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Neighborhood Voices, Citywide Power August 2007

Issue #7 Volume 1

Photo by Holly Scheib

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

Find out more at NPNnola.com Musicians Union Hall, 2401 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans, LA 70119 â—? Office 504-940-2207, Fax 504-940-2208 â—? thetrumpet@npnnola.com

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NPN’S THE TRUMPET

AUGUST 2007

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his month we will remember what happened two years ago.

Travis Leger, Editor-in-Chief

We’ve used the word rebirth to describe the city’s recovery. So, we can say this August 29th will be New Orleans' Second Re-Birthday. We’ve come a long way, baby. The Trumpet is remembering how far we’ve come with a New Orleans Neighborhoods Successes Map (pages 10-11).

Max Goldstein, Assistant to the Editor EDITORIAL SERVICES

Emily Zeanah

Take it out and put it on the fridge. It’ll remind you in Lake Vista of the restaurants and small businesses that have opened. It’ll remind you in Mid City of the opening of the first library in your neighborhood since 1958. It’ll remind you in New Orleans East of the 300 community members engaged in city and state rebuilding plans. Residents of the Upper Ninth Ward will recall the Farmer’s Market on St. Claude held every Saturday.

DISTRIBUTION AND PUBLISHING

Gill Benedek

We asked neighborhood groups to send us their successes and the map was created with their submissions. Thank you all. We hope the map and the other inspiring stories this month — including the Abeona House Child Discovery Center (page 7) and the new Peace Park in Central City (page 15) — are a source of inspiration to you as we carry on.

I celebrated my 27th birthday in July. That’s me blowing out my German chocolate cake. I thought the photo was appropriate. If we think of this August 29th as New Orleans’ Second Re-Birthday instead of thinking negatively about how much still needs to be done, well, wouldn’t that be nice?

Travis Leger Editor-in-Chief, The Trumpet

Write, Submit, Share Your Story!

Event, Poem, Neighborhood Update Opinion, or Advertisement Contact us with submissions or comments Email: thetrumpet@npnnola.com or call 504-940-2207 Write to us at The NPN Trumpet, 2401 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans, LA 70119

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

Find out more at NPNnola.com

Third Party Submission Issues Physical submissions on paper, CD, etc. will not 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.

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 2007 Neighborhood 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.

Corrections

Cover: The students of Abeona House Discovery Center look into Oak Street CafĂŠ during a field trip.

Photo by Holly Scheib.

is online @ NPNnola.com

Timolynn Sams AMERICORPS VISTA

Jules Goins AMERICORPS VOLUNTEER

Mario Perkins SUMMER INTERN

Uma Nagendra FOUNDING BOARD MEMBERS

Phil Costa, Board Chair City Park Neighborhood Association Patricia Jones, Board Treasurer Executive Director, NENA Lower 9th Ward

Non-Liability Disclaime rs

Copyright

Submission Guidelines: An article in doc, txt, html or any other format.

Any photos and credits of photographer.

Contact information such as name, telephone #, email address, neighborhood/district affiliation, organization.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

We would like to apologize for multiple technical errors in our May-June issue. Two articles were cut off and there were some repetitions cause by file format conversion. We are more aware of this problem now and are on the lookout for these errors.

Deborah Langhoff Steering Committee District 5 Lakeview, Lake Vista Neighborhood Association Amy Lafont Mid-City Neighborhood Association Latoya Cantrell President, Broadmoor Improvement Association Lynn Aline Baronne Street Neighborhood Association Dorian Hastings Project Manager, Central City Renaissance Julius Lee Pine Timbers Neighborhood Improvement Association Victor Gordon Pontilly Neighborhood Association Kim Henry Oak Park Neighborhood Association

HURRICANE PREPARATION

NPN’S THE TRUMPET

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ÂżEstĂĄ listo?

Cuando den la orden de evacuaciĂłn, ÂżQuĂŠ va a hacer?

Su vida es importante. No se quede atrĂĄs. No arriesgue su vida.

Hoy mismo haga planes para evacuar.

No espere al Ăşltimo minuto para irse!

1) Escuche la radio (830 o 1540 AM)

I-10 Este va a Mississippi, Alabama y Florida

2) PrepĂĄrese para irse.

I-10 Oeste va a Texas

I-59 va a Mississippi y Alabama

3) Asegure transporte.

I-55 va a Mississippi y Tennessee

4) Tenga listo un lugar donde llegar.

5) LlĂŠvese todos sus valores y documentos importantes.

The Trumpet Survey 1. What area of town are you from?

I-49 va a Texas y Shreveport, Louisiana

Also available online at www.npnnola.com/the-trumpet-survey Please return to Neighborhoods Partnership Network at 2401 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans LA 70119 Or fax to 504-940-2208

2. What neighborhood organizations and/or non-profit groups do you work with (if any)?

3. How often do you read The Trumpet?

6. What articles do you want to read?

Rate each item

4. Why do you read The Trumpet? Rate the importance

least 1

2

3

4

most 5

fewer articles 1

2

same amount 3

4

more articles 5

opinions facts and graphs

find tools and resources

investigative reporting

hear about events

personal stories

hear about people and places

poetry and creative writing

read civic news and opinions other (please write here): other:

5. What topics interest you? Rate the importance environmental concerns levees, wetlands and flood prevention political decisions and information

least 1

2

3

4

most 5

7. Are you aware that anyone from the community can submit an article to The Trumpet?

Yes No 8. Are you interested in being contacted about writing Trumpet articles or finding writers for The Trumpet in your area?

No Yes if yes, how should we contact you? _________________________________________

housing development safety and crime

____________________________________________________________________________

health education culture, music and art other (please write here):

9. What would make it easier for you and other community members to provide Trumpet articles?

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NPN’S THE TRUMPET

AUGUST 2007

Neighborhood Voices

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The Trumpet has no responsibility for the views, opinions and information communicated here.

The contributor(s) is fully responsible for this content. In addition, the views and opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of the The Trumpet.

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By Shana Dukes Broadmoor Writer

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few months ago I saw a commercial about identity theft. A woman pulls her car up to a residential mail box. There is a voiceover, another woman’s voice, saying something about how most people think that getting your bills in the mail is a real downer. What could be worse?

Cut to a scene where a faceless gentleman pulls someone else’s bill out of his own mail box and opens it. The account numbers are highlighted and a bright red identity theft warning comes up on the screen as the voiceover announces that what could be worse would be for someone else to receive your bills in the mail.

The commercial ends after scary warnings about the possibility of identity theft if your debtors do not have your current address. Fade to black.

Sigh of relief. It was just a commercial.

No one stole my identity. Wait, how many times have I moved in the past two years?

A few. How many change of addresses have I put in at the local post office?

Many. Still, however, some of my mail fails to make it to my address. Bank cards

and statements have been sent back to my bank since I have been at my current address. What else is out there?

It may be important for you and I to make sure that our creditors have our updated addresses after all. Only a couple of months ago a friend of mine had her En-

sions prior to the disconnect to have the utilities switched over to her family’s name.

