LAWT 11-24-2011

W E E K E N D E R

L.A. Watts Times Vol. XXX, No. 1259

www.lawattstimes.com

Thursday, November 24, 2011

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

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financial rewards from your hard work. Soul affirmation: Joy is my houseguest this week.

IBRA ~ Business looks good this week as you discover a new way of increasing exposure to your product. Let hope and optimism lead you into new beginnings and fresh starts.

All vibes are good, so go! Take a good friend with you for help and company on your journey into newness. Soul affirmation: Make-believe is real, while I believe it.

CORPIO ~ This will be one of those weeks that seem like one you’ve lived before.

Good! Make some changes in the way you see things and you’ll make the old new; the routine will become exciting. Communications skill should be excellent. Have some good long talks with relative. Soul affirmation: I find happiness by making those around me happy.

AGITTARIUS ~ Travel has been on your mind for some time. Buy the tickets. Fuel the car. New surroundings will bring fresh ways of looking at things, which is exactly what you need. A trip that involves creative expression is called for. Soul affirmation: I give myself a chance to see how good I can be.

APRICORN ~ Keep a low voice. Let your presence supply the power, not your words or deeds. Great reward can come from travel with a friend or sweetheart. Remember something that a co-worker has been saying. There is a blessing in it. Soul affirmation: I let go of all resentment and love my life.

QUARIUS ~ Rev up your engines. This is a fine week for making progress with projects that you've got in the works. Your energy is high and your mind is clear. Use every advantage this week to finish up your works.

ISCES ~ A spirit of competition may be troubling you. Let it go. Celebrate differences and get on with the work of creating new hope in the world! Your tendency to speak without considering the full impact on others should be checked this week. Soul affirmation: I seek the lighthearted flavor of love this week.

Inside This Edition

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L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER Published Weekly – Updates

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3800 S. Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008 Administration – Sales – Graphics – Editorial 323.299.3800 - office 323.291.6804 - fax

Obama issues 5 pardons, 1 prison commutation WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama on Monday pardoned five people convicted of charges ranging from intent to distribute marijuana to running an illegal gambling business.

And he issued his first commutation, ordering the release of a woman next month after serving 10 years on a 22-year sentence for cocaine distribution.

The actions mark Obama’s third set of pardons. He pardoned eight people earlier this year, and issued nine pardons in December 2010.

None of those pardoned was well-known, as was the case with the president’s previous orders. The cases date back to 1984, when Martin Kaprelian of Park Ridge, Ill., was sentenced to nine years in prison for conspiracy to transport stolen property in interstate commerce, and other related charges.

Obama commuted the 2001 prison sentence of Eugenia Marie Jennings of Alton, Ill. Jennings was convicted in 2001 for distributing

cocaine, and sentenced to 22 years in prison. The president ordered her to be released next month, but kept intact her eight years of supervised release.

Others who received pardons: — Lesley Claywood Berry Jr. of Loretto, Ky., sentenced in 1988 to three years in prison for conspiracy to manufacture and distribute marijuana.

— Dennis George Bulin of Wesley Chapel, Fla., sentenced in 1987 to five years of probation and a $20,000 fine for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 1,000 pounds of marijuana.

— Ricky Dale Collett of Annville, Ky., sentenced in 2002 to one year of probation for aiding and abetting in the manufacture of 61 marijuana plants.

— Thomas Paul Ledford of Jonesborough, Tenn., sentenced in 1995 to one year of probation for conducting and directing an illegal gambling business.

MOMBASA SQUARE ANSWERS FROM 11-17-11

Beverly Cook – Publisher, Managing Editor 1976 – 1993 Charles Cook – Publisher 1976 – 1998 Melanie Polk – Publisher 1998 – 2010 WWW.LAWATTSTIMES.COM Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. ............Executive Publisher & Executive Editor Brenda Marsh Mitchell ..................................Executive Vice President Tracey Mitchell ......................................................................Controller Brandon I. Brooks ..................................................Co-Managing Editor Yussuf J. Simmonds ..............................................Co-Managing Editor Joy Childs ....................................................................Assistant Editor Bernard Lloyd ....................................................Director of Advertising Benjamin Samuels ....................................................Graphic Designer Chris Martin ..........................................................Production Designer EMAIL: wattsweekender@yahoo.com Circulation ..................................................................................50,000 The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the L.A. Watts Times.

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CIRCULATION AUDITED BY CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL

Who will win Superbowl 2012?

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BlackFacts.com

November 24, 1865 Mississippi passed the so-called “Black Codes” that barred blacks from jury service, testifying against whites in trials, bearing arms and attending white schools.

November 25, 1955 Interstate Commerce Commission banned segregation in buses and waiting rooms involved in interstate travel.

POLL RESULTS

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RIES ~ If you seem spaced out this week, don’t worry about it. Fill your mind with a vision of love for the entire planet. Use your gifts to assist others in seeing the world as you do — in glorious color. Check the details on paperwork that you have to do, dreamer. Soul affirmation: Emptiness inside creates the space that I can fill with love.

AURUS ~ Heavy vibrations could cause you to slow down and think a lot. That’s good, because slowing down is just what you need. Remember to think of the positive. Reject the negative and you’ll have a wonderful week.

Soul affirmation: The slowness of my week gives me time to refresh my energy.

EMINI ~ Give your busy brain a rest and work your body this week. It’s a great week for physical activity that can loosen up muscles and relieve tensions. Also think about your weight problem if you have one. You’ll receive some practical advice from a distant relative.

Soul affirmation: I let my mind go slack and tighten up my body ANCER ~ Family responsibilities may feel like a chore this week. If you relinquish control of the situation, a natural order will occur, and things will organize themselves. You can let people be who they are. That makes it easier for you to be who you are. Soul affirmation: I let go and let the spirit run my life this week EO ~ Be on the lookout for love from a distance source, not just romantic love but the warm glow that comes from someone who cares deeply for you. Think hard about who your lover is. Make a few phone calls. The instant you hear the voice you’ll know –this is the one. Soul affirmation: Truth is revealed in the smallest grain of sand.

