College Inducts New Freshmen New Report Profiles
Child-Well-Being in Each of Louisiana’s Parishes
Left to Right: (First Row) Osenda Sadler, Daiziah Stapleton, Cierra Stapleton, and Cierra Fogan Left to Right: (Second Row) Demetrius Sumner, Sophomore Student Senator, Southern University; Dr. Dolores Spikes, SU System President Emerita; Dalvayja Robinson and Ms. Margaret Ambrose, SU Special Assistant to the Chancellor
The 16th Annual Pinning Ceremony of the Southern University Honors College took place on Friday, November 6th in the Cotillion Ballroom of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union on the campus of Southern University. The College inducted 89 new members.
NATIONAL/state & Community watch
Dr. Dolores Margaret Richard Spikes, Southern University System President Emerita delivered the “Honors Charge.” The “Charge” addressed “integrity” and a challenge to the inductees to continue to strive for excellence and to make good choices in life
STATE & LOCAL NEWS
in every way. To all students, parents, and the academic and general community-at-large, she encouraged total involvement in the plight of education in our State, the plight of Southern University in particular. At See freshman, on page 7
business NEWS
NEW ORLEANS , LA — A new report released today finds that race and place are two of the most important predictors of child well-being in Louisiana . The 2009 KIDS COUNT Data Book on Louisiana ’s Children, produced by Agenda for Children, presents and analyzes information on over fifty different measures of child well-being in each of Louisiana ’s 64 parishes. The report documents critical statistics related to children’s health, demographics, education, child care, child welfare, and juvenile justice. The Data Book focuses on the roles that both race and place play in child well-being in Louisiana . The quality and availability of housing, schools, job opportunities, and health care all combine to define a child’s environment, for better or worse. As the report reveals, children of color
other news
are more likely to grow up in distressed neighborhoods that can limit opportunities available to young people and their families. The data show that African American children in Louisiana are more likely than their white peers to experience a host of negative outcomes ranging from being born preterm to dropping out of high school. “Despite the victories of Civil Rights legislation more than four decades ago, we continue to see shocking racial disparities in some of our most basic measures of child well-being, including infant mortality rates and child poverty,” said Judy Watts , President/CEO of Agenda for Children. “As a society that values equity, it is imperative that Louisiana actively pursue policies and practices that lift up all our See report, on page 7
Health news
Black and Hispanic children have suffered higher proportional death rates from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) than their White counterparts.... See Page 7
INDEX
Wireless web at Library High fashion, hip entertainment, holiday cheer: you’ll find it all at the “Beautiful, Radiant Gems and Jewels” Fashion Show. The event, sponsored by local non-profit Beautiful Black Girls, Inc., will be held Sunday, Dec. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Southern University’s Smith-Brown Memorial Union (Cotillion Ballroom)....Page 2
Free wireless Internet access is now available at the East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, 7711 Goodwood Blvd., and at Eden Park Branch Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd. Installation of wireless access is scheduled for all branches....See Page 3
MONEY FOR Military Families
Walmart gives an early Christmas to more than 10,000 military children and families who will receive free toys, books, Walmart gift cards and gift packages. The initiative will benefit families in all branches of the military...See Page 5
Guardsmen vs NO Saints
Louisiana National Guardsmen participated in a video game competition against the undefeated New Orleans Saints. The Guardsmen and players were part of the “Pro vs. G.I. Joe” event.. See Page 8
Local & State............................2 Commentary.............................4 Business....................................5 Religion....................................6 Health.......................................7 Other........................................8
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Local&State
Mentoring Group Hosts Holiday Fashion Show
By Valentina Wilson High fashion, hip entertainment, holiday cheer: you’ll find it all at the “Beautiful, Radiant Gems and Jewels” Fashion Show. The event, sponsored by local non-profit Beautiful Black Girls, Inc., will be held Sunday, Dec. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Southern University’s Smith-Brown Memorial Union (Cotillion Ballroom). “I have always been passionate about working with young girls,” said Frances Farlow, president and founder of the group. “I feel like girls grow up to be women, and women are the back bone of society. By helping these girls, we are ultimately preparing them to become leaders of tomorrow.” Farlow founded the organization last year to “embrace, educate and empower” black girls, teens and college students. One of Beautiful Black Girls, Inc.’s major initiatives is a free afterschool program called Steps 2 Success, held on Mondays at the Eden Park Public Library
and Wednesdays at Resurrection Life Family Ministries in Melrose East. Farlow said the need is great. “The girls really need someone to talk to,” she said. “They feel like they can’t go to family members to talk about certain things, but over time, I have seen them open up. We’re opening the lines of communication.” The fashion show will feature glamorous, eye-catching clothing from Baton Rouge boutiques Dolci Modi, J’s Fashions and Hilton Clothing Company. Women of all ages will model formal, semi-formal, church and cocktail outfits from those stores and will also show off the latest fur fashions from Baton Rougebased Raffaele Furs. Children, many of whom are mentored by the group, will
strut their stuff on the runway in holiday-inspired casual-wear provided by CitiTrends. Lenore London of London’s Accessories
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& Gifts will provide jewelry, hats and purses for the trendsetting production. Make-up pro Zonda Barnes, owner of Bodi FX, will showcase her fashionforward skills by transforming the models’ faces. “This is going to be a fun time for the entire family,” said Fashion Show Co-Chair Valentina Wilson. “The younger girls will be the gems of the evening, and the older women will be our jewels. It’s why BBG exists: to embrace black beauty in all shades, shapes and sizes.” Guests will watch as the Cotillion Ballroom is transformed into a glitzy and gleeful winter wonderland. They will enjoy musical entertainment from students in the East Baton See show, on page 3
Board from page 1 The schools will only use the Shaw center for the first year. “After the first year, adding 250 additional kids. We will outgrow the Shaw Center space,” Jones says. Which could possibly mean expanding the campus into other downtown buildings.
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THOUGHT FOR Community College THE WEEK: “Whose want you to contact fault is it,” is a drivthem NOW for spring ing force in the lives registration. of cowards. Otey THE AFRICAN THANKS, AMERICAN MUMANY THANKS to SEUM of River Roads the many community is sponsoring “An agencies that sponOld School Christsored food kitchens mas” on December MARGE and food baskets dur26 and will feature LAWRENCE Captain Charles of ing the Thanksgiving holidays. Perhaps the New Orleans. There best one that contribwill also be a drawing uted to this cause was the col- for prizes and other gifts of the lection of canned goods by chil- season. Call Susan for more dren. They collected them and info at 473-1402. helped to fill the boxes. What CONGRATULATIONS a great teaching of giving! to the fine young adults (forty Thanks to Eddy Jones, Shelia (40) in all) who have been Steib, Norbett Redmond, Lou named to the 2010 edition of Ann Southerland, Virginia Who’s Who Among Students Nelson, Patrice Mills and their in American Universities and teacher Ms. Joy LaFleur. Colleges. Two from our area THANKS TO THE GIRL are Ms. Miriam Davis from the SCOUTS who cooperated with College of Education whose the Pat’s Coats for Kids and hometown is Youngsville and collected coats for the needy. Lawrence Briggs of the College They also collected monetary of Arts and Sciences in the area donations and made that con- of administration. Best wishes tribution also. to you, for we are very proud DAVID TAPP is a tutor of of you. school subjects during the week SPEAKING OF in the local community. He is A C H I E V E M E N T , C h a d also an artist “on the side”. Whitney of Houma has been He did stunning drawings of awarded the Doctor of Philosomany of his students and after phy at Louisiana Tech Univerhe decided to put his talents sity in Rouston, La. Congratuto work, according to David. lations, Chad. Featured were Kendra Thomas, Happy Birthday to Clay McGalliard, Michael Mun- Mrs. Natalie Foster Lawrence, sum, and John LeBlanc. Good Ms. Rose Cephas, Eric Addison job, David! and little George Speight who AlZHEIMER’S GROUP are all celebrating this week. SUPPORT as sponsored by the With Love and Sympathy Capital Area Services and in to the family of Geraldine conjunction with a local nursing Peeler, who was laid to rest home will meet once a month to this week. help patients and their families. Go Saints! Call for info. A very blessed weekend SPRING REGISTRA- to you! TION is now on for the communities colleges in the area. Love, The River Parishes Community College and the Baton Rouge
Obama from page 1 for home weatherization. Senior administration officials said the program, based on the popular “cash for clunkers” automobile rebate program, would leverage hiring in construction and manufacturing -- sectors especially hard hit by the recession -- while promoting energy efficiency, resulting in long-term savings for homeowners. Obama, who has been under pressure to lay out a specific jobs strategy, also called on Congress to extend unemployment insurance, emergency aid to cash-starved states and cities, aid to senior citizens, and health care help for the jobless -- aid he called essential as his administration grapples with ways to reduce the nation’s highest unemployment rate in more than a quarter-century. “Even though we have reduced the deluge of job losses to a relative trickle, we are not yet creating jobs at a pace to help all those families who’ve been swept up in the flood,” the president said at a speech at the Brookings Institution, a
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nonpartisan research organization. “There are more than 7 million fewer Americans with jobs today than when this recession began. That’s a staggering figure and one that reflects not only the depths of the hole from which we must ascend, but also a continuing human tragedy.” Obama sketched his jobs plan while emphasizing that he is also concerned about reducing the nation’s debt, a complex message that pleased neither liberal advocates pushing for a more aggressive jobs initiative or conservatives who say the president should focus on deficit reduction. With Wall Street firms repaying federal bailout money faster than anticipated, administration officials have concluded that the Troubled Asset Relief Program should cost the government $200 billion less than expected. Obama said the government could use that money to pay for elements of his jobs initiative and to lower the deficit.