She ran into a dead end, however, when Entergy representatives told her that the prior tenant must first cancel service with Entergy before billing could be trans-

#)&0 # )& 1 $! 2) )& # ) ) ! " .& ! -# % $ " 2 . ! / -# % $ " 2 . ! . $ " 2 , ! & ! % )3 1 $! 2) )& # ) tergy service shut off due to an outstanding balance left over from a prior apartment tenant who evidently failed to make contact with Entergy New Orleans and leave an updated billing address. My friend has lived in the apartment for over a year now and had attempted on three separate occa-

ferred. Further attempts at transferring the utilities, such as having the property owner call to report that the last tenant no longer resided in the building or apartment, were also dead ends.

When the disconnect finally did happen, on a hot summer day, my friend, the

current tenant, called Entergy once again to try and resolve the billing mix-up. She was told by the representative that in order to resume service to her home, she would first have to pay the outstanding balance left by the prior tenant.

When my friend questioned the representative as to how she was to pay the bill on an account to which she had no access, the Entergy representative kindly provided her with the name of the prior tenant as well as with all account numbers and social security information attached.

As my friend reported her story to me, I was shocked. I could only say one word.

Illegal. Then two more words. Identity theft. Is a bankrupted Entergy so desperate for funds? Think it can’t happen to you?

Questions about Entergy’s billing methods will have to wait for now. However, if you are moving or have moved, please make sure to have all of your utilities turned off and provide an updated billing address. Doing so could help you save yourself the headache of a potential identity theft. You could also be saving your neighbors or the tenant who comes after you from disconnects and large back-bills.

Just one more task to check off of the list on our way to simplifying post-Katrina life in New Orleans.

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By Kimberly Dilosa Executive Director, YOUTHanasia Foundation, Inc.

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have had an awesome opportunity this year to witness The SmokeOUT Tour. The SmokeOUT Tour consists of teenagers who spread the word about the dangers of tobacco use via hip hop, singing, drama, poetry, and dance. The tour allows teenagers to help decrease the use of tobacco among their peers.

Efforts like these are necessary because teen smokers are more likely to use alcohol and other drugs. Also, it is important to reach our youth before they turn

eighteen years old. Did you know 90% of adult tobacco addicts/smokers initiated smoking before or at the age of eighteen?

Before the tour, I never knew that each day, about 4,000 kids try their first cigarette and each day another 1,000 other kids under eighteen years of age become new regular, daily smokers. I never knew teen smokers get sick more often than teens who don’t smoke or that teen smokers have smaller lungs and weaker hearts than teens who don’t smoke.

Every parent, educator, mentor and community organization should engage in the process of decreasing the use of tobacco in Louisiana. We cannot continue to lose our children to this addiction. It is

estimated that approximately 4.5 million adolescents in the United States are smokers.

I applaud the legislators of our great state who helped pass Act 815, banning smoking in most public places. I applaud The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco Free Living for their tireless efforts in the fight against tobacco use and addiction.

Most of all, I applaud “Kim’s Kidz� who star in The SmokeOUT Tour for putting on their life-changing, life-saving, foot-stomping concerts that make young people think about the smoking-related illnesses that claim more American lives than alcohol, car accidents, suicide, AIDS, homicide and illegal drugs combined.

Everyone should see a SmokeOUT Tour performance! Keep up the good work kids!

Hear recordings of anti-smoking songs and find out more about the tour at www.smokeouttour.org.

SUBMIT Your Ideas and Opinions.

To The Neighborhood Voices Section

We want to hear from everybody!

Email: thetrumpet@npnnola.com Call: 504-940-2207 Write: The NPN Trumpet

2401 Esplanade Ave. N.O. 70119

Green Orleans

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Green Orleans & 1 456 7 ! 8 9 &):$ () ); &" )0 , !

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Uma Nagendra NPN

T

rees are down in New Orleans, so Monique PiliÊ heads to the Appalachian Trail. It’s not an intuitive step for most, but for Monique, hiking the Appalachian Trail is a way to both fulfill her personal goals from the past and provide for a greener, more vibrant future for her lifelong home, New Orleans.

Through sponsorships, grants, and fundraising, she and her group of volunteers hope to translate a 2,175 mile hike into 2,175 trees planted in New Orleans.

Since the hike ended last October, they’ve planted 743 trees in a variety of neighborhoods around the city. Getting the organization off the ground was a huge accomplishment in itself, but now that Hike for KaTREEna is up and running, New Orleans’ neighborhoods have been benefiting from its success in many ways.

Receiving a tree from Hike for KaTREEna not only restores the shade and beauty lost since Katrina, it sprouts excitement and action in the community. One tree planting has a ripple effect in the neighborhood. “People drop by and they see it. And they want to be part of it, too,� Monique says. Planting one tree soon blossoms into a whole street saying goodbye to their dead crepe myrtles and hello to a new set of Chinese pistachios.

When Monique arrived to give my family a handsome Schumard Oak, nearly all of our neighbors came out to welcome her. After breaking the ground for our planting, she visited each neighbor’s yard to discuss what type of tree they’d need.

By the time our tree was in the ground, three of our neighbors had signed up for new trees.

Groups of neighbors, in fact, have organized some of the most rewarding projects. In April 2006, a group of Mid City residents got together to plant 62 trees one weekend. The 40 volunteers, including neighborhood residents and visitors from New York City, filled the 41-4400 block

of Iberville with live oaks, red maples and fruit trees in only three hours.

The project, organized by residents excited to be more active in their neighborhood, was aimed to both combat crime and beautify their streets. Restoring trees wasn’t the only benefit, however; a large block party filled with music and food followed the planting.

Other group projects planted 12 trees in Desmare Park on Esplanade Avenue, 14 on Venus Street, 24 on Poland Street, 25 in Broadmoor, and a whopping 36 each at New Orleans East’s Einstein School and on Freret Street.

Schools, too, have been able to work with Hike for KaTREEna to plant trees and teach the children about it. At Metairie’s Harold Keller Elementary, for instance, the 3rd graders joined Monique in adding some trees to their grounds. “They were enthusiastic—extremely enthusiastic. They just wanted to know everything and do everything.� After questioning Monique about the types of trees and getting to dig a little with the shovels, the kids came up and hugged her. “That was better than any thank you from any adult ever.�

Hike for KaTREEna wants to invest even more in schools, but especially in the most heavily damaged areas. Depending on their recovery progress, some flooded neighborhoods, like Gentilly, have been consistently active with Hike for KaTREEna for a long time. A few residents have taken it upon themselves to educate their community about Hike for KaTREEna. “A lot of the neighbors there got a hold of my flyer, and started handing them out after school,� Monique says, chuckling. “I got five or six calls a day from Gentilly.�

Others neighborhoods, like Lakeview, have only recently been able to think about greening their streets. Lakeview started contacting her a couple of months ago, and she’s been able to do a few plantings in the Ninth Ward. Once hurricane season is over, Monique hopes to reach out more to damaged areas in New Orleans, as well as Arabi and Chalmette. “I want to help out

When Monique (left) arrived to give the Negendra family a handsome Schumard Oak, nearly all of their neighbors came out to welcome her. Mary Negendra and her family helped Monique do the “dirty� work.

every neighborhood that wants it,� she says.

