Al Qaeda Leader's Anti-Obama Racial Slur Denounced by Black Conservatives Members of the Project 21 black leadership network are denouncing the racial slur made against President-elect Barack Obama by al Qaeda deputy Ayman al-Zawahiri, and hope al-Zawahiri's crude action is a sobering reminder for the President-elect and his supporters about the harsh attitudes of our nation's enemies.   "While no fan of Barack Obama, I am a proud American.  I find this terrorist's remarks directed at our nation's incoming ... MORE >>

Black Backing of Barack Should Not Be Unconditional by Deneen Borelli Barack Obama's election is a capstone on black Americans' struggle for equality.   While isolated racial intolerance can be expected to continue, Obama's electoral landslide and victory in majority-white states such as Iowa and southern states such as Virginia put to rest concerns about a so-called "Bradley effect," in which whites allegedly publicly support - but secretly vote against - black candidates.   Presiden... MORE >>

Black Leader to Bush: Commute Sentences of Jailed Border Agents by Mychal Massie Washington, D.C. - After a federal judge last week refused to reduce the sentences of incarcerated U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean, Mychal Massie - chairman of the Project 21 black leadership network - is calling on President George W. Bush to use his executive power to commute the agents' sentences before he leaves office in January.   Massie said: "At this juncture, whatever penance demanded fr... MORE >>

Don't "Change" Religious Freedom by Bishop Council Nedd II As the nation waits with great anticipation for President-Elect Barack Obama to begin unveiling his policies for rescuing our economy and managing our two wars, the real indicator of his presidential success may be how well he handles his most ardent supporters.   While Americans may have voted for "change," the Pandora's Box of extreme political interests supporting Obama's candidacy could end up shocking many of his supporters.... MORE >>

What's Good for the Goose is Good for the Gander by Ak'bar Shabazz National rules for bankruptcy were overhauled by federal legislation in 2005.   The new law means that bankruptcy is no longer a guaranteed path to a fresh start and relief from heavy financial burdens.  To declare bankruptcy, one must now meet more rigorous standards to prove one's inability to deal with debt and wipe one's slate clean.  There are even stricter guidelines covering confirmed victims of identity theft.  &nb... MORE >>

Elites Denying Affordable Energy to Average Americans by Deneen Borelli Failing schools, crime and single-parent households are just a few of the challenges facing urban communities.  Now, thanks to "Club Green" - radical environmentalists and their supporters - soaring energy prices join the list.   Club Green fights against oil exploration in Alaska and off our coasts.  A moratorium on offshore drilling was removed from a temporary spending bill, ending a 26-year ban on new leases at th... MORE >>

Jackie Hunt recognized for hands-on community work by A. David Dahmer In working for the betterment of Allied Drive, Jackie Hunt believes that it's best to be hands-on. "Trust is a hard thing to earn," Hunt said.  "Over in that community, people have made promises; they've come in and tried to dictate what that community needs and the changes that need to take place, without really knowing who those people are or really getting a feel for who they are. But the only way you can do that is by being hands-on, by being there and interacti... MORE >>

Hibiscus Collective presents first public reading by Pamela Gates The Hibiscus Collective, a group of women writers "dedicated to ensuring that multicultural voices are heard in oral and written traditions," presented its first afternoon of poetry and prose readings Nov. 15. The event was held at the Harambee Center on Madison's south side, and the good-sized audience was very appreciative of the authors and the quality of their work. The name "hibiscus," several collective members explained, was chosen because that flower is found in di... MORE >>

National UW-Madison poetry slam team assembled by Angela Simmons Fourteen brave poets graced the Wisconsin Union Theater stage Nov. 9 to compete for one of the five spots on the University of Wisconsin-Madison's national poetry slam team. For the second year, the Multicultural Student Coalition (MCSC) hosted and the Office of Multicultural Arts Initiative (OMAI) co-sponsored the UW-Madison collegiate slam, which determined the team of spoken word artists from this campus that will compete at the national collegiate slam next April. The atmosphere w... MORE >>

Shantelle James wins Presidential Service Award Madison’s own Shantelle James recently won a Presidential Volunteer Service Award “in recognition and appreciation of her commitment to strengthening our nation and for making a difference through volunteer service." James was part of Fountain of Life's Haiti Mission team, along with (l-r) leader Gloria Zeller, Tori Pettaway, and Marian Jordan, who have paid two long visits to the Institution Univers, a nondenominational Christian school in the village of Ouanamin... MORE >>

Gov. Doyle announces Web Site enhancements to keep communities SAFE from sex offenders MADISON – Gov. Jim Doyle announced the state’s Sex Offender Registry Web site now offers a mapping feature as well as an e-mail notification system for residents through collaboration with Family Watchdog.  “Thousands of parents, grandparents and neighbors have looked to our Sex Offender Registry Web site for information about sex offenders who reside in their communities, and our new mapping and electronic notification features will equip users with more informa... MORE >>

U.S bank bailout not flowing to homeowners by Adrianne Apel BOSTON (IPS/GIN) — Nearly five weeks after Congress approved a $700 billion bailout fund — and as the recession deepens — no definite plan is in sight for struggling U.S. homeowners, who are defaulting on loans at record rates. "The foreclosure problem is getting worse, not better," said Martin Eakes, CEO of Self Help and Center for Responsible Lending, a community-development nonprofit, who spoke Nov. 13 at a Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Commit... MORE >>

Obama 'revolutionized politics' PR mogul says by Bankole Thompson; Special to the NNPA from the Michigan Chronicle  DETROIT (NNPA) — Ofield Dukes, often called the dean of public relations in Washington, D.C., said Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign had excellent public relations with voters from the very start all the way to Election Day. The former Michigan Chronicle editorial writer and columnist, who left Detroit in 1964 to work with then Vice President Hubert Humphrey, was in Detroit recently to address the Public Relations Student Society of America. In an interview, Dukes s... MORE >>

Hamas, Fatah torture opponents in prison by Cherrie Heywood RAMALLAH, West Bank (IPS/GIN) — Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas refused to release 400 Hamas prisoners held in the West Bank, causing talks between rival political factions to collapse before they began. Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip, demanded their release as a precondition for attending the talks with Fatah that were to take place in Cairo under Egyptian mediation. Earlier this month, Hamas released 80 Fatah political prisoners from Gaza's jails and demanded ... MORE >>

2008 Wisconsin Women of Color Network (WWOCN) to hold annual Scholarship Fundraiser MADISON — The Wisconsin Women of Color Network Inc. will host its annual scholarship fund-raising event on Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Double Tree Hotel, 525 W. Johnson St. Once a year we appeal to our members, family, and friends to raise money for the Wisconsin Women of Color Network Scholarship Fund.  There will be a buffet brunch.  For your shopping spree, there will be a silent auction with lots of donated products and services, including celebrity meal... MORE >>