IRGO ~ Work calls and you're not completely happy with current divisions of labor. Do your part as a member of the team and you'll be glad that you did. Others will notice that you are a committed team player. Look for

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

Thursday, November 24, 2011

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Calif. State Univ. faculty stages strike over pay

AP Photo/Ben Margot

A call to picket: These two students’ protest is in support of California State University faculty members on two campuses over unpaid salary increases and the administration policies. The one-day strikes are the first such labor actions in the history of the 23-campus system.

BY NOAKI SCHWARTZ AND TERENCE CHEA | AP HAYWARD, Calif. (AP) — Hundreds of California State University faculty members staged a strike last Thursday at two campuses to protest the administration’s decision not to pay negotiated raises — and to draw attention to the impact of continuing budget cuts on the state’s public colleges.

The California Faculty Association — which represents about 23,000 professors, lecturers, coaches, counselors and librarians at the system’s 23 campuses — authorized the one-day walkout at the East Bay and Dominguez Hills campuses.

It was the first faculty strike since system-wide collective bargaining began in the early 1980s.

The strike came a day after the university Board of Trustees voted to raise tuition by 9 percent, or $498, next fall during a meeting that was disrupted by a violent confrontation between protesters and police. Four protesters were arrested, and several officers were injured in Wednesday’s clash at university headquarters in Long Beach.

Striking faculty members began arriving early Thursday at the Dominguez Hills campus in Carson and the East Bay campus in Hayward. They were joined by hundreds of their colleagues from other Cal State schools. “The leadership of this institution is using faculty, students and staff as if they were ATMs,� said Lillian Taiz, a history professor at the CSU Los Angeles campus who heads the faculty association. “They turn to us to bail out the university.�

In Hayward, faculty members picketed at the school’s two main

entrances, slowing traffic into campus and urging motorists to support the strike. They blew whistles, beat drums and carried signs with slogans such as “We teach the 99 percent.�

About 300 faculty members, wearing red union T-shirts with the words “Enough is enough,� gathered for a festive noon rally in the middle of the main road leading to the hilltop campus near San Francisco Bay. Laurie Price, an anthropology professor at the East Bay campus, said her workload has increased about 50 percent during the past five years because of larger class sizes and staff reductions. “We’re striking for the quality of higher education, and that can only be maintained if the faculty gets decent salaries,� Price said.

Campus spokesman Barry Zepel said the university remained open, but it was unclear how many of the nearly 600 scheduled classes had been canceled because of the strike.

The East Bay campus was unusually quiet, with far fewer students and cars than on a typical Thursday.

Students said it appeared most professors had canceled their classes. “I do support the faculty,� said Justin Areola, 20, a junior majoring in business administration. “I don’t think they’re getting paid enough to do all the work that they do.�

The union, which is in contentious negotiations over a new contract, was striking over salary increases negotiated for the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 academic years. The university didn’t pay the raises because the state, facing a massive budget deficit, slashed funding to the Cal State system, leading to sharp tuition increases, enrollment cuts and employee furloughs.

A state-appointed fact-finding panel recently recommended that the university pay a portion of the raises, which would cost $20 million the first year and $10 million in subsequent years.

Administration officials rejected the recommendation, saying the university doesn’t have the money.

The California State University system, which has more than 400,000 students, lost $650 million in state support this year and expects to lose another $100 million because of a projected shortfall in state revenue.

CSU officials said paying the faculty raises would mean offering fewer classes for students. They said faculty members received a total of $60 million in salary increases from 2008 to 2010, more than any other group of employees. “At this point where we are trying to do everything we can to maintain access and quality for our students, it’s just inappropriate to divert another $20 million to faculty increases that there’s going to be no new state money for,� said CSU spokesman Erik Fallis.

At Dominguez Hills, about 13 miles from downtown Los Angeles, protesters carried a 10-foot-tall puppet bearing a likeness of CSU Chancellor Charles Reed with a grimace on his face and two fistfuls of cash. They chanted “Hey hey, ho ho!

Charlie Reed has got to go!� Drivers honked their horns and waved their fists in support. “If they don’t start giving us respect and start taking education seriously, this is just the beginning,� said Nate Thomas, who teaches film at the Northridge campus. “Nobody wants to do this. We would rather be teaching and inspiring our students.�

Howard University marks 40th anniversary with SiriusXM satellite radio channel Howard University Radio, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary, announced today it will launch “H.U.R. Voices� on SiriusXM channel 141 Thurs., Dec. 1.

H.U.R. Voices will offer educational and entertaining original programming that examines and explores issues affecting people of color, including a unique mixture of talk radio, local and national news, and great music.

SiriusXM granted Howard University a lease to create two channels Howard University marks its 40th on the satellite radio system. The other anniversary in a Sirius way. channel, HBCU, is set to launch May 2012 and will provide music and talk programming from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The historic lease represents a significant step towards diversifying the airwaves. “This is a milestone year for us,� said Jim Watkins, general manager of WHUR, WHUR-WORLD, and H.U.R. Voices. “Not only are we celebrating 40 years of our flagship radio station, we have been given the awesome opportunity of rolling out H.U.R. Voices on SiriusXM, which gives us the opportunity to further expand our brand and nationalize our programming.�

The channel will feature WHUR and WHUR-WORLD signature programs like the “Daily Drum,� a weekday public affairs program that will expand to one hour; the “Dr. Audrey Chapman Show,� with the relationship guru; and the “Sighlent Storm,� the only radio show devoted to the issue of domestic violence.

New programs include “People Money Life,� “The Traveling Eye� and “He Said, She Said.� H.U.R. Voices will embody the mission of Howard University —to “serve America and the global community.�

Known as a media trailblazer, WHUR has a legacy of leading the way in radio. The station was first in the Washington region to broadcast in crystalclear HD and the only urban station in the country to sponsor a NASCAR race with its own driver.

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

Cain receives Secret Service protection

BY PHILIP ELLIOTT | AP WASHINGTON (AP) — Herman Cain on Thursday became the first Republican presidential candidate to receive Secret Service protection.

Cain asked for the security, and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and congressional leaders approved his request Thursday, Secret Service spokesman Ed Donovan confirmed.

There have been threats against Cain, who had been experiencing a bounce in the polls, according to an official with knowledge of the situation who asked not to be identified because of the sensitive nature of the situation. The nature of the threats was unclear.

Donovan would not say whether there had been any threats or discuss why protection was being provided.

