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Thursday, December 23, 2010 Thursday, December 23, 2010Vol. XXX, No. 1211Vol. XXX, No. 1211

L.A. Watts Timeswww.lawattstimes.comwww.lawattstimes.com

L.A. Watts TimesL.A. Watts Times

FEATURE STORY | PAGES 8-9

2 www.lawattstimes.com Thursday, December 23, 2010

Inside this Edition

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12

Comics

MOMBASASQUARE

ANSWERS FROM 12-16-10

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L.A. Watts TimesWEEKENDER

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P O L L R E S U L T SIf teachers made salaries similar to

lawyers and doctors, do you believe Americans would receive a better education?

Visit www.lasentinel.net to vote for Weekender polls.

No

63.8% Yes

30.8%

6ARIES ~ You and your honey have so

much to talk about; listen! He or she istrying to come out of a whole new bag.Accept! Change is a good thing this week.Expect to travel soon. Savor the thought.

TAURUS ~ If nothing much is happeningon the job, remember that chilling is good

sometimes. Use this week to return phonecalls and answer letters. Be low key. Wonder-ful things flow from what you don’t do.

GEMINI ~ You can turn that obstacleinto an opportunity at work. Check out

the players carefully. Watch your back andhold your tongue around workplace rivals.Aggressively seek agreement.

CANCER ~ Don’t let your outer spaceinfringe on your inner peace. Control

situations that might affect your ability toget that important job done. Rememberpeople are only human.

LEO ~ Mail, e-mail, or telephone bringsnews of a matter that demands more

attention than you might think. Opportunityknocks at work this week. Tonight spendsome quality time with your family.

VIRGO ~ Listen well for the indicationsthat money can be found in an unusual

place. Social and romantic interest shouldbe your focus this evening. Love comesfrom what you do not say.

LIBRA ~ Some people may not “get”where you’re coming from, but ask

your family and significant other to give youtime to explain your way of looking at lifethis week. Do it calmly and confidentially.

SCORPIO ~ Now’s a better than usualtime for self-reflection and medita-

tion. Share your ideas. They’re morevaluable than you think. Appreciationcomes from someone far away. You makethe call.

SAGITTARIUS ~ Listen carefully andfollow good advice that will come

from someone you’ve often regarded asfoolish. You run into difficulties with oneof your projects; don’t worry, it’s onlytemporary. How you manage your mindwill affect the eventual outcome.

CAPRICORN ~ If there is someoneor something that you’re avoiding

don’t panic if you find you must confrontwhat you’ve been hiding from. Wait forthings to work themselves out. Don’tforce the issue. Time solves more prob-lems than you ever can.

AQUARIUS ~ Be flexible. Yes, you.There are many ways to be right and

your lover or friend will have come upwith one that is different from yours.You’ll be asked to compromise this weekor you just have to give in. Rememberyou sometimes have to give a little to geta little.

PISCES ~ Use your natural magnetismto get to someone who might be hard

to reach. If you have a problem that youneed to get off your chest tell a relative orfriend, don’t hold it inside. Where’s theparty? Find it. You need a social setting tomake the magnetism work best.

I would sign up if they paid more 4.1%

Technology is to blame 1.3%

HOROSCOPES DECEMBER 23 - 29

BY MARK S. SMITHASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON — Fulfilling acampaign pledge, cheering hisparty’s downcast liberals and strik-ing a blow for what he sees as basichuman rights, President BarackObama is signing a landmark lawWednesday that tells America’sarmed services to let homosexualsserve openly for the first time.

So many gay rights andDemocratic activists were expectedat the signing ceremony that theWhite House booked a large audito-rium at the Interior Department.

“This day has come!” said anelated Mike Almy, an Air Forcemajor discharged four years agowhen his sexual orientation becameknown. “ ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ isover, and you no longer have to sac-rifice your integrity.”

While the elation is real,Pentagon officials caution it couldbe premature, since the bill requiresservice chiefs to complete imple-mentation plans before lifting theold policy — and certify to lawmak-ers that it won’t damage combat

readiness, as critics charge.Also, guidelines must be final-

ized that cover a host of practicalquestions, from how to educatetroops to how sexual orientationshould be handled in making bar-racks assignments.

While officials have avoidedtimetables, the process will proba-bly take months.

Still, for gay and lesbianAmericans, Wednesday is a water-shed. And for Obama, it is a day to

Thursday, December 23, 2010 www.lawattstimes.com 3

AP Photo by Alex BrandonSpeaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., right, applauds as former service members Sgt. First Class Stacy Vasquez, left, andcurrent service member Lt. Col. Victor Fehrenbach, and former service member Maj. Mike Almy, hold the signed billto repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, during an enrollment ceremony on Capitol Hill in Washington Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010.

Obama signs ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repeal

Official White House Photo by Samantha AppletonAudience members interact with President Barack Obama and VicePresident Joe Biden on Dec. 22 after the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act of2010 is signed.

AP Photo by Danny MoloshokA motorist drives through a flooded lane on Wilshire Boulevard in the Westwood portion of LosAngeles, Monday, Dec. 20, 2010.

BY RAQUEL MARIA DILLON AND GILLIAN FLACCUSASSOCIATED PRESS

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. — AxlDominguez awoke early Wednesday to abumping sound and looked out the window toa scary sight: plastic trashcans floating downthe flooded street.

And then the water came rushing into hishouse.

“We didn’t have time to get anything ...Water started coming in from all the walls.Then the wall fell and we got out through thewindow,” the 15-year-old Dominguez saidhours later, shivering in shorts, mud-splashedsweat shirt and bare feet as he carried hispajama-clad little brother to the truck of aneighbor who finally took them to an evacua-tion center.

Hillsides collapse asstorm lashes SoCal

See HILLSIDES COLLAPSE, page 14

See OBAMA SIGNING, page 15

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa andSupervisor Mark Ridley-Thomaswere joined recently by a coalition ofindustry and union leaders to cele-brate the expansion of the Trans-portation Opportunity Program toSouth Los Angeles. The programwill operate on a 1.5-acre parcel ofland directly behind the JordanDowns Housing Development inWatts. Funding for the academycomes from a $650,000 AmericanRecovery and Reinvestment Actgrant made possible by PresidentObama.

“The Transportation Opportun-ity Program will create middle-classjobs where they are most needed andhelp narrow the economic gap in ourCity,” said Villaraigosa. “By trainingAngelenos for good-paying jobs astruck drivers, we can ensure a strongand vibrant economy.”

The Truck Driver Training Aca-demy is run by the Transportation

Opportunity Program (TOP), a501(c)3 nonprofit. The academy willoffer four weeks of intense, behind-the-wheel training for drivers seek-ing a “Class A” license to drive big-rig trucks and tractor trailers. Thereis no cost for participation.

Graduates can typically earn$60,000 in their first year out of theprogram — plus health and pensionbenefits — which is double thesalary of “Class B” drivers who oper-ate dump trucks and school buses.

Over the next two years, theprogram will graduate 120 Angelenosinto high-paying careers.

On hand for the ribbon cuttingwere many of the partners of theacademy including ABF Freight;Horizon Freight; the Teamsters JointCouncil 42; El Proyecto del Barrio;and the California EmploymentTraining Panel.

To determine drivers’ eligibility,the academy uses hiring standards

laid out by the employers on itsboard. To qualify, drivers must be aminimum 23 years old; have a cleandriving record without DUIs; under-go a background check; and pass aDepartment of Transportation-man-dated drug screening and physical.

Any qualified Los AngelesCounty resident can apply, and one-quarter of students will come from theareas surrounding Jordan Downs. As anonprofit, the academy has no require-ments for union affiliation for enteringstudents or graduating drivers.

City residents interested in find-ing more information about the pro-gram and about how to apply shouldcall (800) FOR-A-JOB (800-367-2562), 3-1-1 or visit the City’sWorkforce Investment Board web-site at www.lacity.org/wib.


Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (front, center) participates in a recent ribbon cutting with L.A. County SupervisorMark Ridley-Thomas (immediately left of the mayor).