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Thursday, December 10, 2009 • The Weekly Press • Page 3
Sheriff’s Office Hosts Self Defense Class
PORT ALLEN— The West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office reports there have been no homicides since 2008 and Sheriff Mike Cazes says he is doing what he can to keep it that way. Saturday, the department sponsored a self defense and awareness course for women. A lieutenant from the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Department talked to the group about the things they need to keep in mind when they are out and about this holiday season. “The goal was to teach them when they are leaving the malls and shopping centers how to place their keys in their hands and purses in their hands and to be familiar with what’s in your surroundings when you’re getting out of your cars at night,” said West Baton Rouge Sheriff Mike Cazes. Saturday’s course was held at the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Cazes says he’s in the process of sending seven instructors to get certified to teach these types of classes.
Jindal Raises Campaign Cash in Mississippi BATON ROUGE— Gov. Bobby Jindal has gone to Mississippi for a fundraiser for his 2011 re-election bid. Jindal’s office says the governor traveled to Jackson, Miss., on Friday to raise campaign dollars. Spokesman Kyle Plotkin wouldn’t say who was hosting the event or where it was being held, saying that information would be available from campaign finance reports due next year. Campaign finance reports do not list fundraising hosts or locations directly. Jindal has attended a string of out-of-state fundraisers this year. Other trips have taken him to Tennessee, California, Texas, North Carolina, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois and Massachusetts. Jindal’s campaign fund topped $3 million by the end of 2008, according to the latest campaign finance report he’s filed with the state ethics board.
Show from page 2 Rouge school system. Local kids will also wow the crowd with a dance performance under the direction of Duane “DWhit” Whitley, who has choreographed and performed in New York, NY. The fashion show will feature “celebrity” models, including Louisiana State Senator Sharon Weston Broome, Southern University Head Baseball Coach Roger Cador and several TV personalities. Light refreshments will be served. Tickets are on sale now. To reserve your seat for the star-studded show, please call (225) 253-2438.
GET IT GROWING: Christmas Trees Need Proper Care long as possible. Life support means keeping water moving into the tree. A tree growing in the ground uses it roots to absorb the water it needs from the soil. When the roots are cut away, the surface of the cut trunk can still absorb water if it’s put in water. A Christmas tree is like a giant cut flower, and we take care of it much the same way. First, you must make sure the base of the trunk can absorb water as efficiently as possible. To ensure this, it’s best to recut the base of the tree trunk when you get it home and immediately put it into a large bucket of warm water. If the cut end of the trunk is exposed to the air for a period of time before you put it in water, the cut surface can become blocked and not absorb water efficiently.
By Dan Gill LSU AgCenter Horticulturist When it comes to Christmas trees, there are two basic choices – living or artificial. Although artificial trees have their place, and manufactures are producing some startlingly realistic versions, I’m going to focus on the living types. Living Christmas trees can be further divided into those that are cut and those growing in pots. Let’s start off with cut trees.
Stayin’ alive
Cut Christmas trees are still alive when you purchase them. Having their roots cut away when they are harvested will kill them, of course. But it’s our job to keep them on life support and in good shape for as
Most Christmas trees are harvested well in advance of being sold and have become somewhat dehydrated. Trees that are harvested at local tree farms are the exception. To rehydrate your tree, leave it in the big bucket of water outside in a shady location for a few days after you bring it home. Replenish the water as necessary – trees can drink a lot the first few days. You can even spray it down once or twice as long as it is dry when you bring it indoors. Once the tree is inside, place it immediately into a tree stand with a generous water reservoir. Check the stand every day without fail, and add more water as necessary. Tree preservatives may be used but are not nearly as important as simply keeping the reservoir full.
LA Workers Debate Proposed Raise Changes BATON ROUGE - Louisiana state workers weighed in Tuesday night on how they will get pay raises. They spoke to Civil Service Commission members who have the final say-so. Many state workers say the proposed changes to the current system help with budget cuts, but not with fair pay. Concerned state workers say there’s a problem with changing their current four percent raise possibility. The new system would allow between three percent and six percent, based on job performance. State workers say that change opens the door to potential “good-ole boy” politics. “This proposal grants too much authority for supervisors
and departments to show favoritism and unfair treatment to employees,” said Assistant Warden Shirley Coody. Shirley Coody is an Assistant Warden at Angola State Penitentiary. She is out of her element speaking in front of the Civil Service Commission. Her prison pay is usually a private matter, but she says this issue is too important to stay silent. Coody says if all pay raise authority is given to department heads, there is no way to keep them honest. She thinks the current four percent raise system is more fair. “Some people think that the four percent is an automatic thing because you work for the State. That’s not true,’ said Coody.
However, almost all state employees who met job requirements received the raise last year. Civil Service staff say their new proposal is meant to give only the hardest working employees more money. Critics, like former Secretary of Corrections Richard Stalder, say their proposal is actually meant to help Governor Bobby Jindal ease the state’s $3 billion budget shortfall. The Civil Service Commission is expected to vote on whether or not to approve their staff’s new pay raise proposal Wednesday. The commission waited to vote until after all state workers had the chance to share their concerns.
Wireless Internet Access Available at Library Free wireless Internet access is now available at the East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, 7711 Goodwood Blvd., and it is also available at Eden Park Branch Library, 5131 Greenwell Springs Rd. Installation of wireless access is currently scheduled for all other library branches. This new service supplements the free Internet access already provided to patrons at each library location throughout East Baton Rouge Parish, via the more than 400 PCs available
with free access to the Internet. Wireless Internet access means that patrons can use their own devices, with their own software, yet still have access to the Internet, including the Library’s Web site, online catalog and valuable online subscription databases. Wireless Internet is accessible while inside the Library, and it will be available each day during the hours the Library is open. Patrons will not need spe-
Richardson from page 1 many fans had no idea Pete Richardson was no longer the Southern University head football coach. Richardson has been an institution at the school who was also seen as a role model. Some fans believe Richardson should have gotten another chance. “He’s been a historic coach and it’s so hard to see that happen,” said Jamar McKnight. “He’s done a remarkably good job and sad to see a coach like that go.” “I say they should have just kept him and let him work with the kids,” said Shandron Porter. “I don’t know why they would fire him because some win and some lose.”
“They should have kept him as the coach,” added Kaddamius Cage. “He was the best coach for Southern.” During his tenure, Richardson earned the nickname “Dean of the SWAC.” From 1993 to 2003, his record was 97-34. He won three Black National Titles and five SWAC titles. He led the Jaguars to four 11-win seasons and a 12-win campaign, the 2003 championship year. Richardson’s record at SU was 134-62. Overall, he has 176 wins as a head coach, with a .696 winning percentage. From 2004-2009, Richardson’s record was just 37-28. He did not win any national titles during that span.
cial passwords to log in, though they must agree to abide by the Library’s “Internet Access Policy,” which can be found at www.ebr. lib.la.us. Staff members are unable to provide technical support for patron devices such as laptops or PDAs. “We’re excited to offer this new service to our patrons,” Library Director David Farrar remarked. “Since laptop usage is now so prevalent, and since so many people have access to not only laptops but also other devices which can access the Internet, it is more important than ever to make free access available at all of our 13 library locations.” For more information, call (225) 231-3750.
Heat causes the tree to dry out faster. Turn on the lights only when necessary. And locate your tree away from heat sources, like fire places, hot air vents or space heaters.
