The Trumpet Magazine January/February 2010

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Community Voices Orchestrating Change January/February 2010

Issue #1 Volume 4

Health and Wellness for a Holistic Neighborhood

2010:

The Year of New Beginnings for New Orleans In This Issue: Miracle in Hollygrove Candidate Spotlight A Need for Recycling New Beginnings in Schools

Neighborhoods Partnership Network’s (NPN) mission is to improve our quality of life by engaging New Orleanians in neighborhood revitalization and civic process.

4902 Canal Street, Room 301, New Orleans, LA 70119 • Office (504)940-2207, Fax (504)940-2208 • thetrumpet@npnnola.com

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Letter from the Executive Director: Happy New Year Trumpet Readers, We are at the beginning of a new decade which is greeting us with a lot of opportunities and promises. In less than two months our New Orleans Saints team will have finished its season with the best record in Saints history and be playing in the Superbowl Championship, (cross your fingers), we will elect a new mayor and council and could possibly, finally, have a 20year plan that will direct the development and growth of the city. This year also puts us closer to celebrating our Tricentennial in 2018. It is this time that I choose to begin this year with a reflection of how we have grown as network and where we are going as a city of neighborhoods.

The summer of 2007, I entered the Musician Union Hall where a large round table of community/neighborhood residents were gathered discussing a topic titled “Citizen Participation.” The room was filled with persons of diverse ethnicities from every neighborhood and visibly all walks of life. As a native New Orleanian newly returning to the city, I found this to be energizing and fascinating, yet those that were present and engaged behaved as though this was a norm, well it had been for the past two years.

However, it was as though I had entered a time warp of the 1960’s civil rights movement. I enjoyed seeing the passion that filled each presenter’s eyes and how their hands and words flew across the room could easily have been construed as being arguementive. I later learned this is how you create a space for dissent. (Thanks Karen Gadbois.)This was my first day as the Executive Director of a new movement called “Citizen Engagement.”

That was three years ago. It feels like a lifetime, and for many of you it has been.

The frame work of NPN was built by a group of ordinary residents to be seen and heard in a unified and connective dynamic. It was their desire to no longer be ignored or pan-handled by servant-leaders who in turn would dictate to them how they choose to serve the people. Beginning with a kitchen table of 10 this energy evolved into a need to connect all people to a process. Our mission and vision was to no longer have a city where lack was seen.

Many sociologists would argue that during the immediate post-K we met to fill the need of social order, and eventually as our lives returned to “normal” there no longer was a need for residents to expend the energy to stay engaged. I disagree, for we know that energy is neither lost nor destroyed, but only transferred. So where has your energy transferred?

Personally, I connected to the recovery by throwing my entire life into all parts, from the charter school that my son attends, to the neighborhood where I chose to purchase my first home, and even choosing NPN was reflected by my goal to make New Orleans the World Class city that we know it can be. This may not be the way you want to share your energy, but remember as a thread of this network our vision is not fulfilled until all New Orleans’ neighborhoods are GREAT places to live.

When we have united and exhibited investment not only in our neighborhood but in each other, others will invest in us as a unified network.

Timolynn Sams, Executive Director Neighborhoods Partnership Network

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January/February 2010

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Letter from the Executive Director of NPN Table of Contents/NPN Board Letter to the Editor Remembering Pam Neighborhood Wish List 2010 Challenge Opinions Code Enforcement News Kids Rethink New Orleans College Bound A Need for Recycling Help a Smoker Quit Filming on Oak St. 36 Things about Carrollton Hollygrove Market & Farm Carrollton Before New Orleans Home to Carrollton Miracle in Hollygrove Carrollton Cats Candidates Spotlight Power Your Passion Project Home Again Low Cost Healthcare Community Events Neighborhood Meetings

NPN provides an inclusive and collaborative city-wide framework to empower neighborhood groups in New Orleans.

Find out more at NPNnola.com

NPN is proud to announce our new 2010 board members: Leslie Ellison, Tunisburg Square Civic Homeowners Improvement Association Vaughn Fauria, Downtown Neighborhoods Improvement Association Davida Finger, Carrollton Riverbend Association Sylvia Scineaux-Richard, New Orleans East, ENONAC STANDING BOARD MEMBERS Julius Lee, Board Chair, River Timbers Victor Gordon, Vice President, Pontilly Neighborhood Association Benjamin Diggins, Melia Subdivision Tilman Hardy, Leonidas/Pensiontown Neighborhood Association Sylvia McKenzie, Rosedale Subdivision Katherine Prevost, Upper Ninth Ward Bunny Friend Neighborhood Association Wendy Laker, Mid-City Neighborhood Organization Board

*Cover Photos by Ray Nichols

The Trumpet Editorial Board: Megan Hargroder, River Garden Neighborhood Editor-in-Chief, megan@npnnola.com Barbara Blackwell, Gentilly Sugar-Hill Neighborhood John Koeferl, Holy Cross Neighborhood Jeff Kugler, American Red Cross Liaison Jermaine Smith, Uptown Neighborhood

Third Party Submission Issues Physical submissions on paper, CD, etc. cannot be returned unless an arrangement is made.

Submissions may be edited and may be published or otherwise reused in any medium.

By submitting any notes, information or material, or otherwise providing any material for publication in the newspaper, you are representing that you are the owner of the material, or are making your submission with the consent of the owner of the material, all information you provide is true, accurate, current and complete.

Non-Liability Disclaimers The Trumpet may contain facts, views, opinions, statements and recommendations of third party individuals and organizations. The Trumpet does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information in the publication and use of or reliance on such advice, opinion, statement or other information is at your own risk.

Copyright Copyright 2010 Neighborhoods Partnership Network. All Rights Reserved. Any copying, redistribution or retransmission of any of the contents of this service without the express written consent of Neighborhoods Partnership Network is expressly prohibited.

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Letter to the editor...

I recently received The Trumpet’s November/December issue -- thank you.

I was particularly pleased to have read the page 19 article entitled, Focus on School Health and Wellness at Warren Easton Chater High School, given that I am a 1972 graduate of that school. Although I now reside in New York City, my heart is always in The Crescent City -- so much so until I wondered whether the paper had any intention of running any article(s) on the Tremé/Lafitte Community.

I am also a former resident of the now-demolished Lafitte Housing Development, my family having left there back in the early 1960’s -- and my most recent visit this September found me in my old neighborhood, assessing the quality of the community, not to mention the last 4 or 5 remaining buildings of the development built back in the early 1940’s, all which appeared to be in standard condition. I totally recall my family shopping at The Circle and Schwegmann Bros., when it was located at N. Broad & Bienville.

I wondered if these few [buildings] running from North Galvez & Lafitte Streets all the way back to North Claiborne Avenue will also be destroyed or are they going to be used for anything substantial-- posterity or as reminders of what that community once was during its height. As I drove along Orleans Avenue, heading towards 610 N. Galvez, it felt VERY strange to see nothing but land where those buildings once stood. Almost.. surreal.

All in all, I am interested in the overall health, wellness and intentions of that particular community.

Quite possibly I may have missed any articles you may have run concerning this community, but if I have, please inform me. My interest is more than simply a passing one, as I have intentions of returning home upon my retirement here in NYC. I like keeping my finger on the pulse of The City even though I am in a different location.

Thank you.

Always Knowing What it Means to Miss New Orleans, ~Robin Dorantes~

Write, Submit, Share YOUR Story!

Events, Poems, Neighborhood Updates, Opinions or Photos Contact us with submissions or comments: Email: thetrumpet@npnnola.com Call: 504-940-2207 Snail Mail: The Trumpet Magazine 4902 Canal St., Room 301 New Orleans, La 70119

Submission Guidelines: Please include the author’s full name and neighborhood.

If you submit photos, include all credits of photographer.

Submissions can be made in any format and any word count.

2010 Deadlines

For January issue: December 20th For March issue: February 25th For May issue: April 25th For July issue: June 25th For September issue: August 25th For November issue: October 25th

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January/February 2010

Remembering Pam Dashiell Written By: John Koeferl and Gill Benedek We are sad to share the news that Pam Dashiell, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Lower 9th Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development, passed away suddenly on the morning of Tuesday, December 1st, 2009. Pam exemplified the very best of New Orleans. A compassionate and positive leader, Pam strove to realize equitable, just and healthy communities.

Pam Dashiell was not only a leader in her neighborhood, but also shared her experiences with communities across New Orleans. As an NPN Fellow, Pam partnered with Barbara Lacen-Keller to teach 20 neighborhoods how to Build Partnerships for Common Goals. Video of her presentation will be made available shortly.

Three hundred and fifty people attended Pam’s funeral at All Souls Church on St. Claude Avenue, followed by a jazz procession down Caffin Avenue to Bayou Bienvenue.

Pam’s daughter Alisa and granddaughter Rianne put her ashes into the waters of the former cypress swamp that Pam had worked tirelessly to bring back. Hundreds of friends and supporters followed this by throwing rose petals into the bayou.

“It was a very moving experience,” remarked John Koeferl, friend and ally of Pam Dashiell. “There was a stiff wind and many of the petals blew back without making it into the water, as we knew they would, but we threw them anyway. It was really symbolic of the opposition that has been there every step of the way on this work we do. We still have a lot to do.”

Pam’s compassion, passion, knowledge and commitment will be deeply missed.

After NPN shared the sad news of Pam’s passing with our network, we recieved many responses from those who knew and were inspired by her.

Here are a few of them...

“I’m shocked and saddened by this news! She was truly inspirational and I enjoyed working with her.

Her spirit, dedication and smile will be missed by all!”

-Stacy Jamieson (former ED of the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation) Baton Rouge, LA “What a sad loss...our thoughts are with those who knew her...she brought so much to everything she did.”

-David Dixon “This touches me deeply. We have all been furthered by her passion and her skillful advocacy.”

-HMK Amen “That’s a shame, she was a wonderful woman...”

-Timothy Fraser

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Neighborhood Wish List

I would like to see more citizens remove illegal bandit signs from telephone poles and neutral grounds and for the city to start enforcing laws fining companies that put up the signs.

-- Steve Mardon I’ve got a great idea for blighted lots...Mini Soccer Fields!

-- Eric Kugler I would like to see John Dibert rethinkers in the Trumpet again -- Jason Butler I want good public schools in every neighborhood. I do not believe our city can survive the next 10 years without great public schools. If you moved to Carrollton today, you would not have a school to attend without searching out a charter, parochial or private school. Will there ever be a day when families return to Carrollton because of the education their children can receive within blocks of home?

Supporter of Public Education, -- Betty Dimarco What I would like to see, but I know it is only a pipe dream, is insurance rates go down.

-- Judith Martin Me, I would like a change in the way we view the industrial canal---to a waterway lined with green industries that support wetland restoration and our communities.

Why not get our new jobs from businesses that take advantage of the coming wave of government initiatives and subsidies to rebuild our energy infrastructure and restore our coast? Why not develop our inner harbor to take advantage of the vast trade opportunities available in supplying the heartland of America, and the world, with new products and technologies, that are made and marketed from here?

Why not welcome the shallow draft tourist trade down into a historic, working waterway that gives travellers and their dollars the opportunity to stay a while and enjoy America’s newest urban bayou, Bayou Bienvenue, get restored?

Why not enhance our port with sustainable activities and businesses we ourselves need?

So I would welcome a change in the way of seeing the Industrial Canal so that it becomes a path to a self-sufficient and sustainable future for our City, and particularly for our most challenged downtown neighborhoods, and our Port.

--John Koeferl

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January/February 2010

Aileen Challenges YOU!

2010

Guest Column by : Aileen Bennett

I know for certain 2010 is going to be full of challenges - I asked for them. Last September I turned 45 and in a rash moment, I wrote a blog post declaring I would take on 45 challenges set by anyone (friends and strangers). I didn’t really plan on people reading it. They did.

Since September, I have visited a Gospel Church, milked a cow, been a cuecard girl (and then appeared) in a TV commercial, eaten the worlds hottest pepper, painted pottery and hosted a blood drive that saw over a hundred people donate blood on Christmas Eve. I am currently in the middle of some other challenges - loosing weight, training for a half-marathon, talking to strangers everyday, writing 100 articles in 100 days. Coming up in the next nine months, I have to spend the day in a wheelchair, ride an Andalusian stallion, make a self-portrait and do a project in New Orleans.

Each challenge is really a challenge and I learn so much about myself. Every time I overcome something, I grow a little.

This year we will all face challenges; it’s not what we face but our attitude towards it that will make this year good or otherwise. In 2009, it seemed to be cool to say how hard life was, how tough we were all having it. I like to think that the economy just helped us put it all into perspective. Helped us realize what was important.

It isn’t about what you have but how much you smile, it isn’t about how much you earn, but how much time you share with friends and family.

I challenge you to make this year the best ever, whatever your challenges are. I may know some of the things I’m going to do, but I’m sure I have no idea of the challenges that will define my year. I do know what my attitude will be though.

You can read more about the challenges, and even set me one at http:// challenge45.com or visit me at my usual website http://www.thatspeaker. com.

Aileen Bennett is a motivational speaker, communication coach and slightly obsessed woman.

Poetry Corner: Where I’m From By: Mary Jacobs Gentilly Neighborhood

When the question reaches me so does the room full of eyes, and after the foreign land escapes my lips I sometimes see the questions enter the once blank eyes. I always want to say more than name of the city, but even more wouldn’t be enough.

Where I’m from the roads are rough and sinking. Changing tires becomes a chore with constant renovations surrounding you.

Everyone prefers the renovations and hope rings out with each new nail.

Where I’m from every party is open, along with every door. Every person holds their arms wide and you always leave finding someone who is related to you or knows who your momma is.

Where I’m from kids put their toys on their beds each time it rains, just in case. The streets flood, then drain and you take your car off the neutral ground each time with a prayer of thanks.

Where I’m from it is impossible to find a night without music and dancing. Laughs and Jazz echo the historic streets awakening even the most hopeless.

Where I’m from the seafood is spicy along with the attitudes. We root for our forever losing football team at crawfish boils. We get drunk and keep coming back to them because no one has more faith.

Where I’m from there is faith. Everyone knows the feeling of being homeless and helpless. Everyone blamed someone. Everyone learned that your childhood grocery store or playground may not always be there to visit, but that’s okay. Everyone learned that accepting help is hard, but so is rebuilding a city, so accept it we must.