With 743 trees planted, Monique and Hike for KaTREEna are well on their way to achieving their goal, but they still have a lot of fundraising and planting work ahead.

After taking a break from planting during the summer, they’ll resume on October first. Volunteers are always welcome to help, especially with the big fall plantings coming up.

It takes a lot of willpower to hike the Appalachian Trail, but planting a tree in your yard or your neighbor’s yard takes

only the will to wield a shovel.

Hike for KaTREEna donates and plants trees in the New Orleans area. The only cost is a commitment to care for the tree. Hike for KaTREEna is always looking for volunteers and donations.

Contact Monique PiliĂŠ at info@hikeforkatreena.com or (504)301-5628 to sponsor, adopt, or plant a tree Visit www.HikeforKaTREEna.com for more information.

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AUGUST 2007

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On the Level about Our Levees Levee protection is a major issue facing post Katrina New Orleans NPN WEDNESDAY FORUMS are held from 6-8pm at Musicians Union Hall 2401 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans, LA 70119

Neighborhood Meetings Bywater Neighborhood Association Meetings 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm Holy Angels Concert Hall 3500 St. Claude Ave.

Bunny Friends 2nd Saturday of the month 12 noon, Greater Mt Carmel 3721 N Claiborne Ave.

Carrollton United

On Wednesday August 15th you will have the opportunity to meet with the governing bodies of levee and flood protection in New Orleans including: Army Corps of Engineers, The Levee Board, The Sewerage and Water Board, and NEPA - National Environmental Policy Act.

Gentilly Tuesdays, 6 p.m., at Sav-ACenter, second floor, 6600 Franklin Ave. The group holds a meeting to discuss community issues in Gentilly. Call Crystal at (504) 943-0044, ext. 112.

Gentilly Terrace and Gardens Wednesday, 7 p.m., in Kirschman Hall, Room 137, University of New Orleans.

Call Norm Whitley at (504) 280-7120 or e-mail president@gentillyterrace.org

Saturdays, 8:30am Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church 8616 Hickory St.

Hollygrove

CCRA

Holy Cross

Saturdays, 2pm Ashe Cultural Arts Center 1712 O.C. Haley Blvd.

Thursdays, 5-7pm Holy Cross High School 4950 Dauphine St.

Central City Partnership

Lake Bullard Homeowners Association

Last Friday of the month, 1pm 2020 Jackson Avenue Second floor

Claiborne/University Neighborhood Association Last Thursday of the month, 7pm, Jewish Community Center 5342 Saint Charles Ave.

District 6 Community Council Meets every other Tuesday 6:30 pm UNO old Business Admin Bldg Room 211

DNIA 2nd Tuesday of the month 7pm, Musician’s Union Hall 2401 Esplanade Ave., Upstairs

Faubourg St. John 2nd Monday of every month, 7pm, Fair Grinds Coffee House

Saturdays, 12noon St. Peter AME Church 3424 Eagle St.

Saturdays, 3pm Cornerstone United Methodist Church 5276 Bullard Ave.

Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association 3rd Monday of the month 6:45pm St. Paul Lutheran Church 2624 Burgundy St.

Mid-City Recovery Planning Committees First Monday of every month, 6:30 pm, in the chapel of Grace Episcopal Church 3700 Canal St. Call (504) 905-9713.

Zion City Neighborhood Improvement Association Monday, July 9 , 7-8:30pm St. Matthias Catholic Church 4230 Broad St.

Events Eracism Discussion Group Saturdays, 10-11:30 am 3606 Magazine St., Topic: race relations in New Orleans.

Call 866-1163

August 4, Saturday Helping Children and Youth Cope with the Effects of Traumatic Experiences in School and at Home

August 10, Friday

HISTORIC FIRE CHIEF TO VISIT GREATER NEW ORLEANS

Dominion and Power Ministries will host its annual scholarship Free workshop for school banquet at The Four Columns in administrators, teachers, family Harvey. Guest speaker for the members and others who work evening is Fire Chief Rosemary Sistas Making a Change with youth. Children’s reactions Cloud of East Point, Georgia.

Monday & Thursday to experiencing a traumatic Chief Cloud is the world’s first 6:00 to 8:00 pm event such as a disaster may African American female fire Ashe Cultural Center vary widely. Some children exchief. Active and retired fire de1712 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. hibit traumatic reactions that partment personnel are invited An Inner-city Wellness & Health can have tremendous and detri- and encouraged to attend this Project Using Culture to Promote mental effects on classroom event. Scholarships will be Wellness & Healthier Lifestyle. learning and social relationships awarded to local high school All age groups are welcome! within the school and home envi- students as a highlight of the (504) 569-9070 ronment. This workshop will help evening. Tickets are $55 per school administrators, person. Interested parties can Upper Ninth Ward educators, family members, call Dominion and Power MinisFarmers Market and others understand the imtries at 504-365-8204.

Saturdays, 1-4pm,Holy Angels portance of strengthening the Convent (St. Claude at Gallier) school environment and system August 22, Wednesday to support the mental health Affordable Housing Workshop Lower Ninth Ward needs of students. for Child Care Providers Farmers Market 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Do you have staff who have not Sundays, 1-4pm, Hilton New Orleans Riverside been able to return to the city St. David Church Conference Center 2 Poydras St. due to housing difficulSt. Claude at Lamanche Directions: Call 504-561-0500 ties? Come to one of these or visit trainings to learn about housing Advanced Business Training www.neworleans.hilton.com issues in the city and programs Series for Child Care Providers: The workshop is free however and services that are available From July 14th through Saturparticipants are responsible for in this seminar designed to help day, September 15th Good Work lunch and parking costs. child care providers stabilize Network, a nonprofit located in The registration process will themselves and their staff. The Central City, is presenting a free begin on July 1, 2007 see seminar is being facilitated by series of trainings for child care www.layes.org. Space is limited. an expert in the field and will providers on advanced business include presentations from varitopics. These trainings will cover August 7, Tuesday ous organizations on the sertopics that will help providers vices that they offer. Dinner will National Night Out manage the human resource be provided. Providers who Against Crime and financial aspects of their th The "24 Annual National Night have licensed Class A centers businesses.

Out" (NNO), a unique crime/drug can earn administrative hours Early registration is encouraged prevention event. In all, over 34 for their participation. This traindue to limited space. For more ing is one in a series of Admillion people participated in www.goodworknetwork.org/ vanced Business Trainings for NNO 2006. ccsurvey or can call Naomi at Child Care Providers being preSt. Roch Night Out Against Crime: (504) 309-2073. sented by the Good Work Net6pm @ Our Lady Star of The Sea work and funded by the School, 1835 St. Roch Ave. DSS. For more information and Palmer Park (Sycamore and Dubto register call Naomi at 309lin), 6:00pm to 8:00pm 2073.