I will survive
Potted Christmas trees still have their roots and will survive beyond the holidays. After the holidays, these trees or plants are often planted into the ground, where they will grow and become part of the landscape. Or they may continue on as a container plant to be used as a Christmas tree again in the future. Since these trees will not be discarded like cut trees after the holidays, take particular care to keep them in as healthy as possible while on display. The plants we usually use as potted Christmas trees are not well adapted to indoor conditions, so we keep them indoors for as short a time as possible. Generally, limit the time indoors to no more than about two weeks. Place the plant in front of a window where it can get natural light. Check the soil and water when it feels dry when you stick your finger in it. Pots covered with decorative foil or plastic will hold excess water and keep the soil too wet. Either punch holes in the covering to allow excess water to drain into a saucer or, if it’s a small plant, remove it from the cover, water it and allow it to drain and then replace the cover.
It’s best not to put lights on potted Christmas trees, and make sure the ornaments you use are not so heavy that they damage the branches. Place the potted Christmas tree away from heat sources. After Christmas, either continue to grow the plant in its container or plant it into the ground outside. Many of the plants used for potted Christmas trees are hardy and can be planted in late December or January. If you plant a tree into the ground, you need to know what growing conditions it prefers and how big it will grow. Ask about this at the nursery when you buy it. Most of these plants will need a sunny, well-drained location. Pay careful attention to the mature size. It is easy to plant a relatively small, potted Christmas tree in a location where over time it may grow to be far too large. Some of the plants at your local nursery that can be used as potted Christmas trees and then be added to your landscape include spruce pine, Eastern red cedar, junipers (like Blue Point and Sky Rocket), Arizona cypress, deodar cedar, Savannah holly and other hollies (with nice red berries that are poisonous, so be careful if you have young children or pets), Italian stone pine and rosemary (both of these are commonly available sheared into a Christmas tree shape). Look around at the nursery when you are there, and you may see other suitable choices.
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Commentary Thursday, December 10, 2009 • The Weekly Press • Page 4
The Way I See It
Blacks and the Economic Ladder ideal. The disadvantage of being admitted In my view, the at the end of the baneconomic power in quet is even greater if, the United States is so as may very well be aligned in our society the case in the United that neither the forces States today. Where of entrepreneur innoBlacks, as a whole, vation nor obsolesproduction is in decence - both of which cline. In the United normally take wealth States, today, political William from some and confer power tends to follow Jones it to others-works in wealth, the ownership favor of equalizing of prosperity and the the economic status of Black control of the instruments of people in the United States. capital. Political power once Given the huge wealth shortfall, won and held is really used combined with the formidable to increase economic position obstacles that block capital and advantage. Therefore formation and entrepreneur- there must be a political base ship, the prospects are slight formed by Blacks in political that Blacks will be able to catch power whereby Blacks could be up. The promise that Blacks more likely to reach Economic can pull themselves by their Gain. bootstraps is mostly a visionary That is the way I see it. By William Jones
Blackonomics
Strange Bedfellows dressed in his red polo shirt, as if he is a floor salesman, (NNPA) - At first I hawking Rent-a-Cencould not believe it. On ter. He says to Black Deck Capital and the folks who watch BET National Urban League that they can rent a (NUL) formed a joint television for about venture to make loans $20.00-$25.00 per in “urban” areas with week, flashing his James high concentrations of winning smile and Clingman “minority” businesses. suggesting how As I read the details of good a deal that is. this relationship I grew more Rent a TV for $100.00 a month? and more disturbed at the rela- C’mon, Magic; you gotta be kidtionship between these strange din’ me! bedfellows. You can count on exploitaThe news release read as tion and rip-off schemes being follows: “On Deck Capital will promoted to Black folks as sure provide loans through Urban as the sun rises in the morning. League local affiliates, starting And, you count on us respondin Philadelphia and Los Angeles ing to these schemes as sure as and then expanding across the the sun sets at night. That’s country… partly why they do it. Why are The program offers one- we so vulnerable? Why do our year loans ranging from $5,000 own people, our leaders, our ceto $100,000 at interest rates of 18 lebrities bring this kind stuff to to 36 percent. All the loans must us? According to Forbes Magabe repaid through automatic zine, Magic Johnson is worth daily “micro-payments” from about $500 million; surely our the business’ bank accounts. brother did not come up a little To qualify, businesses short and needed some extra should generally have between spending money, so he went to $500,000 and $2 million in an- work for Rent-a-Center. nual revenue and have been opSurely the Urban League, erating for at least three years, with all its experts and finansaid On Deck founder and CEO cial whizzes on board, is not Mitch Jacobs.” hurting to the point of having Is it just me, or can you to sell out to On Deck Capital. also see the ridiculous nature I cannot believe that someone of such an arrangement? Can at the NUL did not look at this you see, simply from the few deal and say, “Hey guys, this is lines in their release, how usuri- not good for our constituents; ous these loans are? Can you let’s not do it.” I know the NUL imagine paying back a $100,000 cares more about us than that. loan at 18 percent - 36 percent Disgusting, disheartenin one year? And, you pay ing, and even sinful are terms “micro-payments” on a daily I would use to describe this basis, withdrawn directly from transaction – this relationship your checking account. between these “strange bedPlease, if there is someone fellows.” I am simply flabberout there who can explain this, gasted. During this economic other than the crooks who are climate, when we are sufferperpetrating this financial crime, ing far more than most, when I wish you would contact me our businesses are struggling and point the virtues of such far more than most, when our a deal; I’d love to know. As families are hurting far more we complain about credit card than most, and when we need rates, which are similar to the more than ever to build a strong 18 percent - 36 percent On Deck economic foundation, along Capital will charge our busi- come On Deck Capital and the nesses, how can we accept this National Urban League to the without the same outrage and rescue. With friends like these, indignation? we could use more enemies. I don’t know what the This Faustian deal will Urban League was thinking, or debut in Philadelphia and Los if they were even thinking at all, Angeles, and then it is scheduled when they cut this deal, but I do to roll out in Atlanta, Cleveland, know they need to reconsider Jacksonville, Chicago, New Orit. No, they need to cancel it! leans, Kansas City, and of all Can you say “loan-sharking”? places, Cincinnati, Ohio, where Payday loans? Check cashing I reside. Let the word go out outlets? These boys have taken to On Deck and the NUL, we venture capital money, which don’t need this where I live, goes out for as much as 35 per- nor in any other “urban” area. cent and higher in some cases, We have quite enough exploiand turned it into small busi- tation going on against Black ness loans for the same interest folks already. rates. Check out their website Personally, when it gets to and see for yourself www.on- my hometown, I will be waiting deckcapital.com “on deck,” ready to knock this It’s bad enough to see one out of the park. What about Earvin Magic Johnson on BET, in your town? Batter up! By James Clingman NNPA Columnist
Obama’s ‘Trickle-Down’ Economic Program By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist Barack Obama sent a disturbing message to Black America last week: If you’re looking for the president to address the special needs of African Americans, you should start looking elsewhere. Taking a page from Ronald Reagan’s failed trickle-down economic theory, President Obama made it clear that he has a double standard – one of Blacks and one for other powerful interest groups. He said in a joint interview with USA Today and the Detroit Free Press, “The most important thing I can do for the African American community is the same thing I can do for the American community, period, and that is to get the economy going again and get people hiring again.” And in case you missed the point, he put it this way: “It’s a mistake to start thinking in terms of particular ethnic segments of the United States rather than to think that we are all in this together and we are all going to get out of this together.” No, the mistake is to act as though all segments in America are equally positioned and therefore will benefit equally if and when there is overall improvement in the economy. In the 1980s, they called it Reaganomics. That economic theory is
also known as suption on this theme was ply-side or Keynesprovided by President ian economics. The John F. Kennedy who elder George Bush argued, like Barack had another name Obama, that a rising for it: voodoo ecotide lifts all boats. nomics. Gene Sperling, an By whatever aide to Bill Clinton, name, the idea is the noted that, “The risGeorge same: if it we provide ing tide will lift some E. Curry generous tax cuts and boats, but others will other special benefits run aground.” During to businesses, that will in turn his 1984 presidential campaign, create more jobs and thus ben- Jesse Jackson spoke often about efit the larger population. An- boats stuck at the bottom. other slice of that same pie is The numbers show that that when the wealthy (aided those riding in the yachts and by a reduction of capital gains big ships, not those in boats taxes) invest more in business, stuck at the bottom, have benthat will lead to more goods and efited the most from a thriving services being offered at lower economy. prices and create more jobs for The Census Bureau rethe middle and lower classes. ports that the GDP per capita Economist John Kenneth increased in the United States Galbraith argues the opposite. by 71 percent between 1980 and “There of those who believe 2006. Over that same period, that, if you will only legislate however, the median household to make the well-to-do pros- income never exceeded 20 perperous, their prosperity will cent. A Federal Reserve Board leak through on those below. survey found that the wealthiest The Democratic idea, however, 1 percent of families own 34.4 has been that if you legislate to percent of the country’s net make the masses prosperous, worth and the top 10 percent their prosperity will find its way owns 71 percent. By contrast, up through every class which the bottom 40 percent of U.S. rests on them.” families own less than 1 percent The term trickle-down was of the nation’s wealth. coined by humorist Will RogWhile the country has ers. He said during the Great almost gone apoplectic over Depression that “money was the unemployment rate that appropriated for the top in now stands at 10 percent, the hopes that it would trickle down Black unemployment rate is to the needy.” Another varia- 15.6 percent Where is the out-
rage about an unemployment rate that is 50 percent higher than the national rate? Are we to believe that a rising tide will automatically lift that boat? Even among qualified job seekers, there is racial disparity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in 2009 for Black male college graduates 25 and older was 8.4 percent, nearly double the 4.4 percent rate for their White counterparts. Add to that studies that show that job applicants with Black-sounding names receive half as many callbacks as those with White-sounding names. No, Mr. President, it is not a mistake “to start thinking in terms of particular ethnic segments.” The mistake is to ignore the different plight that African Americans find themselves in. And while you shun targeting the neediest groups for special attention, you apparently have no problem helping a group of banks after they suffered self-inflicted wounds. You had no problem propping up Wall Street firms that basically spat in your face by continuing to award huge bonuses to the people who created the mess they’re in. And you didn’t mind segmenting the auto industry when their executives flew in on their corporate jets to borrow money from Uncle Sam.