The campaign confirmed in an email early Friday that Cain was receiving federal protection.

“Due to the recent surge in the polls and the large crowds of enthusiastic supporters at recent campaign events, we are appreciative of the extra level of protection provided by these elite professionals,” the Cain campaign said in a statement.

While it’s unknown whether a specific incident triggered the

request, police reports show that Cain’s campaign has been the target of a threatening phone call on at least one occasion.

On June 1, Cain’s campaign office in Stockbridge, Ga., reported receiving a call from someone who did not identify himself but who claimed to be a member of the Ku Klux Klan. The man said that Cain, who is Black, should not run for the White House.

“Tell him not to run” and “there’s no such thing as a black Republican,” the man said, according to a written statement Cain’s administrative assistant, Lisa Reichert, gave to the police. The caller did not explicitly threaten violence.

The Associated Press obtained a copy of the police reports using Georgia’s open records law.

Local police alerted the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service to the incident.

Secret Service protection is given to each major party’s presidential nominee but can be provided earlier if the Homeland Security Department approves a campaign’s request.

When then-Sen. Barack Obama was placed under Secret Service protection in May 2007, it was the earliest ever for a presidential candidate. One of his rivals, Hillary Rodham Clinton, already had a

protective detail because she was a former first lady.

In the 2004 campaign, Democratic candidates John Kerry and John Edwards received their protection in February of that year as they competed for the party’s nomination.

Federal law allows candidates to seek protection if they meet a series of standards, including public prominence as measured by polls and fundraising.

Napolitano consulted Thursday with a congressional advisory committee made up of the House speaker, the House and Senate majority and minority leaders and the House sergeant-at-arms, the chief law enforcement officer in the House.

Associated Press writer Ray Henry in Atlanta contributed to this report.

AP Photo/Jim Cole

Protection so that he can serve: Republican presidential candidate, businessman Herman Cain asked for and got early Secret Service protection.

The next logical step

BY YUSSUF J. SIMMONDS SENTINEL MANAGING EDITOR Leadership is not new to Councilman Herb Wesson. Previously, he led the state assembly so becoming president of the city coun-

cil is a natural for him.

The skills that Councilman Herb Wesson exhibited as an assemblyman were a prelude to his ascension to speaker of the state assembly. And the skills he exemplified a speaker of the assembly have prepared him to lead the Los Angeles City Council.

In January 2012, Wesson will assume the leadership of the Los Angeles city Council, becoming its president. Those who know the veteran councilman believe that he will successfully perform twice as many functions on behalf of his constituencies as he does at present.

On the City Council, Wesson chairs the Rules and Elections Committee, which has jurisdiction over the City Ethics Commission, the Elections Division of the City Clerk,

and the Ballot Simplification Committee.

This committee also has jurisdiction over Council rules and policies, scheduling ballot measures and other city election and campaign practices, and the U.S. Census and redistricting.

Looking forward to this new challenge, Wesson said, “Growing up in Cleveland (Ohio), I never thought I’d be elected to the California State Assembly, and then become Speaker of the Assembly,” adding, “and to be elected to the L.A. City Council and now, to assume the presidency (of the city council) — my only regret is that my mother is not alive to see this.”

(Wesson’s mother, Gladys Wesson, passed away on June 29 at the age of 80).

See WESSON, page 7

Spotlight on Herb Wesson: President of the L.A. City Council

Thursday, November 24, 2011

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Attorney General Kamala D. Harris announces seizure of $1.8 million worth of cocaine from Mexican cartel SAN FRANCISCO --Attorney General Kamala D. Harris announced the seizure yesterday of 18.5 kilos of cocaine worth an estimated $1.85 million as part of a Department of Justiceled operation that targeted the Sinaloa cartel.

“This operation is an example of the complex and multijurisdictional work that Department of Justice agents do every day to keep California safe,” Attorney General Harris said. “I commend these agents for their bravery and professional excellence.”

Department of Justice special agents from the Inland Crackdown Allied Task Force (INCA) conducted an undercover sting operation into the cartel’s drug trafficking activities. Working with a confidential informant, an undercover agent arranged to purchase cocaine from an individual associated with the Sinaloa cartel, which operates in Baja California. Yesterday, at a prearranged meeting in a hotel parking lot in Colton, agents arrested two men and seized 18.5 kilos of cocaine.

Juan Mora Flores, 40, of Tecate, Mexico, and Jose Vega Diaz, 47, of Whittier, CA, were arrested and booked at the Riverside County Jail. Both men are being held on $1 million bail.

The operation is the latest in a series of successful DOJ-led operations targeting transnational gangs across California. In June, DOJ agents led a multiagency operation that led to the arrests of 101 transnational gang members in the Central Valley. In July, agents seized 18 kilos of cocaine from a vehicle that crossed the border at the Calexico port of entry. In August, the DOJ dismantled a large-scale U.S.-Mexico prescription drug trafficking operation.

In responding to transnational gang crime in California, the state Department of Justice provides a wide range of investigative skills and forensic resources. The Inland Crackdown Allied Task Force

A big victory for the attorney general: Kamala D. Harris (INCA) is one of 52 California Department of Justice-led task forces that coordinate the response to our state’s growing gang and drug trafficking problems.

The Attorney General’s INCA Task Force is composed of the following agencies: Beaumont Police Department, California Alcohol Beverage and Control, California Highway Patrol, Corona Police Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Murrieta Police Department, Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Riverside Police Department and the San Bernardino Police Department.

The Department of Justice scored a big win in its ongoing battles with drug cartels.

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

A glance at new sanctions imposed on Iran

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | AP The Obama administration announced a new set of sanctions against Iran on Monday in an effort to apply greater pressure to get Tehran to halt its suspected nuclear weapons program.

The new sanctions, which were coordinated with Britain and Canada, build on elements of previous sanction efforts. The efforts announced Monday include: —Using a section of the Patriot Act to identify for the first time Iran’s entire banking sector, including the country’s central bank, as a threat to other governments and institutions. The designation of Iran as a “primary money laundering concern” will require increased monitoring by U.S. banks to make sure that they and

their foreign affiliates are avoiding all contact with Iranian financial institutions. The United States was joined in this action by Britain and Canada.