Where I’m from the city is a canvas and the people are the paints and brushes. We make it the art and give it the soul. We know that’s its okay if no one understands it but us, sometimes you just have to be a part of something to get it.

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Opinions: Property Tax

Blight

Lakeview: East of Canal, West of Orleans, between Filmore and Harrison: The streets make a roller coaster look tame. Yet, people out there are building monster houses 40 feet high so that no matter how many pilings have been put under them, these monsters are causing the ground to shift.

Because of these unquestionably, very rich, hoity-toities who think they are now on Prytania Street, Lakeview no longer looks like home.

RE: The announcement that unused federal rebuilding money may be allocated to “clear” (ie., knock down) 60,000 buildings in New Orleans that have been designated “blighted” – a designation which is debatable in many cases:

Taxes: Right now I live in dread of the Orleans Parish property tax bill Doomsday that “always” comes on or about December 26 each and every year. My tax bill in 2008 was about $600. My tax bill for 2009 was nearly $3000, about 1/4 of my entire pre-income tax income. If the tax bill for 2010 is any higher, once I get my “get out of jail free” papers from the Road Home after March 31, 2009, I will be out of Orleans Parish for good. (I was obliged to stay here for three years because of covenants with the RH.) It is just too expensive for someone on a limited income, like myself, to be able to afford to live in New Orleans any more. I could say something about the frou-frous who are taking over the neighborhood as well, but matters of morality are beyond the scope of NPN. In Lakeview where I live, where the “ambiance” was firmly middle-class up into the late 1980s, there has been a “sea change”. People who grew up here for the most part are not coming back. What used to be “home” is now merely a ZIP code with status for those who can afford to pay.

-Judith Martin Lakeview Neighborhood

Strong Mayor?

Mayor Nagin’s comments in the Friday 11/4/09 Times Picayune were prophetic. Nagin states “if you look at the history of New Orleans and you look at mayors and you look at councils, this is probably the first time there’s been such an encroachment of the mayor’s authority.”

“And it’s in disregard of the City Charter.”

There is good reason to look at changing our City Charter to support a more effective and transparent form of government. It’s time for New Orleans to shed its corrupt roots, treat everyone equally regardless of race and to run itself efficiently.

A council–manager form of government is a strong council working in tandem with the mayor and utilizing a professional manager to implement policies. This is the fastest growing form of local government in the US. In this system the mayor and the council work together to solicit citizen feedback, set policy, make and modify laws and establish and approve the budget. The mayor and council together hire a nonpartisan professional manager to run the day to day operations at city hall. The city manager contributes to policy and budget matters at the discretion of the council and mayor. The mayor is then freed to focus on development by bringing in new sources of revenue and developing strategic partners. Political power is concentrated in the entire governing body.

It is my hope that our mayoral candidates as well as our residents become educated on the pros and cons of this system and that the topic is debated in the upcoming election.

Two organizations have a wealth of information of the council manager system; www.icma.org and www.ncl.org. In addition I have developed an informational site at www.councilmanagernola.com for this purpose.

-Jennifer Pearl New Orleans, LA

I am concerned that any solution that deals with blighted housing by tearing it down will throw the baby out with the bathwater. Many abandoned properties are still able to be rehabilitated, and “clearing” them could leave us with empty blighted lots that collect debris and leave our historic landscape with shocking holes.

Instead, I re-propose the idea I have proposed at every rebuilding meeting I have attended: that we use models of cities like Baltimore, which obtained ownership of such properties and offered them for a nominal price (reputedly as low as $100) to families and individuals who signed legally binding contracts to bring them up to code within a set period of time (usually one or two years) and LIVE IN the homes for a period of five (sometimes ten) years. This ensures that a young, motivated workforce has housing near the city center and has an investment in the city, while also preventing property speculators from wanton “flipping” of the properties. Also, property tax revenue for home-occupied sites will be far greater than that for empty lots.

If there is money from storm recovery funds to be re-allocated, it could be used as grants or loans to help the rehabbers of these homes with renovation costs instead of tearing down as many as 60,000 buildings.

-Cynthia Scott Faubourg St. John

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January/February 2010

SUCCESS - CODE ENFORCEMENT HEARINGS REINSTATED 44 Neighborhood Associations and City Council Pressure Mayor

Get Get Co Connected onnected

tto o the New New Orleans Ne Neighborhood Network Post news & events for your organization online Create a free profile at NPNnola.com

Timolynn Sams, Executive Director of NPN, urges the City Council to appreciate the scale of the blight issue, uniting over 44 neighborhood association write a common resolution.

Compiled by: Gill Benedek Photos by: Ray Nichols On December 22, 2009, the Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN) Advocacy Task Force submitted a resolution to Mayor Nagin and the City Council, requesting for him to fully enforce existing code enforcement ordinances and reinstate code enforcement hearings. NPN, its members and supporters are asked Mayor Ray Nagin to sign the resolution and reinstate Code Enforcement hearings by January 14th.

This resolution, endorsed by 44 neighborhood associations throughout New Orleans, asked the Mayor to: *Fully enforce the “existing” ordinances, including the citation of interior structure violations, ensuring the full and complete citation of non-compliant properties.

To receive weekly updates, sign up for our e-newsletter or send an email to

*Request that the City Attorney’s Office immediately reinstate for 2010 fiscal year the nine terminated legal contracts that provide officers to conduct code enforcement hearings.

On January 4th 2010, Council Vice President Jackie Clarkson called a Special Recovery Meeting to pressure Mayor Nagin back into budget negotiations. Several NPN members and resolution co-signers testified at the City Council meeting, exhorting the Councilmembers to use any means available to reinstate code enforcement hearings and improve code enforcement hearings procedures.

Success came soon after as Mayor Ray Nagin reinstated the code enforcement hearings. A win for all of New Orleans neighborhoods to ensure that 2010 stays on track to creating a blight free New Orleans.

To get involved and make your voice heard, join the NPN Advocacy Task Force by emailing advocacy@npnnola. com.

newsletter@npnnola.com

NEIGHBORHOODS

PARTNERSHIP NETWORK

www.NPNnola.com

Tom Schnatz, Chair of Lakeview Civic Improvement Association Blight Commitee, highlights that blight hearings are a revenue generator. The Mayor’s cut to hearings cost the city potential money.

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

KIDS RETHINK N E W

O R L E A N S A New Beginning in Schools POE TR Y If I were to start a new beginning I would do something nobody ever did before. I would take out the metal detectors because it would be no safer to have them. I can see the reason why the students are doing what they’re doing because the people are being so hard on them. My school would not need security guards.

That’s like you have the kids in prison. That’s like a mini prison to the kids. I hate seeing security guards in school.

Starting the morning with a lot to say

* Diquan Johnson

Hoping to start with a new beginning, a new day No security who threatens us with handcuffs No teachers that can’t teach or any of that stuff If this was my school I would have an indoor pool With elevators in the hall And famous paintings on the wall My meaning of a new beginning would be fun and cool Making everybody want to go to school * Giovanni Perkins

Live Oak Rethinkers DeJaun, Diquan, Nicholas, Warren and Taurean take a break in the library

If we had the power to make a change I would get older teachers who’ve been on this earth longer Who know more about teaching and don’t need to be your friend Kids are here to learn and students need to do their part as well as the teacher * Taurean Brown

If I had a new beginning the school would be in a different building. The reason I believe this is because the ceilings are falling. Literally. I don’t feel safe knowing that at any moment the ceiling could cave and one of my friends or even myself could get hurt. The building of my dreams would be able to conserve energy, meaning solar panels and fluorescent lights. The school wouldn’t look like a total eyesore. Its architecture would be out of this world. I only wish my dream school could be possible. * DeJaun Washington

January/February 2010

College Bound Program Helps High School Students Succeed

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The President and Coastal Recovery (Written on October 11,2009) Dear Mr. President, I would like to recommend that a new agency be established for water resources and coastal recovery, i.e., a national coastal recovery agency, responsible directly to the President. Here are my reasons.

(1) The present system isn’t working.

(2) Basic area and wetland recovery is held hostage to older, authorized but problematic Corps projects the Corps is determined to complete regardless of emergent post-Katrina priorities.

(3) The Corps refuses to take responsibility for its actions or be accountable to the public.

College Bound participants tour Southeastern Louisiana University By: Cynthia Okechukwu Treme Neighborhood Until last fall, eighteen-year-old Chekeitha White did not know how to do long division. That all changed this past October, when the high school senior enrolled in College Bound, a program of Operation REACH, Inc. that exposes high school students and their families to the college admissions process.

When she admitted her struggles in math to Dr. Nana Nantumbu, one of Operation REACH’s College Bound instructors, Nana demonstrated division to her through hands-on activities using classroom objects.

“I would say it was like a spark went off,” said Nana. “Some students think they don’t get it, but in reality they were just never shown how to do it.”

Chekeitha is just one of the thirty New Orleans-area high school students enrolled in College Bound last semester who have received the academic assistance and test preparation they need to make their dreams of higher education a reality. Most of the program participants come from lowincome families, and many will be firstgeneration college students. Operation REACH developed College Bound to ensure that young people like them are not denied access to higher education solely because of financial obstacles or because of their college entrance exam scores.

Ranging in age from fourteen to eighteen, the program participants completed an intensive semester of weekly ACT prep workshops and one-toone tutoring sessions covering English, math, science, and reading led by experienced instructors. “Many of the students said they were intimidated by

the ACT,” said College Bound Program Coordinator Sherise Ross, “But in the end they improved in confidence and showed dramatic increases in their test scores as they learned specific strategies for tackling the material.” The program also emphasized parent involvement by holding a financial aid workshop in which participants and their families learned about the scholarship search and financial aid requirements.

On Friday, December 18, the College Bound program culminated in a daylong tour of Louisiana colleges and universities. The trip took them from Xavier University in New Orleans to Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, and finally to Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. At each campus, the participants spoke with admissions officers and student tour guides to learn more about the schools’ admissions requirements and majors.

They also had the chance to see dorms, dining facilities, and recreation areas.

(4) Corps work in Louisiana remains, even after Katrina, shaped to powerful special interests, here notably shipping, but also oil & gas, big construction, banking, and their associations that exert heavy influence over state water resource and coastal restoration policy and projects, and have been part of the problem.

(5) The Corps has bias for large structural projects even when other solutions may be cheaper, more effective, faster, and more acceptable to the public.

(6) The Corps project selection and development continues a legacy of discrimination against minority, less affluent, even historic neighborhoods.

Typically, plans are well advanced before public hearings, after which the Corps, with little change, decides to proceed and resists independent scientific review through political means.

(7) The Corps continues to ignore basic impacts and broad risks from its projects on communities, public safety, environment, and taxpayers..

(8) NEPA processes against the Corps invariably resolve favorably to the Corps because of equality between federal agencies (EPA), and the Corps’ presumption of discretion over water resources.

(9) The Corps makes plans in a military culture of secrecy, control, chain of command, bureaucratic delay, and limited objectivity that resists change.

(10) Success at coastal restoration planning seems to require high levels of open process, communication, inclusion, imagination, science, transparency, dispatch, and a flexibility that is most unlikely to come from the Corps.

(11) Water resources in Louisiana, as elsewhere in the nation, are not attended to by objective need, nor do they thrive under the present For Chekeitha, the tour was an piecemeal control by congressional district. opportunity for her to broaden her horizons. “It was an educational experience, one that I had never had before,” she said. “I am glad this program is here and hope it expands so others will have the same chance that I did.”

While the young people were tired after a long day, they all said the program and the trip were worth it for helping them decide where to apply and providing them with the resources to get there.

“The tour was really helpful. When I do start to apply to schools, I’ll know what to look for and where I’ll be comfortable,” said high school freshman Alexis Davis, 14. “Most of all, I learned it’s never too early or too late to start preparing for college.”

(12) Sea level rise, global warming, increasing storm magnitude and frequency, great need and opportunities for economic restructuring and smart rebuilding, coupled with a need for our nation to show leadership and share technologies with other nations, all seem to support making necessary changes in the way America works with its people to build a safe and durable coastal ecosystem in a new and dynamic way.

Accordingly, Mr. President, I recommend to you consideration of a new non-military federal entity to be charged with all planning and responsibility for the care of our wetlands and restoration of our coast, and to be responsible to the chief executive.

Thanks!

John Koeferl For more information about how the Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood feels about the Corps, go to www.helpholycross.org or www.cawic.blogspot.com

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Green A Need for Recycling: New Orleans

Orleans

said from $6 to $10 a The timeline below recounts the City’s month and 772 said more disappointing response to citizen than $10 a month.” The demand for recycling after Hurricane survey remains available Katrina: online; final results were not made public.

August 2005: residents interested in recycling and In all, it is estimated that Hurricane Katrina By: NOLA Recycles 2010 Coalition willing to pay for it. Despite the fact the Recycling Foundation that Phoenix provides an important picked up more than 160 September 2005: Prior to Katrina, the City of New and much-needed service in the tons of recycling during its Orleans funded a residential absence of a citywide program, many monthly drop-off events Recycling fund suspended curbside recycling program citizens remain unable to afford to in New Orleans from contracted out to Browning Ferris pay this monthly charge or reside 2007-2009.

However, Early 2007: Industries (BFI), established in 1995. outside of Phoenix’s service areas. this number primarily Under this contract BFI collected represents materials Recycling Foundation of Baton Rouge begins commingled aluminum, glass, and In the last year two additional collected from those drop-off program in New Orleans to address paper for a fee of $1 per month companies have begun to offer with access to private the need for recycling per household on top of the $12 private residential recycling pickup transportation in which per month solid waste disposal fee service. In late 2008, SDT Waste and to haul recyclables from August 2007: charged by Waste Management. Debris Services initiated a campaign home to the drop-off The contract was renewed in 2001 to provide curbside recycling to site, as well as those who Phoenix Recycling begins residential curbside with the stipulation that BFI provide new and existing customers for $18 were not already paying recycling program educational outreach programs per month. The newly established for private recycling to encourage recycling. Following Poohbah Group also began offering services.