Obama Rejects Special Needs of the Black Community By Ron Walters NNPA Columnist (NNPA) - It was somewhat painful to write the above headline, since I along with 16 million blacks who voted for Barack Obama did so, partly on the strength of the belief that he would indeed understand and take seriously the needs of the black community. Such headlines are sweeping the country depicting his response to the Congressional Black Caucus’s (CBC) challenge to his economic policies. Last month Rep. Maxine Waters (CA) led ten of her CBC colleagues to vote against the Financial Services Bill coming out of committee. Their opposition was based on the clamor from heads of a large segment of the Black economy: auto dealers, bankers, accountants, businesspersons, broadcasters and others who cannot get credit from banks and financial agencies – even those owned by the US government -- and are facing disaster. The CBC went into negotiations with Rahm Emanuel, Obama’s chief of staff, but little
was accomplished. get the economy going They then, held a again and get people press conference and hiring again.” Then he announced as much, continued, “I think it’s saying that broadly a mistake to start thinkthe White House ing in terms of particuwas unresponsive lar ethnic segments of and that “we have the United States rather not been forceful in than to think that we our efforts to protect are all in this together Ron the most vulnerable of and we are all going to Walters our population,” and get out of this together.” that the White House I had long thought that takes this part of its constituency this was his governing philosofor granted but is solicitous to phy but here are the words of it Blue Dog Conservative Demo- spelled out. crats. This action was taken, they But there is a gross contradicexplained, to educate those in tion at the heart of his statement. the White House who do not If it is “mistake” to think about advocate on behalf of Blacks or ethnic segments of the country the working class, since “we can in his governance, then why did no longer afford to have public he sign an executive order manpolicy defined by the world view dating that heads of executive of Wall Street.” agencies affect consultation with In an interview with Justin Indian tribal governments, or Hyde of the Detroit Free Press sign an executive order mandatand Richard Wolfe of USA Today, ing the increased participation President Obama was asked of Asians and Pacific Islanders about the charges of the CBC and in federal programs, or say in a he said: “The most important speech to the Hispanic Caucus thing I can do for the African- this year that when their unemAmerican community is the same ployment number reached over thing I can do for the American 10 percent that was not just a community, period, and that is problem for Hispanics, “it was
a problem for the nation.” No such statement has been made by the White House about the 15.7 percent rate of official Black unemployment. Indeed, if Presidents Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Clinton had felt that considering ethnicity in governance was a “mistake” what would be the character of Black progress? The issue here is that these presidents did not deal with African- American issues out of the goodness of their own hearts, but because there was a national crisis that called for it, or because Blacks pushed them to the wall. The latter has been one of the routine answers to the question of whether President Obama would deal earnestly with problems faced by the Black community, given that many Whites expected that he would conduct his administration by handing out favors to them. No doubt, Obama feels he must guard against that in order to maintain White votes, but it puts Blacks in a box, the only See special needs, on page 7
The views expressed in the editiorial columns are not necessarily the veiws of The Weekly Press or its staff. Address all opinions and comments to: Letters to the Editior, P.O. Box 74485 Baton Rouge, La. 70874 or E-mail them to: theweeklypress@yahoo.com
Thursday, December 10, 2009 • The Weekly Press • Page 5
Walmart Gives $1.1 Million to Support Military Families and Honor Fallen Heroes This Holiday Season “Walmart Gives Back” Initiative Provides Toys and Books for 10,000 Military Children in Top Markets for Troop Deployment FORT BRAGG, N.C. – Walmart gives an early Christmas to more than 10,000 military children and families who will receive free toys, books, Walmart gift cards and gift packages. Through a $1.1 million donation from Walmart, the initiative will benefit families in all branches of the military. The company will also lay 16,000 wreaths at national cemeteries across the United States to honor fallen veterans. Representatives from Operation Homefront and Wreaths Across America joined Walmart in Fort Bragg, N.C. today to launch the program, part of “Walmart Gives Back,” a holiday giving initiative focused on hunger relief and support for military families. “Walmart has a history of supporting our troops. This holiday season, we recognize the sacrifices of our deployed servicemen and women – and their families back at home,” said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. “We know that many military families have a tough time during the holidays. They miss their loved ones who are away, and we hope that our efforts will make their holiday easier and better.” More than 300 associates from Walmart and Sam’s Club locations nationwide will help organize toys and assist participants at each event. Supporting Military Families Spouses of deployed military personnel will shop for free
today at Operation Homefront toy shops near Fort Hood and Fort Bliss in Texas; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Stewart, Ga.; and Camp Pendleton, Calif. – markets that top the Pentagon’s list of cities with the highest troop deployment. With toys and books donated from Walmart, the shops will serve more than 3,000 military moms and dads with 10,000 military children, combined. “This has been an especially difficult year for our military families and their children. They’re not only dealing with deployments but also the economic recession,” said Operation Homefront chief executive officer, Jim Knotts. “Through the generosity of Walmart, these donated toys and books will allow the military families to provide a happy holiday for their children while using their limited resources on the vital basic needs.” In addition, Walmart gift cards will be given to more than 1,500 military families in 30 cities and 1,000 gift packages will be given to the caregivers of wounded military – all made possible through Walmart’s donation to Operation Homefront. Honoring our Nation’s Veterans Walmart’s military support this holiday season will also help Wreaths Across America purchase, transport and lay 16,000 wreaths at national cemeteries and memorial sites across the United States, including “a mile of memories’’ wreath display at Battery Park to honor 9/11 victims and veterans from the New York area, Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, Fayetteville National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Ark. and the site of the Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Penn. “Our mission is to remember the fallen, honor those who See walmart, on page 7
Success
business
SU Student Mercy Ukpolo Creates, Gives Scholarship to Fellow Student For months, senior business management major Mercy Ukpolo focused on her classes, work and saving her money. She had something special planned for the money. When the total reached $700, she gave it all away to another student. Ukpolo used the money to create the first “Mercy Ukpolo College of Business Scholars Scholarship.” Ashlee Forbes, an accounting major from Baton Rouge, is the first student to receive the $700 book scholarship. Forbes received the scholarship during a short ceremony held recently in the College of Business. “I feel blessed and privileged to have received this from another student,” said Forbes, a graduate of Baton Rouge Magnet High School. “It has inspired me to want to give back to another Southern student when I graduate.” Ukpolo said the scholarship is something that she had considered for awhile. “I started the ‘Mercy Ukpolo College of Business Scholars Scholarship’ because God has continued to bless me and it was my time to give back ... Education is really important to me,” she said. The 21-year-old Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., native said she had planned to wait until she graduates to give the scholarship. But, her mother, Dr. Fawn Ukpolo, a professor at Southeastern Louisiana University, urged her to start the scholarship now while she was still in college. So for eight months,
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Mercy Ukpolo, right, saved $700 and started the “Mercy Ukpolo College of Business Scholars Scholarship” to help a fellow student purchase books. Ukpolo is also Miss College of Business. Ashlee Forbes, left, is the first recipient of the scholarship. Photo by John Oubre/SU Office of Publications
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Ukpolo saved her own money to start the scholarship. “I just saved little by little,” said Ukpolo. “I am humbled to have been able to give my scholarship to such a deserving student and I plan on continuing to give back to SU for many years to come.” To apply for the scholarship, students had to: • be a College of Business (COB) major • have a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA • submit two letters of reference • submit an application • submit on essay on the topic, “As a COB scholars where do you see yourself 10 years from now and what contributions will you have made to society?” Ukpolo was born in Lagos, Nigeria and came to the United States when she was 6. Her father is Dr. Victor Ukpolo, chancellor of Southern University at New Orleans. Her mother is both a professor at Southeastern and principal of Southeastern Louisiana University Lab School. Since her arrival at Southern, Ukpolo has been enrolled in the Dolores Margaret Richard Spikes Honors College and was named Miss College of Business 2009-2010 in October. She is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, treasurer for the Collegiate 100 Black Women of Southern University, and president of the Student Leadership Council.