—Imposing sanctions on Iran’s petrochemical industry, prohibiting U.S. companies from providing goods, services and technology to support Iran’s production of petrochemicals. This industry represents Iran’s second biggest export after crude oil.

—Expanding existing energy sanctions with the aim of making it more difficult for Iran to operate, maintain and modernize its oil and gas sector.

—Designating 11 individuals and business entities for sanctions because of their alleged roles in assisting Iran’s prohibited nuclear programs.

Black Facts.com November 24: Scott Joplin, the King of Ragtime, was born on this day in 1868 in Texarkana, Texas. A skilled pianist and composer, Joplin started a 20-year ragtime craze with the release of his composition “Maple Leaf Rag” in 1897, during the Gay Nineties. Ragtime-scored piano music-at the time was considered Negro tavern and brothel music. Its tinny sound was the source of the name Tin Pan Alley, the center of ragtime in New York City.

The lack of recognition of ragtime as a serious African American musical art form plagued Joplin throughout his life. He died in an asylum in New York City on April 1, 1917, at the age of 49.

AP Photo/Office of the Supreme Leader

Iran’s supreme leader last Thursday warned Israel and the U.S. that Tehran’s response will be tough should its archenemies choose a military strike against Iran over the country’s controversial nuclear program.

When it comes to gas safety, use your senses.

At Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas®), your safety is important to us. Especially when it comes to recognizing signs of a gas leak. Using your sense of sight, hearing and smell may help you identify a natural gas leak, should one occur.

Helping you understand gas safety is just one of the many ways SoCalGas is committed to our customers. If you need us, we’ll be there. 24/7. And if you visit our website, you’ll find more safety tips and an interactive map to help you identify the approximate locations of pipelines in your area.

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For more safety tips, visit socalgas.com (search “SAFETY”).

Should you detect signs of a gas leak, call 1-800-427-2200 or 911 from a safe location. © 2011 Southern California Gas Company. All copyright and trademark rights reserved.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

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the California Economy in Palo Alto, said the state’s urban coastal regions are leading the economic comeback, benefiting from the growth in technology, trade and tourism.

Job growth has also returned to the Inland Empire, which added 15,200 jobs in the last year, Levy said.

In October 2010, California’s unemployment rate was 12.5 percent. The state has added 192,000 jobs since January.

The national unemployment rate also dropped slightly to 9 percent in October.

About 495,000 people continue to receive unemployment insurance benefits in California, and nearly 69,000 new claims were received in October, the Employment Development Department said.

Was Calif. police use of pepper spray justified?

BY GARANCE BURKE | AP SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Viral videos of riot police repeatedly pepper spraying a row of seated, non-violent Occupy Wall Street protesters at a California university have sparked outrage, an investigation and calls for the college chancellor’s resignation.

The footage also set off a debate about how far law enforcement can and should go to disperse peaceful demonstrators.

Many students, lawmakers and even the university’s chancellor have called the officers’ actions a horrific example of unnecessary force. But some experts on police tactics say, depending on the circumstances, pepper spray can be

more effective to de-escalate a tense situation than dragging off protesters or swinging at them with truncheons.

“Between verbalized and knockdown, drag-out fights, there’s quite a bit of wiggle room,” said David Klinger, a former Los Angeles Police Department officer and instructor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who reviewed the pepper-spray footage.

Soon after the incident on Friday at the University of California, Davis, video recordings spread across the Internet.

The footage of an officer casually spraying an orange cloud at protesters’ heads while spectators screamed in horror joined other much-discussed pepper-spray incidents, such as the 84-

year-old activist hit in the face in Seattle and a Portland, Ore., woman who recently was sprayed in the mouth.

Images of the officer seen dousing the students became the subject of a blog, which featured him spraying famous figures, from Gandhi to John F. Kennedy.

The university announced Monday that it has placed the police chief and two officers on administrative leave to restore trust and calm.

Still, nearly 2,000 students and residents gathered at the main quad to hear speeches and chant slogans against police and university officials. Students who were pepper-sprayed opened the rally, saying they felt unsafe on campus See UC DAVIS, page 15

board

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California’s unemployment rate fell slightly to 11.7 percent in October from 11.9 percent a month earlier as the state added nearly 26,000 jobs in areas including professional and business services, education and health services, the state Employment Development Department said Friday.

The job gain is remarkable in light of the fact that the United States added a total of 80,000 jobs in the same period, said Michael Bernick, a former director of EDD who is now a fellow at the Milken Institute.

“This is one of the best job numbers, best job months we’ve seen in the past four years,” Bernick said. “On the other hand, it’s still an

economy that’s going to have a number of fits and starts. We still have a long way to go to make up those 1.4 million payroll jobs lost between 2008 and 2010, and we still have over 2 million Californians unemployed.”

California’s unemployment rate has hovered around 12 percent for months and has been stuck above 11 percent since 2009. The state’s jobless rate is the second highest in the nation, behind Nevada, which had a rate of 13.4 percent in September, the most recent data available.

California’s new payroll jobs were spread among various sectors of the economy, including some in the hard-hit construction field, which is a positive sign, Bernick said.

Steve Levy, an economist with the Center for Continuing Study of

In addition, he is also a member of the Housing, Community and Economic Development Committee, the Arts, Parks and Neighborhoods Committee, and the Intergovernmental Relations Committee. Wesson is a strong advocate for mass transit, and is a member of the Exposition Metro Line Construction Authority, which oversees the construction of the Expo Line. The Expo Line, which has generated over 16,000 construction and design jobs, and is due to open for operation in early 2012.

When Wesson was speaker, Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., described him in the following way: “He demonstrates his power and influence in a manner that best reflects his love and compassion for those whom he represents.” And as president of the city council, it is almost a certainty that Wesson will continue to demonstrate his power and

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BY JULIET WILLIAMS | AP

Continued from page 4

card

AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli

According to the EDD, about 495,000 people continue to receive unemployment insurance benefits in California, and nearly 69,000 new claims were received in October.

WESSON

business

California unemployment rate falls to 11.7 percent

influence to reflect his love and compassion for those whom he represents.

In the 10th council district, the councilman has been very aggressive in bringing new business development to the community, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy. Projects such as the $150 million “Midtown Crossing” retail development at Pico and San Vicente Boulevards, and the planned $93 million “District Square” retail project have been important priorities. Together, these two projects will create thousands of construction and permanent retail jobs.