Considering November 2007: the community outreach program, bulk recycling, bi-weekly curbside the vast number of New the amount of recyclables nearly recycling, and weekly valet recycling Orleanians who rely on doubled over those collected under for $10 per month, as of July 2009. public transportation, New Orleans City Council votes unanimously to the previous contract. The City’s and were therefore adopt Resolution No. R-07-547, acknowledging the council’s support for recycling. City failure to establish and maintain a In September 2009, Allied Waste- unable to participate, Council urges Mayor Nagin and Director of comprehensive recycling program for Republic Services (formerly BFI) re- the demand for recycling Sanitati on Veronica White to consider regional its residents after Katrina is the result opened its recycling processing plant may be even greater still. partnership with Jefferson Parish and other of multiple obstacles; primarily, the with upgrades to process recyclables parishes within the greater New Orleans destination for recyclables collected delivered to the plant in a single NOLA Recycles 2010 is a area to develop an RFP for regional curbside curbside – the plant owned by BFI stream. This type of plant is known coalition of concerned recycling.

A subsequent study by the Regional off Airline Highway – was closed as a Materials Recovery Facility. The citizens who will work Planning Commission fi nds that regionalization due to severe storm damage. facility is located between Airline together to make will not lower recycling collecti on costs, but Additionally, the storms left behind Highway and Earhart near the parish recycling a reality in New could lower costs of recycling educati on and an enormous amount of debris and line.

Orleans in 2010. Our cart purchases. a shortage of laborers to handle it. In goal is to influence the response, the City focused its limited Public Support of Recycling mayoral race and elect a Mid 2008: resources and manpower on debris mayor who will develop disposal. Recycling of “white waste,” New Orleans residents continue a comprehensive waste White announces the City will look into i.e. highly visible refrigerators and to show their support for recycling management program reinstating curbside recycling other appliances, and disposal despite the city’s lack of action. that minimizes the health of household hazardous waste A survey conducted by the city and environmental September 2008: was handled by state and federal in 2008 showed that 90 percent impact of waste disposal, agencies. of respondents would like to see as well as taps the value Beginning of national economic recession curbside recycling return to New of waste materials to weakens the economy and results in the In reaction to the continued absence Orleans. About 10,000 responses build a local recycling decline of recyclable commodity prices of recycling and the City’s lack of were received to a survey that economy. leadership, New Orleans has seen the publicized in water bills. The TimesFebruary 2009: increasing privatization of recycling Picayune reported that most people services since 2005. The for-profit answered that they would pay for Recycling Foundation of Baton Rouge drop-off firm Phoenix Recycling, which had it: “Asked how much they would program suspended been active on a small-scale since be willing to pay, 2,570 said they the mid-1990s, began offering a would pay nothing, 2,858 said from March 2009: curbside recycling program in late $1 to $3.50 a month, 2,127 said 2007, charging $14-15 per month for from $3.50 to $6 a month, 1,671 Recyclables market begins recovery

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January/February 2010

Help a Smoker Quit & Give the Best Gift: Health!

La.’s Comprehensive Cessation Resources Can Help Smokers and Tobacco Users Quit - submitted by LPHI.

with a little guidance and ongoing encouragement, all contribute to a tobacco user’s success with quitting.”

important information and tips for quitting, and offers links to online resources and free statewide cessation programs -- all accessible from a single location, including:

tobacco use.

“The Quit With Us, Louisiana website is a great starting point for smokers who are contemplating In Louisiana, tobacco users have quitting or those who are firm in their Stopping smoking is the single a comprehensive online cessation * The Louisiana Tobacco decision to conquer their addiction most important step that a smoker source -www.QuitWithUsLA.org – Quitline, 1-800-QUIT-NOW in the New Year,” says Bergeron. can take to enhance the length that provides easy access to proven free and confidential advice and “Tobacco users appreciate the and quality of their life. Quitting is cessation tools and programs in a support by telephone for Louisiana anonymity, accessibility and ease of not easy, but the odds of quitting single location that can help them residents, ages 13 and older, who going online to seek information and successfully increase dramatically quit successfully. are interested in or ready to quit help from a single source. There’s with the support of family and smoking.

Certified quit counseling no better time than the present to friends and the use of resources “Every tobacco user is different. is available in English, Spanish and quit.” that provide smokers with the tools Some choose to quit cold turkey, other languages, 24 hours a day, they need to quit in their own way, To learn more about Louisiana’s and on their own terms. This holiday but others prefer working with an 365 days a year. individual quit coach by phone. comprehensive cessation resources, season, give the gift of health. Help Others thrive within the dynamics * Group Cessation Counseling – visit www.QuitWithUsLA.org. a smoker quit. of group counseling,” explains group cessation counseling classes “Quitting smoking is a gift that Cassandra Contreras, New Orleans offered through the American Gift ideas to help a smoker quit delivers immediate health benefits Regional Coordinator for The Lung Association’s Freedom from smoking: by lowering the risk of lung and Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco- Smoking Clinics and the Mary Bird • Chewing gum, hard candy or other cancers, heart attack, stroke, Free Living. “In Louisiana, we have Perkins Cancer Center. a variety of resources to match healthy snacks and chronic lung disease,” says the variety of ways tobacco users * The Tobacco Control Initiative Tasha Bergeron, Statewide Nurse Consultant for the Louisiana Tobacco quit. With just a phone call or a (TCI) - tobacco cessation resources • Tea tree oil toothpicks Control Program. “Making the few clicks, tobacco users can find and services within public hospitals decision to quit using tobacco is a free cessation programs, tools and throughout Louisiana. Cessation • Sticky notes with helpful, encouraging messages critical first step toward conquering resources to meet their individual resources and services provided quit needs.” by TCI combine behavioral a nicotine addiction, but no one has counseling, social support, and • Mint or fruit flavored lip balm to go it alone. A support network The Quit With Us, Louisiana Web pharmacotherapy to assist patients of family and friends combined site empowers tobacco users with in their efforts to discontinue • Car air freshener

Green Mapping During the summer, community activists involved in different sustainable systems from local food to green buildings met to plan a series of interactive, grassroots maps within the New Orleans region. The finished products would combine the databases and expertise of local organizers with an online mapping system built and used by grassroots mapmakers worldwide.

This global system, called Green Map had one map at its inception, but now the maps numbers in the hundreds. In 1992, New Yorker Wendy Brawer designed the “Green Apple Map” which aided tourists, relative newcomers and native New Yorkers in developing a renewed personal interest in sustainability, along with showing the natural sites and culturally significant places that make the city’s environment unique.

With its success, Brawer and her team decided to become the online resource for mapmakers worldwide, rather than the designer of all.

Linking efforts while creating tools

for building complex maps, the Green Map system has now grown to over 365 maps and hundreds of amateur designers working collaboratively all over the world.

All projects receive help from the website’s ever-expanding Tool Center, as well as the other members of the Green Map network. Green Mapmakers in the past have charted within a city’s political boundaries, mapped clusters of small towns, and bioregional boundaries such as watersheds.

to allow any citizen to upload their site directly to the map.

Non-profits such as CityWorks, New Orleans Institute, New Orleans Food and Farm Network, EcoPark, LLC and individual volunteers have already started discussing how to map more of their community’s efforts.

Organizers see many mapping projects in the future, from food sites to bike lanes to second lines.

“Mapping these neighborhoods can create networks of sustainability Recently the site began to offer and open up options on how the Open Map project page so place can be improved. In the act mapmakers can use online mapping of mapping, one’s identification resources. The information is stored with place is enhanced and as new on Green Map’s server and benefits knowledge is added to existing from Google’s base maps. This knowledge, possibilities for greater allows neighbors and partners to community independence and upload information directly on to sustainability arise. Add to this their map, where editors can check the network of worldwide Green the information, thereby adding Mapmakers and the possibilities a level of collaboration previously for our world expands while it also unknown. This system will be used becomes more localized,” says New to build New Orleans first Green Orleans mapmaker Dr. David Burley.

Map; a map of food production sites in the region, using simple criteria “ A New Orleans Green Map system

can foster a sustainable economy of place. The map can help our city produce the necessities and services for our communities with local resources that don’t harm us. In short, a Green Map of New Orleans can be a lynchpin in helping to create a more selfreliant community with connections between place, community, and nature” Burley says.

To learn more about or to upload food production sites visit the New Orleans Green Map project: www.greenmap. org and search the Open Map site for the Green New Orleans site.

14

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Neighborhood Spotlight:

CARROLLTON

Filming on Oak Street Story and Photos By: Gary Smith Carrollton Riverbend (Recently published in Louisiana Film and Video Magazine) New Orleans’ Oak Street is in the Old Carrollton/Riverbend neighborhood where St. Charles and Carrollton avenues meet, and is a favorite location for filmmakers. New Orleans-based cinematographer Francis James is from this area, and numerous directors have shot scenes in this quaint commercial corridor for such films as “All the King’s Men,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and “The Father of Invention.” One reason for this location fascination is that a walk down Oak Street is a walk into the past. It’s anachronistic to see the 1950s facades of old-time barbers, grocery stores, and banks now bustling with restaurants, coffeehouses, day spas, yoga studios, and boutique and vintage clothing shops—still in the original buildings.

Directors David Fincher (“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Zodiac,” “Panic Room,” “Fight Club,” “Alien”), Steven Zaillian (“All the King’s Men,” “Searching for Bobby Fischer”), and Trent Cooper (“Father of Invention,” “Larry the Cable Guy”) all have shot on Oak Street, appreciating that little has to be changed to experience life from half a century ago. And the merchants of Oak Street love having the business. Brad Wilkins of the Oak Street Café displays pictures of the stars on his walls, one in particular of him and James Gandolfini with arms on shoulders like old friends reunited. And Henry and Cecilia Holzenthal of Graffiti Graphics say the film industry has been great to them as well.

Ms. Holzenthal, who’s also the president of the Oak Street Association, raves “We love working with the film industry! Whether it’s for a feature film or a local commercial, they are always a fun and energetic group.” She continues, “We generally work with the props department; they show up with digital cameras and photograph everything in sight that they might want to rent like an old phone or radio, a shoeshine kit, or vintage and neon signs.”

Her company also customer designs “old” signs, and she is proud to say that “a few of the movies we have worked on include ‘Miracle Run,’ ‘Glory Road,’ ‘Failure to Launch,’ ‘Lolita,’ ‘Interview with the Vampire,’ ‘All the King’s Men,’ and ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.’ Marilyn Kearney, program manager of the Oak Street Association adds “The attraction that Oak Street has to film production is the same qualities that the locals enjoy every day; a small town street that is both traditional and trendy; classic and eclectic; main street without being mainstream.”

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January/February 2010

36 Things We Like About Carrollton Compiled by Carrollton Residents for the Preservation Resource Center’s Sellabration 2009 1.

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Small town atmosphere (it developed as a middle-class New Orleans suburb) Historical character (it was founded in 1833) Great variety of architectural styles and housing types Great choice in homes by size and price Real sense of community among neighbors Very energized neighborhood associations Streetcars on Carrollton Avenue and the Streetcar Barn Oak Street! Oak Street! Oak Street!

Maple Street and Riverbend Walkability Kid-friendly commercial zones and kid-friendly dining choices The oak trees on Carrollton Avenue Many fabulous restaurants within walking distance of most of us Ethnic dining choices including: Spanish, French, Middle Eastern, Thai, Japanese, Italian, Chinese, Central American and Vietnamese Fine dining including Brigtsen’s, Mat n’ Naddie’s, Dante’s Kitchen and Boucherie Easy access to a wide variety of stores and services including hardware, shoes, pharmacies, groceries, a general store, a bakery, dry cleaning, a tailor, barber shops, bridal shops, fitness centers, beauty salons, jewelry, books, a vet, yoga, framing, art galleries, consignment, bicycles, interior design, antiques and architectural services No Katrina flooding across much of the area Palmer Park The monthly Palmer Park Art Market Easy access to the levee for recreation, bicycling, running, horse stables and so on Sounds of the streetcar and the river Large variety of churches Proximity to Audubon Park and the Zoo Proximity to Tulane, Loyola and Xavier universities Easy access to services such as a post office, Library branch (Nix), fire station, public transportation Festivities, including the Po’Boy Festival, the Krewe of Oak Parade and the Original Pigeon Town Steppers Easter Second Line Parade Jogging down the streetcar track to Audubon Park The wide variety of residents, including families, couples, singles, students, old-timers, new comers, working class, professionals, artists, musicians, commuters, work-at-homes, many races and ethnic groups Farmers’ Markets, including the Hollygrove and the Crescent City Farmers’ Market Music clubs, including the Maple Leaf, Carrollton Station and Rockn-Bowl Close proximity to major medical centers: Ochsner on Jefferson Highway, Ochsner on Napoleon (formerly Memorial Med center), Tunane medical center at Broadway and Leake and Children’s Hospital.

Fast access to I-10, Earhart Expressway, Elmwood Shopping Center.

Easy access to the airport, without using I-10 Lusher School district and proximity to other good schools including Audubon, Kipp Believe College Prep, Stuart Hall, Lusher Middle and High schools and Newman Camellia Grill Robert’s Supermarket – finally!

Neighborhood Scrapbook

Photos by: Gary Smith at Carrollton’s Night Out Against Crime

Next Month’s Featured Neighborhood:

french quarter Send your stories, opinions, letters and photos to: thetrumpet@npnnola.com or snail mail to: 4902 Canal St., Room 301. New Orleans, La 70119

by February 20th for a chance to be featured in our March/April issue!

16

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

HOLLYGROVE MARKET: A SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE Story By: Kalen Wright French Quarter Neighborhood Photos By: Paul Baricos Hollygrove Market & Farm The Hollygrove Market & Farm is a non-profit retail store selling locallygrown and organic produce located in the heart of the CarrolltonHollygrove community at 8301 Olive Street. Its mission is to make healthy, affordable fruits and vegetables available to residents of Hollygrove, adjoining neighborhoods, and New Orleans, and to serve as a training location for area residents who are interested in organic urban farming.

The fresh produce is purchased from a variety of local sources, including backyard growers, community gardens, and urban micro-farms in the greater New Orleans area, as well as rural farms throughout Southeast Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Organic produce is also made available from national growers to expand the variety of produce offered by this unique community resource.

During the past twenty years, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs have become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from farmers. As a CSA-style market, the Hollygrove Market & Farm Buyers Club offers a box of 11-15 different kinds of seasonal produce yearround for $25 without a membership fee every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The “Lagniappe Table”

offers additional treats such as herbs, produce, legumes and rice, and locally-produced dairy, eggs, meats, honey, preserves and baked goods are also available for separate purchase. Beginning in January 2010, the retail store is now open every Tuesday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM.