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Page 6 • The
Weekly Press • Thursday, December 10, 2009
Don’t Let the Christmas Blues Get You Down The single woman could be Christmas time going through the, “I is around the corner. wish I had someone” Many are showing syndrome. Loneliacts of kindness that ness seems to folshould have been low her everywhere shown since the beshe goes, whether to ginning of the year or the grocery store, to even every day. Many work and to church. Ida are being pretentious When she sees other London in showing love they couples walking hand really don’t feel. in hand, she may wish Which is a seasonal love. that she had a companion to Gifts are given with mo- spend Christmas with. tives in mind. Such as, “If she A popular secular songdoesn’t give me a gift, I won’t writer wrote a song asking a give her one. Or I will take question, “What will the Lonely mine back to the store and get do at Christmas?” The lonely my money back.” don’t have to be lonely at Christmas is the season Christmas. There’s more to for celebrating the birth of our do at Christmas, than to be Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. sitting under someone whose Some choose to celebrate by intentions are just seasonal. going to church and then There are many things spending time with their fami- that could be done, than sitting lies. While some choose to live and having the blues. One can it up while celebrating such a go visit relatives and fellowprecious and wonderful birth ship with them. Find someone with intoxicating drink getting who you can help. If you can’t drunk and making a mockery think of anyone, ask God to of Christ’s birth. give your hands something to While others will be ex- do to keep you busy. Try putperiencing various kinds of ting some movies in the DVD emotions. The memories of player. But stay away from lost loved ones are crowding romantic movies and movies their mind and they are wish- with sexual content. ing their loved ones could be When you get bore with with them. the movies, get the Bible and Some have just experi- read it. Allow God to speak ence a breakup from a serious to your heart. He can take the relationship that they thought loneliness away and restore the was going to result in marriage mind. He can give you that but it didn’t make it that far. inner peace you need and take Some are trying to put the restlessness away. their lives back together going “Be careful for nothing, but through a divorce and not ac- in everything by prayer and customed to being alone on supplication with thanksgivChristmas Day and struggling ing, let your request be made with the thoughts of “What use to be.” See blues, on page 7 By Ida London
Religion
The Passover: A Daily (Personal) Experience With God By Donald Lee I once did a series about experiencing The Passover daily, and experiencing it personally. The subject comes from a message I preached explaining how you can cover yourself, your family, your property, your pets/ livestock, your businesses and every other thing over which God has made you steward. Cover them from what, you ask? Cover them (in the blood of the Lamb Christ Jesus) from being numbered with those whom God has pronounced judgment (Exodus 12:12-13). Or cover them from the fiery darts of the enemy — the devil. Or cover them from destruction brought on through what people refer to as “natural disasters,” i.e. hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires. Or cover them from stray bullets, fatal accidents at the hands of drunken drivers, fatal accidents that could occur from smashing into a deer darting off into their path as they travel down a dark highway. Or cover them from sickness and disease. In other words, The Passover isn’t just some experience Bible characters had in the Old Testament (please read Exodus 12 for yourself). It’s an experience that God’s people — even today — have, when they learn how to hear God’s voice, and obey it after they’ve heard it (Exodus 12:15,21,27,28). Why do I bring this up? Because, as I’ve stated before, the children of God must know what the Word of God says about their individual, specific lives so that they won’t be unprepared when
the storms of life blow and meditate on them (be it natural storms or for yourself (you supernatural storms; be it don’t have to take literal or metamorphic). my word for it),” my Each day that passes will response is: “If you present an opportunity let God’s Word take for you to experience The root in your heart Passover. concerning you and Read —for youryour household and self — the scriptures I’m the things over which Donald sharing with you regardGod has made you Lee ing how you can avoid steward, somebody being caught up in such else’s unfortunate destruction in the future. This reality doesn’t have to be your message is not to condemn any- (unfortunate) reality.” body whose families may have I continue, “You can’t allow been hit by a natural disaster or the enemy (Satan) to distract you any form of devastation. (through ignorance of the Word) It is, however, a Word from from what God says belongs to God (as I’ve said earlier) to stay you — a Passover experience focused on Him and being able everytime.” to hear His voice and then obey When Peter walked on what you hear. water, it wasn’t until he took And you can’t base whether his eyes off of Jesus and placed you’re going to obey the Word them on the storms of life that of God by looking at someone he started sinking (Matthew else’s situation or experience in 14:29,30,31). life (if it may appear to you to But before that, Peter said contradict the promises of God, to Jesus (Matthew 14:28), “Lord, if particularly as it relates to this it be thou, bid me come unto thee Passover experience I’m talking on the water.” In other words, about). Peter asked the Lord to enable The reason I say this is be- him to do the supernatural (walk cause I’ve been asked a legitimate on water). But when he saw the question: “How can you say that “boisterous” wind, his attention it is God’s will for all Christians was immediately diverted from to experience a Passover from the Lord. hurricane destruction when we But when Peter was going see prominent, well-respected down under, he called on Jesus, preachers/ministries who lost “Lord, save me.” The Bible everything in the disasters?” says that Jesus “immediately” Well, besides countering stretched forth His hand and that by mentioning the names of caught him. Afterward, the Lord other prominent, well-respected told Peter that his “doubt” had preachers/ministries in the same short-circuited his faith, which is cities whose churches/homes why he began to sink. Yet when weren’t hit, and telling those with Peter called on the Lord to save questions to “read the scriptures him, faith short-circuited doubt,
producing deliverance. In other words, I reiterate that you cannot look at somebody else’s unfortunate circumstances during times of storms or any other time to determine how your life’s going to go. You don’t know what’s going on in other people’s lives. You don’t know why destruction visited them but someone who you know walks in iniquity (living as hellish as they want to) seemingly wasn’t impacted, personally, by a devastating hurricane or earthquake, for example. But here’s what you do know: If your heart is open to receive this Word from God (Revelation 2:29), you and those connected to you (Genesis 7:23; Exodus 12:13) will experience the modern-day Passover. The Bible says in Exodus 12:15 that the disobedient is not promised Passover from destruction. Of course, too, we know that when the unrighteous are spared from destruction today, it’s not because they’re walking with God, obviously. But it is God’s grace and His mercy which give them space to repent and turn from their wicked ways. Well, I’m out of space, but certainly not out of Word. I’ll see you next week. Be blessed. Pastor Donald Lee can be contacted for comment or prayer at (225) 773-2248 or pastordonjlee@yahoo.com. Pastor Lee, also a former co-host of the Christian radio broadcast, The God Factor with Guy Brody (www.thegfactor.org), can also be contacted for his public relations services.
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Church Directory Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. - Hebrews 10:25
St. Mary Baptist Church “The Church that Love Built” 1252 N. Acadian Thruway East • Baton Rouge, LA. 70802 Telephone (225) 387-2926 Rev. Conway L Knighton, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. Lord’s Supper - 1st Sunday 11:00 a.m. Prayer Meeting - Wednesday 6:00 p.m. Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m. Thursday 10:00 a.m.