Mayor Villaraigosa and Supervisor Ridley-Thomas launchTruck Driver Training Academy in South Los AngelesBringing Federal dollars to South Los Angeles,Villaraigosa and Ridley-Thomas work together to launch Transportation Opportunity Program Truck Driver Training Academy in South Los Angeles

3 black Chicago mayoralcandidates agree on little

CHICAGO (AP) — Three leadingblack candidates for Chicago mayor say theyagree on the need for increased transparencyat City Hall and the importance of putting aprofessional educator at the helm of theChicago Public Schools, but little else.

Congressman Danny Davis, formerU.S. Sen. Carol Moseley-Braun and Illinoisstate Sen. James Meeks participated Dec. 15in a candidate forum on WVON-AM, ablack-oriented radio station.

The event was billed by moderator CliffKelley as an attempt to help find a consensuscandidate for African Americans.

Mosley-Braun and Meeks were in thestudio, while Davis participated through aphone link from an airport before boarding aflight to Washington.

They clashed on such issues as down-town casino gambling, school vouchers andterm limits for city and state elected officials.

2010 census says U.S. populationat 308.7 million

WASHINGTON (AP) — The CensusBureau says the U.S. population is 308.7 mil-lion, reflecting the lowest growth since theGreat Depression.

Census Bureau Director Robert Grovessays the figure represents an increase of 9.7percent over the 2000 U.S. resident popula-tion of 281.4 million.

California is the most populous statewith 37.2 million residents. Wyoming is theleast populous with 563,626 residents.

Since the 2000 census, Texas gained themost people, up 4.3 million residents to 25.1million. Nevada has gained the most residentsas a percentage of its 2000 census count,growing 35.1 percent to 2,700,551.

The South and the West showed thestrongest growth, although the Northeast andthe Midwest also grew.

Carol Moseley-Braun

Congressman Danny Davis

BRIEFS

See BRIEFS, page 14

Photo by Michael RiddickDesigned to educate, empower and enlighten males from middle school through adulthood, Great Beginnings forBlack Babies’ Fatherhood Initiative recently hosted a “Boys to Men Symposium” at Dorsey High School, 3537Farmdale Ave. Covering the topics of “Balancing Sports and Academics,” “Turning Your Passion into aBusiness,” and “A Guide to Manhood – Street Life 101,” the symposium featured area expert speakers (from left)Dr. Joseph Bailey, retired neurosurgeon; Gary Easley, director, Smart G Intervention Programs; Aquil Basheer,CEO, Maximum Force Enterprises; Rae Jones, executive director, Great Beginnings for Black Babies Inc.;Roderick Elzy, program coordinator, GBBB Fatherhood Initiative; Torre Reese, CEO, FAMLI Inc.; and, NikkoDeloney, instructor, Professional Community Intervention Training Inc. Dorsey High School’s new principal, Dr.Reginald Sample, also served as anopening presenter. In addition, L.A.County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, City Councilman HerbWesson, and LAUSD School BoardMember Marguerite LaMotteoffered opening remarks.

Despite a steady downpour ofrain recently, the spirits of more than1,200 area residents were high as

they braved the elements to attendCouncilmember Herb Wesson’sannual Winter Wonderland for at-

risk kids and families in need.This is the fourth year that

Wesson has hosted this event. Eachfamily was provided free presentsfor the kids, a fresh patch of snow inwhich to play, and a lunch.

A special highlight was a visitfrom Santa Claus, who contributedtime from his busy schedule to greetall of the families and take photoswith the kids.

“The holiday season is aboutgiving,” said Wesson. “There are somany families in need this year. So,whatever we can do that will get asmile out of a youngster is the mostrewarding thing we can do. Thatkid’s smile is priceless.”

Sponsoring an event for 1,200people is a major undertaking.Joining Wesson in supporting theevent this year was the 101Enterprises Foundation; Com-munity Build Inc.; ParamountPictures; LA Shares; Women forWesson; the Olympic Park Neigh-borhood Council; the UnitedNeighbors Neighborhood Counciland SORO.

“I am deeply grateful for thecommunity partners that we workwith in sponsoring this event,” saidWesson. “They understand that it isour generosity and our spirit of giv-ing that makes our communitygreat.”


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Dec. 25, 1907Cab Calloway, bandleader and

first jazz singer to sell a millionrecords is born in Rochester, N.Y.

Dec. 25, 1865Atlanta University, Shaw

University and Virginia UnionUniversity are founded.Source: blackfacts.com

Black Facts

Rain fails to dampen Wesson’sWinter Wonderland


Notes, quotes and things pickedup on the run from coast-to-coastand all the stops in between andbeyond.

Merry Christmas to you andyours and a healthy and happy NewYear.

It’s only about two more daysbefore Christmas and that long-awaited basketball battle betweenKobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and therest of the back-to-back NBA cham-pion Los Angeles Lakers and thosemonsters called the Miami Heat,featuring LeBron James, DwyaneWade and Chris Bosh.

It’s a 2 p.m. affair billed as apossible playoff preview game.

Andrew Bynum is back inaction. And if he can remain healthyfor the rest of the season, the Lakersshould be the team to beat.

And the beat continues…The black-laden women’s bas-

ketball team of the University ofConnecticut, coached by GenoAuriemma, did something historic:It beat coach John Wooden’s oldUCLA record of 88 wins in a row.

The lady Huskies won 89 onDec. 21 with a 93-62 slaughteragainst Florida State. Next up, theladies will come to the West Coastin Stockton, Calif., to play againstPacific on Dec. 28.

Will UCLA’s women’s basket-ball coach, Nikki Caldwell, who got

off to a 7-0 start, continue to show upthe men’s basketball team coach, BenHowland, for the rest of the season?

We’ll see.And the beat continues…The New England Patriots’

quarterback Tom Brady has thesuperior numbers, but come rain,sleet or snow, I want thePhiladelphia Eagles’ QB MichaelVick on my team.

Brady recently put on a superperformance in the snow against theChicago Bears, but Vick toppedthat when he helped the Eagles winin a comeback over the New YorkGiants, 38-31.

Vick wasn’t the whole show,though.

The Eagles’ DeSean Jacksonreturned a punt 65 yards for theclincher as time ran out.

Jackson, quoted by ESPN,

declared: “It’s a dream come true.Sitting back there looking at 12 sec-onds left before the referee put theextra two seconds on — not that itmattered, but I’m just sitting backthere and thinking to myself,‘They’re really not going to kick itto me.’ I was thinking he was gonnakick it out of bounds or do some-thing out of the ordinary.”

And the beat continues…Check this out: Reggie Jack-

son, the New York Yankee Hall ofFamer, told USA Today: “ … WhenI played, there were writers makingthe same as ballplayers. Guys weremaking $50,000. Now, you look atguys like (Yankees shortstop)Derek Jeter, and he’s probably got$200 million in the bank. If Hank(Aaron) and Willie (Mays) wereplaying today, they’d be makingmore than $30 million a year.”

Now hear this: The OklahomaCity Thunder’s Kevin Durant hasbeen named USA Basketball maleathlete of the year. Durant led theUSA Americans to a world champi-onship for the first time in years andearned an MVP award.

And the beat ends.Brad Pye Jr. can be reached at

[email protected].

PHILADELPHIA (AP) —Convicted dogfighting-ring opera-tor Michael Vick hopes to own adog again someday.

The Eagles quarterback toldTheGrio.com in a video interviewposted last week that he genuinelycares for animals and one day hopesto have a dog as a household pet,saying it would be just another “bigstep” in his rehabilitation process.

“I would love to get anotherdog in the future,” Vick toldTheGrio, a website that’s affiliatedwith NBC and focuses on African-American issues. “I think it wouldbe a big step for me in the rehabili-tation process. I think just to have apet in my household and to showpeople that I genuinely care, and mylove, and my passion for animals.”

Vick served 18 months inprison after being convicted in 2007in the Virginia-based ring. The fed-eral judge overseeing the case alsoprohibited him from ever owninganother dog.

“Vick should be banned fromowning dogs for life,” JaneDollinger, spokeswoman for Peoplefor the Ethical Treatment ofAnimals, said in a news release lastweek. “Just as convicted pedophilesaren’t allowed free access to chil-dren, anyone who is responsible forhanging, electrocuting, or shootingdogs and who causes them to sufferin other unimaginable ways shouldnever again be allowed access todogs.”