A hobby turns into a thriving bed and breakfast business by Milele Chikasa Anana Kishah Walters transformed her insatiable appetite for hosting parties and entertaining guests into a thriving business.  She now owns her second bed and breakfast inn.  "I consider each person who enters my Inn to be a guest and not a customer." This carries over from her earlier years. "Whenever there was a party, it was always held at my house. My family and friends would always come over and I would be the host. I love cooking, decorating, and adding my personal t... MORE >>

Is the U.S. living its creed and preparing for the future? How America ranks in investing in children, by Marian Wright Edelman At this transformative moment in American life, with the election of Sen. Barack Obama as our first African American and 44th president of the United States of America, we citizens must now roll up our sleeves and help translate this new presidency into a transformation of America's investment priorities and a values-real change. Every child's life has equal value, and our nation has a responsib... MORE >>

Racist incidents increase in wake of Obama's election by George E. Curry The rise in racist incidents —from university campuses to police stations — is a sobering reminder that despite the election of Barack Obama, there are still a lot of sick people out there stuck in the Stone Age. Editor & Publisher magazine, the Associated Press, and local newspapers recently catalogued some of the most egregious incidents. In addition to the garden-variety hate crimes, such as painting racist graffiti on cars and houses, one particularly disturbing inc... MORE >>

Do we save the auto industry? by Harry Alford We have just witnessed one of the most daring schemes and hustles in modern history: the secretary of Treasury forcing Congress and the president to fork over nearly $1 trillion that we really didn't have, under the pretext that it was going to save millions from losing their homes. As Congressman Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, put it: "It was simply a bait-and-switch game." People in danger of losing their homes are no better off, and the money went in various directions other th... MORE >>

Reconceputalizing civil rights for the 21st century by Ron Walters As new opportunities for social change are opened by Barack Obama's election to the presidency and a newly Democratic House and Senate, we continue to need a concept that will define the struggle we will have to go through to achieve equality. I believe that the acquisition of civil rights remains the goal. However, there is considerable confusion around that term, primarily, I think, because the concept of civil rights is trapped in the iconography of the 1960s in the minds of many people an... MORE >>

Jump start the economy - pass a stimulus package now by Mark H. Morial If we needed any further proof that our economy is in dire need of emergency resuscitation, exactly four days after the presidential election the government reported a staggering loss of 240,000 jobs in the month of October, substantially more than the 200,000 job loss forecasted for the month. This past weekend, we also learned that 15,000 more jobs have already been eliminated in the first week of November. The unemployment rate is now at 6.5 percent, the highest level since... MORE >>

Black businesses will rise with others, says Obama economic advisor by Hazel Trice Edney WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Time Warner Chairman Richard “Dick” Parsons, a member of President-elect Barack Obama’s Transition Economic Advisory Board, says Black and other minority-owned businesses, which dominate the rock bottom of the economic crisis will be swept upward as the bailouts and stimulus strategies begin to work. “We all know it’s the people on the bottom who suffer most. But you’ve got to fix it on a holistic basis. You’ve got to... MORE >>

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Thousands urge Congress and Obama to lead us to a green economy by A. David Dahmer "We have been given a planet, and we are responsible for maintaining that planet and ensuring its stability and its ability to go forward," said Bishop Marque E. Duncan (pictured below), senior pastor of Berean Communities Inc. "That is all of our responsibility." Duncan was part of 20 different organizations, dozens of community members, and University of Wisconsin-Madison students who delivered a strong message about the need for urgent action on climate change in... MORE >>

Operation Fresh Start gets huge gift by A. David Dahmer The Madison Club Foundation has presented a check for $58,000 to Operation Fresh Start (OFS). The formalities took place at a press conference Nov. 6 at an OFS work site, a house on Madison's south side that is being built by the young builders of OFS. "This contribution to us is one of the largest contributions in the history of Operation Fresh Start," said Connie Ferris Bailey, executive director of Operation Fresh Start. "We are so appreciative of it. What we are tryi... MORE >>

Mocha Moms host "Boys Booked on Barbershops" National Initiative encourages reading, by A. David Dahmer The Madison Mocha Moms had a successful "Boys Booked on Barbershops" kick-off on Saturday Nov. 8 at JP Hair Design on Madison's Westside Nov. 8 "It went really well. It was well-received by JP's clients and the parents that were in there with their kids," said Cassaundra Edwards, who founded the local chapter of Mocha Moms Mocha Moms Inc., a national support organization for stay-at-home mothers of color, and The National Institute for Literacy, a U.S. feder... MORE >>

Signing Day ... MORE >>

Letter to the Editor Dear Mr. President Dear Mr. President: Congratulations! It has been a long campaign season, one that has made us all dream and hope for a better future. Now the real hard work starts: It is time to act on all the promises made. In your first 100 days, we ask you to provide the leadership necessary to move the following key issues forward. Comprehensive immigration reform: Immigrants are part of this country's fabric. We are hardworking, committed members of our communities. We deserve a fun... MORE >>

Anita Martin In the not-so-distant past, a new car cost the same as it costs to attend one year of college today. So how can you prevent the cost of college from keeping you or your child from pursuing higher education? On Oct. 30, Steven D. Lamb and Robert DeCock presented a workshop designed for parents and students titled "Save on College: How to Effectively Prepare to Ensure College Success." It was the first of several free workshops being hosted this fall by the Madison nonprofit A... MORE >>

Odyssey Showcase an uplifting experience by A. David Dahmer and Jeanne Erickson With photo boards of past graduates as a backdrop, current and past Odyssey students filled the South Madison Health Center on Nov. 1 for "Odyssey Voices: A Showcase of Student Talent." UW Odyssey Project students shared excerpts from their creative work, including winning entries in a "Why Vote?" essay competition.  Audience members were honored with personal stories of the Odyssey journey shared by Josephine Lorya, Annette Bland, Rockameen, Shanita Lawrence,... MORE >>

On the election of President Barack Obama by Scott Gray After the longest and hardest-fought presidential campaign in American history, the votes are now in; and Barack Obama has just been elected the 44th president of the United States. The Urban League of Greater Madison congratulates President-elect Obama, Vice President-elect Joe Biden, and their families for turning what began as an improbable journey into a historic victory for their party and our country. We wel... MORE >>

No more excuses by Gail Moore Like millions of Americans, I cried tears of joy on Nov. 4, 2008, when the news commentators announced that Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, a Black man, would be the 44th president of the United States. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event, an event I never believed I'd see in my lifetime. An event which has brought renewed hope for our democracy. An event which filled me with pride and underscored the rea... MORE >>

Jackson, Sharpton say their activist roles will not change by Hazel Trice Edney WASHINGTON (NNPA) —The Revs. Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, perhaps the highest-profile civil rights leaders in the nation, both say their roles will not change as America beholds its first Black president. "The issues haven't gone away," says Sharpton. "Barack Obama said this is the beginning of change. This is not change itself. It's almost insulting to act like Blacks should now shut up, just because we have a Black president." In a recent interview... MORE >>