Wesson carries on an honorable tradition of African American city councilmen, beginning with the late Mayor Tom Bradley,who served as the 10th District before becoming mayor — and then passed the torch to Dave Cunningham, Nate Holden and Martin Ludlow.

HAVE YOU BEEN DENIED YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS? Let me assist you.

There is NO Fee until we win.

Jacquelyn Brown, Disability Appeals Rep.

(323) 756-3755

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Thursday, November 24, 2011

F E AT U R E

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

“Having sugar” is the phrase used to designate being stricken with diabetes, a common and deadly condition that afflicts a large number of the populace.

by Yussuf J. Simmonds | Co-Managing Editor To fully understand any disease, it is necessary to first describe it and define some or most of its symptoms, causes and eơects, and to determine to what degree they may be decreased and/or regulated.

There are many types of serious diseases and conditions that fall in many diơerent categories. A short list includes acute and chronic diseases, infectious diseases, immunological diseases, congenital and hereditary diseases, hormonal diseases, degenerative diseases, neo-plastic diseases, nutritional diseases, occupational and environmental diseases, and mental and emotional diseases.

Now many of those named may cross categories — and the list is by no means complete.

For the purposes of this article, the targeted disease is diabetes.

Diabetes is a disease of the body chemistry that slows the body down from using food to make energy. It is associated with inadequate production of insulin in the pancreas and is ordinarily characterized by excessive urinary secretion containing an above average quantity of sugar.

The pancreas is a large organ near the stomach, and it contains specialized areas of tissue (clusters) where insulin is manufactured.

When the pancreas and other organs do not function in harmony and/or go awry, the causes and eơects that result produce diabetes, often worsening incrementally.

The body needs insulin to control the use of sugar, fats and proteins. Insulin is a hormone produced by

the pancreas. After eating, the pancreas automatically releases an adequate quantity of insulin to move the glucose present in the blood into the cells and lowers the blood sugar level; a high level of sugar is counterproductive. The body aơected with diabetes usually does not produce enough insulin or does not utilize that which it has properly.

Hence, those aƫicted with diabetes may often be seen taking insulin intravenously.

There are three main types of diabetes: TYPE 1 DIABETES; TYPE 2 DIABETES; and GESTATIONAL DIABETES. According to medical data and research: Type 1: Results from the body’s failure to produce insulin. It is estimated that 5-10% of Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have Type 1 diabetes. Presently almost all persons with type 1 diabetes must take insulin injections.

Type 2: Results from insulin resistance, a condition in which cells fail to use insulin properly, sometimes combined with relative insulin deficiency. Most Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes. Many people destined to develop Type 2 diabetes spend many years in a state of prediabetes. Termed “America’s largest healthcare epidemic,” pre-diabetes indicates a condition that occurs when a person’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes.

As of 2009 there were 57 million Americans who have pre-diabetes.

Gestational diabetes: Pregnant women who have

never had diabetes before but who have high blood sugar (glucose) levels during pregnancy are said to have gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all pregnant women. It may precede the development of Type 2 (or, rarely, Type 1).

Other forms of diabetes are categorized separately, including congenital diabetes due to genetic defects of insulin secretion; cystic fibrosis-related diabetes; steroid diabetes induced by high doses of glucocorticoids; and several forms of monogenic diabetes.

“Diabetes is something you have to handle with care. You have to eat the right foods. It is a hard situation to deal with and it has been life-changing for me,” said Jane Doe, who is aƫicted with diabetes.

“Children and young adults must be persuaded that their own future can be hampered by ill health and that diabetes brings with it other serious health complications.”

Jennifer Bihm is a stay-at-home mother, a reporter and contributing writer, a former staơ writer for a Los Angeles weekly newspaper and a 2008 California Endowment Health Journalism Fellow. She explains: “My life with diabetes … I like to tell people that my children saved my life. Without them, I would have been a statistic, part of the one-third African American population walking around with diabetes without knowing it. Like many others, I never bothered with doctors unless it was some kind of emergency, and I was hardly ever sick.

“In 1999, I had no idea how drastically my life was about to change. I had just finished an internship in marketing that spring, and my best friend and I shared an apartment in Inglewood. I had a boyfriend and was passing out my resume like crazy. All my dreams were ahead of me and life was pretty good.

“Did I get my period this month? I tried to re-

www.lawattstimes.com

Thursday, November 24, 2011

9

Diabetes Type II

Case Study member as I ironed my clothes for a job interview one morning in May of 2000. The pink parallel lines on the pregnancy stick gave me my answer. Everything was matter of fact ... finding a job, telling my boyfriend, looking for a new place. By October, I was working two jobs, seven days a week feeling extremely tired ... and thirsty.

“Your urine is full of sugar,” the doctor told me.

Gestational diabetes is what he called it. It would go away as soon as I had the baby, and I would be at risk for it later on in life like when I was close to 50. Until then, I had to follow a special diet and take insulin. I hadn’t been an absolute stranger to diabetes. In fact, my father was in and out of the hospital that same year, suơering from complications of it. Like my father (who died at the year’s end), I wanted to be in denial about my condition.”

Compared to the general population, African Americans are disproportionately aơected by diabetes, according to statistics printed by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Thirty-two million, or 13.3 percent of all African Americans aged 20 or older, have diabetes, the ADA reported. African Americans are 1.8 times more likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic Whites.

Diabetes is associated with an increased risk for a number of serious, sometimes life-threatening complications like blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke and limb amputation, say health oƥcials.

As Bihm continued, “Good diabetes management can help reduce your risk. However, many people are not even aware that they have diabetes until they develop one of its complications. For my part, I was ambitious. I wanted to hurry up and have my baby so I could get back to ‘real life.’ I didn’t want to bother with any special diets or medications. My son was born four days after a rather unhappy Christmas that year, and subsequently I went through about five or six months of depression.

“I didn’t think about diabetes at all. In fact, I hardly ate or slept, just mostly changed diapers, nursed my baby and came to the realization that my life had taken a totally diơerent turn.

“You probably have a bladder infection,” my aunt told me, as I came from the bathroom for about the fifth or sixth time one night in June 2001.