Paul Baricos, General Manager and Hollygrove Market & Farm cofounder noted, with a hint of wry humor, that everything the Market has become started from one book and one idea. Paul had read The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan and became interested in the local food movement. He shared the book with Kevin Fitzwilliam (Education & Community Outreach Manager and co-founder of Hollygrove Market & Farm) and his girlfriend, Catherine Vo, who Paul said “literally dragged me to a workshop by the New Orleans Food & Farm Network (NOFFN) in Algiers about backyard gardening, which started us thinking how can we get fresh and sustainable produce into the Hollygrove neighborhood?

Our idea was to open our own store (basically a hole-in-the-wall storefront); then we stumbled across this location (the former Guillot Nursery). Access to supermarkets and fresh food was identified as being a priority by the residents of this neighborhood throughout all of the post-Katrina planning processes

and this location could serve as a centrally-located resource to address that need.” They then approached NOFFN for support to re-initiate the pre-Katrina efforts by NOFFN to stimulate interest in urban growing in the Hollygrove neighborhood and were joined by a third co-founder, Kris Pottharst, who was at the time the Executive Director of NOFFN. The current Executive Director of NOFFN, Daphne Derven, continues the alliance to support the growth and expansion of the Hollygrove Market & Farm.

“Bobby Guillot of Guillot Nursery has been amazingly supportive; he still has ties to the Hollygrove Market & Farm after the demise of the nursery and leases the property for our use. A tremendous amount of work was necessary to reclaim the location post-Katrina and the damage caused by a tornado one year later that destroyed the greenhouse. We had no money -the RosaMary Foundation provided a generous grant to renovate the grounds and buildings. The building of the pavilion was supported by

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January/February 2010

... GROWN FROM A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT Southeast LA and Mississippi.”

Baricos continued, “Local is defined generally as being grown within a couple of hours from New Orleans, but also regional farmers who are growing produce specifically for farmers’ markets. Most of the produce that we buy is from rural growers (80%). CHCDC and NOFFN would like to see the percentage of urban growers increase -- produce grown closer to or within New Orleans is more affordable (with reduced costs and time being required for transportation). Part of sustainability is people growing their own food, growing for their neighbors/community as a whole -- there are lots of opportunities for this type of community gardening due to blight where properties may be able to be put to new use.”

The benefits realized by those who frequent the Hollygrove Market & Farm are extraordinary. Patrons enjoy ultra-fresh food with all of the flavor, nutritional and vitamin benefits. Customers are exposed to new vegetables and also to new ways of cooking or preparing produce through tasting events and recipe offerings on Market Saturdays; Aveeno and Organic Gardening the Tulane City Center (part of and Gueydan, LA. Peaches come preparing meals with the items Magazine. Additional support came the School of Architecture, which from Alabama and produce from from one‘s box becomes a creative, from the Harrah’s Foundation & developed master plan for the farms in Mississippi, including a farm hands-on process. Those who Councilmember Shelley Midura of site and built pavilion and kiosks). that provides Arkansas Black apples. subscribe to the Market’s weekly City Council District A.” Paul expressed “It’s a real partnership,“ Paul Baricos noted “Ashley Locklear, a email newsletter become familiar gratitude for the “hundreds of noted, “and everyone pitched in, former AmeriCorps volunteer for the with the farmers who grow their volunteer hours contributed to get brought something to the table and Hollygrove Market & Farm, is now our food and how the featured foods are this place set up -- painting, breaking continues to do so to this day. The Market Manager and produce buyer. grown. Children enjoy visiting the up concrete, hauling manure, lots of CHCDC was interested in getting She has done a terrific job relating to Market as a family activity and seem time and effort from volunteers who access to fresh produce into this and uncovering new growers across to favor foods from “their” farm -came ready to work.” The site’s soil and other surrounding underserved was tested, and soil was imported neighborhoods; this was a goal to replace the 18” of packed shell shared with the Trinity Christian paving that was “dug up by 100 Community. NOFFN’s mission is Starbucks volunteers over a three- to help people establish backyard day period and 6,000 square feet of organic gardens and they were also growing space was reclaimed.” The interested in improving food access, Clif Bar Corporation, the Blue Moon creating community gardens and Fund and Rebuilding Together of the training people to grow commercially New Orleans Preservation Resource in an urban environment. It was Center also provided resources and a perfect synergy -- all of these volunteers for building and grounds interests came together and fed into renovation efforts. each other; as a result, we have all been able to grow together.” With Additional resources and support this cooperative support, Hollygrove made this a truly community-based Market & Farm opened its doors in effort. The non-profit Carrollton- October 2008.

Hollygrove Community Development Corporation (CHCDC, which owns CHCDC buys locally-grown produce the Hollygrove Market & Farm) was from urban growers and farmers formed as a partnership with the in Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, New Orleans Food & Farm Network, Plaquemines and St. Bernard Trinity Christian Community, and Parishes, and rice from Kinder, LA

18

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Hollygrove Market - continued

vegetable gardening. NOFFN also provides these apprentices with small business management even vegetables they’ve not been form local associations/chapters in basic training and marketing) known to eat previously. their respective communities to help with the(accounting goal of land becoming people learn what they can grow and available to them at the end of their Our community also benefits how to grow vegetables and fruits apprenticeship to start their own substantially: By purchasing produce in their own yards.” Frequently on farming operations and businesses.” and other items from local growers, the first Saturday of each month, the In February 2010, Hollygrove Market consumers provide stability to the Master Gardeners have children’s & Farm will initiate delivery prelocal economy through the support workshops and are on site every ordered boxes of produce to Loyola of local businesses. Buying locally Saturday as a community resource University’s campus and to the saves resources such as fossil fuels during the market’s hours from Deming Pavilion (Tulane Medical and packaging materials, and the 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. “We also hope School’s housing facility). expense of transportation and to engage area schools by partnering delivery is kept to a minimum. with these schools for tours. How The farm also features an Because the number of small farms can we work with you to enhance experimental garden operated by in the United States has decreased your educational objectives for your Jim Bremmer (a volunteer grower dramatically during the last decade, students?” who helped found the market by supporting local growers increases volunteer hours). our community’s survivability and The farm also includes community contributing “Jim’s trying to grow things that supports a way of life that reduces gardens. There are presently four typically aren’t grown in this area/ our dependence on commercial active community beds and two zone just to show that more can be establishments that offer only the more available for use by Hollygrove most common selection of produce. Finally, Hollygrove Market & Farm gives local farmers the means to help educate our community about the importance of sustainable agriculture.

Baricos believes that “The ground is fertile for this shift in food culture, focusing on local economic development instead of global dependence. In New Orleans, because of the food culture we have here, this idea of local economy can find strength as a local food movement.”

During the first year of the Market’s operation, it was “in survival mode,” Baricos noted. “We are now developing our educational outreach programs. The farm is a part of this, demonstrating what’s growing, how to grow food in an urban environment, and composting.” Storm run-off/drainage issues on-site led to an interest in storm water management and the development of a flood management program (including cisterns and retention ponds), “things we can do to provide an example for future urban farms/gardens and individual education experiences for people who visit the farm.” Plans for the site’s expansion include the hope to lease an adjacent decommissioned city street to expand composting operation.

activities.

Baricos is enthusiastic about the future of urban growing in the New Orleans area. “What we’re doing here and in other areas of the city can have a definite impact on how our communities continue to develop post-Katrina. Hollygrove Market & Farm brings focus and attention to the whole aspect of local food security -- growing and buying locally. Our business serves as a nexus to connect the buyers and the on-site growers, and there’s nothing else like this in New Orleans right now. We’re hoping to find our niche in this system, working on finding what we bring to the table and how it fits into the larger system. The more that we get into it, the more opportunities we see -- every time we turn around, there’s another benefit to the food sustainability & security issue -- economic, health, and environmental.”

Baricos carefully noted that Hollygrove Market & Farm is one example of how many organizations, groups and individuals are working to address food security and sustainability issues in our area. “The Food Policy Advisory Committee, authorized by the New Orleans City Council, issued a report in 2008 on food security and access within in New Orleans. This is the New Orleans group looking at the big picture. You can find info about them on the Tulane University Prevention Resource Center website.” http:// www.sph.tulane.edu/PRC/pages/ FPAC.htm

“Hollygrove Market & Farm represents a group of people and organizations who came together with different backgrounds and different missions, but this concept brought us together -- no one person neighborhood residents. Future accomplished than expected with a or organization could have done efforts will focus on involving the backyard garden (his beds include this. Looking forward, we feel that Hollygrove community for a youth herbs, artichokes, pineapples, and we’re part of a real local, indigenous entrepreneurial program (matching garlic). We also have ten free-range movement that can add value, youth in the neighborhood with hens that are housed a night for meaning and life to New Orleans community partners in small protection from predators as a part post-Katrina. We’re looking forward businesses or growing operations as of the farm.” to working with more people and a learning opportunity). organizations and are very excited Hollygrove Market & Farm plans to -- we realize that we’re doing “Two fields being are tended by two soon start a home delivery program something really worthwhile here experienced growers free of rent; for seniors or homebound individuals and the bigger picture is beginning they grow organic fruits & vegetables (those with limited mobility or who to emerge with regard to food that are sold to the CHCDC and are handicapped) to deliver fresh security and sustainability within our restaurants. Ye Old College Inn, produce to their doors; it is possible community, our city.”

Cochon, and Huevos are local that this could be subsidized via restaurants that have purchased NOFFN or churches in the immediate For more information, please produce from these fields. In return area by starting a community garden Five raised beds at the farm are tended for use of the space, these growers where produce could be donated to visit the Hollygrove Market by the Master Gardeners of Greater take on apprentices provided by the the program, subsidizing by growing & Farm website at http:// New Orleans with 20 participants New Orleans Food & Farm Network foods instead or providing financial hollygrovemarketandfarm. as a Program of LSU AgCenter. This for a year‘s time, through two or support. Participants in this program wordpress.com/ program “certifies people all over three different growing seasons, could also sell produce to CHCDC the state as Master Gardeners who to teach them organic fruit and to fund church and community

19

January/February 2010

Carrollton Before New Orleans By: Jerry Speir Carrollton Neighborhood (photo by Ray Nichols) The land that is now Carrollton was a land grant by the Spanish government to Jean Baptiste McCarty on December 22, 1795. The McCarty Plantation primarily produced sugar.

In 1814, the Kentucky militia, under General William Carroll camped on the batture here, near what is now Adams Street, on their way to be a part of General Andrew Jackson’s army at the Battle of New Orleans. Whether the town was named for him or for Charles Carroll, signer of the Declaration of Independence, is debated.

An association of Laurent Millaudon, Samuel Kohn, John Slidell and the Canal Bank purchased the plantation and had Charles Zimpel, a German surveyor and civil engineer, create a plan for streets and squares, a project that was completed in 1833.

The 1830s were a boom time in real estate speculation and development (culminating in The Panic of 1837). The first homes in Carrollton were built in 1834 or 1835. The New Orleans and Carrollton Railroad (now the streetcar) was completed and in operation in 1835; it was, by some accounts, one of the first three railroads constructed in the U.S. The Carrollton Gardens Hotel, at the foot of Dublin Street, opened in 1835 or 1836, and helped establish Carrollton as a resort community.

Carrollton Avenue was surveyed and opened in 1846. It was first “paved” (with shells) in 1862.

In 1854, Carrollton became the parish seat of Jefferson Parish, and the courthouse, at Carrollton and Hampson (a school for most of its life, presently the Audubon Charter School extension), was built in 1855.

The Carrollton Times, in 1863 reported that Carrollton boasted of drug stores, furniture stores, shoe stores, tailors and clothing stores, bakeries, restaurants, blacksmith shops, dairies, fruit stands, oyster shops, jewelry stores, “segar” shops, cake shops, soda and mineral water shops, a sawmill, a coal yard and a lumber yard.

By 1866, the same paper was reporting 54 businesses in the town, “perhaps the most numerous of which were taverns and coffee houses.” From the Railroad Depot (near Carrollton Avenue) to

Carrollton/Hollygrove is Back!

By: Carol Dotson Carrollton-Hollygrove Neighborhood

youth.

The Hollygrove Neighbors Neighborhood Association (HGN), which came together following Katrina, is progressing and expanding.

Resident Pamela Mercadel has taken the leadership role and with a strong board of residents working together, Carrollton-Hollygrove can only get better. Since the storm, HGN has Yes, there are blocks still under helped bring neighbors together construction and some seemingly through quarterly information abandoned properties. “We’re meetings, held at St. Peter’s AME sorting through these and Church; the annual night out against determining the status whether crime; and other activities. The Block properties are Road Home, tax sale Captain program has been helpful in or privately owned and planned getting the word out to residents, for renovation,” said neighborhood and plans call for expansion of that leader Pamela Mercadel. program.

Carrollton-Hollygrove is back! In case anyone had any doubt, CarrolltonHollygrove was one of the first neighborhoods hard hit by Hurricane Katrina that began returning. Today we estimate the neighborhood at Upperline (today the parish line at 90% back and daily improving.

Monticello), on Levee Street there were “no less than fifteen drinking houses.”

A Daily Picayune reporter, described his experience of Carrollton this way in April 1867:

“In the Carrollton garden, we found a brass band playing as if for dear life . . . making the very air quiver with stentorian notes. We drank in the sweet music, and also several well-prepared “Every day you can see signs of etceteras at the time.

“We promenaded through the luxuriant garden, and pressed our way through rose bushes, evergreens . . . ‘Tis a pretty spot to while away an hour or two . . . notwithstanding that the surface of the great ‘Father of Waters’ is a few feet above you, and the stream itself within a stone’s throw.

“The scene as we moved along on top of the firm embankment was interesting, and the turbid stream, as it rolled along, looked magnificently grand. The bank was lined with promenaders, many traversing it for a great length. . . .

“As the sun was sinking in the West, we made a break for a train just starting back to the city. Each car was a living hive. We finally secured standing room on one of the platforms where we remained until dumped once more into the depot in the city. A dash to Carrollton is quite an adventurous expedition on a fair Sunday.”

The river was both a blessing and a curse in the town’s early development.

The present levee is approximately 600 feet further back than the first, and many buildings (and streets) have been lost—either taken by the river itself or taken for the construction of the levee.

In a particularly poignant passage, William H. Williams, writing a history of Carrollton for the U. S. centennial in 1876, recalled a bit of then recent history: “A steamboat wharf, upon the most approved plan, was built in 1872 at the head of Madison Street [now Dante], which however proved to be an unfortunate improvement, as it fell into the river from caving banks within the following two years.”

Carrollton was annexed by the City of New Orleans in 1874.