Something else to celebrate by James Clingman It's the time of the year when we start thinking about our taxes, the time of the year when I usually dedicate this column to the largest Black tax-preparation firm in the country. Now, in 2008, with 156 offices across the United States and growing, Compro-Tax Inc. should be high on your list of businesses to support during the initial four months of the tax season — and beyond. So as I give you something else to cheer about, go to www.comprota... MORE >>

The Black vote in 2008 by Ron Walters Pardon me if I begin this with a little crowing, since I attracted considerable heat months ago when I declared that Barack Obama would win this election in a landslide and that the Black vote would reach unprecedented levels. Both of these predictions materialized. So I will go on to briefly describe the performance of the Black vote in this election, knowing that it is always dangerous to talk statistics while votes are still being counted. But I will try to give some estima... MORE >>

Yes, we can! by Marian Wright Edelman I am so proud of America! I am so proud of President-elect Barack Obama, who calls us to greatness and to rise to our best selves. And I am so proud of all the young people who joined with him in saying, "Yes, we can!" The election of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States has revived America's dream from the smoldering rubble of war; the quicksand of racial, religious, and class strife; and the selfish individualism and reckless greed that have brought our n... MORE >>

Religious right still vocal by Bill Berkowitz OAKLAND, Calif. (IPS/GIN) — The election of Sen. Barack Obama as the first African American president of the United States will not mark the end of the religious right. Although many in the mainstream media will write and talk about the movement's imminent demise, that demise is not likely. More relevant questions are how the religious right will behave during an Obama administration and what steps the movement will take to resurrect its troops. While Obama's victory was a major ... MORE >>

100-year-old celebrates by Melanie Holmes PHILADELPHIA (NNPA) — Raymond Bowman's memory has not failed him in the least. To this day, the 100-year-old vividly remembers the welts whipped into his great-grandfather's back, each painful protrusion an unsightly symbol of slavery's sting throughout the Black community. But on Nov. 4, Bowman witnessed the ultimate reparations in the form of 50 states and a White House when America elected Sen. Barack Obama as its first African American president. "I was jubilant," ... MORE >>

China's Tibet, Taiwan talks get different reactions by Antoaneta Bezlova BEIJING (IPS/GIN) — Chinese negotiators last week discussed Tibet's quest for genuine autonomy with the Dalai Lama's representatives and also advanced establishing economic rapprochement with Taiwan. Beijing has been seeking reunification with Taiwan for as long as Tibet has pursued a promised right to self-determination, but the two negotiations got very different treatments in the state-sanctioned Chinese press. The Taiwan talks, which sought to build foundations for closer eng... MORE >>

"Michelle: A Biography" Reviewed by Terri Schlichenmeyer They say that behind every great men is a woman who's willing to give him a goose in the posterior when he needs it most. Marc Antony had Cleopatra. Henry VIII had Catherine, Kathryn, Katherine, two Annes, and a Jane. Harry would have been lost without Bess. Martin had his Coretta. And Barack has Michelle. By now, we know a lot about our future leader, but what do we know about the woman behind the office? You'll find out when you read "Michelle" by Liza Mundy. To trul... MORE >>

Middlespread November 13th ... MORE >>

The Healing Touch of Robotic Hands by St. Mary's Hospital ... MORE >>

What's Up November 13th ... MORE >>

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Pre-Health Advisor/Coordinator-UW Madison ... MORE >>

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Barack Obama elected America's first Black president by Hazel Trice Edney  WASHINGTON(NNPA) — After a fierce fight of two years to change the course of history, U.S. Sen. Barack Obama has been elected the first African-American president of the United States. His win culminates an American history that expands from Black slavery to Jim Crow to a modern day civil rights movement still marked by institutional racism. “America is in the process and has taken the first step of turning from darkness unto light, turning from war unto piece,... MORE >>

Historic presidential election brings hope Dawn of a Brand New Day, by A. David Dahmer and Ray Allen Dreams do come true. Any worry of a "Bradley effect" or an "October Surprise" for the Barack Obama Presidential Campaign was put to ease with an overwhelming Electoral College win of 349 to 147 over Republican Sen. John McCain on Tuesday night. Locally, Barack Obama did not merely win Wisconsin; he swept the Badger state — 56.5 percent to 42.5 percent — with a popular vote majority unseen here since President Lyndon Johnson's 1964 victory. ... MORE >>

Annual event addresses growing Latino campus population UW-Madison Latino Summit 2008, by A. David Dahmer  The UW-Madison Latino Summit 2008 discussed the ways the university can further meet the needs of the fastest-growing minority on campus on Oct. 30 in Tripp Commons of the Memorial Union. This is the second year for the summit, which is sponsored by the Latino Faculty Staff Association (LAFSA), Dr. Damon Williams, vice provost for diversity and climate, was one of the key speakers along with Dr. Jose F. Vasquez, a Regent at the University of Wisconsin System. "... MORE >>

Dane County Youth Board open house highlights referendum At the recent Dane County Youth Board (DCYB) Open House, area students highlighted some of the programs in jeopardy if voters fail to pass the upcoming Madison Metropolitan School District referendum on Nov. 4. The referendum would later pass with more than 67 percent of the vote The DCYB provided several fact sheets. If the referendum does not pass, the school district estimates that in order to comply with state-imposed revenue limits, $8.1 million would have to be cut from the 2009-... MORE >>

Veterans for Peace plan November Memorial Mile by Paul McMahon, Madison Veterans for Peace The Madison chapter of Veterans for Peace (VFP) is once again planning for Veterans Day week in November. The public is urged to attend VFP's Memorial Mile events, which encourage greater movement toward ending the war in Iraq and emphasizing policies of strong diplomacy in international relations within the family of nations. To that end, on Saturday, Nov. 8, some 4,700 tombstones will be erected along Speedway Road in Forest Hill Cemetery on Madison's near west side. After two succes... MORE >>

Creating a safe and inclusive community: Disparities in criminial justice in Wisconsin, by Anita Martin Nearly 300 folks gathered at the seventh annual YWCA Racial Justice Summit, which took place at the Sheraton Madison Hotel Oct. 16-17. The event attracted attorneys, judges, law enforcement officers, social workers, and other community members along with a blend of local experts as well as nationally known speakers. UW Madison Professor of Sociology, Pamela Oliver spoke on racial disparities in criminal justice in Wisconsin. Dr. Oliver serves on the board of a number of organizations ... MORE >>

For food industry leaders, a meeting worth its salt by Kathy Glass MADISON —  Salt — a.k.a. sodium chloride — can't easily be cut from the American diet. It is a key preservative, one that has been used for thousands of years to combat the growth of pathogenic microbes in foods. Now as much as ever, we rely on it to keep our processed, ready-to-eat meals safe. Despite the challenges, food companies are interested in finding alternatives to salt that won't compromise food safety. For these industry leaders, the University of Wisc... MORE >>