“Then the doctor who was supposed to be telling me whether or not I had a bladder infection later that same week told me that I was pregnant. Diabetes showed up again during routine tests at the prenatal

clinic. I felt fine but was admitted into the high risk maternity ward in the hospital anyway, where I stayed for a week.

“This time one of the doctors told me, ‘It’s not gestational; you have Type 2 diabetes — and will have it for the rest of your life.’ ”

Dr. Bill Releford is an authority on treating diabetes.

According to the Releford Foot and Ankle Institute, he is a leader in the industry of limb preservation and wound management. Dr. Releford has over 20 years’ experience in successfully providing specialized care to people with chronic wounds, especially those originating from diabetes, chronic venous insuƥciency, peripheral arterial disease and pressure.

The Releford Institute utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to limb preservation by collaborating with vascular surgeons, radiologist, endocrinologist, nutritionist as well as other chronic disease specialists.

Collectively, their team is dedicated to decreasing the amputation rate in Los Angeles and surrounding communities.

I spoke with Dr. Releford for this article: “Type 2 diabetes,” he said, “is the type that primarily aơects African Americans, and I’ve always said that the way our community is contiguous with lack of open space to exercise and the number of fast-food venues upon our community, we are face with a diabetes tsunami that will hit in the next 15 to 20 years.”

Furthermore, when asked about the connection to diabetes in the community and African Americans’ quality of life generally, Dr. Releford stated emphatically, “Absolutely; and it’s a plethora of things that contribute to people who may be subjected to this big tidal wave of fabrication. Of course, when we were coming up, we had to have this education in our schools. Now, the kids don’t have to exercise; there are fast foods in the schools now, when that was not the case. Now you have McDonalds, Taco Bells, Burger King and things like that. Then we have what I call an ‘obesigenic’ society, where obesity is becoming the norm.

“In my lectures, I show a clip of ‘Soul Train’ – the Soul Train line. Number one, they’re skinny, compared with the people in the audience. And when you look at people, you know, we’ve gradually become comfortable with obesity; so now, this is normal.

“When you go into the store, just get in the corner ne and look around, and you’d see a few things. ne What’s W in the basket and whose pushing the basket tells te a story in direct correlation. Usually the people who w are obese … overweight … their baskets are usually u us full and overflowing. They usually have cases of soda, potato chips and things like that. And these people pe are usually impoverished so they are using their th food stamps and whatever government subsidy sid si d they have to buy those things.

“Then you have another group that’s lean; their baskets b k are half full or full of perishables like spinach, collard greens, something from the deli department – that’s it.

“So we have embraced this kind of society where we are endorsing obesity. Look at some of the celebrities like Monique … and a big woman’s guide to a small-minded world … things like that. So what she is doing is like, ‘you can be big in ‘stats’ and large and in charge.’

“But there are certain laws that you cannot break.

You may be able to run a red light and not get caught; steal a piece of candy and not get caught. BUT YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ABUSE YOUR BODY AND THINK THAT YOU WILL LIVE A HEALTHY LONG PRODUCTIVE LIFE.” “One of the words that I’ve coined is ‘DENIABETES’; most of the people who have diabetes know that they have it but are in denial. They are ‘DENIABETICS.’ ”

Diabetes and obesity are closely related.

Today, about one in three American adults is considered to be obese, but obesity is also becoming an increasing health problem globally. The good news is that even modest weight loss can improve or prevent the health problems associated with obesity.

There are many myths about diabetes that make it diƥcult for people to believe some of the hard facts – such as diabetes is not a serious and potentially deadly disease. These myths can create a picture of diabetes that is not accurate and full of stereotypes and stigma.

The key to keeping diabetes in control is first having a good team. A good team usually consists of support from family and friends, a doctor, a nurse, an ophthalmologist, a podiatrist, a nutritionist and an endocrinologist. Your team will help with creating meal plans, planning workouts or physical activities, scheduling when to check sugar and take medications, planning blood sugar goals and providing emotional support.

Anyone who has diabetes it or thinks they may have it is encouraged to get to a doctor for a physical, nutrition advice and a regiment that works for you. In women, the signs to look for are excessive urination and thirst, fatigue or yeast infection. A study completed in the U.S. found that more American women are entering pregnancy with preexisting diabetes.

10

Thursday, November 24, 2011

NBA stars set to lead 4-game US tour

AP Photo, File

Walt Hazzard, the former UCLA and NBA star who played on the Bruins' first NCAA championship basketball team in 1964 and later coached the team for four seasons in the 1980s, has died after a long illness. He was 69.

AP Photo/Don Ryan

NBA players, from right, Lebron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony are getting ready for their “homecoming.”

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP SPORTS WRITER LeBron James, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony are going home — and bringing friends with them.

With no end to the NBA lockout in sight, the All-Star group is set to lead a four-game “Homecoming Tour,” starting with a matchup in James’ hometown of Akron, Ohio, on Dec. 1, followed by a Dec. 4 game in New Orleans, a Dec. 7 game in Chicago and culminating with a Dec. 10 contest in East Rutherford, NJ. James, Paul, Wade and Anthony are committed to play in all four games of the tour, which was announced early Monday. Proceeds from the tour — which will include events such as food drives, educational outreach programs and clinics in each city — will benefit the four headlining players’ charitable foundations, and tour sponsor Google Plus will stream each game live.

“It’ll be very neat,” Wade told The Associated Press. “First of all, this is something we talked about doing a long time ago as players. To have an opportunity to go to these different cities that we’re from, to bring basketball to them at a high level and also have a charitable component in each city and to be with the guys, it’ll be cool. It’s something we’re looking forward to.”

Tickets for the first three games go on sale Tuesday. Tickets for the East Rutherford game will be on sale Wednesday.

The rosters for the four games will likely change considerably in each city. James will play a significant role in organizing the Akron

game, as will Paul in New Orleans, Wade in Chicago and Anthony at East Rutherford.

Chris Bosh — who, along with James and Wade, makes up the socalled Big 3 with the Miami Heat, is expected to play in all four games.

Bosh, along with James, Wade, the New Orleans guard Paul, the New York Knicks‘ forward Anthony, Heat forward Udonis Haslem and others have been part of a rigorous training camp in Oregon for players represented by Creative Artists Agency since late last week.