Since his release from prison,Vick has become an advocate forthe Humane Society of the UnitedStates and makes school appear-

ances to talk to students about hispast. Vick said he’s doing that workbecause he wants to.

“Well first off, the court does-n’t make it an obligation for me togo out and speak,” Vick said. “Itdoesn’t make it an obligation for meto work with the Humane Society.I’m putting in the hard work to do itso it's not for any personal benefit,it’s to help others.”

Vick’s on-the-field success thisseason has made his story morecompelling — from star quarterbackto reviled dogfighter to comebackkid. And now he’s adding mentor tohis resume.

“I think if I can help five or sixkids daily, then I’m playing myposition as a positive role model inour society,” Vick told TheGrio. “Itell a lot of people that it’s easy todo the wrong thing. It’s hard to dothe right thing.”

Vick said he allowed outsideinfluences to affect his behavior, butsaid prison helped him see thechanges he needed to make.

“I hate to use our culture as anexcuse, but it is what it is and that’swhat happened and that’s the way Ithought about it growing up,” Vicktold TheGrio about dogfighting.“This is just the way we werebrought up.”

The quarterback said he hopeshis success with the Eagles will con-tinue breaking the stereotype thatblack athletes can’t or shouldn’tplay the position.

“I think if you’re good andgood enough to play the position, Ithink you’ll get the opportunity,” hesaid.

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Vick says he hopesto own a dog as apet someday

AP Photo by LM OteroIn this Dec. 12, 2010, file photo shows Philadelphia Eagles quarterbackMichael Vick after an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, inArlington, Texas. The convicted dogfighting-ring operator tellsTheGrio.com in a video interview that he genuinely cares for animals andone day hopes to have a dog as a household pet. Vick says it would a “bigstep” in his rehabilitation process.

AP Photo by Kathy WillensPhiladelphia Eagles’ DeSean Jackson celebrates as he leaves the field theEagles defeated the New York Giants 38-31 in an NFL football game at NewMeadowlands Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J.

SPORTS BEAT BY BRAD PYE JR.

Dec. 25, 1965Congress of Racial Equalityannounces that its national

director, James Farmer, willresign on March 1.

Source: blackfacts.com

Black Facts

BY DARLENE DONLOE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Whether it’s Christmas or NewYear’s Eve, much ado is made aboutthem.

Christmas is a religious cele-bration commemorating the birth ofJesus Christ and is traditionallyobserved with family gatherings andthe exchanging of gifts. New Year’sEve is known for its parties, resolu-tions and new beginnings.

We asked some celebritieswhich they prefer and why?

Dwayne Johnson (“Faster,”“The Scorpion King”) — That is soeasy; it’s Christmas because SantaClaus comes.

Chiwetel Ejiofor (“Salt,”“American Gangster”) — NewYear’s because you get the freshnew person and people are muchmore at ease and happier. It’s abouthaving a new beginning, a way ofstarting over.

Blair Underwood —Christmas, by far. Without questionit’s Christmas because I’m all aboutfamily and Christmas is all aboutfamily. Every year we go home toVirginia.

El DeBarge — I preferChristmas because it brings in thenew year. When you learn how togive and you become a part of thatjoyful occasion of giving, then yourNew Year’s resolutions are just thatmuch better.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner (“TheCosby Show”) — I like New Year’sEve because Christmas feels like aforced joy. You’re supposed to givepresents, be joyful and treat peopleright. New Year’s feels like a newbeginning. It’s easy. It’s anotheropportunity to do better.

Jenifer Lewis (“Hereafter”) —Christmas because during New

Year’s Eve people are too ignorantand start making silly resolutionsand making a big deal out of it. I justlike living in the moment.

Bokeem Woodbine (“Devil”)— I like New Year’s because it’slike turning the clock back to zero.It’s a good measuring tool. Whatwas I doing this time last year? Howfar have I come? What am I doingnow? What goals did I set that Imet? And, also there is somethingvery festive. Nothing againstChristmas, but I’m not crazy aboutChristmas.

Leslie Uggams (“UptownDowntown”) — I know it wasn’tone of the choices, but I likeThanksgiving. I just love the holi-day time. I love it because we all gettogether.

Donald Faison (“Scrubs”) — Ilove Christmas. I like it the mostbecause it’s great to see people’sfaces when they open up gifts. I likethe joy and happiness it brings. NewYear’s is the day you should focuson yourself and your next journey.Christmas you share with your fam-ily.

Kym Whitley (“College RoadTrip,” “Black Dynamite”) —Christmas because that’s the holidayI spend with my family. New Year’sI could be away performing.

George Tillman Jr. (“Faster”director) — I love Christmas. It’s allabout family and giving and love.

Salli Richardson-Whitfield(“Criminal Minds,” “I WillFollow”) — Christmas because it’sabout family. I have two little boys.I gotta set up trains. They don’t careanything about New Year’s.

Randal Pinkett (“TheApprentice”) — Christmas becauseI love to give. I don’t have toreceive anything. I love to spendtime with family.

Beverly Todd (“I Will Follow,”“The Bucket List”) —Neither, myfavorite is my birthday, which isJuly 11. I make it a holiday that Icelebrate two days before and twodays after. I think the most impor-tant day is the day God gave me life.

KiKi Shepard (“Showtime atthe Apollo”) — As an “auntie mom”I think Christmas is very, veryimportant. But New Year’s signifiesa new beginning.

Kenny Lattimore (R&B singer)— That’s a tough one. I was marriedNew Year’s Day. That will alwaysbe special to me. But, you knowgrowing up as a child Christmaswas a great holiday. It’s about a lov-ing family. The family being togeth-er and spending time with those Ihaven’t seen in a while. Both eventsare great.

Brandon T. Jackson (“TropicThunder,” “Lottery Ticket”) —Christmas. I love being around myfamily. I love the whole atmosphere.

Naturi Naughton (“Notorious”)— Christmas because I’m a suckerfor the whole lights, presents, fami-ly thing.

Camille Winbush (“The BernieMac Show”) — Christmas, definite-ly. I’m a sucker for decorations andbeing with family. There’s a warmththat takes place.

Marcus Miller (jazz musician)— Christmas makes you thankfuland you look back. You’re thankfulfor the birth of Jesus. New Year’s isabout looking forward. What resolu-tions do I want to make. I like both.

Kim Wayans (“In LivingColor,” author of “Amy Hodge-podge”) — I love Christmas. I’mwith all of my family and countingmy blessings. I’m eating good foodand enjoying the holiday. When wewere kids I remember my mommade it wonderful and special forus.

Damone Roberts (beauty thera-pist, “I Will Follow”) — Christmas.It’s about family coming togetherand being with the people you love.I like the season, the candles, thefood, everything.


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AP Photo by Paul JeffersIn this Oct. 26, 2010 file photo, Jermaine Jackson arrives at The AsianAwards at Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.

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Deputies investigating theftfrom Jermaine Jackson

LOS ANGELES — Sheriff's detectives say they are investigating thereported theft of $192,000 in jewelry and luggage from Jermaine Jackson.

Michael Jackson’s older brother reported the theft of watches, ringsand other jewelry after returning to Southern California from a vacation inmid-September.

Detectives say there are no suspects and no clear leads.Authorities say Jackson and his wife noticed the items were missing on

Sept. 18 and realized that one of the doors of their Calabasas home had beenleft unlocked.

The investigation was first reported by celebrity website TMZ.

Malcolm Jamal Warner

BY YUSSUF J. SIMMONDSCo-Managing Editor

And at the end of this year, may we sit again to-gether, in large numbers with greater achievement and closer to liberation and a higher lever of human life.

— Dr. Maulana Karenga (In honor of the celebration of Kwanzaa, the L.A.

Watts Times has chosen this message because it is timely and appropriate in accordance with the holiday season).

The month of December has traditionally been re-garded as the end of the calendar year, and people often scramble to end it on a high note and prepare for the New Year. However, in addition to the other year-end holiday celebrations, Kwanzaa is also a cultural celebra-tion and it is celebrated annually from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.

According to Dr. Maulana Karenga, the creator of Kwanzaa, it is a nonreligious, cultural holiday, and it is not meant to supplant the occasion of Christmas.One may celebrate Kwanzaa and still celebrate Christ-mas. The significance of Kwanzaa comes with a full understanding of its meaning and living according to its principles. After the seven days of celebration, it is necessary to inculcate the principles into one’s daily life throughout the year.