Through a unique partnership with AARP the Carrollton-Hollygrove neighborhood, along with participation from Hollygrove/Dixon and Palm Air, is galvanizing residents to become more active and vocal in what happens in their community.

Following an eight week leadership training program, residents broke out into four workgroups – Transportation and Mobility, Healthy Neighborhood, Economic development and Public Safety.

Other visible signs of renewal in These resident-led groups have Carrollton-Hollygrove include the instituted activities and projects to new Hollygrove Farm and Market help create community and direction which gives Hollygrove and residents for Carrollton-Hollygrove. From the throughout the city an option for Walking Club that meets regularly fresh grown fruits, vegetables and at Conrad Playground, to the U.S. other items.

In addition more Marshal’s kids summer camp. residents are signing up to create gardens and learn how to care for Carrollton-Hollygrove has also them. The market also provides worked with other neighborhoods entertainment opportunities and a and organizations for the betterment community gathering space. of the city and our community through participation with NPN, Churches in the area have returned the Carrollton Area Network, AARP, as well and are contributing to the TCC, Hollygrove Farm &Market, betterment and growth of the area. Catholic Charities, and others. CHG Trinity Christian Community, which has plans to continue to expand its before the storm was working in partnerships in the upcoming year. change and improvement. We have several sites of new construction including many raised houses.”

Working with our City Councilman Shelly Midura, lights were restored following the hurricane, particularly to Earhart Blvd, a main thoroughfare through the neighborhood, and street signs were replaced.

The Second District police have worked with the neighborhood as well.

the neighborhood, returned as well and serves as the base for AmeriCorp volunteers.

With the help of those and other volunteers, TCC assisted residents with gutting and rebuilding after Katrina. TCC has several other programs as well Carrollton-Hollygrove resident Ruth Kennedy and Manuel and has resumed Herrera share the load at the 2007 Night Out Against Crime at their work with Conrad Park. neighborhood

20

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

HOME... to Carrollton

wine, I vowed to be back within two years. Somehow, that’s just what happened.

been “disappeared” for 20 years.

Because my best friend from Lusher, 1st through 3rd grade, Sallie, came back to Carrollton after years in the Let me tell you about Miss Helen wilds of Maine. And we ran into each at Piggly Wiggly, and Maple Street, other, after losing touch 40 years the bookshop, the Lemon Tree, ago, right over there at Palmer Park, the Squirrel Cage, Gentry, and listening to the LPO. She and her the hardware store in the 1960s. husband live 5 blocks from me. And Oak Street, K&B, McKenzie’s, Howard—dear friend and former By: Elaine Leyada My parents were not born in New Woolworth’s, Haase’s (still there!). neighbor from 20 years ago—and his Carrollton Neighborhood Orleans, but I was. My mother My formative years were spent in wife live four blocks away. was born and raised in Eunice, that stucco apartment building, Let me tell you about the “second” Louisiana; her mother spoke French 809 Cherokee Street, near Maple. Let me tell you about the food, first time I heard the streetcar on until she was a teenager, and her Though my parents had bought a about Oak Street and the cool cafes, Carrollton Avenue. It was last year, father couldn’t read or write when house in Gentilly Woods and moved and the Poor Boy Festival and the 2008. It was early in the morning, a he married. My father had been us there shortly after she accepted a Arts Market, and the levee, and Sunday, I think, and it was raining. moved here by his adopted mother, faculty position in the LSUNO English Audubon Park and the zoo (SO much There I was, standing in the rain escaping a bad scene in Kansas, in Department in 1960, Carrollton was better than in the 1960s!). Let me tell you how tremendous it is to sit with my coffee and umbrella, in my the early-1940s; he went to Fortier my home. at a sidewalk table at Lebanon’s Café slippers and comfy sweats, watching, eating the best hummus in the world looking down the line toward the and hear that streetcar go by. river. When I saw it turn the bend, there was nothing I could do to not Let me tell you about the Adams laugh and cry at the same time.

Street Cultural Center, near the cemeteries, and Anna’s struggle to And I stood there, waiting, grinning help neighborhood kids have an like a fool, letting my coffee get cold, alternative to hanging in the street. while it shambled and shimmied Sewing classes, too. And about its way along. When it got about a Tilman’s work to renovate the old block from me, I put down my coffee store at Leonidas and Willow into a cup, and started dancing with my youth center. umbrella in the rain, clapping and waving. Like a fool.

Let me tell you about my neighbors, Diane and Murray, who lost The conductor was dinging that silly everything in the storm, then used bell, and his face was almost breaking their Road Home money to repair from his grin. I kept dancing after the house next door to me, the it passed a couple of blocks more house Diane grew up in. And the towards Claiborne, making its test orange tree in the back yard. runs before the official re-starting of and played coronet.

And sure enough, when my younger huge Before they retired, she worked for a the Carrollton part of the streetcar siblings got into Ben Franklin, Mom caterers; he had been an apartment line. Before resuming the Carrollton These two non-native New came back uptown, renting a friend’s building manager.

They are the best line, that is.

Orleanians met and fell in love at house on Dominican Street. neighbors I’ve ever had.

LSU, then moved to New Orleans for “So, are you glad to be back?” they graduate school and a better future. Though I am not a fourth or fiftham surrounded by academics, all ask me this. The most honest generation New Orleanian, I came Iservice workers, middle-class, upperand polite reply I have been able Me, I left New Orleans for a home to Carrollton. The trees and the class, lower-class, all that jazz. I streetcar, the mix of people—all of breathe it in, and and it cools my anger whom you can chat with (sometimes like the shade when I cross Claiborne “So, are you glad to be back?” they all ask me this. The way too long) as you’re walking up most honest and polite reply I have been able to devise is to the old K&B: those were the main in the summer. reasons. That, yes, and the smell and There’s crime here, as in all cities. this one: “It depends on what day you ask me.” the FEEL. Meth, crack, smack, like the Ebola skinning our cities and our in the summer, when you’re virus, to devise is this one: “It depends better future, in 1989. Graduate Because people alive. New Orleans is in up Carrollton (with A/C or bad shape, on what day you ask me.” But I school, then Seattle, then eastern driving has been since the in the glare and steam from 1970s—no and can hear the streetcar from my Washington, then southeastern not) one can argue that.

Park way, and then you cross Worse after Katrina. house (take that, Sarah Palin), from Colorado. There were no jobs for a City The city has and get under those trees some outstanding neighborhood my kitchen. That unique scraping writer in New Orleans, at least, none Claiborne Palmer Park, that’s when you associations, that’s for sure, but metalish sound, sometimes a ding. that I could get. I visited a few times, by relax It chokes me up every time, though but not often. No family; no money. cool. and everything feels safe and that’s only because so many I am not a sentimental person. I neighborhoods have residents who have no rational explanation for this So I watched Katrina from the comfort The sweet olive trees, jasmine, and care, and who love that smell and response. of my Craftsman-style brick house in butterfly gingers are like a drug that that feel that they have around them.

Colorado, and from my computer me pretend—but not too long- Blight, cat’s claws, rotting houses Let me tell you about the house on at work, listening to Garland on the helps -I didn’t see that drug deal on the and streets, crime. We’re gonna fix the corner of Short and Leake, where radio. It was time to come home. corner. my parents, in graduate school, lived that, somehow. Carrolltonians aren’t when I was born in 1959. It is still The spring after the storm, I came Because I came back to Carrollton going to wait for someone to do it for shaped like a triangle, an old store of back for two weeks. I don’t have to and found people who had been them. We’re going to do it ourselves. some sort. Go look. tell you what it was like. A friend had important to me, even after I’d Carrolltonians were doing that when a dinner party for me; after too much I moved back last spring, and now

21

January/February 2010 I’m helping.

Carrollton has an interesting history, including the Carrollton-New Orleans Railroad Line. Once a resort town for wealthy New Orleanians—

Am I glad I came back? Well, it depends on what day you ask me.

Today, yes. I’m a fool for a streetcar line named Carrollton. Now, excuse me but I need to go fill a pothole in Do you need to prepare new board chairs and committee leaders? front of my house.

Does your neighborhood have a project it wants to implement?

Capacity College

The city has some outstanding neighborhood associations, that’s for sure, but that’s only because so many neighborhoods have residents who care, and who love that smell and that feel that they have around them. complete with a racetrack, hotel, and train station--after the 1884 World’s Industrial and Cotton Centennial exhibition (in what’s now Audubon Park), its population grew. My house, built in 1930, was part of the developing middle-class neighborhood developing then. And the Nix library, built expressly by and for the residents of Carrollton, was opened in 1930. It’s even a historic district.

The Preservation Resource Center has some good brochures about city neighborhoods: http://prcno.org/ neighborhoods/brochures.php From the PRC brochure about Carrollton:

Do you want to learn successful organizing and management strategies?

The Capacity College is your training ground.

Starting in December, NPN is inviting neighborhood associations, health ministries and civic groups to enroll in the Winter 2010 Capacity College Semester. Neighborhood group participants are offered: o 5 Core Classes taught by New Orleans neighborhood/CDC leaders. o 10+ small forums on a variety of issues from code enforcement to zoning to philanthropy with experts and practitioners. o Nonprofit partners and liaison support to assist your group from project creation to implementation.

Talk With Your Residents About Enrollment at Your Next Neighborhood “In 1833 New Orleans Canal and Meeting. Enrollment Date Will Be Announced Soon!

Banking Co. purchased half of the McCarty Plantation to obtain right of Who Can Enroll: 3-4 residents from a neighborhood group, civic group way for a planned extension of the or faith based ministry.

So, why do I love the Carrollton line? New Basin Canal. Investors Laurent Because when I worked at DeVille Millaudon, Senator John Slidell and For More Information: Email capacitycollege@npnnola.com to be added Books downtown, I took it to and Samuel Kohn bought the other half to our Capacity College contact list. Or call 504-940-2207 and ask to be from work very day from Cherokee and hired planner Charles Zimpel to added to the Capacity College contact list.

Street, rain and shine, and I know create the street grid. Early settlers that the most varied and interesting concentrated on the natural levee, collection of people ride this tourist around presentday Carrollton, attraction for very real and practical Short, Huso, and Fern streets. By the reasons. It’s for show, but it’s also for 1850s, the town had a racetrack, fine real. gardens, a hotel and an elegant train station. New Orleans family lore I’m not a brochure writer. Every often includes stories of the “long” Casa Samba Offers open classes on neighborhood touts its uniqueness. train ride up St. Charles Avenue— Traditional Afro-Brazilian Dance and Every resident has her own favorite sometimes with an overnight stop at Drum Classes Tuesday and Thursday. things about her neighborhood. Sure, Sacred Heart Convent for the Catholic at 7:30pm. we’ve got the best neighborhood Creoles coming from the French in the city. Well, it’s the best for my Quarter and beyond to holiday in Children’s Samba Classes and Stilt walking Saturday morning 9:15am tastes, anyway.

‘The Historic Town of Carrollton.’”

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Private dance or drum lesson We also offer spirits and beers that Available complement our wine styles and selections.

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Casa Samba

Ray Nichols

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22

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

The Miracle in Hollygrove

By: Kevin Brown Hollygrove Neighborhood

neighborhood planning charrette, develop a community-wide block captains program, host thousands There is something happening in of volunteers, distribute tens of Hollygrove, and area residents are thousands of dollars in relief and excited. Once considered a high recovery supplies, rebuild our crime, underserved community, community center and help many there’s a new wind blowing here. return home quickly.

Like many neighborhoods, the turnaround started when we were totally decimated by Katrina. Every house and business was flooded.

Our school closed and has yet to open its doors. Many questioned the neighborhood’s long-term viability.

In 2005-2006, Trinity Christian Community was awarded a grant to place AmeriCorps members throughout the city. In the same year Paul Baricos joined forces with TCC to begin the Carrollton Hollygrove Community Development Corporation. Hollygrove Neighbors, already a partner prior to Katrina, became part of the mix in 2005 as well. Operating from underneath a tent and from the homes of staff members, the organizations managed to gut and repair homes, replace street signs, host a

and Farm Network to create the Hollygrove Farm and Market on Olive Street. Selling the freshest, organic produce available anywhere, Hollygrove has become synonymous with health, one of the objectives of the community.

Our Public Safety committee invited two crime consultants to teach us how to reduce crime and according to Second District stats, we are succeeding.

The Transportation committee worked with a group of architects to develop a beautiful bus stop which awaits city approval to be erected on Carrollton Avenue.

The committee has also developed a walking club and has addressed street issues. Our Economic Development committee is developing a directory of neighborhood businesses to assure that our dollars are spent in the community. Our Education committee is hard at work getting Paul L. Dunbar school reopened.

In 2006-2007, Hollygrove effectively convinced AARP to join us in our rebuilding efforts. As a result of this partnership the LSU Ag Center came to Hollygrove to train our residents as community leaders. Joining our block captains, these community leaders then began 5 working groups: Public Safety, Health and Caregiving, Transportation and Walkability, Economic Development and Education. Each month, the groups meet jointly to report to the community on recent developments and progress. Funded by a grant that AARP secured through the Harrah’s Foundation, we are also blessed to have a Project Manager provided Meanwhile our seniors have through AARP who coordinates all organized themselves to meet the groups. monthly for lunch and to discuss recent news and developments.

In 2008-2009, the collaborative Our youth have wonderful programs worked with the New Orleans Food provided at TCC and Conrad Park. The

Jeanie C. Linders Fund has provided 7 new homes in the community for women who lost theirs in the storm. Clemson University School of Architecture has developed an award-winning, one of a kind home on Olive Street a few blocks from the Farm and Market. There are two new, tax-credit apartment buildings complete with community space, built by Riverlake Properties.

AmeriCorps members continue to help homeowners connect with vital services like the Rebuilding Together home repair program, Green Light New Orleans’ fluorescent lightbulb program, weatherization programs

by Global Green, volunteer help and much, much more.

If this much can be accomplished in four years, with momentum on our side we expect the next four will be even better. There is indeed something special happening in Hollygrove.

It could be called miraculous, it might be called a highly organized community. Whatever you call it, we are thrilled to be part of the new New Orleans.

January/February 2010

By Lynda Woolard Carrollton Neighborhood

Carrollton Cats

with no thought to the chain of consequences they are setting off.