Find more Community Events @ NPNnola.com

NPNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE TRUMPET

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Photos by Holly Scheib

The People in your Neighborhood

A normal day at the Abeona House might mean snacking on the levee on the edge of Oak Street while horses graze nearby

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By Denice Warren Ross, Dana Eness, and Holly Scheib Abeona House Parents

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ew Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tradition of compact, walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods coupled with the strong entrepreneurial impulse of its citizens is part and parcel of its rich cultural and artistic heritage. In that respect, Oak Street is a microcosm of the city that surrounds it.

Along with its live music venues and art galleries where one expects to find it, Oak Street provides access to culture in less orthodox settings as well. The Oak Street CafĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walls are an art gallery; Driscoll Antiques hosts book signings; the Maple Leaf Bar holds poetry readings on Sun-

day afternoons. And Queen of the Ball, the tiny, glittering, jewel of a snoball parlor, exudes artistic expression from its bold pink-and-black dĂŠcor to its tantalizing selection of â&#x20AC;&#x153;fruit-stuffed snoballsâ&#x20AC;? (its specialty).

Nestled at the far end of Oak, just a few blocks from the river, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find Abeona House Child Discovery Center â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the first new childcare center to open in New Orleans post-Katrina. The approach to learning at Abeona is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, in which the environme nt itself is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;third teacherâ&#x20AC;? (next to staff and the children themselves). Part of this approach to learning is long-term projects that have a context in the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and play. Nearly a year after opening, Abeonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s families and teachers are now woven into the fabric

of this historic main street, and Oak Street itself has become the context for a long term study of our neighborhood. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an extension of the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classroom.

A History Borne of the Storm Abeona House is a nonprofit organization formed by parents whose children attended Gris Gris House, one of the nearly two hundred childcare centers that did not re-open after Hurricane Katrina.

Parents organized by e-mail during the evacuation, and began meeting in November of 2005. Parent and community volunteers contributed no-interest financial loans and worked a collective 2,000 hours toward Abeona's September 2006 opening.

They babysat, shoveled, hung drywall, painted, cleaned, organized, brainstormed,

fundraised, hammered, screwed, drilled, cut, plumbed, chopped, planted, baked, moved, researched and mowed. And, of course, they spent many hours navigating City Hall and state licensing requirements.

Through the nine-month process of creating Abeona House, a strong network of families, teachers and neighbors along Oak Street (local businesses and residents alike) naturally emerged. In fact, the Abeona story bears a strong resemblance to that of the schools in Reggio Emilia, Italy. After World War II, families in the town of Reggio Emilia gathered the bricks from bombed out buildings, and with volunteers from all corners of the community, together they built a school. Here in New Orleans, Abeona House is thriving with this powerful legacy of collaboration as a guide.

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Abeona’s parents are dedicated New Orleanians, holding jobs at nonprofits, schools, hospitals, universities, the public defender's office and the U.S. Marine Corps. They are small business owners, artists, artisans, and musicians, and also directly involved in the rebuilding as carpenters, plumbers and such. Abeona House itself serves as a networking hub for its working parents, where they not only swap child-rearing stories and tips on kidfriendly cultural events, but also grant opportunities, job openings, new restaurants and exciting signs of the city’s rebirth. In post-Katrina New Orleans, such connections are crucial for the maintaining the resiliency of its residents.

Life can be tough for families in postKatrina New Orleans, with many of their social supports from pre-Katrina (including extended family, neighbors, pediatricians and babysitters) no longer in town. On top of the typical post-Katrina challenges, the increase in violent crime has also directly impacted the school.

Helen Hill, mother to Francis, then two years old, was murdered in January of 2006. The Saturday following her death was a pre-scheduled Abeona volunteer workday. More than a dozen families showed up, struggling to come to terms with the tragedy, wondering if they could themselves find the strength to stay in the city, and ultimately finding support in the common purpose of creating an engaging and loving environment for their children.

Oak Street as Classroom The environment that cradles Abeona is uniquely New Orleans, with the river’s levee on one side, with a (soon-to-run?) streetcar line on the other, and a host of local shops in between bursting with creativity and quirkiness. Add to that environment the sense of wonder and curiosity that Abeona House’s toddlers and prekindergarteners bring to the street’s goings-on, and throw in the fact that their dynamic caregivers are inspired by the children and the neighborhood, and you have unstoppable creative combustion.

That combustion is tempered by a thick purple rope, tied with a loop for each child’s hand to safely hold on to. The rope takes constant roll call, and keeps the children to their mission as they walk by the wonders of Oak Street. As they pass White Pillars Emporium, they crane their necks upward at the enormous ceramic giraffes, and at every intersection, they look down, searching for letters belonging to their names in the old New Orleans tiles. In the window of More Fun Comics, they always stop to admire the heroic Spiderman poster. And the kids could study the swamp scene and mounted plastic lizards on Jacques-Imo's painted truck for hours.

AUGUST 2007

When the preschool class was recently working on space-themed projects, they took field trips to Oak Street Hardware to purchase tubes, wire, and other supplies to build their cardboard rocket ship. To celebrate the spring, they visited the levee to hunt for colored eggs left by the “Rainbow Chicken,” chased a dragon (a speciallymade kite), and waved to the horses, trains, and cars that passed by along the River Road. And next-door neighbor Amman & Associates (which donates their landscaping services to the school) provides regular excitement with “bobcats” loading trees and palettes of grass.

When Abeona House was awarded a grant for a new sign, director Emmy O’Dwyer naturally commissioned her neighbor, Graffiti Graphics, to do the job.

“Having Emmy and the kids come by to see their new ‘Abeona House’ sign in progress was a joy. They all got to feel the wood and see how their sign looked in the early stages,” says Graffiti Graphics owner Cecilia Holzenthal. Parent Denice Ross was surprised a week later when her threeyear-old Jamie turned his parents’ bedroom into a “print shop.”

And now, through a Junior League of New Orleans grant, Abeona children are starting to explore the concept of “Home”, and you guessed it, the Oak Street neighborhood will be a part of this longterm project. The network of stakeholders in their education includes shopkeepers, chefs, pharmacists, and antiquaries. And this “faculty” provides a web of support as an extended family might.

A Second Neighborhood for Families In modern-day America, you’re lucky if you feel a strong connection to your neighborhood. Abeona families and teachers are blessed to be connected to two – the one they live in and Abeona’s.

As is the case in New Orleans, some of the best neighborhood interactions center around food. Miss Norma of Queen of the Ball, has a knack for remembering her customers’ favorite flavors. (The ‘Spiderman,’ with its red and dark blue stripe and little candied masked hero, is a current favorite among Abeona’s crowd.)

Mornings at Rue de la Course and Zotz see Abeona mothers telecommuting in order to be a short walk away to nurse their babies at lunchtime. Other parents sneak a quiet breakfast together at Oak Street Café, sometimes returning to the school with bags of donuts to surprise the staff. The backroom at Gelato Pazzo serves as the meeting space for the school’s Board of Directors.