Experts on Latin America call out to Obama by Haider Rizvi NEW YORK (IPS/GIN) — An open letter to Sen. Barack Obama was fashioned around one question: Will Washington's policy toward Latin America be genuinely different from past U.S. administrations if Obama is elected as the next president in November? To some experts on Latin America, the answer is “no.” Others believe the U.S. role would be far more positive. “I don't think Obama is devoting a lot of energy to focus on Latin America. That may be due to the s... MORE >>

Experts predict a change in Cuba-U.S. relations fueled by oil discovery by Patricia Grogg HAVANA, Cuba, — The discovery of a significant oilfield in Cuban waters could persuade the United States to modify its policy toward the island nation, experts say. The experts were also warning that the possibility could also entail risks. “When there are important economic interests at play, in terms of market and resources that are strategic for Washington, the ideological components that have driven U.S. Cuba policy come tumbling down,” Cuban academic and r... MORE >>

Governments still don't do enough about poverty, experts say by Zahira Kharsany JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (IPS/GIN) — Anti-poverty activists are saying governments must listen to the more than 116 million people in 131 countries across the world who participated in the global “Stand Up and Take Action” campaign that became the biggest mass mobilization on a single issue. The activists criticized the fact that the gap between the rich and the poor continues to increase, while governments have refused to make poverty alleviation a priority. ... MORE >>

A historic victory, Obama will face limitations by George E. Curry Now that Barack Obama has defeated John McCain, Joe the Plumber, and a barrage of negative television commercials, he will now strive to balance the high expectations of African Americans and other progressives with the reality of an anemic economy and supersized budget deficits. Like McCain, the president-elect promised that shrinking finances will not deter him from keeping his central campaign promise... MORE >>

Benjamin Jealous: A new generation of NAACP leadership by Marian Wright Edelman In September, with his selection as the new president and CEO of the NAACP, Ben Jealous became, at 35, the youngest president in the organization's history. He represents a new generation of Black leadership ? one of many Black adults and youths who grew up benefiting from the increased access to education and opportunity opened up by the Civil Rights Movement, which was spearheaded by the NAACP.  His challenge is to honor that legacy by focusing the next phase of the movement on those s... MORE >>

Awards banquet is also fun time 19th Annual Center Hispano Banquet The 19th annual Centro Hispano Banquet will be held Friday, Nov. 7 at the Madison Marriott West. At the banquet, Centro Hispano will honor Bryan Grau, the recipient of the 2008 Professor Roberto Sanchez Award.  The award was established in 2004 by Centro Hispano to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a long-standing commitment to promoting the academic achievement of Latino students. Troubled by the lack of programming related to Latino students in the schools, Gra... MORE >>

Meet the Author - Daphne Brown ... MORE >>

Neighborhood Center reaching out to community: Can you host a food drive to help folks in need? It's the oldest neighborhood center in the Madison area, and it's undergoing several changes. The Neighborhood House Community Center, 92 years old this year, has three new staff members and has embarked on a number of new projects over the past couple of months. Housed at 29 South Mills Street, the new staff includes program assistant E. Oroki Rice, youth program coordinator Craig Henrickson, and Zanna Majerle, executive director. Henrickson, who is originally from Two Rivers, Wis., has work... MORE >>

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Vote to make your ancestors proud by George E. Curry I am voting for someone else on Tuesday. No, not John McCain. I am voting for my beloved Big Mama, Sylvia Harris. I am voting for my stepfather, William H. Polk. I am voting for my Uncle Frank Harris, who could not read or write. I am voting for Aunt Katherine Foster, who could write, but barely. I am voting for all of my deceased relatives and so many non-relatives who did not live to see the day when a Black man could become president of the United States. We don't only have a right ... MORE >>

The Madison Times choice: Obama America is at a historic crossroads. A failing economy, an unpopular war, rising energy prices, and an eroding middle class are some of the problems that await the next president of the United States. Disasters have characterized the current Bush administration: incompetence in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, massive loan failures that jeopardize the financial futures of millions of American families, and the virtual collapse of the stock market. And to enhance the crisis, as CNN r... MORE >>

Six honored for community excellence 2008 Water Bearer Awards, by A. David Dahmer "It's hard not to give back when you come from such a good community," said LeeAnne Banks, resource coordinator for the Madison Development Corp. "I would really like to thank my mom for all that she's done for me. I was raised in a home that gives back, and I look forward to my children being a part of this community and giving back." Born and raised on Madison's south side and always an integral part of the community, Banks was one of the six awardees at the 2008 ... MORE >>

Afghan jounalist to serve 20 years for blasphemy by Zainab Mineeia WASHINGTON — International human rights groups have called on Afghan authorities to free Afghan journalist Perwiz Kambakhsh, who has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for blasphemy. Kambakhsh, 24, a journalism student at Balkh University and a reporter for the newspaper Jahan-e-Naw (New World), was arrested on Oct. 27, 2007, and accused of "blasphemy and distribution of texts defamatory of Islam." Afghan authorities claimed that Kambakhsh downloaded material from the... MORE >>

Market crises may help jungle, but not for long by Mario Osava RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (IPS/GIN) — The global economic slowdown resulting from the U.S. financial crisis could bring some short-term benefits for the environment, but the overall effect may be negative. A decline in global demand for farm products and the ensuing drop in prices, especially in the case of beef and soy, would ease pressure on the Amazon jungle, said Paulo Barreto, a researcher at the Amazon Institute of People and the Environment (IMAZON). The expansion of cattle-r... MORE >>

Next president will inherit Guantanamo by William Fisher NEW YORK (IPS/GIN) — Leading human rights groups reacted with outrage Oct. 21 to media reports that the Bush administration has decided not to close the prison at the U.S. Naval Base at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba. The New York Times reported that Bush never considered State Department and Pentagon proposals outlining options for transferring the detainees elsewhere, adopting instead the view of his most hawkish advisers that closing Guantánamo would involve too many legal and po... MORE >>

Jennifer Hudson and relatives identify body of her slain nephew by Alan King CHICAGO — Jennifer Hudson and other relatives positively identified the body of her 7-year-old nephew Oct. 27, just hours after his body was found in a sport-utility vehicle sought in connection with the murder of Hudson’s mother and brother. The white, 1994 Chevrolet Suburban with Illinois license plate X584859 was found on Chicago’s West side after police received a 7 a.m. call from a neighbor about a suspicious vehicle. The man noticed the vehicle while walking his... MORE >>

Dear Mr. President-Elect Obama A letter to Mr. Obama on Nov. 5, 2008, by Stephen Braunginn Given the historical magnitude of this year's campaign for the White House, I thought I would write a letter to my candidate, Sen. Barack Obama, as if he had won the Nov. 4 election for president of the United States. Below is the letter I imagine I could possibly write to Mr. President-Elect Obama on Nov. 5, 2008.      —Stephen Braunginn Nov. 5, 2008 Mr. President-Elect Barack Obama 1600 Pennsylvania, Ave. Washington... MORE >>