Good Shepherd Full Gospel B.C. The People’s Church 2865 Mission Drive • Baton Rouge, 70805 • Telephone (225)356-5873 Bishop H. Hayes, Pastor Hour of Power 12 Noon Each Wednesday Sunday School 8:00 AM Church Service 9:00 AM Lord’s Supper 2nd Sunday 6:00 PM Bible Study Wednesday 7:00 PM Sister/ Brotherhood 6:00 PM You Will Be Blessed Under The Anointed Man Of God
Jesus Name Apostolic Temple, Inc. 2548 Weller Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70805 Telephone: (225) 356-1160 Communion 1st Sunday......................... 1:00 p.m. Sunday School.................. 9:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Bible Class Tuesday................................7:30 p.m. Mission Night Thursday ..........................7:30 p.m. Deliverance Night Friday ........................7:30 p.m. Bishop Jimmie & Rose Lee Wade
Heritage Search Ministry Pentecostal Church 4313 Airline Highway (located in the Metro-Aire Shopping Ctr) Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70807 • Phone: (225) 355-1045 Mackie C. Allen, Pastor Paul Hammock, Apostle and Overseer Order of Service Sunday School...................9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship................11:00 a.m. Monday-Prayer...................7:00 p.m. Wednesday-Praise and Worship.............7:30 p.m. Friday-Bible Study......7:30 p.m. “Where your inheritance is amongst the Saints”
Greater Central People Baptist Church 9012 Scenic Highway • Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70807 (225) 241-9946
Sunday School............................................................... 7:30 a.m.- 9:00 a.m. Church Service................................................................................ 9:00 a.m. Lord’s Supper............................................................. 4th Sunday, 9:00 a.m. Prayer Meeting.......................................................... 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study.............................................. 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Pastor, Bishop John Thomas Co-Pastor Evangelist Barbara Thomas
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New Birth
Full Gospel Ministries 1283 Rosenwald Road • Baton Rouge, La. 70807 Phone: (225) 775-6713 • Fax: (225) 775-4216
Ivory J. Payne, Pastor
Order Of Service
Sunday Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 A.M. Holy Communion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3rd Sunday1:00 P.M. Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 A.M. Bible Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thursday 7:00 P.M.
“The New Life”Therefore if any man be in christ he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all thing are become new. —I Corinthians 5:17
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NEW HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH 5856 Greenwell Springs Road • Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70806
Telephone: (225) 926-0246 • Facsimile: (225) 927-8500 • Toll Free # Sunday Morning Worship - 10:45 AM Sunday School - 9:30 AM 1-888-700-6174 Lord’s ESupper -3rd Sundays Prayer Service - Wed. @ 6:00 PM Mail Address # nhbc@nhbc.brcoxmail.com - Wed- @ 7:00 PM Pastor Bible Leo Study D. Cyrus Sr., Pastor
Schedule Mission Statement: NewChurch Hope Baptist Church is a family of baptized believers who worship the Lord our God in spirit and in truth, teachSchool the saved Sunday Morning Worship - 10:45 AM Sunday - 9:30to AMreach the lost and minister to the needs of others, while encouraging one another through s Supper -3rd Sundays Prayer Service - Wed. @ 6:00 PM acts ofLord’ love and living in obedience to Gods Word Bible Study - Wed- @ 7:00 PM
Mission Statement: New Hope Baptist Church is a family of baptized believers who worship the Lord our God in spirit and in truth, teach the saved to reach the lost and minister to the needs of others, while encouraging one another through acts of love and living in obedience to Gods Word
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ChildRen from page 4 Report from page 1 children. When decisions are made and policies are created, ask first, ‘Is it good for the children?’” Key findings in the Data Book include: Family Economics • One out of every four Louisiana children lives in poverty. • Child poverty rates vary widely across the state. The child poverty rate in East Carroll Parish (56%) is 3.7 times as large as the child poverty rate in St. Tammany Parish (15%). Education • Louisiana has made significant progress toward ensuring that more children enter kindergarten ready for school. Enrollment in pre kindergarten in public schools increased by 57% between the 2000-2001 school year and the 2008-2009 school year, rising from 21,290 students to 33,438 students. In 2008, the National Institute for Early Education Research’s State of Preschool report ranked Louisiana 12th in the nation in terms of providing four year-olds with access to publicly-funded preschool programs. • A majority of public school students come from low-income families in all but eight of Louisiana ’s parishes. In the 2008-2009 school year, the percentage of students who were eligible for free or reduced lunch ranged from a low of 43% in Bossier and St. Tammany parishes to a high of 94% in Tensas Parish. Health • Louisiana has improved since 2001 in access to adequate prenatal care. In 2001, 79% of all births were to women who received adequate prenatal care, while the same was true of 85% of births in 2006. Despite the overall improvement, rates vary widely by both geography and race. In Acadia , the worst-ranked parish, only 67% of births in 2006 were to women who received adequate prenatal care. By contrast, 97% of La Salle Parish births in 2006 were to women who received ade-
quate prenatal care. Statewide, white women were more likely than black women to have received adequate prenatal care. In 2006, 89% of births to white women were to mothers who had received adequate prenatal care, while the same was true of just 79% of births to black women. • After many years of continuous improvements, Louisiana ’s teen birth rate rose between 2005 and 2006, increasing from 50 to 55 births per 1,000 females ages 15-19. With 99 births per 1,000 females ages 15-19, the teen birth rate in Red River Parish (the worstranked parish) was three times as large as the rate in Lincoln Parish (the best-ranked parish). Child Welfare • The number of valid child abuse and neglect allegations in Louisiana increased by 22% between fiscal year 2005 and fiscal year 2007, rising from 13,999 to 17,098 allegations. Nearly all of the rise was caused by a large increase in the number of valid neglect allegations during this time. In FY 2007, three out of every four valid child abuse and neglect allegations involved neglect. Physical abuse accounted for 17% of allegations, while sexual abuse allegations comprised 5% of all valid child abuse & neglect allegations. Juvenile Justice • Since the beginning of the century, Louisiana has experienced a dramatic decrease in the number of youth who are in the custody or under the supervision of the Office of Juvenile Justice. The number of youth in secure custody declined from 1,485 youth in 2000 to 486 youth in 2007. “In these difficult financial times, it is more important than ever that Louisiana invest in a brighter future for our children,” said Watts . “The data show that we were already failing too many Louisiana children even before the recession pushed more families into poverty.
Freshman from page 1 the conclusion of the “Honors Charge”, Dr. Spikes was presented with a framed replica of the Honors College, the building and program named in her honor. Dr. Spikes was introduced by Ms. Margaret Ambrose, Special Assistant to the Chancellor. Special acknowledgments were given to the Crestworth Learning Academy, the guest school for the evening. Student Government Association and members of the Miss Crestworth and Royal Court were awarded citations for their achievements. Other guest included The Reverend Daniel Wells, Associate Minister, Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church and Ms. Tiffany Lloyd, 2009 Miss Black Louisiana and 2nd Runner-Up to the 2009 Miss Black USA. Other program participants included honor guardsmen from the Southern University and Louisiana State University Navy ROTC, KoiEles Lomas, Chief Justice, SU SGA, Demetrius D. Sumner, Sophomore Class Senator-atLarge, SU SGA and Dr. Joyce O’Rourke, Interim Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities and Chairman of the Honors Advisory Committee. Dr. Beverly D. Wade, dean of the Honors College presided over the program and remarks were given by Dr. Kassie Freeman, Interim President, Southern University System and Dr. Mwalmu Shujaa, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost.
Honors students with semester and cumulative 4.0 grade point averages for the Fall 2008 and Spring 2009 semesters were acknowledged. The Induction Ceremony was presided over by Karla Washington, president of the Honors Students Association. Freshmen introduced themselves to the crowd and were then pinned by upperclassmen of the Honors College. The “Class Response” was given by members of the Honors College in the form of a short drama, One Moment in Time. Freshmen Kenneth Blackson, Andrea Bridgewater, Jasmine Crockett, Breshatta Davis, Robert Florida, Chelle’ Leonard, Kirkland Long, Vance Mitchell (Narrator), Kerri Mullone, Alana Rhone, Laterial Sawyer, Polite Stewart, Jr., Kayla Tate, Samarah Whitfield, Dakota Williams, and Tanisha Williams participated in the drama. Mrs. Helen Williams directed the drama and was assisted by Ms. Valery Pollar, Mrs. Deadra James-Mackie, Mrs. Della-Netter Perkins and Mr. Eric Pugh. Other honors students served as host and hostesses. Dr. Beverly D. Wade of the Honors College. Crestworth Learning Academy Student Government Association Members and Southern University Associates at the Dolores Margaret Richard Spikes Honors College Induction Ceremony at Southern University-Baton Rouge
Blues from page 6 known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hear and mind through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7
KJV). Always remember to keep Christ in your Christmas and you have a Merry Christmas.