During lunchtime at school, you can hear “Mmm…what’d you get?” as the teachers peer into each others to-go boxes from area restaurants such as the Asian

Aidan Wiese and Benjamin Gancarz-Davies peak into Jacque Imo’s famous truck during the Oak Street Block Party (above). Wearing their Abeona t-shirts, Will Wisneskey checks out the freshly shaved head of his father, Abeona Board President Paul Wisneskey, after Paul shaved his head as a result of donations made by the Abeona community for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation .

THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Cajun Bistro, Station 8801 Bar & Grill, Oak Street Café and Lebanon’s. For Teacher Appreciation Week, parents treated them to lunch at Mat and Nadie’s nearby on Leonidas, and when Starbucks partners visited from Seattle to volunteer at the school, the group joined the school’s director for dinner at Jacque-Imos, followed with an impromptu tour of Frenchy’s studio.

Members of the Abeona family have been active contributors in Oak Street events. As a result of donations raised by the Abeona community, Board President Paul Wisneskey shaved his head for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation in an event hosted at One-to-One Salon. For him, it was worth the drastic change in appearance because "it drew attention to Oak Street and to children's causes, and was another way to model for our children the importance – and fun – of being involved in community activities."

And, never being a group to miss a festival, Abeona families were out in force at the June Oak Street Bar-B-Q. At the barbecue, Sadie Wiese, 10-year-old sister of Abeona House preschooler Aidan, de-

signed and sold magnets featuring the logos of popular Oak Street shops. She donated a portion of her profits to Abeona House and asked that the kids be allowed to decide how to spend it. Let three-yearolds vote and they’ll vote for gelato, so down the street they traipsed.

Vince Pigna, owner of Gelato Pazzo Caffe, says, “It is refreshing to see the pure excitement and joy of the children when they first come in, all of them holding the rope chain with the teachers in tow. It is always a welcome sight.” (Like the cherry on top, it’s worth noting that the shop comped the difference between the donation and the actual cost of the treats.)

Merchants on many occasions have commented on what a difference having Abeona House on the street has made to the feel of the neighborhood. They were thrilled with the “Krewe of Abeona” parade in February. Led by Paulin Brothers, one of New Orleans’ brass bands whose presence was arranged by musician/teacher Kaya Martinez, parents, teachers, and friends rolled with brightly decorated wagons and strollers while the children dispersed their assorted throws to onlookers.

Abeona’s signature throw, “the Golden Nunu,” (pacifiers painted gold and suspended on beads) were hand made by staff and given out to Oak Street business owners.

Ralph Driscoll, who with wife Audrey owns Driscoll Antiques, says, “Just the fact that you now see mothers pushing baby strollers up and down the whole length of Oak Street completely changes the feel of the street and sends the message that this is a safe street, a good place for children and families.”

Good for families it is. Parents have discovered the kid’s menu at Ninja (with food irresistibly partitioned in the bento box so it’s “not touching” – a selling point for picky youngsters). It’s fair to say that Haase’s Shoe Store is the main supplier of the school’s unofficial summer uniform of Croc sandals. And one set of siblings has the Maple Leaf bar to thank for their very existence (it’s where their parents met in 2001).

Children are acutely aware of Oak Street and what it offers. Three-year old William Wisneskey, when asked, “What can you do on Oak Street?” responds, “On

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Oak Street, you can watch the trains, have snack on the sidewalk, and get ice cream.”

So what do the children learn along the street of their school? That question is probably best answered by Abeona House director, Emmy O’Dwyer, a lifelong resident of New Orleans who is also mom to two of the school’s children. She explains that Abeona’s children are learning “what it means to be a New Orleanian – where you know all your neighbors and engaging in simple commerce is a social event.

These young people will keep our traditions alive. They’re learning how to commit to a flavor of snoball, how to enjoy the pleasure of relationships with each other, and how to celebrate every day.”

Perhaps most importantly, the children of Abeona are learning how much we all need each other.

Abeona House serves children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. To learn more about Abeona House and its approach to early childhood education, visit the web site at www.abeonahouse.org.

The Paulin Brothers Jazz Band leads the “Krewe of Abeona” parade through the neighborhood (left), Queen Gabrielle and King Benjamin toast carnival (top, right) and Benjamin receives a big hug after giving a corsage to a resident of the Good Shepherd Center at Carrolton United Methodist Church during a visit.

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AUGUST 2007

New Orleans Neighborhood Successes

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. ! & A

8 )& 8

By Shana Dukes Broadmoor Poet/Writer

W

hen it comes to our continued efforts to rebuild and renovate a better city of New Orleans and its surrounding region, it seems that each person has an idea.

New and innovative ideas are always inspiring to me. However, the ideas that inspire me the most these days are the ideas that involve environmentally friendly building ideas, or going green.

When it comes to helping make our environment healthier and happier in New Orleans, there are so many people working in so many ways that I felt the need to say a collective, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank youâ&#x20AC;?.

I am inspired by the many volunteers and organizations working hard to con-

serve and replenish the beautifying and protective trees and foliage which have always been an integral part of the New Orleans landscape. Without them, what would become of the shady spots to which we retreat on hot summer days whether we are working on our lawns, enjoying our public parks, or just taking a stroll down Carrollton or St. Charles Avenues?

I am constantly inspired by area residents who remain dedicated to planting and replenishing their own flower beds and vegetable gardens as well. Before Hurricane Katrina, I used to say that in New Orleans there was a beautiful surprise around every corner, an allusion to the expert landscaping ability of New Orleans area residents. I am still constantly amazed by the color coordination of pink wildflowers in front of a powder blue house on

an overcast day. As if the homeowners had planned for just such an effect.

Even as some residents awaited home repairs from FEMA trailers, they found time to put down beds or install colorful hanging baskets. I felt this blessing being extended to me as I passed by on my way to work, a meeting, an appointment, etc.

Green builders, or companies and individuals making use of biodegradable building supplies capable of nourishing our Earth upon their disposal inspire me.

Anyone using solar power or partial solar power at home or at work inspires me.

Anyone who is exploring the utility of LED bulbs in the home as an alternative to incandescent bulbs inspires me. (Yes, you do have an environmentally friendly alternative to blinding, buzzing fluorescent light bulbs. Ask for info on LED bulbs at

your local hardware stores, Home Depot, or Lowes.)

Going green may just be the best idea for a better New Orleans that I can think of. It is comforting to think that putting our city back together could be as simple as planting a tree or changing a light bulb.

Such simplicity can keep us going when the overall task is nothing less than overwhelming.

Share Your Transient Blues With The Trumpet For submission guidelines see page 2

( "3 % )& !) )% %) # &

By Mario Perkins NPN

T

he Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hurricane Relief Fund (PHRF) was founded in September of 2005 out of The Community Labor United.

They recognized early on that they needed organize citizens to fight for the right to return to New Orleans.

PHRFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to lobby the government to include the black working class in the New Orleans political decision making process. Their slogan is, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nothing about us without us is for us.â&#x20AC;?