Letter to the Editor by Dr. John Y Odom Dear editor, The excerpts below are from a speech titled "Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence" delivered by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on April 4, 1967.  Beyond Vietnam may be Dr. King's least well known speech. Nonetheless, these excerpts hold a vital and prophetic message for us all on the eve of the 2008 election. I am convinced that … we as a nation must undergo a radical revolution of values. We must rapidly begin the shift from a "thin... MORE >>

Millions to vote in historic election on Tuesday African American expected to lead the way, by Hazel Trice Edney WASHINGTON (NNPA) — For the first time in American history, millions of voters will cast their ballots on Tuesday in an election in which an African American is the nominee of a major political party, fulfilling the long-held dreams of civil rights veterans. “I’ve always hoped so, and I’ve also worked for this idea,” says 96-year-old Dr. Dorothy Height, president emeritus of the National Council of Negro Women. “I think this will help the whole count... MORE >>

Facts about the Nov. 4 Referendum The Madison Metropolitan School District's Board of Education voted unanimously to ask the voters to consider a referendum question on November 4. Voters will be asked Election Day whether to allow the school district to exceed its tax limits by $5 million during the 2009-10 school year, then by an additional $4 million in each of the following two years. Why these budget gaps? In 1993, the State of Wisconsin created two competing pieces of legislation.  First, the revenue... MORE >>

Vote to mke your ancestors proud by Marian Wright Edelman On the way to the voting booth on Nov. 4, in addition to thinking about who should occupy the White House, we should also be concerned about who he will appoint to the federal courts. The next president will likely name one to three justices to the Supreme Court and hundreds to the lower federal courts. I can't overemphasize how important this is to America's children and their future. Federal judges are appointed to life terms and preside over cases involving a broad range of issues ... MORE >>

Obama v. McCain: NAACP questionnaire reveals contrasting agendas on Black issues by Hazel Trice Edney Cuts to stay under revenue cap Since 1993, the Madison School District has reduced programs and services by over $60 million.  The two largest categories of reductions in this period have been 1) direct services to students, and 2) administrative.  Together they make up more than 86% of the total reductions.  These reductions include: • 157 full-time equivalent positions (FTEs) from special education • Central office staffing in the areas of phys... MORE >>

Seventh annual Wisconsin Book Festival a winner "Changes Places", by Pamela Gates With the help of many sponsors and volunteers, the Wisconsin Humanities Council held the seventh annual Wisconsin Book Festival Oct. 15 to 19. The variety offered was amazing: from spoken word artists Dave Hart, Dasha Kelly, Patricia Smith, and Josh Healey to children's events to Wisconsin history and culture to politics to writing workshops to topical conversations — the list goes on. Eminent writers were there — Marilynne Robinson, Ann Beattie, Judy Blume, Sara Rath, Jacquelyn M... MORE >>

Governor Doyle announces $19 million in flood relief MADISON – Gov. Doyle has announced that Wisconsin is receiving an additional $19 million in emergency funding from U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund long-term disaster recovery and infrastructure support through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program.  On Sept. 17, Gov. Doyle formally requested that HUD allocate more funding to help the state recover from job losses, infrastructure damages, and tourism business damage resulting from June flooding. ... MORE >>

Longtime Congresswoman tackles health care, education, alternative energy, and Karl the Plumber by A. David Dahmer Like never before, Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin is excited about what she hopes to see on Tuesday, or, more specifically, Election Day. "I describe the challenges our nation faces right now as challenges of epic proportions," Baldwin says. "I can't remember a time since World War II and The Great Depression where our country has been facing a future with such uncertainty. "In particularly, with our economic uncertainty that we are facing right now, there is a... MORE >>

UW Odyssey Project Student Showcase ... MORE >>

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Back on Track Interview with former Wisconsin Badger Booker Stanley, by A. David Dahmer If you Google Booker Stanley's name, a ton of bad press will come up among your hits. At the end of 2004, the former star Wisconsin Badger running back and one time Wisconsin State Player of the Year was involved in an altercation with his ex-girlfriend, which resulted in him getting booted off the Wisconsin Badgers football team. A promising young career was ruined. On Dec. 21, 2004, Sta... MORE >>

Creating a safe, inclusive community (Part 1 of 2), by Anita Martin Over 275 people gathered Oct. 16-17 at the Sheraton Madison Hotel for the seventh annual YWCA Racial Justice Summit, titled "And Justice for All: Creating a Safe and Inclusive Community." The conference, which featured local experts as well as nationally known speakers, targeted attorneys, judges, law enforcement, social workers, and other community members. Local presenters included Madison Police Department Chief Noble Wray; Professor Pamela Oliver with the University of Wisconsin... MORE >>

RISE helps UW students rise to challenges by A. David Dahmer Many students of color — undergraduates, graduate, and professional students alike — come to campus seeking a culturally enriching experience. Despite the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s best efforts, many students of color still do not feel connected. That is where the Recruitment Initiative for Student Employees (RISE) comes in, a new program that helps diversify the pool of applicants for student-hourly employment and increases the number of qualified candidates ... MORE >>

Campus Summit addresses growing Latino campus population MADISON  — The University of Wisconsin-Madison Latina/Latino Summit 2008 will discuss the ways the university can further meet the needs of the fastest growing minority on campus. The summit, which is sponsored by the Latina/Latino Faculty Staff Association (LAFSA), will take place from 3-6 p.m. on Oct. 30 in the Tripp Commons at the Memorial Union. LAFSA, which promotes the awareness of UW-Madison faculty, academic staff, classified staff, and graduate students, will... MORE >>

Average people watch as banks reap billions by Adrianne Appel BOSTON — The $125 billion handed to nine of Wall Street's richest banks will do little to help the economy that is crumbling around ordinary U.S. citizens, independent experts and activists say. President Bush's new Office of Financial Stability, led by former Goldman, Sachs & Co. Vice President Neel Kashkari, sealed a deal Oct. 14 to provide the billions, plus $125 billion more for small banks, to encourage them to start lending to each other and to the world's biggest businesses a... MORE >>

Zimbabwe to host COMESA Summit by Stanley Kwenda HARARE, Zimbabwe (IPS/GIN) — Zimbabwe's government has announced that it will host the 13th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) summit. Originally scheduled for May, the summit was canceled at the last minute after state-sponsored violence engulfed the country following President Robert Mugabe's loss to opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai in a first-round presidential election in March. The violence also forced Tsvangirai to pull out of the second round presidential v... MORE >>

Anti-poverty leader citews West's shortfalls by Zahira Kharsany JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (IPS/GIN) — Since 2005, the Global Call to Action against Poverty (GCAP) has mobilized millions of people to demand an end to poverty and inequality. Last year, 43.7 million people took part in the "Stand Up" campaign's events around the world on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty; this year, the goal was for 67 million people to not just stand up but to take action against inequality Oct. 17 to 19. IPS (Inter Press Service) ... MORE >>