In celebrating the fullness of Kwanzaa, it is essential to know the basic principles and to strive to live ac-cording to them after the celebration ends on Jan. 1.The seven principles, or the Nguzo Saba, are:

• Umoja (Unity)• Kujichagulia (Self-determination)• Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)• Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)• Nia (Purpose)• Kuumba (Creativity)

Each day during the Kwanzaa celebration, a candle is lighted to memorialize a principle, and this year,according to Chimbuko Tembo of the African American Cultural Center, there is a specific activity scheduled each day of the Kwanzaa week for the Kwanzaa Ujima Collective (KUC). The purpose of the KUC is to jointly plan, coordinate and organize Kwanzaa events in the city, which express and reaffirm the dignity, beauty and expansive meaning of the holiday. This year, KUC will be celebrating the 44th anniversary of Kwanzaa.

Each day there will be a candle lighting ceremony in conjunction with a specific activity demonstrating the meaning of Kwanzaa, which will culminate in a special day of meditation, remembrance, reflection and recom-mitment to the highest human values — a quiet and peaceful time of turning inward (introspection).

A significant, yet simple and purposeful, examination of the seven principles can be readily discerned when carried into practice. To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race seems so fundamentally pragmatic and yet so elusive, specifi cally among Blacks, that it focuses directly on Umoja.

For a long time, there has been a need “to defi ne and re-define ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves,” and the need for self-determination be-comes paramount because for too long have others spoken for Black people — history is replete with misrepresentations and inaccuracies that cries out for Kujichagulia.

The basic premise of life’s fulfillment is derived from dutiful service, work and responsibility. When the

community can tackle its problems together, there is a greater chance of success and outside influences will not be able to disrupt its Ujima.

Building and maintaining our own community de-mands a sense of cooperative economics and respect for each other.

Malcolm X said, “The only progress we have made is as consumers.We still don’t manufacture anything, wedon’t legislate for ourselves.”

The principle of Ujamaa could help change that.Black people have never seemed to fully understand

their traditional greatness. Ebony magazine wrote, “Not only did African Americans come from Africa, every hu-man did.” Having the understanding and the “purpose”of that statement will go a long way in implementing Nia in “our” lives.

Parents usually strive to impart the benefi t of their worldly wealth and value system to their children in order to leave the community a better and more beautiful place than they found it. They live through their children and it is the flow of Kuumba that will guarantee human progress.

The elders hold a very sacred place along with par-ents as the leaders and teachers among Black people,and faith in the wisdom of their teachings will show the righteousness of “our” cause and lead to victory of “our”struggle. To benefit, as a community, from the principles of Kwanzaa, Imani is an integral element.

The successes and implementation of Kwanzaa could be gleaned from the struggle that it has taken to reach this point in its development as an African and Pan-African holiday. As Dr. Karenga has previously stated:

“I think it’s also important to mention that Kwan-zaa was not established because of petitions to the local, state of federal government to recognize it. On the contrary, we did not and would not seek permission or recognition to celebrate our own history and culture.”

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

May the wisdom of the ancestors always walk with us.

May the year’s end meet us laughing and stronger.

May our children honor us by following our example in love and struggle.

COVER PHOTO: Ruth Ndiagne Dorsey of Atlanta, GA. (Photo by AP Photo/John Amis)

COMMENTARY

Thursday, December 23, 2010 9www.lawattstimes.com

Umoja (oo-MOE-jah): UnityTo strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race.

Kujichagulia (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah): Self-determinationTo define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.

Ujima (oo-JEE-mah): Collective Work and ResponsibilityTo build and maintain our community together and to make our Brother’s and sister’s problems, our problems and to solve them together.

Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah): Cooperative EconomicsTo build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them.

Nia (nee-AH): PurposeTo make as our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their

traditional greatness.

Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah): CreativityTo do always as much as we can, in the way that we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful

than when we inherited it.

Imani (ee-MAH-nee): FaithTo believe with all our hearts in our parents, our teachers, our leaders, our people and the

righteousness and victory of our struggle.

Nguzo SabaThe Seven Principles

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Dr. Maulana Karenga

Photo by AP Photo/Anderson Independent-Mail, Ken Ruinard


E V E N T LISTINGS 12/ 10 - 1 / 1 1happening these months

12-24-10

CELEBRATION — The 51st annualL.A. County

Holiday Celebrationwill be held Dec. 24, 3 to 6 p.m., atthe Dorothy Chandler Pavilion of theMusic Center, 135 N. Grand Ave.,Los Angeles. The event will feature23 dance and music groups, includingthe Pacifico Dance Co., AlbertMcNeil Jubilee Singers and Women’sChorale. Admission is free, but peo-ple must have a wristband to get in.Wristbands will be passed out the dayof the event, beginning at 11:30 a.m.Free parking will be available in theMusic Center’s garage. More infor-mation: (213) 972-3099,www.HolidayCelebration.org.

12-25-10

TOY DRIVE & PARTY —“Christmas With A Clause,” a toydrive and party that will be hosted bySheryl Lee Ralph, will take placeDec. 25, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., at Samba,which is at Universal CityWalk.People interested in attending mustbring an unwrapped toy, and toys willbenefit Women Alive and the UnionRescue Mission. Universal CityWalkis at 100 Universal City Plaza,Universal City. Information: (818)763-0101.

12-26-10

ONE-MAN PLAY — “Heaven Can’tWait No Mo,’ ” a one-man play featur-

ing actor, singer, writer andpoet Isaac Clay, will take placeat the Lucy Florence CoffeeHouse on Dec. 26, 4 p.m. A din-ner buffet starts at 3. The“dramedy” has biblical princi-ples. In the play, Willy is askedby God to complete severaltasks. During his journey, heencounters several obstacles andexperiences individuals with var-ious perceptions about life,according to an ad promotion onthe play. Tickets for the play cost$25. The coffee house is inLeimert Park, at 3351 W. 43rd St.,Los Angeles. More information:(323) 301-0582, (323) 293-1356.

SNOW DAYS (KCM) — SnowDays Kidspace will take placeDec. 26 and 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,at Kidspace Children’s Museum,480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Thirty tons of snow will be brought into the event. More information:www.kidspacemuseum.org, (626) 449-9144, ext. 5210.

KWANZAA — The 34th AnnualKwanzaa Gwaride Parade and Festivalwill be held Dec. 26, noon, and thisyear’s theme is “Improving OurselvesNaturally.” The day will include spo-ken word, ceremonies, dancing andmore. The parade will start at Adamsand Crenshaw boulevards and proceedto Leimert Park. At 8 a.m., from Dec.27 to 31, attendees can work out andwalk 2 miles at Rancho Cienega Park.During Kwanzaa, there will also becandle lighting ceremonies in LeimertPark at 6 p.m. For more informationon Kwanzaa events, visit www.kwan-zaastuff.com, or call Tammy Lee at(323) 735-6643.

12-28-10

CONCERT (LYNN JETER &ASSOCIATES) — R&B singer and“The Oprah Show” karaoke winnerAbraham McDonald will continue thespirit of giving when he holds the lastperformance of his “Home For The

Holidays” concert series at 8 p.m. onDec. 28 at Busby’s Mile High Club at5361 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. Hewill perform his single “Giving YouMy Heart,” which is now available oniTunes, his ballad “Miracle,” andother R&B songs. Part of the proceedswill go to the Rowell FosterChildren’s Positive Plan (www.rowell-fosterchildren.org). There will becelebrity guest appearances by KellyPrice, Kenny Lattimore and K.D.Aubert and more.More information:(323) 525-2615.

12-31-10

“NOON” YEAR’SEVE — KidspaceChildren’s Museumwon’t be having aNew Year’s Eve cel-ebration leading upto midnight. Thisyear, there will be a“Noon Year’s Eve”celebration on Dec.31 from 9:30 a.m. to5 p.m. The eventwill take place at themuseum, 480 N.Arroyo Blvd.,Pasadena. Moreinformation:www.kidspacemuse-um.org, (626) 449-9144, ext. 5210.