Malcolm Suber is the National Organizing Coordinator and a founding member of PHRF. He says that there was no plan for evacuation and no plan for allowing people to return to New Orleans. He believes there needs to be a complete overhaul of the local political structure and the political attitude in New Orleans is such that political duties are seen as personal favors rather than social obligations.

Mr. Suber believes that the rebuilding process will take several years and New

Orleans needs programs that will orientate the youth towards construction and contracting endeavors. No such programs are in place. He cites the construction of Atlantaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hartsfield Airport as an example.

Minority contractors were given opportunities to participate in the construction of the airport and the success of this opportunity led to more jobs and contracts to build

tinue to sleep there indefinitely. PHRF believes that if the homeless do not organize and make their situation visible then the city government will not sufficiently address the problem.

PHRF is organizing two upcoming events. One is the International Tribunal being held from August 29 to September 2, 2007 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the two-year anniversary of

= # ! # $ " 2 " % & )3)& . 5 ,! # # % ! 5 . ! ">% $2 )% ! & ! ) & &" $&) &)? " . !0, !% 9â&#x20AC;? airports throughout the world.

Some of PHRFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s initiatives include aiding the community with the Road Home Program, advocating rent control and addressing the homeless epidemic.

According to Mr. Suber there are 10,000 homeless persons in New Orleans but only 60 public beds for the homeless. Recently, PHRF constructed a tent city in the park across from City Hall . Although the city tore down the tents, the homeless will con-

Katrina. The United States Government is being charged with genocide and crimes against humanity stemming from its Katrina failure. There will be a march from the levee in the Lower Ninth Ward to Congo Square. There will be documentaries shown, speeches and psychological evaluations for the public. For more information go to InternationalTribunal.org or Peopleshurricane.org.

The other event is the Second Survi-

vors Assembly, December 8-9, 2007. The purpose of the event is to â&#x20AC;&#x153;create political, legal and direct action strategies and tactics to bring about immediate, drastic, measurable and lasting change in the PostKatrina Gulf Coast.â&#x20AC;? Mr. Suber characterizes it as an event â&#x20AC;&#x153;outside of official ribbon-cutting ceremonies that will create new democratic institutions.â&#x20AC;?

I asked Mr. Suber what he thought the near-term future was for New Orleans. He responded by saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are deep structural problems that need to be overcome concerning class and race. If they are not overcome then New Orleans will repeat its mistakes of the past. There should be a decent living wage, free health care, world-class public transportation and a unionized workforce and a citywide effort to police contractors and provide a safe environment for those trying to rebuild.â&#x20AC;?

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank Mr. Malcolm Suber for his time and efforts in helping rebuild a better New Orleans and for contributing to this article.

THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

NPNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE TRUMPET

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2 ! )& , ! $&) 1 & !

By Uma Nagendra NPN

I

n late June, a delegation of community leaders from all across the city and representatives of numerous non-profit groups gathered in the New Orleans African American Museum at a planning session for Community Centers Collaborative (CCC).

This group has been simmering in the background for a while, ever since the Louisiana Speaks conference the November after the storm. Inspired by progressive

All types of community centers are popping up all over the city. Broadmoorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Keller Library just secured enough funding to renovate and expand to a full community center. St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beacon of Hope plans to collaborate with other services and groups in the Lakeview area to increase the resources they offer. Trinity Christian Community has been able to team with two schools in the same area to provide a variety of artistic, senior, and childcare services they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t provide individually.

Members of CCC recognize the power of emerging community centers like these.

They also know it can be very difficult and

Photo by Don Lapeyrolerie

-# & " %!)2)& 3) ) & , & . !">.)&&)& & ) #2 !# " ,)3 1 ! ,! & .5 %)3)% & & " 3 !1 & A ) ideas about community centers tied to schools, long-term members met intermittently, discussing their hopes and plans to integrate community resources into multiservice centers. They had funding, thanks to the Gates Foundation and Prudential Foundation, but still lacked organization. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The only way thisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get organized is if we can get everyone together in one room for a day,â&#x20AC;? said Steven Bingler.

Thus, the planning session was born.

At this point, CCC has identified at least three models of community centers that could help bring residents back and develop neighborhoods even better than before. Each model envisions easy, equitable access to resources such as technology, recreation programs, art, music, and care for both children and the elderly.

The earliest model, the co-location model, combines different services in the same physical location, usually a school.

The co-location model most directly evokes ideas of a physical community center, but it puts a lot of pressure on the principals or property owner. The second model, the collaborative governance model, integrates community resources with urban planning. Instead of providing services in one building, they are concentrated in one area of the neighborhood or city so that they are close but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overwhelm one personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. The last model CCC identified was the new project-based â&#x20AC;&#x153;seedlingâ&#x20AC;? model, exemplified

by Beacon of Hope.

confusing for interested neighborhood groups to find funding and partners, so they hope to create a system making this process easier. As described by its brand new mission statement, CCC will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;Linking neighborhoods and resources to meet diverse needs.â&#x20AC;?

On a Monday afternoon, we all straggled into the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pink house, a quaint double shotgun modified into an art gallery. The galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characteristic white walls and empty, open space set the scene quite appropriatelyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it looked ready to be filled up and absorb everything the group brought. Only one remnant of a past exhibit colored the walls, along with a few posters of â&#x20AC;&#x153;ground rulesâ&#x20AC;? set up by facilitator Brent Henley from the Pyramids Group.

Although the projector screen at one end of the line of tables tried to dominate the setup, the majority of the retreat had us looking up and down the tables to other participants speaking on behalf of their own small groups. Although one of the ground rules cautioned against interrupting, I sometimes felt I was watching verbal ping-pong. With so many passionate, involved people working in the same room, the conversation was bound to get a little loud at times. Often, however, tones rose because people agreed on things the city needs and issues they care about â&#x20AC;&#x201D; mainly pride and optimism for neighborhood autonomy and a hope for increased collaboration between neighborhoods. As

Photo by Nathan Shroyer

CCC session participants discussed the changes or trends they expected to see in New Orleans in the next two years (above) and group members listened to others' ideas about future trends.

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NPNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE TRUMPET

Steven Bingler said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of us can do it better than any of us.â&#x20AC;?

With these themes overriding the conversation, Henley led participants in a series of mental exercises and group dialogues. Together, the group created a mission statement for CCC, identified what trends were most likely to affect New Or-

AUGUST 2007

the possible projects in the city right now.

Keith Leiderman of Kingsley House agreed to lead a task force taking a month and a half to draft three possible governance plans. Another, led by Kysha Brown of LANO, will look through the membership and decide what areas of human expertise are missing in the group. Kevin

Photo by Nathan Shroyer

= # & 1 . 1 #) A ! &)? " ) ), . % & 3 !1 & # ! )& & ! , ! " 1 â&#x20AC;? leans in the next two years, described their vision of an award-winning neighborhood, and pinpointed a few tasks to get moving on achieving that vision.