“I’m sore,” Wade said from Oregon. “But that’s why we set it up this way. We want to get into work mode. When we get into the tour, we want to play. We want to be equipped to do that. We don’t want to just run up and down the court and jack up shots. We want to get into the things we need to do when it comes to strength, defense, all those things you usually do in training camp. So we’re getting into that mindset.”

There’s been no shortage of exhibitions featuring NBA players during the lockout, which is now in its 21st week and has already led to the cancellation of more than 300 games — roughly one-quarter of a full season.

Talks broke off last week after players declined an offer that the NBA said would have raised salaries considerably, which apparently wasn’t enough to convince player reps that it was the right deal.

The principals involved in this say the tour will be different from most offseason exhibitions in many ways, notably the extensive charitable aspects.

“I am so excited to have this See NBA TOUR, page 14

Former UCLA, NBA star Walt Hazzard dies

BY BETH HARRIS AP SPORTS WRITER LOS ANGELES (AP) — Walt Hazzard, the former UCLA and NBA star who played on the Bruins’ first NCAA championship basketball team in 1964 and later coached the team for four seasons in the 1980s, died Friday.

He was 69.

Hazzard’s family said he had been

recuperating for a long time from complications following heart surgery. The school said Hazzard died at UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center.

He had a stroke in March 1996 and made a strong recovery but became less publicly active. He made occasional appearances at UCLA games in recent years.

See WALT HAZZARD, page 15

AP Photo/Harold Matosian, FileAP Photo/Harold Matosian, File

In this March 23, 1964, file photo, UCLA’s Walt Hazzard, right, carries the NCAA’s basketball championship trophy as the team arrives from Kansas City at LAX in Los Angeles.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

11

Sights & Scenes

Dwight Howard brings the old and the new together for a celebrity showdown Five-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard hosted the D12 Foundation All-Star Celebrity Basketball Game at UCF (University of Central Florida) Arena on Nov. 13, wrapping up his first-ever D12 Foundation Celebrity Weekend in Orlando with a basketball showcase that Orlando fans won’t soon forget.

Joining current Orlando Magic teammates (the “New School” team) with former Orlando Magic All-Stars (the “Old School” team), Howard and his New School teammates tested their skills against the Old School team for a friendly showdown in sup-

port of the D12 Foundation.

Host Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Wayne was the celebrity coach of the New School team, and boxing champ Floyd Mayweather, Jr., was the celebrity coach for the Old School team.

Players included Brandon Bass, Gilbert Arenas, Jameer Nelson, Quentin Richardson and more (New School) who joined Howard to compete against former Magic players including four-time NBA All-Star Penny Hardaway, Steve Francis, Rashard Lewis, Trevor Ariza, Matt Barnes, and more — all in the name

of giving back something special to the Orlando community and benefitting a good cause.

Before a packed arena of over 8,000 fans, the Old School team bested the New School team to win the D12 Foundation Orlando All-Stars Game, 114-102. Earlier in the weekend, Howard kicked off the D12 Foundation Celebrity Weekend hosting and bowling in his Celebrity Bowling Tournament fundraiser at Boardwalk Bowl in Orlando on Nov. 12.

PHOTOS COURTESY: W&W PUBLIC RELATIONS, INC.

For a good cause: Host Dwight Howard shares a laugh with Floyd Mayweather, Jr., the celeb coach for the opposing Old School team.

Dwight Howard’s teammate Gilbert Arenas (L) takes the floor to warm up for Howard’s D12 Foundation Orlando All-Stars celebrity game held at UCF.

Dwight Howard of the New School team blocks Keith Bogans of the Old School team from the ball.

Four-time NBA All- Star and former Magic superstar Penny Hardaway takes the floor to cheers from teammates and the crowd.

NBA stars to play in Obama basketball fundraiser

BY KEN THOMAS ASSOCIATED PRESS

Everybody got into the act: Here’s Dwight Howard dunking on Matt Barnes (#22) …

Celebrity coach Lil Wayne greets the crowd at UCF Arena as he steps on the court for Dwight Howard’s D12 Foundation Orlando All-Stars charity game.

WASHINGTON (AP)— President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign is bringing together more than two dozen NBA stars for a fundraising basketball game next month.

Obama’s campaign says Carmelo Anthony of the New York Knicks, Ray Allen of the Boston Celtics, Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat and many others will headline the “Obama Classic Basketball Game” on Dec. 12 in Washington.

With the NBA season in jeopardy because of the lockout, the game will serve as a fundraising All-Star game. Others confirmed to play include Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant, New Orleans Hornets guard Chris Paul and Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard.

Tickets range from $100 to $5,000 for courtside seats. The money will go to the Obama Victory Fund, a joint fundraising account by the Democratic Party and Obama’s re-election campaign.

12

Viola Davis helps library in cashstrapped RI town

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Common plays freed slave on AMC’s ‘Hell on Wheels’

BY MESFIN FEKADU | AP

AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File

In the spirit of giving: Actress Viola Davis has donated $1,000 to the Adams Memorial Library in Central Falls, R.I., where she grew up. The library, which has raised $61,000 since it was shuttered in July ahead of the city’s bankruptcy filing, will be open six days a week beginning Dec. 1, 2011.

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (AP) — The public library in Central Falls that was temporarily closed because of the city’s dire finances is expanding its hours again after receiving a donation from actress Viola Davis and a state grant.

The Adams Memorial Library said Monday that it got a $1,000 check from Davis, who grew up in Central Falls. Davis appeared recently in the movie “The Help” and was nominated for an Oscar for her role in 2008’s “Doubt.”

The library also received a $3,500 grant with the help of state Sen. Elizabeth Crowley.

Actor Alec Baldwin donated $10,000 to the library last month.

The library has raised $61,000 since it was shuttered in July ahead of the city’s bankruptcy filing. It reopened part time with the help of volunteers. Beginning Dec. 1, it will be open six days a week.

American Idol winner Ruben Studdard seeks divorce

NEW YORK (AP) — The history of slavery in America is a history of resistance and rebellion. Yet, movies and TV do not always showcase those themes.

That’s one reason why the rapper Common is excited about AMC’s new series, “Hell on Wheels,” a Western that chronicles the building of the transcontinental railroad.