01-01-11

KWANZAA CELE-BRATION — TheKwanzaa HeritageFoundation will hold the KwanzaaHeritage Festival and candle lightingceremony on Jan. 1, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,in Leimert Park. This year’s theme is“Up-Lifting Our Youth.” The freeevent will include face painting forchildren, a food court, live music, adrum circle and more. It will takeplace in the Leimert Park VillageVision Theatre lot at 4300 DegnanBlvd., Los Angeles. Organizers arelooking for vendors and entertain-ment. More information: (213) 488-4421, [email protected].

01-06-11

(COMPANY OF ANGELS)“FATIGUED” — Company ofAngels, a nonprofit repertory theater,will premiere “Fatigued” — two plays,which illustrate how friends, families,neighborhoods and communities expe-rience the emotional casualties of war.“Fatigued” opens Jan. 6 at Companyof Angels at The Alexandria, 501 S.Spring St., third floor, in downtown

Los Angeles. It is scheduled toend Jan. 23. Performances onThursday through Saturdayevenings are at 8 p.m. and onSunday at 7 p.m. There is noperformance on Jan. 13, andthere is an added matinee onJan. 16 at 3 p.m. The generalticket price is $20. Tickets canbe purchased at www.company-ofangels.org. More informa-tion: (213) 489-3703,www.companyofangels.org.

Photos by Danny Munoz

(l to r) Monica Sanchez, Chris Hampton, Carolyn Zeller

(l to r) Juanita Chase, Joshua Lamont, Charles Maceo

FILM FEST (BWR PR) — ThePalm Springs International FilmFestival will take place from Jan. 6to 17. Recently, a new programhighlighting African cinema wasannounced. The “Cinema Safari: AShowcase Of African Cinema” willpremiere 13 new films made inAfrica or reflecting contemporaryAfrican stories and themes. Thefilms include the road movie“Africa United,” “I Am Slave,” adrama about the modern-day slavetrade, and more. The showcasereflects the upsurge of film produc-tion across the African continentand the concurrent emergence ofnew filmmaking talents throughoutthe region. For more information,call (760) 322-2930 or (800) 898-7256, or visit www.psfilmfest.org.

01-15-11

CIRCUS — “Circus INcognitus,”a one-man circus comedy per-formed by Jamie Adkins, will takeplace at the Kirk Douglas Theatrefrom Jan. 15 to 23. Tickets cost$20. To purchase tickets, call (213)628-2772 or visit www.centerthe-atregroup.org. The Kirk DouglasTheatre is at 9820 WashingtonBlvd., Culver City. Attendees canfind free parking at City Hall,which is behind the theater. Moreinformation: (213) 628-2772 (TTY213-680-4017), www.centertheatre-group.org/theatres/douglas/.

01-21-11

CONCERT (PEPPERDINE) —Ken Page, who won a Drama DeskAward for his role in the Tony-win-ning musical “Ain’t Misbehavin’ ”,will perform a solo concert atPepperdine University’s SmothersTheatre on Jan. 21, 8 p.m. Page, ina career spanning more than 30years, has worked in nearly allareas of the entertainment industry.His motion pictures include“Dreamgirls” and “Torch SongTrilogy.” He has also voiced thecharacters King Gator in “All DogsGo to Heaven” and Mr. OogieBoogie in the cult classic“Nightmare Before Christmas.”Page made his Broadway debut in1976 in the all-black revival of“Guys and Dolls.” His gospelrendition of “Sit Down, You’reRockin’ the Boat” earned himcritical praise and the TheatreWorld Award. The event will take


placeat 24255 Pacific Coast Highway,Malibu. Tickets, priced at $40 forthe public and $10 for full-timePepperdine students, are availablenow by calling (310) 506-4522.Tickets are also available throughTicketmaster at (800) 982-2787.More information: http://arts.pep-perdine.edu/.

ONGOING

ALLENSWORTH EXHIBIT(CAAM) — “Allensworth: A Place.A People. A Story.” is a photographyexhibition of 65 photographs repre-senting 10 photographers who col-laborated on a photo series docu-menting Allensworth, the historicsettlement as part of the ColonelAllensworth State Historic Park.The exhibition runs through Feb. 27,2011. In 2008, the CaliforniaAfrican American Museum present-ed “Allensworth: 100 Years of theCalifornia Dream,” a historicaloverview of Allensworth throughphotographs and text. Information:Information: www.caamuseum.org.

“HOW WE ROLL” (CAAM) —“How We Roll,” a CaliforniaAfrican American Museum-curatedexhibition has been extendedthrough March 20, 2011. Thisexhibit offers insight into theengagement and cultural influenceof African Americans in the sportsof skateboarding, surfing and rollerskating. “How We Roll” celebrates

personal stories, cheers on theradicals who changed and blendedthe sports, and the artistry and liveli-hoods that have grown out of theserespective fields. The exhibit is amixture of various mixed mediainstallations, a large amount of his-torical memorabilia and artifacts,intertwined with historical facts,personal accomplishments, vintageand contemporary photos andvideos. Information: www.caamu-seum.org.

“SWEET MAMA STRINGBEAN” (FREMONT CENTRETHEATRE) — By popular

demand,ValLimar Jansen and Frank Jansenhave returned in their “two-person,one-woman show” about legendaryperformer Ethel Waters — star ofradio, TV, Broadway and feature film— at the Fremont Centre Theatre.“Sweet Mama String Bean” has beenextended through Jan. 2. Showtimesfor the play are 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 and

Jan. 1, and 3 p.m. on Jan. 2.Admission for the musical playcost $30. Students and seniorscan pay $25 on Saturdays andSundays. There will be a NewYear’s Eve gala, which willinclude the show, a party withdinner, wine, live music fromthe Sweet Mama String BeanCombo and more. The cost forthat is $80. The Fremont CentreTheatre is at 1000 Fremont Ave.,South Pasadena. There is freeparking behind the theater.Reservations: (866) 811-4111.Online ticketing:www.fremontcentretheatre.com.

The deadline for receipt of calendar listings is Friday, noon, at least

two weeks prior to activity. Fax to: (323) 299-3896,

e-mail us at [email protected] or mail to: L.A. Watts Times,

3800 Crenshaw Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90008.

All calendar items are received from various senders

and are subject to being edited.

Ken Page

Photo by Robert Whitehead


BY MARGARET WHEELER

St. Paul’s had much to cele-brate, having represented church,family, and forum in the communityfor 100 faith-filled years. After aseries of fetes in recent months, LosAngeles’ own St. Paul’s Presby-terian Church at 5100 Coliseum St.commemorated its 100th Anniver-sary with a momentous celebrationluncheon Saturday, Oct. 23, at KnoxPresbyterian Church.

The speaker for the 100th anni-versary luncheon was the Rev. Dr.Harold E. Kidd, Pastor of FirstPresbyterian Church, Inglewood.He gave the congregation a mes-sage, “From Generation to Gener-ation,” Matthew 1:1-7, 16-17; Weare grateful to God and give allpraises to Him for the Word.

Dr. Kidd is a graduate of SanFrancisco State University. Hereceived his Master of Divinitydegree from Howard UniversitySchool of Divinity. Pastor of FirstPresbyterian Church since 2002, Dr.Kidd also serves as coordinator ofPacific Presbytery Mission workersto aid New Orleans and a PCUSAdelegate to Ghana and Jordan.

Mrs. Bernice Riley, an activemember of St. Paul’s PresbyterianChurch, was honored for 45 years ofcommitment, dedication, service tothe community and many other con-tributions.

Program participants were theHowlett Smith Trio; Eric Drew,soloist and Master of Ceremony;Gary Rowland, soloist; PeterRoberts, pianist; Debbie Lawrence,pianist; Shannon Peace, historian;and Jordan Brewington.

Guest clergy in attendancewere Dr. Leon E. Fanniel, pastoremeritus; the Rev. Dr. ElizabethSteele; the Rev. Virginia Brown; theRev. John Cager; Dr. Bill Hazen; theRev. Calvin Moore; Dr. KikanzaNuri; the Rev. Donald Wilson; theRev. Hugh Wire; and the Rev. KerryAllison.

As the members of St. Paul’s,we will continue to observe this his-toric moment in the life of thechurch. We thank all former mem-bers, friends, and the greater LosAngeles community who helped usto celebrate with food, music, mem-ories and we praise God for Hisblessings and sustaining power.“We’ve come this far by faith.”