Stray domestic cats that survive the “Well, it’s better to light a candle transition can upset the balance of than to curse the darkness.” So said a feral (wild-born) colony when they my neighbor Paul when I approached try to move in. And, of course, if him with the idea of Carrollton Cats. the cat is not spayed or neutered, 10 years ago, I was adopted by it will add to the number of street Handsome, a sassy male tuxedo cat cats being reproduced in that area. that lives on the streets of Carrollton One pair of breeding cats and their (and mostly now on my front offspring can produce 420,000 more porch). We lived peaceably with the offspring in just 7 years. occasional feline extra dinner guest for several years. However in the The residents of my block in the spring of 2005, I noticed an up-tick in Riverbend thus started a volunteerthe number of feral cats in our area. managed and -funded Trap/Neuter/ I went door-to-door to gauge the Release (T/N/R) program for our interest of neighbors in implementing Carrollton Cats with the help of a community spay/neuter program. Spaymart and Ark Animal Hospital.

On one end of the spectrum were If you have seen a cat with the tip Frances and Jacqueline who loved of its ear clipped off, then you have the cats and fed them liberally. On seen a cat that has been spayed or the other end were those who neutered and returned to its street. opposed their presence and shooed There are benefits beyond just them off with brooms… or worse. slowing the population growth by Paul was more the rule. He was enacting this program. Neutered annoyed by the growing numbers males don’t spray, howl and fight like of cats that led to fighting and sickly the stereotypical tomcat. Spayed animals, but wished them no harm females don’t attract roaming male and, in fact, believed they deserved cats that travel many miles on to be protected. mating rounds. Fixed cats will settle down in an area and keep new cats The New Orleans climate can sustain from moving into it, thereby selfoutdoor cats, but many don’t make stabilizing their numbers. it through kitten-hood. Cats of all ages face threats from predators, So why not just turn them over to weather extremes, speeding cars, animal control? For starters, our poisoning, diseases and human LA-SPCA is over-worked and undercruelty. In university and other funded. Additionally, feral cats tend areas with high occupancy turnover not to be adoptable, so there is little rates, departing owners frequently choice but to euthanize them. The fail to make adequate arrangements goal is to cut down on the amount of for their cats and just release them dollars we have to spend and animals

Feral kittens should be kept with their mother until weaned, but if handled at an early age, can make the transition to house cats.

we have to kill, so spay/neuter is a smarter, more humane solution.

Equally important, there are those of us who feel cats add to the beauty of our lives and work to keep the rat population down in a city bounded by river and lake, where rodents tend to flourish.

Why not release them elsewhere after they are spayed or neutered?

We return the cats to our own neighborhood, because it is the turf that they are familiar with and because we do not want to upset the ecological balance of someone else’s neighborhood. Also, moving cats out of an area creates a vacuum that new cats will come in to fill, new cats that probably have not been spayed or neutered yet, negating all that hard-work you put into clearing out your property.

23

doing T/N/R or would be willing to help you if you reach out to others with cats living in their yards. There are groups out there to assist you like Spaymart, whose low-cost Neuter Scooter program is ongoing. You can take advantage of it by contacting their partners at Southern Animal Foundation, Ark Animal Hospital or the Louisiana SPCA. Carrollton Cats can provide information on how to humanely trap, how to speak with your neighbors and how to live more peaceably with our feline friends. If you would be interested in knowing more. http://www.carrolltoncats.org

At the very least, there are some simple steps you can take to be a part of the solution. If you are going to adopt a cat, make sure you can be responsible for that life for the 20 years it may live. Keep your kitty inside. Indoor-cats are healthier and As a side note, our laws are written live an average of 16 years versus so that it is illegal to harm or neglect the outdoor cat average of 2 years. animals living amongst us.

As For cats and dogs: Spay or neuter members of a community, it is our so as not to add to overpopulation duty to look after and create a better problems. ID tag and/or microchip living environment for each other. your pets... 90% of lost animals without ID never make their way Carrollton Cats is a continuing home whereas 90% of ID’d pets are project that requires hands-on, often returned home quickly. If you cannot tag-team efforts from several people guarantee a permanent home for a willing to take responsibility for our pet, consider fostering a pet until its feline inhabitants. We manage only Forever Home is found. And finally, our small little patch of land but when you have to evacuate for a encourage the initiative to radiate hurricane or any other reason, TAKE out from here. If you are feeding YOUR PETS WITH YOU. If everyone street cats in your area, you could be would take these simple actions, we particularly helpful by participating could put groups like Carrollton Cats in such a program. You may find out of business, which is our ultimate people near you who are already goal.

Handsome’s left ear is ‘tipped’ showing that he has been neutered and vaccinated.

24

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

candidate With the New Orleans Mayoral election coming up, Neighborhoods Partnership Network asked the candidates one question: What are you curretnly doing in your OWN neighborhood to further the revitalization efforts of New Orleans.

Jonah Bascle

Rob Couhig

I have lived almost my whole life New Orleans and I am a Comedian.

I am also in a wheelchair and have been trying to make the St Charles Streetcar Handicapped Accessible. The only way to get people to pay attention is to run for mayor. All we have to do is move five Red Streetcars from Canal St. to the St. Charles line. All of the Red Streetcars on Canal St. are Handicapped Accessible. My plan costs no money and would take one day to complete. Some people have stated that the The St. Charles Streetcars are on the National Register of Historic Places and they are exempt from ADA

regulations. The St. Charles line is on the Register of Historic places but that does not make it exempt.

In the 2008 update of the ADA Act it says that they do not have to make the old Historic Green Cars accessible if it would significantly alter the historic character of the cars. My plan would not effect the historic Green Cars. To take the situation to a level of absurdity, all you have to do today is watch the Red Cars move down St. Charles from Canal on their way to the Carrolton Station Barn! There is no Handicapped Accessible public transportation in New Orleans after 11pm. Some people have asked why

would I be out after 11pm? Why wouldn’t i be out after 11pm? Is it because everyone in a wheelchair is a vampire and when we bite people they all turn into vampires in wheelchairs? The worst kind of Vampires! Since I am a Comedian most of my Stand-Up Shows don’t start until after 10pm. I am not able to get to the shows with an 11 pm curfew. Stand-Up is my job and without handicapped accessible public transportation, I can’t get to work. This lack of public service effects my daily life and my ability to make a living - and it effects every person in a wheelchair who is trying to make a living!

As a member of the board for the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority from Nov, 2006 to December 2,2009 I volunteered literally hundreds of hours and working with other members of the Board, the NORA staff, neighborhood groups, and the citizens, we have been able to transform the agency into an aggressive, collaborative investment for the betterment of our City.

neighborhood associations in the Irish Channel, Mid-City.

Pontchartrain Park & Gentilly Woods, Broadmoor and formalized Memoranda of Understanding with the following neighborhoods and projects:

Pine Village for redevelopment of Louisiana Land Trust properties

-

Oak Park

-

Lakeview

-

Gentilly

-

Lot Next Door efforts

From an agency that was only able to deal with several hundred blighted properties a year prior to my appointment, it has now served as the catalyst for removal of blight and neighborhood revitalization.

Among the areas of improvement have been the creation of development compacts with

I have always been very involved in my neighborhood, my church and my community. Hurricane Katrina flooded our Church, the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and adjacent Hellenic Cultural Center on Bayou St. John.

John Georges

I immediately began repairing the Cathedral which included removing mildew from all the pews and restoring many of our precious icons. We rebuilt the Hellenic Cultural Center, which needed a new roof and considerable interior repairs. Our Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew came to New Orleans to pray for the souls of the lost in January 2006. He was the first world

religious leader to visit New Orleans after the storm. I also helped other New Orleans churches rebuild.

Education has always been important to me. I served on the LSU Board of Regents and Tulane President’s Council. I am a member of the University of New Orleans Foundation where I was active in getting several of the University’s facilities including UNO’s Lakefront Arena re-opened. I also assisted my children’s school after the hurricane.

I quickly reopened my businesses, Georges Enterprises and Imperial Trading, so that our employees

Algiers Development District for expropriation of certain multifamily properties and commercial properties.

could return to work. Many of our warehouse employees lost their homes. I rented four portable office buildings which served as employee housing and we provided two hot meals daily. It was two years before the portable buildings were no longer needed.

I attended an international environmental conference Patriarch Bartholomew hosted here in October 2009 to bring much needed attention to our levees, the MRGO and the effects of the Mississippi River. Only through continued vigilance in those areas will New Orleans ever be truly safe.

25

January/February 2010

spotlight *Note: NPN and The Trumpet Magazine made every effort to contact every listed candidate. Answers printeed are the only ones recieved by deadline.

Troy Henry

Mitch Landrieu

I’m working in two of my neighborhoods – New Orleans East where I live with my family now and Pontchartrain Park where I grew up. In my own neighborhood, I started by making a personal investment in rebuilding my home.

I led the negotiations with the community, developer, and the Army Corps to sell dirt from the neighborhood for levee rebuilding so we could raise money to rebuild some of our community facilities. In Pontchartrain Park, I’m working with my childhood friend Wendell Pierce, in a public-private partnership with the New Orleans Redevelopment

Authority (NORA) to build over 500 homes, which is about half the neighborhood total. The custom built homes will be fortified to withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour. They are super energyefficient. The standard model is certified LEED Silver and will have an annual utility bill of between $500 and $800. In New Orleans today, annual utility bills average over $2,500. Other models will be LEED Gold and LEED Platinum. Platinum homes will have a $0 annual utility bill, and homeowners will be able to sell excess power back to Entergy.

We’ve also been able to package

over $100,000 in state and federal incentives to make the homes extremely affordable, especially to many senior citizens and displaced New Orleanians who still call Pontchartrain Park home. What we are doing there has become a national model for community redevelopment. Finally, I led the design effort for a citywide energy efficiency initiative that is now being deployed by the City Council (Energy Smart).

After Hurricane Katrina, thousands of individuals from around the country traveled to New Orleans to assist with the rebuild. These individuals were part of families, school groups, sporting teams, faithbased organizations, corporations and service organizations, who all had a shared purpose to rebuild the city. In partnership with our tourism industry and community service organizations, we created the voluntourism industry to ensure that communities receive resources and volunteers from every convention and event that comes to New Orleans. More than 250 organizations and 1 million

individuals have completed 500 volunteer projects in communities across the city. Personally, I have participated in many of these rebuilding projects. I also worked with our Congressional delegation to secure $22 million in federal funds for hurricane recovery grants to rebuild historic homes. When other government agencies failed, we got funds into the hands of homeowners quickly, helping more than 500 homeowners rebuild. I expanded the Main Street Initiative to New Orleans, in order to bring economic life to neighborhoods.

The program offers grants and technical assistance to restore

critical corridors such as O.C. Haley, Freret, St. Claude, Oak and North Rampart. I also launched the Cultural Districts Initiative, which creates hubs of cultural and economic activity in neighborhoods, by offering smart tax incentives.

There are now 20 cultural districts from Magazine Street to the Ninth Ward. Currently, I am working with the Obama Administration and our Congressional delegation for federal funding of a $2 billion school construction and renovation plan in New Orleans.

Many residents whose homes suffered storm damage, have seen rebuilding as been the dominant theme over the past four years.

The words “rebuilding” and “revitalization” go hand in hand in our recovery.

a flaw in the program’s payout formula. If successful this would provide thousands with the money necessary to finish rebuilding and return to their homes.

in a blighted area of the city and renovate it.

Leading the Fair Housing Center, I testified before Congress seven times. I’veworked tirelessly with others to secure more than $3 billion dollars for our city’s recovery.

James Perry

We also filed suit against the Road Home Program after discovering that thousands of residents had been shortchanged after discovering

While my “day job” has revolved around rebuilding, my personal life has also been centered on rebuilding and revitalization efforts in my own neighborhood.

My first job out of college was working for the Preservation Resource Center (PRC). That’s where I realized that a key tool in neighborhood revitalization is the blight eradication. That’s why I chose to purchase a blighted home

I had completed many aspects of my renovation when Katrina arrived to undue them. This experience gives me a unique perspective in my run for Mayor as I know all too well the obstacle that City Hall has been in my own recovery.

It also demonstrates why government should serve as a faithful and respectful partner in recovery and it is one of the main reasons as to why I chose to run for Mayor.

26

NPN’s THE TRUMPET

CANDIDATES CONTINUED First and foremost, any neighborhood revitalization plan begins with direct communication and collaboration between the mayor and the citizenry. I will tailor a plan for each neighborhood, which balances expressed needs and desires with city resources.

Nadine M. Ramsey The revitalization our neighborhoods is the cornerstone of my campaign platform. There are several ways in which I am demonstrating my commitment to the neighborhoods and citizens of N.O. On December 2, 2009, I hosted a forum focusing on the concerns of our residents. I reached out to over 159 organizations, leaders, and individuals that stated their commitment to their neighborhoods and the city.

I requested information on their top three concerns as well as any proposed solutions to their problems. This information is included in my plan to assist citizens in rebuilding their neighborhoods.

As a member of the N.O. Chapter of the Links since 1990, I develop programs that help to sustain the backbone of our neighborhoods – the family.

We lobby the US Congress on behalf of women and children affected by Katrina. My chapter, through the OSS, implements a program called “The Baby Shower.”

This program provides items needed by babies that come into the DSS. My efforts to revitalize N.O. include a commitment to education. I spearhead the mentoring program at the Links’ adopted local public school, Mary Bethune Accelerated School.

I promote local business and city tax base revitalization by concentrating my purchases in Orleans parish. As mayor, I will expand my efforts to limits allowed by city charter.

Repairs Deferred for 8 Public Safety and Critical Service Vehicles; Copy/Reproduction Services Eliminated Citywide Monday, January 3, 2010 marked the first day of implementation of the 2010 Budget unanimously adopted by the New Orleans City Council on December 1, 2009. Adjusting to trim an additional $15 million beyond the initial cuts necessary to produce a balanced budget, city staff and departments began implementing the Council’s revised budget. The impact of these budget reductions were evident in the following areas: * City Hall hours have been extended to 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, MondayThursday. City Hall and most City buildings, including all New Orleans public libraries branches, will be closed on Fridays. This change cuts $10.5 million from the budget of the Chief Administrative Office, which makes it necessary to reduce spending on utility costs. City Hall and most City facilities will be closed on Fridays and buildings will be significantly “powered down” beginning at 7:00 PM each business day.

vehicles and elected officials usage has been reduced to one fill-up weekly. No fuel will be provided for Administrative vehicles. * Since January 1, repairs have been deferred for eight public safety and critical service vehicles. Repair costs for each vehicle exceeds the $750 limit set for making vehicle repairs due to reductions in the budget. Deferred repairs total more than $103,000: Five New Orleans Fire Department vehicles, two New Orleans Police Department vehicles and one Parks and Parkways trailer are affected by this deferral action. * The city wide print shop, which provided copy services to NOPD for case records, Finance for bills, and several operating and critical departments throughout the city, has been closed.