Lightweights in high places by Dr. John Odom The joke goes: "Who was the most successful U.S. president of the last half of the 20th century?" Kennedy? Reagan? Clinton? The answer is: George Bush Sr. "Why?" I'll provide the first part of the answer: "He got his son elected president." But I will cruelly withhold the punch line, because it's … cruel. All joking aside, George Herbert Walker Bush may truly be the most... MORE >>

Vote 'Yes' on school referendum by Arlene Silveira and the Madison School Board of Education The Board of Education voted unanimously to go to referendum to support Madison's public schools. We are committed to this referendum because we believe it will provide resources desperately needed in our schools. We are also very aware of the economic environment and worked hard to develop a plan that will minimize the referendum's impact on property taxes. If passed, the referendum will permanently increase the property-tax support base for our schools by a total of $13 million over ... MORE >>

Express Yourself! Los Angeles by James Clingman Remember Charles Wright and the Watts' 103rd Street Rhythm Band's song, "Express Yourself"? Younger folks are more familiar with N.W.A.'s version on their famous "album": "Straight Outta Compton." Because both originated in Los Angeles, I thought it appropriate to draw a business analogy. Why is it so difficult for us to accept that Black businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods? Can't you see it in the comparative statistics on wealth and family ... MORE >>

Republicans can't see the forest for the ACORN by George E. Curry So far, lacking an "October surprise" that will dramatically turn the election in their favor, Republicans are gradually shifting their attention from William Ayers, "an old, washed-up terrorist " from the 1960s, to the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, better known as ACORN. At the GOP National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., former presidential candidate Rudy Giu... MORE >>

Black Women's Business Expo and Job Fair Nov. 1 ... MORE >>

Middlespread October 23rd ... MORE >>

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History is Always the Final Judge "A wolf wrapped in monk's robes. A devil with a human face and a beast's heart.", by Ak'Bar A. Shabazz That's how Tibetan Communist Party Secretary General Zhang Qingli recently described the Dalai Lama, Tibet's traditional political and spiritual leader.   It almost makes me laugh.  How can someone really believe this?  As I am very familiar with the work of the Dalai Lama through his books, articles, interviews and speeches - and his Nobel Peace Prize - it seemed natural for me to find humor in this Chinese puppet leader's assessment... MORE >>

Congressional Liberals Having Their Cake and Eating It, Too "Let them eat cake", by Kevin L. Martin It's a phrase attributed to Marie Antoinette, the excess-addicted wife of French King Louis XVI, after being told the poor didn't have enough bread to eat.  While some scholars think someone else said it, there is no disputing that it highlights a disconnect found between the elite and the poor.   Marie was a victim of the guillotine in 1793 at the height of the French Revolution, and yet her lesson still seems unlearned today. &nbs... MORE >>

Gov. Doyle outlines services for those affected by GM closing by Office of the Governor MADISON – Gov. Jim Doyle has outlined services available to workers affected by General Motors’ decision to cease operations at its Janesville plant in December. He encouraged affected workers to take advantage of the many opportunities the state offers.  “I am committed to providing a full array of employment and training services to all affected workers,” Doyle said. “Like the working families in the Janesville area, I am very disappointed by this ... MORE >>

World leaders blame U.S. for financial mess by Adrianne Appel BOSTON (IPS/GIN) — British Prime Minister Gordon Brown's comment on how Britain may have gotten into the global economic turmoil reflects the sentiments of other world leaders. "Most of this has come out of America and then affected the British banking system," Brown said. And German Chancellor Angela Merkel said recently that she had tried in vain last year to convince the G-8, the world's wealthiest nations, to enact tighter regulations on risky hedge-fund trading, wh... MORE >>

Toxic milk scandal leaves Chinese feeling cheated by Antoaneta Bezlova BEIJING (IPS/GIN) — The poisoned milk scandal — possibly the worst crisis of its type in modern Chinese history — has dealt a devastating blow to the public's trust in its government's benevolence. Generations have been brought up to believe in the Confucian credo that real governments exist to promote the people's welfare. But in the tainted-milk scandal, which was the result not of poor product safety but of deliberate adulteration of milk with harmful chemicals to maximiz... MORE >>

Activists show Japan's death row to world by Catherine Makino TOKYO (IPS/GIN) — Japan's death-row inmates participated in this year's World Day Against the Death Penalty by answering 14 survey questions from Forum 90, a civic organization opposed to capital punishment, which in turn published their responses Oct. 10 on its Japanese Web site. The World Day is focusing on Asia this year and calling for an end to executions in 14 Asian countries. Japan's death row inmates wrote of their suffering in solitary confinement, said Akiko Takada, an ... MORE >>

Guess who's hurting the most? Hint: It isn't the fat cats, by Steve Braunginn  Wall Street is committing suicide with our tax dollars. Housing foreclosures are at their highest levels since the Great Depression, gas prices — until the last week or so — have been higher than ever before, and the federal government is in panic mode. This isn't a good thing for anyone, but the people feeling it the hardest are the ordinary workers, Joe and Joann Doe on Main Stre... MORE >>

"Blazing Saddles" scandal at UW Have we lost our sense of humor?, by Dana Pellebon Our culture has evolved in many positive ways over the years.  We have our first African American Democratic nominee for president.  We are working towards extending rights to all of our citizens, whether they are gay or straight.  We are elevating the level of discourse on racial issues.  We are losing our sense of humor and satire.  Wait. Hold on. Losing our sense of humor?  This past week, the University of Wisconsin-Madison issued an apology for showi... MORE >>

"Ballots" - a Madison original musical by A. David Dahmer "Ballots,” a musical creative parody of the 2000 elections, will premiere at the Bartell Theater and run October 22-25.  "Ballots" is being produced by Madison native Anthony Lamarr Anthony Lamarr "A dream that began 8 years ago in the halls of Edgewood High School has become a reality," Lamarr said.  "It began with my friends and me talkin... MORE >>

Call for ATHENA Award nominations MADISON — The Business Forum (TBF) is pleased to announce that it is accepting nominations for the 12th annual ATHENA Award® Program. The program honors both women and men for excellence in their profession or life's work, for devoting time and effort in their communities to improve the quality of life for others, and for actively helping women to realize their full leadership potential. ... MORE >>

2008 Village People Fall Water Bearer Awards Dinner Honoring those committed to community The 2008 Village People Fall Water Bearer Awards Dinner will be held Thursday, Oct. 23, at the Catholic Multicultural Center celebrating those people who have quietly brought enrichment and life to the Madison community. Betty Banks and Gaddi Ben Dan will hand out awards  to six worthy recipients including LeeAnne Banks, resource coordinator for the Madison Development Corp., Zach Brandon, executive assistant for the Wisconsin Department of Commerce, Celia Jackson, secretary of th... MORE >>