St. Paul PresbyterianChurch Culminates100th Anniversary1910-2010

(From left) Lois Hines, luncheon co-chair; Bernice Riley, honoree; andMary Porter, luncheon chair.

Assemblyman Mike Davishosted the 2010 Holiday Cele-bration and Toy Drive at theNatural History Museum, AfricanMammal Hall in Exposition Park.As guests entered the Grand Foyerto deliver their handpicked toys,they were greeted by the Assem-blyman and the Little DickensCarolers dressed in Dickens-styledcostumes.

“Each year we look forward tosetting the holiday mood to helpbrighten the day for children in ourcity by collecting toys to distributeto those in need,” remarked Davis.

“I am grateful for the supportand performances given by ourcelebrity friends who made this anenjoyable and unforgettableevent,” he added.

The hall was dressed in holi-day red and was the setting for thisyear-end celebration that had holi-day food treats, entertainment andopportunities for networking.Master of Ceremony Davis present-ed an show of local and nationalartists. Musical director RichardTurner provided accompaniment ona white baby grand piano. Three2010 Talent Showcase contestants,Roman Collins, William Hardy andPhillip Lauth, performed for theaudience with their favorite carols.On soprano sax, Mark “Panther”Felton played a version of “GodRest Ye Merry Gentlemen.”Songstress Jessica Smith sang“Silent Night” and “I’ll be HomeFor Christmas.” Special guestShanice shared her vocal gifts withperformances of “O Holy Night”and “What About the Children.”Elaine Gibbs enlistedAssemblyman Davis to help herwish everyone a “White Christ-mas.” And to end the night on ahigh note, Desiree Coleman-Jackson brought the crowd to their

feet as sheextolled the truereason for theseason with arousing per-formance of “ToGod Be TheGlory.” The48th District2010 Woman ofthe Year, 97-year-old O.V.Smith, was somoved by thes p i r i t - f i l l e doffering that shewent on stagewith Desiree toexpress hergratitude andp r a i s e .C o l e m a n -Jackson sent thecrowd homewith a finalnumber, “HaveYourself aMerry LittleChristmas.”

Person of the Week Assemblyman Mike Davis CollectsToys for Underserved Children

The Little Dickens Carolers and Assemblyman Davis greet guests as they enter the Grand Foyer of the NaturalHistory Museum.

Shanice sings her rendition of “What About The Children.”

Desiree Coleman-Jackson lifted her magnificent voicein gratitude with “To God Be The Glory.”

Bernice Riley The Rev. Dr. Harold E. Kidd

BY JULIANNE MALVEAUXNNPA COLUMNIST

Habari Gani begins thegreeting. It is Swahili for“what’s happening?” DuringKwanzaa, the seven daysbetween Dec. 26 and Jan. 1,the response reflects the par-ticular day of Kwanzaa. OnDec. 26, the response isUmoja, which means Unity.On Dec. 29, the response isUjamaa, which is cooperativeeconomics. On the last day ofKwanzaa, Jan. 1, the responseis Imani, which means Faith.

We are all indebted toMualana Ron Karenga for hisdevelopment of the Kwanzaaconcept, and for the millionsof people who celebrateAfrican history and heritage.As a Christian, I worship andam mindful of the birth of theChrist Child and the fact thatsomehow, as a greeting,Happy Holidays has swal-lowed Merry Christmas.

The Happy Holidaysgreeting is intended to beinclusive, intended to encom-pass Christmas, Kwanzaa,Chanukah, the Winter Solstice, andjust about everything else. It isintended, by some, to indicate thatwe are sensitive to everybody’sneeds, holidays and religious diver-sity. Still, I think we lose just a littlebit of something when we decide togroup everything into “the holi-days.” We lose the majesty of theChrist Child’s birth, a day that most

of our nation celebrates. ManyAmericans are self-identifiedChristians. Should we swallow theuniqueness of the season and thecelebration, miracle, and renewalthat it implies?

Our Jewish brothers and sistersalso celebrate holy times inChanukah. This celebration oflights, of rededication, has special

meaning that should not bereduced to just another holi-day. Those of us who are notJewish may not need to cele-brate Chanukah, but we shouldbe aware, mindful and com-memorative. Religious diver-sity means knowing about andacknowledging each other’sholy moments. We lose someof that with the generic HappyHolidays.

Kwanzaa is a celebrationunto itself. Karenga developedthe holiday and its celebrationin the 1960s to affirm African-American vision and values.The seven principles — umoja(unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collec-tive work and responsibility),ujamaa (cooperative econom-ics), nia (purpose), kuumba(creativity) and imani (faith)— are all principles that repre-sent the foundation of commu-nity growth and development,and a celebration of family andculture. Millions have takenthe principles and used themas a way to affirm strength andresilience in the African-American community. I am

especially mindful of the principleof ujamaa, cooperative economics,as it undergirds much of the workthat I do. So when somebody sayshabari gani to you on Dec. 29, pleaserespond with ujamaa.

Kwanzaa does not substitute orsupplant Christmas. It is an entirelydifferent reality. It is an end-year cel-ebration of family, faith and commu-nity, a celebration of life. A 40-plus-year tradition is a rich and rewardingway to bring us all together.

We should have enough roomin our collective consciousness toallow for multiple year-end celebra-tions. Christmas, Kwanzaa andChanukah each commemorate dif-ferent facets of American life. Andthen there is the winter solstice, thechanging of the seasons, the shortestday of the year, and yet also a cele-bration. Yes, we need to haveenough room to celebrate all thesethings in their distinctness. To swal-low them all up in a Happy Holidaysgreeting is a politically correct wayof both lumping us all together andignoring the richness of our differ-ences and how our differences add tothe ways we live and celebrate ourlives.

Julianne Malveaux is presidentof Bennett College for Women. Hermost recent book, “Surviving andThriving: 365 Facts in BlackEconomic History” is available atwww.lastwordprod.com.

BY MARC H. MORIALNNPA COLUMNIST

As we close out the year, this isa good time to take a look back atsome of the big events of 2010 thatwill influence our lives for years tocome. The National Urban Leaguehas spent much of our centennialyear urging theCongress and theWhite House to focusrelentlessly on jobcreation. But, we endthe year with a so-called tax cut com-promise that rewardsbillionaires, short-changes middle- andworking-class Ameri-cans, and does littleto create jobs. Wehave called forchanges in the taxpackage, includingextending unemploy-ment benefits for twoyears and increasingtax cuts for middle-class families. Nomatter what theCongress does beforethe end of this year,this is sure to be afight that carries overto 2011.

But, all is notdoom and gloom.The Obama admini-stration achieved sev-eral major legislativevictories this yearthat will benefit all Americans.

In March, President Obamasigned historic health care reformlegislation into law. With the strokeof a pen, the President expandedcoverage to 32 million Americanswho are currently uninsured. Thebill also prevents insurance compa-nies from denying coverage due topre-existing conditions and allowschildren to stay on their parent’sinsurance plan until they turn 26.Health care reform had been debat-ed for decades and attempted bynumerous presidents. PresidentObama got it done and the countryis better for it.

In July, the President signedinto law the most sweeping WallStreet financial reforms since theGreat Depression. The bill reins inthe big banks that have largelybeen responsible for the financialcrisis. It also creates a new Con-sumer Financial Protection Bureauthat will be able to regulate mort-gage and credit-card products,including predatory lenders thathave operated with impunity up tillnow. Upon signing the bill, thePresident said, “From now onevery American will be empow-

ered with the clear and conciseinformation you need to makefinancial decisions that are best foryou.”

Finally, 2010 saw the NationalUrban League celebrate 100 yearson the frontlines of closingAmerica’s equality gap. From July28 to 31, the NUL held its cen-

tennial conference in the nation’scapital. Obama attended and deliv-ered a major education speech.