Walmart from page 5 serve and teach our children the value of freedom,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of Wreaths Across America. “This is the second year that Walmart has generously donated wreaths, trucks, and re-
sources – and we are proud to work with Walmart to show our gratitude to those who served and sacrificed.” For more information on “Walmart Gives Back,” visit www.walmartgiving.com.
ering all children. the CDF Action Council, building on the best practices in states and lessons learned about children falling through the bureaucratic cracks of Medicaid and SChiP, strongly urged Congress to enact the All healthy Children Act, S. 1564/h.r. 1688, introduced by representative Bobby Scott (D-VA) in the house and Senator Bernie Sanders (i-Vt) in the Senate. the measure would provide comprehensive benefits including dental and mental health, simplified bureaucracy, and a national eligibility plan for families up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level. We thank the 62 house coforAtheir support. howBsponsors y Nicole ustin ever, weSpecial regret that neither a single NNPA Correspondent house republican nor any other Senator joined them to (NNPA) push for WASHINGTON for Hispanic all children.children -coverage Black and thesuffered CDF Actionhigher Councilproporstrongly have supports longrates overdue covtional death fromhealth the H1N1 erage(swine for everyone in America as virus flu) than their White soon as possible—because children counterparts. cannot wait. As SChiP comes up According to the Center for again for reauthorization in early Disease Control (CDC), Black and Hispanic have a greater 2009, wechildren hope every Member of number ofwill H1N1 deaths since the Congress insist on covering epidemic sweeping the every childstarted and pregnant mother nation March. agency now bylast enacting andThe adequately isfunding not clear the reason for theabout provisions of the All the disparities, butAct. speculate that healthy Children they are associated withwe “underSpecious claims that could lying conditions” or goingbillion to the not find the money—$70 doctor quick enough. cover all over five years—to “Blacks and by Hispanics are children is belied that amount represented inmonths a greater spent in eleven for proportax cuts tion among seasonal H1N1 for the top one percentand of richest deaths in children, than their repAmericans and in seven months resentation in the US population,” for the iraq War. We do not have says a report from the Centers a money problem in America: We for Disease Control, released have a priorities and political willto the NNPA Service. “The deficit. it isNews time for all adults to protect the health of our children.
the citizens of the nation must demand that our leaders free our children from the false ideological and political tugs of war among those who put excess profits ahead of children’s lives. how well did Congress protect children in 2007? Not well enough: 276 Members of Congress had good CDF Action Council Congressional Scorecard scores of 80 percent or higher, and 198 of those had stellar scores of 100 percent. But 231 members scored 60 percent or lower—a failing grade from our school days. Whether Members of Congress are liberal, conservative or moderate; Democrat, republican or independent, children need all of reasons for more severe outcomes them to vote, lobby, for andare among black andspeak Hispanics protect them.but Adults need listen to unknown may be to related carefully to what the frequency ofcandidates underlyingsay conthey will do forincrease children and ditions that the famirisk for lies and, once they are in office, influenza complications in that we need to hold accountable. population orthem the timing of mediPlease thank your of Concal care and orMembers treatment…This gress with scoresdisparity of 80 percent or racial ethnic requires above andstudy.” let those with scores of further 60 percent ormost belowrecent know you are In the numbers acquired,with from Sept. 1 to the end dissatisfied their performance. of October, Blackthat children made And please convey same mesup 32 percent of the children who sage to each presidential candidate. had dieddemand from the although We must thatvirus our leaders they comprise only 12 percommit to children as aabout condition the nation’s population of ofcent ourof vote. children; Hispanic children made up 21 percent of children who Marian Wright Edelman is Presihadofdied althoughDefense they make dent the Children’s Fundup only 15 percent the nation’s and its Action Councilofwhose Leave population of children. No Child Behind® mission On is tothe otherevery hand,child White children, who ensure a Healthy Start, up 67a percent ofathe amake Head Start, Fair Start, Safenation’s Start andpopulation a Moral Startof in children, life and made uppassage only 25 to percent of the successful adulthood children who died. with the help ofhad caring families The rate of death for reguand communities.
Manly, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association spokesperson. “every healthy heartbeat pumps about one-fifth of your blood to your brain to carry on Thursday, December the daily processes of thinking, prob-10, 2009 • The Weekly Press • Page 7 lem solving and remembering.” “By the year 2030, the number of African Americans age 65 or older is expected to more than double to 6.9 million,” said emil Matarese, M.D., American heart Association spokesperson. “Although Alzheimer’s is not part of normal aging, age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. So it is important that African Americans take steps now to decrease their risk of heart disease, which research has shown could also decrease the risk of cognitive Research shows a link between heart and brain heal heart function could lead to impaired brain functio decline.”
Health H1N1 Deaths of Black and Hispanic Children at Higher Rates Than Whites
talk Plans Radio to Open Child DSS Care Assistance Program to Military Child Care Centers from page 4
all funny or remotely appropriate about the use of a lynching reference about Michelle obama,’’ he said. ‘’it’s - i’m speechless.’’ As President Bush pointed out so eloquently during the Black history Month event, the noose BATON ROUGE Louirepresents ‘’more than- The a tool of siana Department Social Sermurder but a tool of of intimidation’’ vices (DSS) is moving to help the to generations of African-Ameristate’s low-income famicans. Nooses not onlymilitary robbed some lies afford child on military of their lives butcare many of their bases peacelocated of mind.in the state. The agency has we issued ‘’As a civil society, musta Notice of Intent create a new understand that to noose displays Child Care Assistance and lynching jokes areProgram deeply (CCAP) provider type, Class M, offensive. they are wrong. And that would allow child care centhey have no place in America ters licensed by the Department today,’’ he said. of Defense (DOD) to become eliNeither o’reilly nor ingraham gible for reprimanded CCAP funding, along has been by their rewith all eligible children who spective employers even though attend center. the Foxthat News personality did offer “Allowing Louisiana’s a half-hearted apology. military families to At least ingrahamaccess didn’tfunds drop available to the rest of the state the l-word but her suggestion that isSharpton, one moreaway we presidential can provide former assistance to active duty men and candidate and respected member of women who sacrifice so much for the African-American community our DSSthief Secretary andcountry,” beyond, issaid a petty reeks Kristy Nichols.and negative steof race-baiting Previously, policies denied reotyping of African-Americans men and women serving in the and black men in particular. United States military But it’s hardly the firstaccess time ei-to CCAP their chilther hasbenefits venturedwhen into questionable dren are caredterritory. for at centers liand offensive how can censed by the DOD. However, military children can receive benefits if they attend CCAP yStem fromoff page 4 child care centers base. “The Department of De-
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we forget o’reilly’s less-thaninformed comments regarding a dinner he shared last year with Sharpton at Sylvia’s in harlem? o’reilly expressed surprise over how similarSylvia’s was to other restaurants in New York restaufense maintains very high stanrants. dards forwasn’t its licensed child in care ‘’there one person centers,”who said Nichols. “This new Sylvia’s was screaming, CCAP classification will tea,’’’ remove ‘M-Fer, i want more iced the disparity that existed when he said. low-income members of the milAs the Washington Post’s robitary were forced to overlook inson sadly observed on MSNBC facilities located inhigh-quality February, ‘’All you can go by military ison hisLouisiana’s words and his actions.bases And in order affordthese child care.that he keepstosaying things In Louisiana, only sound pretty darn racist tothe me.’’ DOD child care center that has has talk radio learned anything applied be a Class M CCAP from imus’todecline and fall? of provider the Child Developcourse not, is because it didn’t take menttoo Center at long Barksdale imus terribly to get aAir Force new gig.Base in Bossier City Discussions are underway with the our nation’s media outlets Ft Polk Child Development Censhould not provide a platform for ter to participate in the CCAP racialhostility and hateful speech program well.What kind of now or in theasfuture. Anyweperson messageare sendingwho to ourwishes chilmay submit written dren, our nation and ourcomments world? about Intent of Notice in suchthis an historic election year, through January we cannot stand aside25, and2010, allow to Deidria W. Assistant individuals to Bolden, use the airwaves Secretary, Office of as an outlet for insensitiveFamily and Support, PO Box 94065, Baton misguidedcommentary. if you Rouge, LA 70804-9065. pubhear something that offendsAyou, lic hearing will be help at 9:00 speak up. a.m. on January 26, 2010, at the Department of Social Services, Iberville Building, 627 N. 4th St., Seminar Room 1-129 in Baton Rouge.
cally pointed out that changes
concerned with the conditions
of his own humanity to reaffirm route out of is tohe “make self worth andwhich purpose. will him thendo by it.” nature acquire the will to The integrity Black politido for himself andof others. calSpace participation and thetosecurity is not available cover of the Black community concerns of so many demand people a president who is responsive to their needs in exchange for the 97 percent investment in his presidency. His stated governing philosophy should also mean that the celebration is over and that we must make clear to him that we will not be taken for granted and we will not willingly be subject to the spoils of a trickle-down economic strategy that will take years to rehabilitate our communities. So, I think that since none of the members of the CBC, nor Black economists, nor the Black Civil Rights leaders were invited to the White House Jobs Summit that in the month of January in honor of the defiant spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Congressional Black Caucus should host one and invite the people who should be there to affect a bottom up, urgent strategy. The President has thrown down the gauntlet; Black leadership must pick it up.