* Decreased security and access to City Hall. This change cuts $1 million from the Office of the Mayor. The Mayor’s Office pays for City Council drivers/ security and all security detail in City Hall. City Council drivers/security and supplemental security officers for City Hall are eliminated.

* The 311 Call Center has been closed. There is no central information and complaint line and all calls to 311 will be re-routed to city departments and agencies. There also will be no centralized database to track citizen calls for service. Phone directories are being revised and will be available for citizen use on www.cityofno.com.

* Fuel cards have been deactivated for Administrative vehicles. This expense accounts for four percent (4%) of annual fuel usage. Public Safety services will maintain current usage levels; Service

As the city continues to implement the 2010 adopted budget cuts, the continued patience of our citizens is greatly appreciated.

Write, Submit, Share YOUR Story!

Events, Poems, Neighborhood Updates, Opinions or Photos Contact us with submissions or comments: Email: thetrumpet@npnnola.com Call: 504-940-2207 Snail Mail: The Trumpet Magazine 4902 Canal St., Room 301 New Orleans, La 70119

Submission Guidelines: Please include the author’s full name and neighborhood.

If you submit photos, include all credits of photographer.

Submissions can be made in any format and any word count.

2010 Deadlines

For January issue: December 20th For March issue: February 25th For May issue: April 25th For July issue: June 25th For September issue: August 25th For November issue: October 25th

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January/February 2010

Fierce Conversations

poverty, crime and corruption. They spoke of scarce values and matters of the heart. My friend and I became intimidated. We felt awkward, almost ashamed. We quietly put By: Folwell Dunbar obviously the only tourists in town, away our guidebooks and slipped Bywater Neighborhood Association immediately began plotting a hasty out the side door. retreat. For us, Managua was It was 1991. A friend and I were on a nothing more than an unfortunate Katrina did to New Orleans what slow trek from Ecuador to Belize. We though necessary stop on the path to 10 years of civil war had done to had stopped at a bar in Managua, Copan, Antigua, Tikal and Ambergris Nicaragua: it left the city in absolute Nicaragua for a quick beer. The Caye. ruin. Likewise, it also spurred plenty country was still reeling from a of fierce conversations. Following protracted civil war. (Remember By the time we ordered our second the storm, in coffee shops and the Iran-Contra Affair, Oliver North, Toña Cerveza, I began to realize that restaurants, on stools and stoops, and the Sandinistas?) Already the the chatter around us was a far cry New Orleanians of every persuasion poster child for Banana Republics, it from the usual pub fare. Everyone, grappled with big ideas. We talked now didn’t even have a single crop even the barbacks, was engaged about wetland restoration and to stand on. Nicaragua had hit the in fierce conversations. They flood protection, green spaces and proverbial “rock bottom.” were all talking about things that quality schools, new urbanism and obviously mattered a great deal. race relations, poverty, crime and Nonetheless, the bar was buzzing. They argued passionately about corruption. Unlike in Managua It was packed with expats and civil rights and land redistribution, fourteen years earlier, I didn’t feel missionaries, soldiers and universal education and religious awkward or ashamed. I was now carpetbaggers, refugees and freedom, economic development both a victim and a stakeholder. If mercenaries. My friend and I, and environmental protection, anything, it was exhilarating. Having

hit rock bottom, there seemed to be nothing but possibilities…

The other night I was at a bar, one of two across the street from my house.

(Ya gotta love this town!) Listening in on the chatter, it sounded a lot like the usual pub fare. A few regulars were arguing about the Saints’ draft picks while glancing up at several flatscreen TV’s. A couple in the corner was speculating as to who might be the next queen of carnival. Several Tulane students were debating whether or not to skip class the following morning. Two guys playing pool were trying to figure out who made the better roast beef po-boy, Domilise’s or Parkway Tavern? In a way, it was reassuring - a sure-fire sign that we had finally recovered or at least a nice reprieve from Katrina fatigue. At the same time, it was also a bit disconcerting. Surely, there was still room for more fierce conversations…

Power Your Passion!

By: Tracy Preston Garden District Neighborhood The Social Project is a new non-profit organization created to form positive partnerships with innovators, businesses and existing non-profits within the New Orleans community.

Jessica Stiver, President of The Social Project, is passionate about creating positive change in New Orleans and having her organization become a leading resource and support center for other like-minded efforts in our city. She and her team, led by program and staff developer Crystal Wade, share a vision of identifying social challenges that exist in New Orleans, then developing/ mentoring, financing and running programs to create solutions.

Stiver and Wade moved to New Orleans right after Hurricane Katrina, to assist 3 different non-profits in implementing their services to a city in great need. Stiver stated, “Now that we are years past Katrina, still in great need of support and rebuilding both physically and personally, many of the non-profit agencies that received funding then, find themselves in a financial and resource crisis now. We’ve seen so many great services have to close their doors. And sadly, just because the doors are closed, the need doesn’t disappear. The Social Project has been brought to life to help ensure those agencie’s success through positive partnership, resource

provisioning, and collaboration of efforts. It’s important for us to share resources and be more supportive of each other.”

their programs here. GirlPower!, a youth mentoring program which is supported by First Lady Michelle Obama, will come to New Orleans to train a team, to implement their They have committed to assist mentorship and empowerment the Broadmoor Improvement program in our community. Sarah Association and Andrew H. Wilson Court, whose Courtside Hoops has Charter School, which is completely created an avenue for young adults wired for current technology, who have a passion for basketball including computer labs and to grow and improve themselves computers in every classroom. as both players and individuals, will The Social Project is facilitating give The Social Project her business Microsoft’s partnership with the model to start a community athletic school to provide the software program in New Orleans. needed. With over 15 years experience as a professional trainer In addition to effecting social change, and developer, Stiver is heading The Social Project is working toward a team that will be delivering a new, self-sustaining non-profit training for teachers, students, and business model by profit sharing staff, as well as an on-site network with local businesses to generate professional to maintain the funds and help build a stronger local equipment. They are proud to help business community. This effort

“...not only does your local purchase put more money into your local economy, but also helps to support amazing local programming, benefiting all New Orleans communities!” power the passion of 9th Ward Field of Dreams, Treme’s House of the Rising Son and Crescent City Films’ project, “Murder Through The Eyes Of A Child”, by bringing awareness to their causes and helping to secure the necessary materials for their programs to find success.

In 2010, organizations from outside New Orleans have committed to assist The Social Project by bringing

is headed by Dawn Blancaneaux, Products and Partnership Developer.

Stiver added, “Our local business communities are vital to our neighborhood’s success.

We’re excited to create a more beneficial opportunity for all. There’s nothing better than going to buy something that you need and not only does your local purchase put more money into your local economy, but also helps to support amazing local

programming, benefiting all New Orleans communities!”

The Social Project is providing new energy from a group of passionate individuals who love New Orleans and who want to use that passion to ignite change for the betterment of our wonderful city and all of its communities. So, are you passionate about NOLA? Are you looking for a way to help create positive change?

Feel free to contact the staff at The Social Project, but be prepared to answer the question, “What’s your passion?”

One of the best ways to help, is to make an initial donation to keep the organization rolling. In true entrepreneurial spirit and commitment, Stiver and Wade have used their personal finances to achieve the great work accomplished so far. Your donation would help to ensure the necessary funding to continue their momentum!

To follow their progress, get information about upcoming programs, make a donation, or find local product purchases that will be socially supporting our communities, log onto: www.poweryourpassion.org The Social Project 1914 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 70130 504-324-1803 phone

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

News from Project Home Again Like thousands of people across the world, Leonard Riggio, chair of Barnes and Noble, and his wife, Louise Riggio, watched in horror and disgust as New Orleanians struggled for their lives in their deluged city for five long and sweltering days in August 2005. Struck by the myriad injustices the disaster revealed, the Riggios and their long-time friend, former Deputy Mayor of New York, Bill Lynch formed Project Home Again to restore community, hope and housing to hard-working families who had lost their homes as a result of Hurricane Katrina and the infamous levee failure that damaged or destroyed 80% of the housing

Project on the border of the Paris Oaks and Bancroft Park enclaves.

Led by Green Coast Enterprises, PHA held a series of community meetings to discuss design and development options. With considerable community input, PHA designed a 20-home community that would incorporate the beloved craftsman-style architectural flourishes that are common throughout Gentilly. TKTMJ, Inc., a highly-competent, local builder was hired and PHA broke ground only days before Hurricane Gustav rolled into town forcing a city-wide evacuation.

effort. On building sites that contain damaged structures, PHA has partnered with Rebuilding Together to deconstruct rather than demolish. Salvaged building parts are carefully transported to the nonprofit’s store where they are recycled and incorporated into new homes throughout the city. PHA has also partnered with Hike for KaTreena and volunteers from the local Barnes & Noble, Inc. to plant native trees on all PHA properties.

stock in one of America’s oldest and most unique cities.

Within 6 months of the groundbreaking, PHA had constructed 20 storm-resilient, single-family homes that are raised above minimum flood elevation levels, incorporate numerous durable green materials, and meet the building standards set by the Department of Energy’s Building America program – using 40% less energy than similar houses in the region. By Christmas 2008, 20 former homeowner families, all of whom earn less than 80% of the area’s median income, began moving into their fully furnished, hurricane-resistant homes.

in the St. Anthony area of Gentilly.

These homes are now nearing completion and will be dispersed to low-and-moderate income families who lost their homes in the disaster.

Like the Phase 1 and 2 families, who are employed throughout the city as crossing guards, mail carriers, cooks, bank administrators, musicians, beauticians, etc. PHA anticipates serving the hard-working New Orleanians who keep this city operating.

Project Home Again (PHA) was envisioned as a limited-life nonprofit that would build architecturally compatible, energy-efficient housing in clusters that were large enough to spur revitalization in the surrounding areas. In the pursuit of social justice, the homes were to be given to families in an effort to restore them to their pre-Hurricane status. And, the houses were to be high-quality, but efficiently constructed so they could become models that could be built or supported by other individuals or nonprofits.

After months of visiting sites in New Orleans, assembling staff, listening to nonprofits, and learning the peculiarities of recovery, Project Home Again purchased a parcel of undeveloped land two blocks north of the defunct St. Bernard Housing

Without delay, PHA embarked on a 12-home second phase. With the benefit of the numerous lessons learned from the pilot phase, PHA has reduced the total cost per house by 29%, reduced overhead, recycled architectural plans and engaged more volunteers and nonprofits as partners in our revitalization

In October, Project Home Again began a third phase of construction on 11 lots from the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA)

All PHA homeowners must commit to living in their PHA home for a minimum of 5 years and maintaining full insurance coverage throughout their tenancy. PHA homeowners are encouraged to participate in financial literacy classes offered by the Neighborhood Partnership Foundation and become members of local civic associations.

As Phase 3 concludes, and PHA finishes its 44th house, the group is talking to neighbors in Burbank and Filmore Gardens to determine their level of enthusiasm for more PHA homes and to create a partnership

that could tackle one of the neighborhood’s largest problems – vacant and blighted properties.

If you’d like to tour a Project Home Again house or apply for a home, please call (504) 5293522 or visit the website at www. projecthomeagain.net. Project Home Again is currently accepting application for 12 beautiful homes in the St. Anthony neighborhood.

January/February 2010

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Low-Cost Healthcare Already Addressed in New Orleans While national debate tries to define how health care access would work, New Orleans clinics offering low cost health care are already up and running

By Lily Keber St. Roch neighborhood New Orleans just always has to do everything a little different. And since the storm, added to the usual roster of New Orleans’ unique qualitiesmusic, food, architecture, style, speech, dance, is an unexpected innovation: health care access for the uninsured. With the major public hospital still shuttered 4 years after Katrina, an innovative array of clinics have sprung up to fill the void. And for some, it’s just what the doctor ordered.

citizens of New Orleans can well attest, Charity’s doors were closed after Katrina and have remained locked ever since. Though damage to the building’s structure was minimal, LSU- the hospital’s owner and operator- has plans to build a new, larger medical complex in the nearby Midcity neighborhood, a move that has sparked fierce debate through the city.

“New Orleanians have lived over four years without this critical medical institution, without construction on a possible replacement, and without even a basic business plan to obtain the money from the bond market necessary to finish the job,” laments Eli Ackerman of SaveCharity.org. “As it stands, …it could be another five years or more before New Orleanians have the trauma center, mental “When I compare the treatment health services, and basic hospital with my doctor on insurance and my access they deserve.” (Officials from experience at the 9th Ward clinic, I’m LSU declined to comment for this amazed. [Care at the clinic] is great. story.) With the statewide system of The community clinic is friendly. My free health care now forcibly closed, doctor cares about me and what I clinics in New Orleans have risen to think,” applauds New Orleans native the challenge of providing access to Michele Burton-Oatis. When she lost the city’s uninsured. her job as a public school teacher after the storm, Michele also lost Common Ground Health Clinic her insurance. “My previous job’s (1400 Teche St., Algiers) embodies coverage lasted til 2006, then I paid the DIY spirit of post-Katrina New out of pocket. I didn’t know about Orleans. Started as a first-aid station the clinics [in New Orleans], and my right after the storm, the clinic has doctor didn’t refer me… Because since expanded with the help of it’s so expensive, I wasn’t taking my activists, doctors, and community insulin like I needed to. I was trying members. Since opening, it has to stretch it. When I didn’t feel my logged over 60,000 patient visits, all blood sugar was high, I didn’t take it. at no charge to the patient. Today it I didn’t have any other option.” offers primary care services, a Latino health outreach, health education, But after Michele heard from a friend and prescription assistance. The about the 9th Ward Clinic (5228 clinic hosts regular street festivals, a St. Claude Avenue), she decided to community garden, and events with check it out. “I was amazed- it was local cultural organizations to ensure only $25 co-pay to visit and $4 for my that it remains an active, integrated pharmaceuticals. It was so affordable part of the neighborhood landscape.

I could even come back and bring in my aunt for treatment.”

Other clinics are exploring alternative approaches to community medicine.

Before the storm, nearly all public St. Anna’s Medical Mission (1313 health activity centered on Charity Esplanade) offers acupuncture, Hospital.