The events of the past yearremind us that we must be onenation empowered to ensure thatevery American child is ready forcollege, work, and life. That everyAmerican lives in safe, decent,affordable, and energy-efficienthousing on fair terms and hasaccess to quality, affordable healthcare solutions. And, most impor-tantly, that every American hasaccess to jobs with a living wageand good benefits. As I said at ourJuly conference, as long as thereare people out of work, as long asthere are people in need of betterschools, as long as there’s a needfor safe, decent and wholesomeafterschool programs, as long asthere are people who long tobecome homeowners and are look-ing for somewhere to turn, thisNational Urban League and UrbanLeague Movement is here to stay.Enjoy the holiday and Happy NewYear!

Marc H. Morial is the presidentand CEO of the National UrbanLeague.

Marc Morial


To Be EqualHistoric reformsenacted by PresidentObama in 2010

Christmas, Kwanzaaand Chanukah:

holiday diversity

Julianne Malveaux

If you’re 50 or older, please get screened. Screening saves lives.1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) www.cdc.gov/screenforlife

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

She was the cornerstone ofour family. But my motherdied of colon cancer when shewas only 56. Let my heartbreakbe your wake-up call.

Colorectal cancer is the2nd leading cancer killerin the U.S., but screeninghelps prevent this disease.

Terrence Howard, actor/musician

This is personal.

Trustee Sale No. CA09001518-10-1 . Title Order No. 100512494-CA-LPI APN 6083-026-025 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED October 6, 2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On January 13, 2011, at 01:00 PM, At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building,350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA, MTC FINANCIAL Inc., dba Trustee Corps, as the duly appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on October 13, 2006, as Instrument No. 06 2279476 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: LEONARD JONES, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, in favor of AMERICAN MORTGAGE NETWORK, INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 151 153 155 157 E 120TH STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 90015 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest theron, as provided in said Note(s), advances if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee`s Sale is estimated to be $387,534.91 (Estimated), provided, however, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary`s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a cashier`s check drawn on a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee`s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder`s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. DATE: December 16, 2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09001518-10-1 . 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature TRUSTEE CORPS IS A DEBTCOLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.Ad #7387 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30

Trustee Sale # CA0950429-2 Loan# 1009971134 Order # 090498915 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER ADEED OF TRUST DATED 05/16/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT ALAWYER. On 12/30/2010 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 05/23/2007 as Document No. 20071249730 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JULIO LOPEZ, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, MILLE MORTGAGE INC, as Beneficiary, WILL SELLAT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CAThe property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5115-027-016 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1191A 1191B 1193 EAST 42ND PL, LOS ANGELES, CA 90011The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $498,953.55 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/09/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICERTRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 [email protected]

Ad #7743 2010-12-09 2010-12-16 2010-12-23

Trustee Sale # CA0955872-3 Loan# 1880763077 Order # 4251115 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER ADEED OF TRUST DATED 06/05/2008. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT ALAWYER. On 01/06/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 06/18/2008 as Document No. 20081082139 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JORGE PAVON AND YULMA PATRICIA HENRIQUEZ DE PAVON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, as Trustor, W J CAPITAL CORPORATION, as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5468-030-004 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 321 SOUTH AVENUE 56, LOS ANGELES, CA 90042 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $322,440.07 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof.Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 __ Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIALINC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 [email protected] #7990 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30

Trustee Sale # CA0919156-1 Loan# 3002776742 Order # G828517 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER ADEED OF TRUST DATED 11/27/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT ALAWYER. On 02/14/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 12/04/2006 as Document No. 20062681502 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, RENE H. GOMEZ, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, MORTGAGEIT, INC., as Beneficiary, WILLSELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CAThe property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 2315-019-022 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 11109 VALERIO STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 91352 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $497,439.26 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the

date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICERTRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 [email protected] #8035 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30

Trustee Sale # CA0918994-1 Loan# 167574208 Order # G827977 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER ADEED OF TRUST DATED 05/02/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT ALAWYER. On 01/06/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on05/11/2007 as Document No. 20071148563 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JONATHAN HERNANDEZ, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, COUNTRY HOME LOANS, INC. DBA AMERICA'S WHOLESALE LENDER, as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5119020012 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1247 1247 1/2 EAST 27TH STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 90011 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $648,586.87 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 [email protected] Ad #8036 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30


The County of Los Angeles, Department ofChildren and Family Services is soliciting SOQs forWraparound Approach Services. Interested personsare directed to the Los Angeles County Website atwww.lacounty.info for a listing of this notice.Please see ad on December 19, 2010.

For more information, please contact Jay Cheng,Contract Analyst at (213) 351-5743.

The tail end of a storm thatdumped rain on Southern Californiafor nearly a week gave the region onefinal lashing, burying houses and carsin mud, washing hillsides onto high-ways, flooding urban streets, threat-ening dozens of canyon homes andspreading filthy water that promptedthe closure of 12 miles of OrangeCounty beaches.

Inflatable boats and canoes wereused to rescue dozens of motoristsand homeowners from floodedstreets, hotels and hillsides. Othersrefused to leave their homes, even asdirty water and mud sliced throughtheir neighborhoods.

The storm weakened as itmoved eastward, but floods stillwashed away at least six vacanthomes in Arizona and inundated partsof Nevada and Utah.

The low-pressure system couldbe in New Mexico by Thursday andreach the Gulf Coast by Saturdaywith some rain, but not the delugethat hit Southern California, forecast-ers said.

The storm turned the final daysbefore Christmas into a nightmare,and left some residents fearful thatmore and bigger mudslides couldstrike the wildfire-scarred hillsides insuburban Los Angeles even after theskies cleared.

Officials on Tuesday ordered theevacuation of 232 homes in LaCanada Flintridge and La Crescenta,suburbs of Los Angeles below steep

HILLSIDESCOLLAPSEContinued from page 3

Groups: Blacks unfairly citedon Ohio bus line

CLEVELAND (AP) — Civilrights groups say black riders on aCleveland bus line are unfairly feel-ing the brunt of an effort against peo-ple who don't pay the fare.

The Plain Dealer reports theAmerican Civil Liberties Union andthe NAACP have complained to tran-sit officials that nine out of 10 peopleticketed on the HealthLine duringone month were black.

The special bus line is meant tomove along rapidly. So, unlike otherCleveland buses, riders pay at sta-tions before they board, on an honorsystem.

The transit authority sayspolice randomly board HealthLinebuses and ticket riders who can'tshow a receipt. Agency generalmanager Joe Calabrese says the per-centage of blacks ticketed for non-payment reflects the population inneighborhoods served by the line.He says the agency does not dis-criminate.

Information from: The PlainDealer, http://www.cleveland.com.

Path points to SupremeCourt as judge rules keyprovision of health lawunconstitutional

WASHINGTON (AP) — Thescorecard on the legal fight overPresident Barack Obama’s healthcare overhaul is two judges in favorand one against.

But these are the early rounds inpreliminary bouts. The one that real-ly counts — a showdown at theSupreme Court — is at least a yearaway.

The health care law suffered itsfirst major legal setback Dec. 13when a federal judge declared thatthe heart of the sweeping legislationis unconstitutional. The decisionhanded Republican foes ammunitionfor their repeal effort next year.

The ruling by U.S. DistrictJudge Henry E. Hudson, a Repub-lican appointee in Richmond, Va.,marked the first successful courtchallenge to any portion of the newlaw, following two earlier rulings inits favor by Democratic-appointedjudges. A number of other lawsuitswere dismissed early on, without rul-ings on the substance of the law.

The law’s central requirementfor nearly all Americans to carryinsurance is unconstitutional, wellbeyond Congress’ power to mandate,Hudson ruled. That put him in thesame camp as Virginia AttorneyGeneral Ken Cuccinelli — theRepublican who filed the suit — andmany of the GOP lawmakers whowill take control of the U.S. House inJanuary.