Spokespeople from each table stood and added to a long list of trends expected to affect New Orleans in the next two years. Group after group listed shifts in population, economy and politics, rises in construction costs, political distrust, neighborhood accountability, as well as decreases in housing availability and safety.

When crime was mentioned, the room erupted into a debate on why current crime-prevention tactics donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work. From an electronic vote, demographic and neighborhood trends were predicted to be most influential to the efforts to create community centers. Participants noted the increasing Hispanic population, demographic shift towards an elderly, continually transient population as well as strongvoiced yet divided neighborhoods.

Despite the many negatives such as increased crime and diminishing public housing, the trend towards bottom-up democracy remained a positive note that resounded throughout the retreat. This active civic engagement, already a driving force for the group itself, was expected to be a redeeming factor boosting New Orleansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; successful future improvement.

When describing visions of an awardwinning neighborhood five years from now, civic engagement topped everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list. Group lists posted on the gallery walls described in colored marker the shared vision of coordinated and collaborated resources, diversity and equity at all levels, accessibility to all populations, creating a best-practices model that is safe, beautiful, vibrant, and healthy. Although the vision proved inspiring to all, some mentioned the need for concrete plans before they can announce their secure commitment.

In that vein, the group decided on and signed up to accomplish three tasks in the next three months. Before any other work can get done, CCC needs to establish an organized governance structure and scope out both the human resources required and

Brown of Trinity Christian Community will head the group researching the current resources and possible projects available at both an institutional and neighborhood level. This last group will take the full three months to research and gather information. Members of the three groups committed to accomplishing the three tasks by October.

Although those three concrete tasks were the most pressing and concrete, participants brought up many issues that CCC needed to resolve before proceeding with their vision. Not only do they need to draft a definite process for approaching neighborhoods and non-profits and secure funding, but they also need to decide on what role the â&#x20AC;&#x153;hubâ&#x20AC;? concept will play in their community work.

Many people expressed concern that the group had discarded their commitment to encouraging multi-service areas, whether housed in one building, in one general area, or in a virtual hub. In moving away from this focus on concentrating resources, many feared that CCC would be duplicating Neighborhoods Partnership Network (NPN). â&#x20AC;&#x153;If weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just focusing on responding to individual neighborhood needs, how are we different from NPN?â&#x20AC;? asked MK Wegmann of the National Performance Network. Her concerns were similar to many others who felt that CCC needed to take some time to examine what differentiates them from other organizations that focus on neighborhood needs, in particular NPN. Throughout the conversation, participants expressed the need for city-wide collaboration. They agreed that CCC would work best partnering with NPN and other existing groups instead of duplicating their efforts, creating a spirit of cooperation instead of competition. Neighborhood planning and rebuilding takes many diverse sets of resources. CCC has skills to offer, and so do many other groups around the city. By combining those together in an informed, cooperative relationship, New Orleans neighborhoods can reap the most benefits possible.

Participants separated into small groups to discuss their visions of award-winning neighborhoods in five years.

THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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Photo by Mike Dingler

During the weeks leading up to Earth Day, 2007, more than a hundred volunteers came to Felicity Street between Liberty and La Salle to build a park â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Peace Park.

& ! ) 1A . ( % ( !0

By Mallory Josol City Year Member

L

ess than three months ago, familiar music filled Felicity Street as the Soul Rebels Brass Band heralded the completion of what could become a symbol of peace and hope in a Central City community...or, at the very least, a great place to have a crawfish boil.

During the weeks leading up to Earth Day, 2007, more than a hundred volun-

teers came to Felicity Street between Liberty and La Salle to build a park. What was once a trash-filled vacant lot transformed into a public edible food garden within days due to the efforts and planning of area non-profit organizations, an inspirational community leader and his church, and a group of middle-school students.

City Year Louisiana, in partnership with New Hope Baptist Church, RePlant New Orleans, and Seventh Generation, planned the construction of the Felicity Street Peace Park (so named for the peace sign which is visible in an aerial view of

the park as well as its intended use) for four months.

This past January, more than fifty middle-school children from all parts of New Orleans met in the cafeteria at Samuel J. Green Charter School to talk with a panel of experts about youth violence and how it affected their daily life. These youth are called the Young Heroes of City Year Louisiana. They proudly serve their community while engaging in important conversations about social problems which affect their neighborhoods, city, and families. Youth violence was a particularly

engaging topic for the students.

Sandra Reed, Chair of the Central City Renaissance Alliance, asked, "How many of you know someone who was murdered or a victim of violent crime?" More than a dozen hands beat the air.

It was evident that the youth, well aware of the violence in their city, wanted to be a part of a positive change. After the discussion, the Young Heroes and their City Year team leaders traveled to an empty lot on Felicity to paint and hang murals that depicted images of peace, love, and non-violence. The land was owned by

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NPN’S THE TRUMPET

AUGUST 2007

What was once a trash-filled vacant lot transformed into a public edible food garden within days due to the efforts and planning of area non-profit organizations, an inspirational community leader and his church, and a group of middle-school students.

Photos by Carrie Miller

the New Hope Baptist Church. The church’s pastor, a well-known Central City leader/activist, Pastor John C. Rafael, was one of the morning's panelists. Pastor Rafael has been a leader in the efforts to stem violence and murder in Central City for years.

City Year Young Heroes Service Leader Sherri Nash asked him, "What are your plans for this area?" And later, "Can we have it to make a garden?"

Pastor Rafael generously obliged.

Early the next morning, the City Year team—a group of six young men and women from around the country and New Orleans who came together to spend their year creating opportunities for young people to be involved in their communities— found themselves in their office on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard and Felicity Street asking each other, "How on earth are we going to do this?!"

And with that, the idea of the Peace Park was born. Central City New Orleans quickly put this idealism to work.

The actual construction of a park would take a design, tool expertise, laborers, and money. While the task initially seemed intimidating to the City Year team, the park was for the community and once they ventured to request help, the folks from City Year were pleased to learn that the community was for the park.

The New Hope Baptist Church allowed City Year Louisiana to use the land, and provided support in the production of the park, ranging from providing water, sandwiches and cold drinks to volunteers, to the ongoing maintenance and watering of the park. Helpful and generous parishioners of the church provided volunteers from AmeriCorps*NCCC, Hands On New Orleans, and idealistic folks on spring break with food, drink, and encouragement in

support of their work. Local businesses donated bricks, wood, and tools to make flower beds and picnic benches. Seventh Generation, a socially-active corporation known for its environmentally friendly hygiene products, donated thousands of dollars worth of citrus trees, herbs, spices, and other harvestable edibles for the garden.

Most importantly, area youth and neighbors came out in groups to donate time and their labors to the Peace Park on Earth Day. As the day came to a close, Pastor Rafael spoke to the volunteers and community members about stewardship.

He explained that a steward is someone who may not own the land, but still takes pride in, and will work on, the land as if it is his own. As a community Central City families and children can take stewardship of Peace Park.

The park is a community-supported

effort that is open to the community. Visitors are welcome to water the plants, pick and eat the okra, basil and other or herbs or spices or just to enjoy a shady spot on the picnic tables.