From maternity to massage, and Reiki, as well as hospice, the historic building in drumming circles to reduce stress. the heart of downtown served as They equip a full-sized mobile New Orleans’ catch-all medical medical unit that travels throughout center. The second largest hospital Orleans Parish and into parts of in the U.S., Charity saw the birth St. Bernard and Jefferson offering of hundreds of thousands of New basic medical care, plus mental and Orleanians. Ambulances picking spiritual counseling. Says Diana up unknown victims automatically Meyers, RN at St. Anna’s: “We offer drove to Charity. It had one of the these things because there is no one best gunshot wound facilities in ‘cure’ for everyone. …When talking the country (perhaps a dubious about mental health issues such distinction), and the only Level Three as depression, many people don’t trauma facility in the state. But as want traditional care because of the

stigma it carries…These alternatives offer a ‘safe’ way to de-stress.”

Gremillion explains: “The way it works is, if you were an artist and Taking advantage of New Orleans’ went into Daughters of Charity, you unique subcultures, some clinics are explain that you’re an ARTDOCS targeting specific populations. “[Just] patient. They’ll take your name and because you have a clinic does not info and give you a check up. If you mean those in need will come take need surgery they’ll recommend advantage of it. That is the reality somewhere to go. Instead of you of a creative person… just because getting a bill, they’ll send that to they can write a symphony doesn’t ARTDOCS… We’re not a clinic, we mean they can stay on top of their form partnerships.” health,” explains Bethany Bultman of the New Orleans Musician’s Clinic It is these partnerships that keep (2820 Napolean Avenue). Founded the system of clinics afloat. Dr. in 1998, NOMC offers free and Robert Post of Daughters of Charity reduced rate services to all New (multiple locations. Call 504-482Orleans musicians, vocalists, Mardi 2080 for info) says that since Katrina, Gras Indians and their families. “There is a spirit of collaboration.

Since the storm, it has expanded to Everybody has a sense that there’s include discounted prescriptions, no way to fill all the needs or all the patient assistance, lab work, and gaps left- geographically or servicevaccinations. “Look at the principle wise.” Partnerships strengthen the diagnosis: hypertension, depression, entire network because “different diabetes. All these conditions can be organizations have different maintained, but it takes a change in strengths you can build on. There’s lifestyle.” certain things we can offer while others may have other strengthsHowever, as the nationwide recession better outreach, for example.” continues and federal funding to clinics comes to an end, all clinics are However, challenges abound. feeling the pinch. NOMC has been Federal money is coming to an end, forced to cut some of its most crucial and clinics are desperately searching services, such as its mental health for funds to keep themselves open. program. “We realized that to keep Many people are still consumed people alive we would have to make with rebuilding issues and prioritize serious budget cuts- immediately. healthcare last. Too few clinics often The biggest line item [for us] was means a long wait for appointments. paying private providers of mental Most clinics only handle primary health services. Mental health is not services, making larger medical like some other services where you needs more of a problem. Bethany go once every 6 months. Often you Bultman of NOMC points out: “Let’s have to go once or twice a week. say you have diabetes and have to get Multiply that by 7-800 people. That your leg amputated. There’s not a lot adds up to some serious money,” of resources [for that]. We can do a says Bultman. By reaching out to lot in a clinic setting, but if [patients] psychiatric partners, NOMC has have glaucoma, carpel tunnel- where been able to solicit enough donated is the care for that? It’s daunting. services to cover its mental services- There’s a point at which there’s just for now. nothing out there.”

Dwindling funds are prompting some medical providers to seek creative ways to finance their services.

ARTDOCS (artdocs.com) is a nonprofit founded in 1999 to address the medical needs of artists in New Orleans. Each year, ARTDOCS pays for the medical care of its visual artists, writers, musicians and performing artists with funds from an annual art auction. “The goal at the end of the year is always to break even,” explains Executive Director Greg Gremillion. “60+ national artists have donated works to the auction.

All of the money we take in goes to finance the health care costs side of things.”

For now though, uninsured New Orleanians will continue to make do with what they’ve got. Thinking back on her medical experiences when she was insured, Michele BurtonOatis ruminates: “I would prefer to go to a small community clinic.

I think it’s more positive. Before, I would have said that clinics were for ‘those’ people, that’d they’d have sub-par services and long lines. But I’m amazed at how comfortable I feel there. I never thought I’d be one of ‘those’ people, but now I’m glad I am.”

For a full list of clinics throughout the Greater New Orleans area, please visit: gnocommunity.org

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

Community Events Arts Market of New Orleans January 30th 2010 @ 10 a.m.

Presented by the Arts Council of New Orleans, the Arts Market is a monthly arts market held the LAST Saturday of every month. Located at Palmer Park in the lovely Carrollton Section of Uptown New Orleans (At the corner of two well trafficked streets, S. Claiborne Ave and S. Carrollton Ave,) the Arts Market is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and has no admission charge.

The Arts Market features handmade, affordable art from local and regional artists and artisans. Styles of art include Painting, Photography, Ceramics, Glass, Jewelry, Wood, and Printmaking, plus handmade clothing, soap, candles, and other delights. Between 50 and 100 artists display and sell their wares each month.

The Arts Market also features live entertainment, food and beverage booths, and a children’s activities area.

Ask City Hall District A

Shelley Midura City Hall, Room 2W80 1300 Perdido Street New Orleans, LA 70112 Phone: (504) 658-1010 Fax: (504) 658-1016 Email:smidura@cityofno.com

District B

Stacy Head City Hall, Room 2W10 1300 Perdido Street Phone: (504) 658 -1020 Fax: (504) 658-1025 Email:shead@cityofno.com

District C

Bywater Art Market @ Markey Park February 20th 2010 @ 10a.m. - 4p.m.

Approaching their 8 year anniversary, the Bywater Art Market continues to go strong with their unique mission of presenting highly juried, original works of art at affordable prices. No rides, no kids tents, no music – this is not a mini jazz festival; it’s about celebrating and promoting Art! Royal St. At Piety in Bywater

Native Now: Spring Flowering Trees and Shrubs March 6th 2010 @ 8, 9, 10, and ll a.m.

Learn about the native plants of Louisiana, which are better adapted to the extreme conditions of our area.

These sessions take place in the Wild Garden, a garden devoted to featuring native plants in an idealized setting.

After each presentation, participants will receive a complimentary native plant. This program is free, thanks to a generous grant from the Greater New Orleans Foundation Environmental Fund, but reservations are required.

Contact Hilairie Schackai at 504.488.5488, ext. 401 or hschackai@longuevue.com. FREE to attend!

Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans, LA 70124

Trumpet Release Party @ Dutch Alley March 10th 2010 @ 5:30-8:30 p.m.

The Trumpet Magazine will be releasing our March/April issue focused on New Orleans Crime and Crime Initiatives. Sponsored by The French Market and Harrah’s Casino with live music, food, drinks and dancing - this is one party you won’t want to miss! This event is free and open to the public, and individuals and groups from all neighborhoods across the city are encouraged to join us.

RSVP (not neccessary but appreciated) @ rsvp@npnnola.com Dutch Alley, 912 North Peters Street, The French Quarter

James Carter City Hall, Room 2W70 1300 Perdido Street Phone: (504) 658-1030 Fax: (504) 658-1037 Email: jcarter@cityofno.com

District D

Cynthia Hedge-Morrell City Hall, Room 2W20 1300 Perdido Street Phone: (504) 658-1040 Fax: (504) 658-1048 E-mail: chmorrell@cityofno.com

District E

Cynthia Willard-Lewis City Hall, Room 2W60 1300 Perdido Street Phone: (504) 658-1050 Fax: (504) 658-1058 E-mail: cwlewis@cityofno.com

Council Member-At-Large

Arnie Fielkow City Hall, Room 2W40 1300 Perdido Street Phone: (504) 658-1060 Fax: (504) 658-1068 Email: afielkow@cityofno.com

Council Member-At-Large

Jacquelyn Clarkson City Hall, Room 2W50 1300 Perdido Street New Orleans, LA 70112 Phone: (504) 658-1070 Fax: (504) 658-1077 E-mail: jbclarkson@cityofno.com

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January/February 2010

Neighborhood Meetings Algiers Point Association Every 1st Thursday of the month @ 7pm Holy Name of Mary School Cafeteria Baronne Street Neighborhood Association Meetings held when needed, TBA Broadmoor Improvement Association 3rd Monday of every other moth @ 7pm St. Matthias Church 4320 S. Broad Street

(entrance through parking lot on Bayou Road and Rocheblave Street) DeSaix Neighborhood Association Every 2nd Saturday of the month @10a.m.

St. Leo Church 2916 Paris Ave. East New Orleans Neighborhood Advisory Committee (ENONAC) Every 2rd Tuesday of each month @ 6 p.m.

St. Maria Goretti

4720 Painters St. Hoffman Triangle Neighborhood Association Every 2nd Tuesday of the month @ 5:30pm Pleasant Zion Missionary Baptist Church 3327 Toledano Street Hollygrove Neighbors Quarterly- Thursdays @ 5:30pm St. Peters Church (trailer on corner) Eage St and Edinburgh St

Bunny Friends Neighborhood Association Every second Saturday of the month Mt. Carmel Baptist Church 3721 N Claiborne Ave

Edgewood Park Neighborhood Association Every 1st saturday of each month @ 10 a.m.

Gentilly Presbyterian Church corner of Gentilly and Franklin Ave.

Holy Cross Neighborhood Association Every Thursday @ 5:30 Center for Sustainability, Greater Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church 5130 Chartres, Lizardi and Chartres

Bywater Neighborhood Association Every 2nd Tuesday of the month Holy Angels Cafeteria 3500 St. Claude Ave.

Faubourg Delachaise Neighborhood Association Quarterly meetings, time/date/ location TBA

Carrollton Riverbend Neighborhood Association Every 2nd Thursday of the month Parish Hall of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Corner of Carrollton and Zimple

Faubourg Marengo Neighborhood Association Meetings TBA, no regular dates Austerlitz Baptist Church 817 Austerlitz Street

Lake Bullard Homeowners Association Every Saturday @ 3p.m.

Cornerstone United Methodist Church 5276 Bullard Ave.

Carrollton United 1st Monday of every other month @ 7 pm St. Johns Missionary Baptist Church Leonidas and Hickory Carrollton-University Neighborhood Association Quarterly meetings, exact dates/ times TBA Jewish Community Center 5342 St. Charles Avenue Central City Partnership Every last Friday of the month @ 1p.m.

Allie Mae Williams Center 2020 Jackson Ave. Central City Renaissance Alliance (CCRA) Saturday, September 19 @ 2p.m.

1809 O. C. Haley Blvd.

Claiborne-University Neighborhood Association Quarterly Meetings, time and date TBA Jewish Community Center 5342 St. Charles Ave Country Club Gardens Association March and August meetings, details TBA Downtown Neighborhood Improvement Association (DNIA) Every 3rd monday of the month @ 7p.m.

Musicians’ Union Hall 2401 Esplanade Ave

Lake Catherine Civic Association Every 2nd Tuesday of the month @ 7 p.m.

Faubourg St. John Neighborhood Association Every 2nd Monday @ 7p.m.

3201 Orleans Avenue

Lake Willow Neighborhood Every 2nd Saturday of the month @ 10a.m.

St. Maria Goretti Church

Faubourg St. Roch Improvement Association Every 2nd Thursday of the month @ 6:00p.m.

True Vine Baptist Church 2008 Marigny St

Lakeview Civic Improvement Association Dates TBA (next November 14th, January 9th) @ 9:00 am St. Dominic

French Quarter Citizens, Inc. Quarterly Meetings, time/date/ 1 annual meeting per year, time/ date/location TBA Gentilly Civic Improvement Association (GCIA) General Membership- Every 3rd Saturday of the month @ 10am Edgewater Baptist Church 5900 Paris Ave. Gentilly Heights East Neighborhood Association Every 3rd Monday of the month @ 6p.m.

Dillard University Dent Hall - Room 104 Gentilly Sugar Hill Neighborhood Association Every 3rd Monday of the month @ 6:30 p.m .

VOA - 2929 St. Anthony Ave. Gentilly Terrace and Gardens Improvement Association Every 2nd Wednesday of the month @ 7pm Gentilly Terrace School

Lakewood Property Owners Association Biannual meetings in April and October, date/time/location TBA

@ 10 a.m.

Ashe Cultural Arts Center Palmyra Area Partners no regular meetings Paris Oaks/Bayou Vista Neighborhood Association Last Saturday of every month @ 4p.m.

Third District Police Station 4650 Paris Avenue Pensiontown of Carrollton Neighborhood Association Every 1st Saturday of the month @ 2p.m.

Leonidas House Community Center (under renovation) 1407 Leonidas St Temporarily housed at St. Paul AME Church 8540 Cohn St (corner of Leonidas and Cohn) Pontilly Neighborhood Association Pontilly Disaster Collaborative Every 3rd Wednesday of the month General Meeting - every 2nd Saturday of the month N.O. Baptist Theological Seminary Harding Building, 2nd floor Rosedale Subdivision 2nd Friday of Every Month Tall Timbers Owners Association Semi-annual meetings: 2nd Wednesday of October & April @ 7p.m.

Board meetings: 2nd Wednesday of every other month @ 7.p.m Tunisburg Square Homeowners Civic Association, Inc. Every 2nd Monday of the month @ 6:30 p.m.

Lower Ninth Ward Neighborhood Empowerment Network Association (NENA) Every 2nd Saturday @ 12 noon NENA - 1120 Lamanche St.

Vista Park Civic and Improvement Association Every 2nd Thursday of the month @ 7p.m.

Edgewater Baptist Church 5900 Paris Avenue

Melia Subdivision Every 2rd Saturday of the month @ 5 p.m.

Anchoren in Christ Church 4334 Stemway Drive

West Barrington Neighborhood Association 1st Tuesday of every month @ 6 p.m.

Holiday Inn Express 70219 Bullard Avenue

Mid-City Neighborhood Organization General Meeting - Every 1st Monday of the month@ 6:30 p.m.

Grace Episcopal Church 3700 Canal Street Oak Park Civic Association Every 3rd or last Tuesday of the month Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard Mainstreet Every 3rd Wednesday of the month

SUBMIT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS TO: THETRUMPET @NPNNOLA.COM

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NPN’s THE TRUMPET

This issue of The Trumpet Magazine, “Community Voices Orchestrating Change,” is proudly supported by:

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