Partnership benefits Common Wealth Development youth from Common Wealth Development MADISON — Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk, and US Cellular hosted a panel discussion for students in Common Wealth Development's Youth-Business Mentoring Program at Madison East High School. The panel included leaders from local government and US Cellular, who advised participants how to prepare for and land their first job. In addition to Cieslewicz and Falk, panelists included Madison School Board member Johnny Winston Jr., Dane County Board o... MORE >>

"Buffalo Soldiers" play helps legacy live on by A. David Dahmer African Americans have fought with distinction in all of our country's military engagements. However, some of their most notable contributions and sacrifices came during the Civil War where more than 180,000 African Americans wore the Union Army blue. Another 30,000 served in the Navy, and 200,000 served as workers on labor, engineering, hospital, and other military support projects. More than 33,000 of these gallant soldiers gave their lives for the sake of freedom and their country. ... MORE >>

Sen. Kerry returns to Madison to stump for Obama "Vote Early" campaign It wasn't 80,000 people this time, but Sen. John Kerry still drew a nice crowd on the steps of the Capitol Building Oct. 14 as he rallied support for presidential hopeful Barack Obama with a 20-minute speech. "I know the story the past couple of weeks has been the great American meltdown — that is, the John McCain campaign," Kerry smiled. Kerry began his speech by lamenting not having "The Boss" with him this time in Madison — five days be... MORE >>

Africa Week 2008 ... MORE >>

HealthMatters October ... MORE >>

Middlespread October 16 ... MORE >>

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Exhibition reveals passion for African arts from UW News ... MORE >>

Women Rock for the Cure seeks to heighten awareness by A. David Dahmer The diagnosis of breast cancer is not a death sentence; not by a long shot. The numbers of people both surviving and thriving after that diagnosis are large and becoming larger every day. But early detection is the key. And the first step in early detection is awareness. That is the goal of the Madison Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation: to raise the level of awareness about breast cancer. To accentuate this point, the second annual Light the Town Passionat... MORE >>

Black America 'gets pneumonia' in cold economic climate by Natalie A. Thompson and Hazel Trice Edney WASHINGTON (NNPA) — As the Black unemployment rate leaped another eight percentage points last month — from 10.6 to 11.4 percent — the White unemployment rate actually remained the same, 5.4 percent, less than half the rate for Blacks. In addition, in every other economic category — from the poverty rate to housing loss — African Americans remain historically and consistently at rock bottom. This condition is exacerbated by the national housing and Wall S... MORE >>

Safe Communities 2008 BeSafe Awards Luncheon ... MORE >>

Preschool Child and Family Education Program by A. David Dahmer ... MORE >>

Collaborative effort provided High Ground for cancer patients this summer MILWAUKEE — An unprecedented response to the needs of cancer patients touched by the flooding this summer has concluded with a great success record, organizers said Oct. 1. This summer's severe weather put many obstacles in the way of cancer patients who were trying to access lifesaving care. Cancer patients have unique needs and faced such difficulties as interruption intreatment schedules due to temporary closing of medical facilities or, even worse, discontinued treatment due ... MORE >>

Obama solidifies lead amid Washington turmoil by Jim Lobe WASHINGTON — As of Oct. 1, Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama had built a strong lead that his rival, Republican Sen. John McCain, could find difficult to reverse. Obama's campaign has been aided by the financial crisis that has dominated the news for the past two weeks, a better-than-expected performance Sept. 26 in the first of three nationally televised presidential debates, and growing doubts that McCain's vice presidential pick, Gov. Sarah Palin, is up to the job. ... MORE >>

Black Press series aims to decrease cancer rates WASHINGTON (NNPA) — The News Service of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), the Black Press of America, has launched a new op-ed series in partnership with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to address the issue of health disparities, including the disparate cancer rate, that has long plagued the Black community — and to educate Black newspaper readers on the best possible cancer-prevention and treatment measures. "Health disparities in the U.S. are ... MORE >>

Malaysia's anti-terror law protests increase by Baradan Kuppusamy KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (IPS/GIN) — Public opposition is mounting against Malaysia's Internal Security Act (ISA), a colonial relic that gives police unchallenged discretion to arrest and detain anyone indefinitely without trial. Multiethnic Malaysia is one of the few countries that have such a law, and the reason given for its continuance is maintenance of interethnic peace — an argument that has lately become untenable. Many Malaysians support the ISA, but last month's arre... MORE >>

N.Y. governmor brings refreshing change by George E. Curry Al Sharpton likes to say from time to time that Democrats treat Black voters as if we are their mistresses. Party officials don't mind seeing us at night, but they shy away from stepping out with us during daylight. The same can be said for some Black politicians, who shy away from associating with Sharpton. No one can say that about New York Gov. David Patterson. I heard him speak last week in New York at ... MORE >>

Judge the candidates on their records by Marian Wright Edelman During nearly two years of presidential campaigning, the candidates have made claims and promises on how they would perform if they are elected to the White House. Some of the criteria we might use to judge a candidate's fitness and temperament for leadership are difficult to quantify. But one concrete and objective way to assess how candidates measure up on crucial issues is by examining their voting r... MORE >>

2008 election historic, whether Obama wins or loses by Ron Walters We may be about to witness what political scientists call a "critical election," in which there is a realignment of American politics, in this case from Republican to Democrat. But, more important than that, this election may signal a realignment, from the conservative politics that has gripped this country for the past 30 years to a more liberal version going forward. For the racially disadvantaged and the economically needy, who need government the most, this election may signal a... MORE >>

The greedy trample on the needy by James Clingman  "Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income." — Ecclesiastes 5:10 In recent history, there has been no better time than now for us to see the chasm between the so-called haves and the have-nots. We are witnesses to the biggest rip-off since the Great Train Robbery. As if Halliburton and all the rest of the Iraq war crooks were not enough, the bar has been raised even higher now with the housing/mortgage/ban... MORE >>

And the 2008 Anna Mae Mitchell Senior Idol is..... by Jeanne Erickson ... MORE >>

Middlespread October 9 ... MORE >>

What's Up October 9 ... MORE >>

Gov. Doyle announces $39 million to stabilize neighborhoods MADISON — Gov. Jim Doyle has announced that $39 million will be allocated to help redevelop foreclosed properties throughout Wisconsin in order to stabilize neighborhoods and stem the decline of home values.  The effort is part of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “Foreclosures have a devastating impact on neighborhoods and the state’s economy, and we must do all we can to not only prevent foreclo... MORE >>

Freedom of Information Council's anniversary marked at UW-Madison by Dennis Chaptman MADISON — The Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, a statewide nonprofit group devoted to protecting access to public meetings and records, will mark its 30th anniversary with a program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison on Monday, Oct. 13. The program, hosted by the UW-Madison School of Journalism and Mass Communication, will include an address by Shirley Abrahamson, chief justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, on the importance of open government in Wisconsin. ... MORE >>