City Year is currently recruiting a new corps of 17 to 24 year olds who are interested in being a part of the rebuilding effort to commit to ten months of service from September 2007 through June 2008.

They will continue the work that the inaugural City Year Louisiana Corps serving in New Orleans started this past school year by continuing building community and providing positive spaces for young people to contribute to their world.

For more infor mat ion, visi t www.cityyear.org/getinvolved/joincorps/ or call (225) 389-0078.

Photos by Mike Dingler

The Young Heroes and their City Year team leaders traveled to an empty lot on Felicity to paint and hang murals that depicted images of peace, love, and non-violence.

THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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Photos by Nathan Rothstein

At the Nola YURP Initiative people settled into focus groups to discuss the kinds of opportunities and support needed to attract and retain young people in New Orleans. Among the attendees were Meghan Finn, Melissa Schigoda, Jonathan Stewart and Colleen Maley (above).

( 8! $ - !0 ! $ $! , ! )& 8 )& )& . ! &

By Jesse Martin YURP

M

ore than seventy-five young professionals were at the Garden District Hotel on July 25th to begin discussing the future of New Orleans, a very bright one at that.

From the start, everyone who walked in the door was ready to reach out, share opinions, and exchange ideas on how to retain young professionals in the city. The Young Urban Rebuilding Professionals (YURPs) attending the event spanned racial and ethnic boundaries, representing a wide spectrum of occupations: students, lawyers, bankers, advertisers, publicists, educators, non-profits, architects and volunteers.

After the meet and greet, people settled into focus groups to discuss the kinds of opportunities and support needed to attract and retain young people in New Orleans.

The Nola YURP Initiative marked the first event for young professionals in New

Orleans by the non-profit group The mission of the organization is to attract the young and educated to New Orleans and retain those that are here by connecting them with the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The event was a huge success and really showed that there is this community of young professionals in New Orleans that care about the future of this city,â&#x20AC;? said Zach Kupperman, one of the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want New Orleans to become a national destination for college graduates.

In your senior year of college, most kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where they want to go or what they want to do. A lot end up moving to New York, LA, Chicago, or Atlanta, with or without a job. We want New Orleans to be at the top of that list.â&#x20AC;?

Considering there are eight colleges and universities with graduating classes every year in New Orleans, the city is well equipped with intellectual, educated young adults.

The ideas generated at the meeting included: welcome events for newcomers,

Pressure Washing Cleaning Earth Friendly Products making it easier to find jobs, and other programs to connect young professionals with the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are using the ideas and suggestions from the focus groups to guide our future plans and programs,â&#x20AC;? said Ross Kantor, one of Nola Yurpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organizers.

Nathan Rothstein, a co-founder, discussed these future programs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last week we launched the first professional and social networking site for young people in New Orleans. Members can create profiles, share jobs, post events to the calendar, and upload pictures, videos and powerpoints. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The goal is really to be a one-stopshop for connecting young professionals in the city. Over 300 members have signed up in the first week. The enthusiasm is very encouraging and we urge everyone interested in helping out to visit our website.â&#x20AC;?

You can support the future of young people in New Orleans by going to www.NolaYurp.com.

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AUGUST 2007

Crescent City Poetry

When you get the blues, sometimes, do you ever want to wrap up in it like it was an old blanket on a night of syncopated rhythms and blues and funky sad songs and old songs like those you heard when you were just a child, that keep that sad feeling running through you, that say you're still alive with a heart and a soul and all that stuff that makes you human and real and not like some of the phonies who are always happy or always mad?

Don't you ever get the urge to just sit there in some melancholy lost dream state of mind that ain't really a state of mind but a state of being when you remember all the sad times and feel all the sad days like one day that never ended and you wonder what happened to the happy times?

But you don't try real hard to remember just try to wrap up tighter in a blue blue sky blue midnight blue blues you done gone and got yourself like you ain't had in a long time?

And don't it make you madâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; real ticked off mad â&#x20AC;&#x201D; when people try to unwrap you with stuff like, "hey, it ain't so bad" or "cheer up" or some other pathetic trite saying that you wish they weren't saying and you wish you weren't hearing?

No, maybe it ain't that bad right now but it's been real bad sometimesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; the death you never died and the hell you ain't been burned in yet.

And you know that you don't know how you survived some of those bad times, when your body worked without your mind and did what it had to do because you had lost your mind in the blues you was wrapped up in.

Hey, don't you ever just want to have the blues, sometimes?

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; by Valentine Pierce Š 2007

i am waiting in the cracked street sinking into the asphalt like the broken houses all around and the faces in this tableau are a million shades of coffee streaked with tears i am growing roots here the mist is fine and pulls us a little further down a trumpet barks impatiently; but the preacher rumbles behind red bricks it is electric out here where tragedy upon tragedy is spread out in blue sheets all eyes are trained on the doors the trumpet bleats a last complaint; causes a white dove to materialize there and he is announced! his mourners are screaming the only appropriate song to strike courage into the band and his casket floats out on waves of gold tones before open throats raised hands; here is one of our own passing before us watch the story of his life dancing all around you from the house where he was born through the empty projects through his tragedies and victories hear it in the beat of some kid who magically, just for today hits the snare just like him follow it unto his final rest, and dance out as much of his mourning as you can today ...more death is on the way

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; R. Moose Jackson

THE PEOPLE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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Photo by Mario Perkins

The Trumpet Survey What’s your vision of a future Trumpet?

We want to hear your voices even more.

The Trumpet is your magazine, written for you and by you.

Here’s yet another way to make it yours.

Have a hand in shaping The Trumpet by responding to the survey on page 2.

July 10th, Norman Smith (center) and Harmony House members broke ground on N. Rocheblave.

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By Mario Perkins NPN On Tuesday, July 10th, the Treme Community Education Program (TCEP) had a groundbreaking ceremony for its Leverette Senior Housing property located on 102325 N. Rocheblave Street.

Leverette will provide decent affordable housing for seniors in the area.

TCEP will create a wholesome environment that enhances the life, longevity and attitude of Treme’s seniors. The land was donated to TCEP by the Leverette Family, hence the name. TCEP is very

grateful to the Leverette Family and Senator Edwin Murray for getting the project where it is today. State grants helped fund the construction of the building and there is a 240 day project timeline. The property had been dilapidated for several years beforehand. TCEP overcame a three year struggle with the city’s historic landmark commission before developing the property.

I’d like to thank Norman Smith for his contribution to this article. Norman has been with TCEP for 31 years and is the Executive Director of Harmony House, a seniors program organized by TCEP.

A rendering of the Leverette Senior Housing building

The survey is also available online at www.npnnola.com/the-trumpet-survey.

Please send completed surveys to The NPN Trumpet, 2401 Esplanade Ave. New Orleans, LA 70119 Or fax to (504) 940-2208

Rethink Photo by Colin Lenton

Kids Rethink New Orleans has been busy. Above is a glimpse into a day at their summer program. Rethinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monthly column will return to The Trumpet next issue.