BRIEFSContinued from page 4

CITY OF LOS ANGELES

$50,000 REWARD NOTICEThe City of Los Angeles offers a reward payable at the discretion of the City Council to one or more persons in the sum or sums up to an aggregate maximum total sum of $50,000 for information leading to the identification and apprehension of the person or persons responsible for the act of murder against, ROSE GARCIA, in the City of Los Angeles. On Sunday, January 13, 2008, at approximately 6:55 a.m., Rose Garcia, a 35-year old woman, was discovered dead in an alley to the rear of 1504 West Florence Avenue. LAPD is still searching for the individual(s) responsible for this crime and encour-ages witnesses to come forward, even anonymous-ly, to assist them in their investigations. The person or persons responsible for this crime represent an ongoing threat to the safety of the people of Los Angeles. Unless withdrawn or paid by City Council action, this offer of reward shall terminate on, and have no effect after, JUNE 17, 2011.The provisions of payment and all other consider-ations shall be governed by Chapter 12 of Division 19 of the LAAC Code, as amended by Ordinance Nos. 158157 and 166666. This offer shall be given upon the condition that all claimants provide contin-ued cooperation within the criminal justice system relative to this case and is not available to public offi-cers or employees of the City, their families, persons in law enforcement or persons whose misconduct prompted this reward. If you have any information regarding this case, please call the Los Angeles Police Department at 1-877-LAWFULL, 24 hours. C. F. No. 09-0010-s812/23/10CNS-2007040#WATTS TIMES

CIVIL

AMENDEDORDER TO SHOW CAUSEFOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. BS129011Superior Court of California, County of Los AngelesPetition of: Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates for Change of NameTO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:Petitioner Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates filed a peti-tion with this court for a decree changing names as follows:Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates to Sarah Nicole JamesThe Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the peti-tion for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the peti-tion should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.Notice of Hearing:Date: January 21, 2011, Time: 9:00 a.m., Dept.: 1A, Room: 548The address of the court is 111 N. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be pub-lished at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the peti-tion in the following newspaper of general circula-tion, printed in this county: Watts TimesDate: December 9, 2010Matthew C. St. GeorgeCommissioner of the Superior Court12/23, 12/30, 1/6, 1/13/11CNS-2012228#WATTS TIMES

GOVERNMENT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALRFP NO. 7542

PROJECT BASED VOUCHER NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY

(PBV NOFA)The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles invites proposals from qualified developers under the Project Based Voucher Program for Permanent Supportive Housing projects that serve extremely and very low income chronically homeless special needs individuals and homeless families, transition aged youth (TAY), seniors and the disabled. Copies of the PBV NOFA may be obtained beginning December 21, 2010 online at www.hacla.org/ps. Proposals will be accepted until 2:00pm, January 21, 2011.12/23, 12/30/10CNS-2011800#WATTS TIMES

See HILLSIDES COLLAPSE,page 15

“Be wary of out of area companies. Check withthe local Better Business Bureau before you send anymoney for fees or services. Read and understand anycontracts before you sign. Shop around for rates.”

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revel in the achievement of a goalhe’s long championed.

It is also the second of threeexpected victories in what’s turnedout to be — for Obama — a surpris-ingly productive lame-duck Con-gress. Weeks after his self-described“shellacking” in the midterm vote,he's won lopsided approval of a taxcut compromise, and the Senate ispoised to deliver his top foreign pol-icy goal: ratification of a newnuclear arms treaty with Russia.

Many Democratic liberals werefurious over the tax package, believ-ing Obama blithely yielded toRepublican demands to retain thesame tax cuts for the rich he hadloudly denounced on the campaigntrail. That’s not the case with therepeal of don’t ask, don’t tell. Liftingof the ban on gays serving openlywas something Obama not only cam-paigned on in 2008 but reiterated inthis year’s State of the Union speech.

“I will work with Congress andour military to finally repeal the lawthat denies gay Americans the rightto serve the country they lovebecause of who they are,” he said inJanuary to cheers in the Housechamber, adding, “It’s the rightthing to do.”

Born 17 years ago as a compro-mise between President Bill Clintonand a resistant Pentagon, the “don’task, don’t tell” policy became forgay rights campaigners a notoriousroadblock on the way to full accept-ance.

Speaking in June at a Gay PrideMonth observance at the White

House, Obama likened the fight toend it to the struggle of Americanblacks for civil rights.

“We have never been closer toending this discriminatory policy,”he declared.

Yet he has also faced rising dis-content among gay activists whobelieved he hadn’t moved forcefullyenough. He’s been heckled at cam-paign appearances over AIDS fund-ing and the failure to end the mili-tary service ban.

Obama countered that as com-mander-in-chief, he had to ensurethe ban’s end is carefully preparedfor.

That’s just what the bill fromCongress mandates.

“The implementation and certi-fication process will not happenimmediately; it will take time,” AirForce Chief of Staff Gen. NortonSchwartz warned in an e-mail thatwent out right after Saturday’sSenate vote. “Meanwhile, the cur-rent law remains in effect. All AirForce members should conductthemselves accordingly.”

Military and administrationofficials are wrestling with numer-ous legal questions raised by the endof the ban — knowing that courtsare waiting in the wings. Theyinclude what to do about pendingexpulsion proceedings, and whenthose ousted under don’t-ask-don’t-tell might apply to rejoin the armedforces.

For Almy, who appeared at aCapitol Hill ceremony Monday, theimportant thing is that gay and les-bian service members are no longersingled out because of who theylove.

“That’s all we ever wanted,” hetold reporters, “not special rights,just the same as our straight coun-terparts.”

Associated Press Writer SagarMeghani contributed to this report.

OBAMA SIGNINGContinued from page 3

hillsides that burned in 2009 andwhere mudslides inundated homesand backyards in February.

It’s the same area where theStation Fire charred 250 square milesabove suburbs tucked below the SanGabriel Mountains.

“The ground is so saturated itcould move at any time” and thethreat will remain for several weeks,said Bob Spencer, spokesman for theLos Angeles County Department ofPublic Works.

Olivia Brown, 45, left herParadise Valley home in the LaCanada Flintridge area around mid-night. “I’m worried about a rockcoming down on the house,” Brownsaid at a Red Cross shelter. “My hus-band stayed home with two of ourdogs. He had to be a man, you know,and hold down the fort.

“When he’s nervous, it makesme nervous. I had to go,” she said.

In Silverado Canyon, in theSanta Ana Mountains in eastern

Orange County, Mary Adams and herhusband got up in the middle of thenight to check for mudslide danger asrains pounded the hill above them.

They had just crawled back intobed at 3:30 a.m. when they heard alow, dull roar and then the echoingboom of boulders tumbling into acreek. Adams, 54, jumped from bedto see a small river of mud, rocks anddebris sweep past her side door,whisking the couple's travel trailer100 feet down the hill and filling theirgarage and succulent garden withthick ooze.

On Wednesday morning, therain was still coming down hard asAdams surveyed the damage. Thesound of falling rocks still rang outevery few minutes as the rain poureddown outside.

Like Adams, dozens of herneighbors had refused to evacuateand worked with shovels to cleardebris from storm drains and divertrivers of water and muck from their

homes and cars.“If we can get the truck out, then

maybe we can leave but I’m notgoing to be away from my house andjust be sitting in an evacuation centerthree blocks down the road,” saidAdams, who has lived in the canyonmore than 30 years.

In San Diego, the first floor ofthe Premier Inn in the city’s MissionValley flooded, forcing about 50guests and employees to the secondfloor where lifeguards used a rubberraft to rescue them amid floatingtrash bins and fast moving water, fireofficials said.

SeaWorld San Diego closed forthe day as water rose in the nearbySan Diego River, but it was expectedto reopen on Thursday.

Sixty people were rescued andmore than 30 homes evacuated whenwater surged through Dove Canyon,a gated community in OrangeCounty, said Orange County FireCapt. Greg McKeown. Officialstagged five homes in Rancho SantaMargarita as uninhabitable.

In Highland, about 65 miles eastof Los Angeles, two creeks over-flowed, swamping as many as 20homes in up to 3 feet of mud. Nearly250 homes have been evacuated.

“This mud flow moved cars,picked them up, stood them up ontheir nose at 45-degree angles, buriedthem,” said Bill Peters, a spokesmanfor the California Department ofForestry and Fire Protection.

Los Angeles County health offi-cials warned residents to be carefulthrough Thursday of polluted wateraround storm drains, creeks andrivers. The environmental group Healthe Bay said ocean water couldremain contaminated with bacteriafor much longer than that.

“When you have a major rainlike this, we'll have an impact at somebeaches for weeks,” said Mark Gold,group president.

HILLSIDES COLLAPSEContinued from page 14

Dec. 25, 1971The Rev. Jesse Jackson organizesOperation PUSH (People United

to Save Humanity).Source: blackfacts.com

Black Facts


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