Wall Street deserves no bailout, protestors say by Haider Rizvi NEW YORK, (IPS/GIN) — The George W. Bush administration's plan to spend hundreds of billions of dollars to rescue giant Wall Street firms from their financial meltdown has unleashed a spontaneous wave of protests across the United States. "Cash for trash," shouted activists who gathered near Wall Street to express their outrage at Bush's proposal to buy bad debts of financial institutions at the cost of $700 billion in taxpayer money. Protesters said they want Co... MORE >>

Taxes and Iraq top topics in first Presidential Debate  (NNPA) — The University of Mississippi was the venue for the first of three scheduled debates with less than six weeks remaining until Election Day when people  will choose either Obama or McCain to be their next president. For the inaugural debate, the candidates’ main arguments surrounded the war in Iraq and taxes. McCain accused Obama of “voting to cut off funds for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan,” a reference to legislation that cleared the Senate... MORE >>

Hurricanes destroy crops, leave people jittery by Patricia Grogg HAVANA, (IPS/GIN) — In Cuba the shockwaves left by hurricanes Gustav and Ike will prevent any peace of mind for people in the most affected areas and in the whole country for a long time to come. Cubans are asking themselves if the worst is really over. "The hurricane season lasts through November,” said Georgina Fernández anxiously. “If another one strikes, what will become of us?" she asked. Fernández lives in Havana but has relatives ... MORE >>

Many southern senators won't let go of their racist past by Gail Moore I must admit that with all of the mud slinging in this presidential election, it takes a punch in the gut to make me stop and say, "How dare you?" Such was the case in April, when Republican Rep. Geoff Davis of Kentucky said of Barack Obama, "That boy's finger does not need to be on the [nuclear] button." How insulting. This statement proves once again that many in the Re... MORE >>

Taxpayers subsidize America's corporate welfare queens by George E. Curry There is growing evidence that the Wall Street bailout will definitely help Wall Street, provide some token assistance to Main Street, and totally bypass Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. For example, Clinton administration Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich, now professor of public policy at the University of California-Berkeley, thinks the best way to improve the economy is by extending unemployment insur... MORE >>

Obama hits triple at the debate, a home run at the CBC by Ron Walters By all accounts Barack Obama won the first of the presidential debates on Sept. 26 over John McCain, who was widely considered to have more experience in foreign affairs. He won by exceeding expectations, exhibiting that he had a substantial grasp of issues, and showing that he was presidential. Meanwhile, McCain talked in generalities and showed his disdain for Obama — he failed to accord him proper acknowledgment by refusing to look at him.  But whatever advantage... MORE >>

Mea culpea? Veterans share their stories at the Midwest Winter Soldier Hearing by Lea Zeldin How do you seek redemption when you have left pieces of yourself in a foreign land?  Can you ever be a whole person again? Veterans posed these questions at the Midwest Winter Soldier hearing held Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Wisconsin Memorial Union Theatre. It could have been the 1960s again.  The Revolutionary Communist Party, the militants, the International Socialist Party, and so... MORE >>

Mural Unveiling Celebration Wisconsin Youth and Family Center, by A. David Dahmer ... MORE >>

Middlespread October 2 ... MORE >>

What's Up October 2 ... MORE >>

African American Ethnic Academic orientation set for Oct. 4 by A. David Dahmer As the African American Ethnic Academy (AAEA) continues to grow after a decade and a half of its existence, it is still staying true to its mission — making sure that children, especially our African American children, are coming to school ready to learn with full knowledge of the importance of education.  "We really believe that it takes two generations to develop literacy and academics," says Dr. Virginia Henderson, a founding member of AAEA and the president of ... MORE >>

Madison says goodbye to Freddie Clark by A. David Dahmer (Pictures by Tom Duter) Madisonians came out in large numbers to pay respect to the tremendous impact that Freddie Clark has left on Madison as he prepares to return to his native Louisiana. "A Testimonial Evening for Freddie Clark" took place Sept. 25 at the Boys and Girls Club on Jenewein Dr. “It was very humbling to see so many people there,” Clark said. “It was very heartfelt and very emotional. I guess I didn't really grasp any of this un... MORE >>

Letting go of the concept of racial identity Rebecca Walker, by Maria Bibbs Insisting that our world is a burning building with only one exit, Rebecca Walker delivered a provocative lecture at the Wisconsin Union Theater Sept. 29.  She stressed the importance of freeing ourselves from our wounds related to racial conflict if we are to survive the devastation already underway. Although Walker has written two memoirs, edited an anthology of feminist writing, and contributed to magazines such as Vibe, the New York Times Magazine, and Salon, she is perhaps b... MORE >>

Setting lofty goals for recruiting UW-Madison's Adin Palau, by A. David Dahmer Adin Palau is the perfect candidate to do what he does — recruit people from near and far to come to the University of Wisconsin-Madison — because he himself was recruited not so long ago. Eight years ago, Palau won what was essentially the Cuban lottery, which found him a place in Madison; and now he's trying to get others to come here like he did. His newly created position —campus-wide recruitment manager — was created to address issues of recruitment for the... MORE >>

Michelle Obama stops in Madison Addresses women, youth voters at rally for change, by Maria Bibbs (Photos: Scott burkhardt) Women and young people will play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of this year's presidential election, Michelle Obama said at a campaign rally outside Camp Randall Stadium. With fewer than 50 days left until the presidential election, a crowd of roughly 1,800 filled GAR Memorial Park on Sept. 22 to hear would-be first lady Michelle Obama speak and inspire support for her husband, Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama. The rally was sponsored... MORE >>

"Critical Condition": A look at the U.S. health care "system" by Pamela Gates Wisconsin Public Television (WPT), with major funding from Alliant Energy and support from other sponsors, has for several years conducted a series of Community Forums on Race and Diversity. Each evening begins with a thought-provoking film on an important social issue, followed by discussion with people knowledgeable in the field. Dr. Tess Arenas of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, who has been working with the series for about three years, leads the discussions. ... MORE >>

For Rissel Sanderson, community is a party by Lisa Nunez "If it has to do with community, family, children — especially children — I'm in," says Rissel Sanderson. This is no idle statement. From the time Sanderson, her parents, sister, and brother arrived in Madison 22 years ago, she has devoted her career and free time to kids and to her adopted hometown. "I was born in La Paz, Bolivia," says the vivacious Sanderson. "I lived in Minnesota, Alabama, and Illinois after I was married, but Madison is my home... MORE >>

Violence harms kids by Mel Frykberg RAMALLAH, West Bank (IPS/GIN) — Palestinian children continue to be victims of indiscriminate violence, due to the Israeli occupation and Palestinian infighting in the occupied territories. The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs expressed concern in its August report for the inadequate protection afforded Palestinian children. "In July, a 10-year-old Palestinian boy … was shot in the head with live ammunition and killed by the Israeli border poli... MORE >>