BARBARA NORTON—A PRESS CONFERENCE WITH NO QUESTIONS?

Yep, Rep. Barbara Norton held a press conference Thurs. July 18. But guess what?

She did read a 2 page press release after being introduced by Bishop Larry Brandon and then Dr. Ricky Moore. It was obvious that she did not write the release. She had difficulty reading it and pronouncing some of the words.

Norton noted several times that there are 9 other annual parades in Shreveport. And that the African-American History Parade was the only one singled out by The Inquisitor for review and inspection. She implied the motivation was political.

She said the same allegations of an investigation by the FBI were made in 2105. And now the same thing, in another election year.

Norton said she had other sources of income—not just from the legislature. She referenced her retirement pay from AT&T and implied other sources. She would not identify these, stating it was not fair to single her out by asking for her other sources of income.

After reading the release, she stated emphatically that she wanted the people to know the real truth. And she thanked the 3 local tv stations who had camera men there for fact checking before running their stories. Norton then said she has another meeting, had to go, and no questions would be allowed.

After protest by media members, she repeated her position. She did say, in response to an inquiry say, that her non profit that sponsors the parade is now in good standing.

She refused to answer why it had not been in good standing for 2 years. She also refused to reply to any inquiry about receiving any salary or compensation from the nonprofit that hosts the parade from parade entrants.

And although she repeatedly stated that she wanted to clear up questions about the parade and her non profit she would not say why she has refused to release tax returns of the non profit and other records.

A major unanswered question concerns the $100 entry fee for each parade participant. Who gets this money and how much has been paid over the 31 year period of the parades are big issues.

The five members of the media in attendance were quite disappointed in her stance on responding to questions. One seasoned reporter that this was typical of Norton.

Norton is termed out of her seat as a member of the Louisiana legislature. She will be running for State Senate this Fall against incumbent Greg Tarver and political newcomer Shante’ Wells.