these youth can be changed, from Dr. Ron is Professor contrition in aWalters prepatory school Emeritus andfor Polifor AngolaoftoGovernment rehabilitation at thelife University Maryland atics positive that mayoflead to a College Park. His latestThat book life of meritorious glory. is is: The Price of Racial Reconciliation the Way I See It! (University of Michigan Press)
occur in N a human being is page at Jetson. it is happening there. Swhich pecial eeds from 4 redirected to pull from the core What i do know is that most of
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Could You Be At Risk?
lar seasonal flu among Black, of a higher level of poverty and Hispanic and White children is lack of affordability.” also racially disparate – at 18 perShantel Moss knows first(NAPSi)-here’s an 42 alert worth hand ness ofexperience diabetes, particularly when cent, 25 percent, and percent with the H1N1. paying attention to: According to it is left undiagnosed and untreated. respectively. Twenty -year- old Moss was dithe American Association the day is held thevirus fourth back tuesday Dr. LouisDiabetes Sullivan, former agnosed withonthe in (ADA), learning your risk for type 2 of every March. president and founder of the July. She is a Black woman, with diabetes could save your life. that day,ailments. people are encourMorehouse School of Medicine, noon previous Diabetes is a serious disease that aged to take the Diabetes risk test, who agrees with the CDC pertain“When I got the swine flu, strikes nearly 21 million children Ieither paper and pencil online. ing to “underlying conditions”, waswith really scared. Theorsympand adults in U.S. isfactors named toms the risk test requires users explained. Hethe said dueitto were horrible, buttoI answer lived” the “silent killer” because one-third seven simple questions age, such as disparately bad nutri- Moss said. “There wasabout another of those with the disease--more than 6 [Black]lady weight, lifestyle tion, asthma, diabetes and obesity at and the family healthhistory-center million--do know they have it. that all potential risk factors for she diabetes. among Blacknot and Hispanic youth, had swine flu, but also For many, diagnosis may come People scoring 10 points or more are their general health is overall dis- had diabetes. She looked seriseven to 10 years after the onset of at a high risk for type 2 diabetes and proportionately poor; therefore ously ill.” 2 diabetes. diagnosis is are encouraged talk with a health atype serious virus early like H1N1 have For everytoCaucasian with criticalsevere for successful care professional. more affects.treatment and diabetes, 1.6 African-Americans can delay or prevent some ofsays the have Andiabetes. estimatedThis 54 million AmeriFor example, Sullivan is a huge discomplications such as heart diseases, cans have pre-diabetes. those with the combination of asthma and parity for the African-American blindness, disease, stroke and community; pre-diabetes have blood glucose levH1N1 andkidney also seasonal flu, can considering the Cauamputation. els higher than normaloutnumbers but not high lead to death. casian population that’s one reason the ADA enough by to be diagnosed with type “African-Americans andholds His- Blacks over 60 percent. the American Alert® Day, 2 diabetes. panics have aDiabetes high concentration “Diabetes and obesity is a one-day wake-up call to inform the highest early intervention lifestyle in low-income neighborhoods,” in African- via Americans Americansaid. public about the serious- and changes such as than weight lossother and Sullivan “Poor communities Hispanics, any have higher incidents of asthma. race,” Sullivan said. “These is[It] is one condition that increases sues can cause a lower immunity susceptibility to influenza.” to H1N1.” In 1993, African- AmeriSullivan was not surprised cans between the ages of 5 to by the CDC’s finding. However, 20 were four to six times more he believes more research on the likely than Whites to die from matter needs to be done to pinasthma. Substandard housing point specific reasons. resulting in increased exposure “The precise causes are hard toLand indoor inadequate to distinguish,” he said. “This Lineallergens, (225) 356-0703 access to health care, and the fail- study requires many cases to Cell Phone (225) 235-6955 ure to take appropriate medica- evaluate. It wouldn’t surprise me GSRASAC E-mail: Goodshepherdbapt@bellsouth. tions contribute to the asthma in if it takes six months to a year to net Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am – 8 pm find accurate results.” African-Americans. Sullivan also says the lack of Meanwhile, the CDC sugShepherd Substance well balancedGood meals and accugestsAbuse simpleCenter preventive methrate nutritional awareness plays ods. They include washing hands Intensive Outpatient / Inpatient Therapy a major role inFor theDrugs, deaths.Alcohol, Anger often,Management using anti-bacterial hand “People who are susceptible rubs, avoiding touching the to2873 the flu are affected by levels ofRev.face with Britton, uncleanMA, hands and Mission Drive Donald LAC nutrition,” Sullivan said. “Clearly, avoiding contact with infected Baton Rouge, LA 70805 Clinical Director the nutrition among African- persons. These measures can be (225) 315-0740 Bishop Harris Hayes, Overseer Americans and Hispanics will be used to prevent contraction of less than that of Whites, because the virus.
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La. Guardsmen Compete Against New Orleans Saints By Sgt. Michael L. Owens Louisiana National Guard State Unit Public Affairs Representative NEW ORLEANS –Louisiana National Guardsmen participated in a video game competition against the undefeated New Orleans Saints at their training facility in Metairie, La., Dec. 1. The Guardsmen and players were part of the “Pro vs. G.I.
Joe” event, playing each other in games such as Call of Duty and Guitar Hero, donated by Best Buy. “We know that the Troops work hard to protect us and our country, so we have events like this to say thank you and show our appreciation,” said Addie Zinone, co-founder of the event and member of the Army Reserve. The Saints were happy to be there and show their off-the-
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Louisiana National Guardsmen Staff Sgt. Kendrick Davis, of the 205th Forward Support Company, competes with New Orleans Saints cornerback Malcolm Jenkins and safety Usama Young while participating in the Pro vs. GI Joe video game competition in Metairie, La., Dec. 1. The Guardsmen and the Saints players battled each other in games such as Call of Duty and Guitar Hero, as a show of support to the Troops. (U.S. Air Force photo by Mater Sgt. Toby M. Valadie, Louisiana National Guard State Public Affairs Office/Released)
Louisiana National Guardsmen Spc. Andrea Wettstein, of the 1021st Vertical Engineer Company, receives an autograph from New Orleans Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie while participating in the Pro vs. GI Joe video game in Metairie, La., Dec. 1. The Guardsmen and the Saints players battled each other in games such as Call of Duty and Guitar Hero, as a show of support to the Troops. (U.S. Air Force photo by Mater Sgt. Toby M. Valadie, Louisiana National Guard State Public Affairs Office/Released)
field skills to the Guardsmen after showcasing their on-thefield talents in a win against the New England Patriots the night before.
The Guardsmen were excited to get the chance to meet the players, especially during this historic season. “I have been a Saints fan
“It is always fun to do events like this,” said cornerback Mike McKenzie. “Supporting and appreciating our Troops is what it’s all about.”
all my life,” said Staff Sgt. Ronald J. Bonin of the 1st Battalion, 141st Field Artillery Regiment. “To be here is very special for me. It’s just unbelievable!”
Former Leader of ‘100 Black Men’ Tommy Dortch to Speak at SU’s Fall Commencement BATON ROUGE - Entrepreneur, community activist, and author Tommy W. Dortch, Jr. will be the featured speaker for Southern University’s Fall 2009 commencement ceremony, set for 10:30 a.m., Dec. 11, in the Felton G. Clark Activity Center. Dortch is chairman emeritus of the nationally honored 100 Black Men, Inc. The organization grew, under his guidance, from 43 to 102 chapters in the United States, England, and the West Indies. As an active community leader, Dortch has also developed fund-raising projects designed to empower single parents and communities to meet
Tommy W. Dortch, Jr.
the needs of their children. He is also the author of “The Miracles of Mentoring, the Joy of Investing in Our Future,” a how-to guide for adults seeking to mentor youth. Dortch co-founded the Black College Alumni Hall of Fame and the Georgia Association of Minority Entrepreneurs. He also serves on the boards of the Sickle Cell Foundation and the National Assault on Illiteracy. Ebony Magazine has listed him as one of the 100 most influential Black leaders. Dortch is a graduate of Fort Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Pre-Professional Social Work. He received his master’s
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Lt. Gov. Joins New Orleans Mayoral Race NEW ORLEANS - Louisiana’s Democratic lieutenant governor says that he’s going to take a third shot at becoming New Orleans’ mayor. Mitch Landrieu said Tuesday that he’s entering the field for the Feb. 6 primary. The announcement comes five months after Landrieu said he had no plans to run. Analysts had speculated for weeks that Landrieu would enter a race seen as lacking political star power. The Landrieu family name is well known in Louisiana politics. Mitch Landrieu’s sister is a U.S. senator, while his father was mayor in the 1970s. Mitch Landrieu ran unsuccessfully for mayor in 1994 and 2006, when he lost to then-incumbent Mayor Ray Nagin months after Hurricane Katrina. Term limits prevent Nagin from running. At least seven other candidates have declared plans to run.
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