Common plays mixed-raced former slave Elam Ferguson, who works on the rail system. Portraying a slave, he says, is a big deal, particularly because his character defies the stereotypes often seen in films and television.

“A lot of times we’ve seen slaves obviously going through so much pain and trouble, they were oppressed and downtrodden, so it was more of a lower position. (My character) has been through a lot of things, but is holding his head up high and his shoulders are up strong,” says Common, who was born Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr. At first, Common says he wasn’t interested in a TV role, but then his agent suggested he read the script for “Hell on Wheels.” Common says it’s the first time he has played a character so complex.

The Grammy-winning entertainer researched by reading about African slaves of the 19th century and visiting former plantations in South. He calls his journey “deep” and “heavy.”

“I feel blessed that I’m able to represent what a Black man, what a Black person was at that time,” he says, “but it definitely was some weight and some pain.”

One experience in filming the

AP Photo/AMC, Chris Large

Common portrays Elam Ferguson in the original series “Hell On Wheels,” airing Sundays at 10 p.m. EST on AMC. show, though, was really difficult for Common: when White cast members used the N-word.

“Even if you try to think that they’re acting, it still just doesn’t feel right,” he says. “You get that feeling like, ‘Man, this is not good.’”

The series, which airs Sundays at 10 p.m. EST, was filmed in Canada. It centers on Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount), a former Confederate soldier and slaveholder who is avenging the death of his wife. Bonhannon set his See COMMON, page 15

Mathew Knowles is back with new girl group

BY MESFIN FEKADU | AP

Ruben Studdard, the Velvet Teddy Bear COLUMBIANA, Ala. (AP) — American Idol winner Ruben Studdard is divorcing his wife of three years, saying they haven’t lived together since last year.

Court records show Studdard filed a contested divorce last week in Shelby County, where he lives in suburban Birmingham.The complaint says he and Zuri Studdard split in October 2010, and she now lives in the Atlanta suburb of Smyrna, Georgia.

The complaint cites a “complete incompatibility of temperament” for the divorce, and it asks a judge to enforce a prenuptial agreement that was signed before they wed in 2008.

Studdard was known as the “Velvet Teddy Bear” when he won the second season of American Idol in 2003. Studdard is playing host to a weekend-long event in Birmingham that begins Friday and includes a halfmarathon Sunday.

NEW YORK (AP) — Mathew Knowles says there’s a lack of girl groups in the music industry today, so it’s the right time to launch his latest project: a reality show on MTV that follows the development of the group From Above.

“Breaking From Above” premieres internationally this month and in December, and Knowles says it may be shown in the United States next spring.

“Most reality shows are about putting together groups. This is the opposite,” he said in a recent interview. On the MTV show, he added two more women, for a total of seven competing for a spot in the British pop quintet. It airs over MTV affiliates in 160 countries, including the United Kingdom,

AP Photo/David J. Phillip, file

Beyonce’s dad: Mathew Knowledge has launched a reality show searching for an all-girl group, “Breaking from Above.” The program will air on MTV channels outside of the U.S. Spain and Italy.

He says the group could be trimmed to a quartet or a trio.

The days of girl groups dominating the music scene are long gone. Knowles says it’s a result of band mates not understanding the roles they play.

“If I’m the lead singer, I’ve got to know that, accept that, and all the members have got to accept it,” he said.

“Everybody’s role has to be established at day one.”

Knowles was the manager of See MATHEW KNOWLES, page 15

Thursday, November 24, 2011

13

Obama sends note for Heavy D funeral

BY MESFIN FEKADU | AP MOUNT VERNON, New York (AP) — Heavy D was remembered with laughter and tears Friday during a funeral service included humorous anecdotes from longtime friend Diddy and words of encouragement for his young daughter, delivered in a letter from President Barack Obama.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences at this difficult time. He will be remembered for his infectious optimism and many contributions to American music. Please know that you and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers,” read the Obama note, according to the Rev. Al Sharpton, who quoted from it during the service.

Xea Myers, Heavy D’s 11-yearold daughter, also spoke briefly, telling the audience that her father was “still here, not in the flesh, but in the spirit.”

Grace Baptist Church was filled to capacity for the service, which was also streamed live on the Web. It was so crowded, an overflow area was set up. Among those in attendance were Usher, Queen Latifah, Don King, Q-Tip, John Legend and Rosie Perez.

A large photo of Heavy D sat next to his closed casket.

Heavy D died last week in Los Angeles at the age of 44. His family said the death was due to complications from pneumonia.

The self-proclaimed “Overweight Lover” was born in Jamaica but reared in Mount Vernon, which he dubbed “Money Earnin’ Mount Vernon.” It was also the home of Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Diddy talked about how Heavy D helped give him his start in the music industry, and how their decades-long friendship continued up until Heavy D’s death.

He said Heavy D was there for “at my darkest hour” and “was the first person to believe in me.”

But he also told jokes as he recounted his “bromance” with the rapper, including a recent visit to Miami that was supposed to last for three days, but “turned into three weeks.” He added that Heavy D got to know his chef “very well.”

Sharpton also drew laughter when he noted that James Brown “us black and proud; he (Heavy D) made us fat and proud.”

But singer Johnny Gill was tearful when he approached the altar,

saying: “Just want to say to Heavy: job well done.” He later gave a powerful rendition the gospel hit “Never Would Have Made It.” The rappers nieces were also teary-eyed as they sang the gospel standard “His Eye on the Sparrow.”

Heavy D, whose real name was Dwight Myers, was influential in the development of rap as it grew into a phenomenon in the late 1980s and 1990s.

His hits included “Now That We’ve Found Love” and “Nuttin’ But Love”; much of his music marked the “New Jack Swing” era in urban music, and he stood out from the pack with his rhymes, typified by a positive vibe and a lightheartedness that endeared him to so many.

A fund has been set up to financially aid Heavy D’s daughter; details were available on the website rememberheavyd.com.

Sean “Diddy” Combs eulogizes his long-time friend, Heavy D.

Tyler Perry defends casting Kardashian in new film

Review: MJ book thankfully focuses on the music — the music.

And it’s really good.

Vogel takes the reader album-by-album, song-bysong and examines in There’s a new book, exhaustive detail how “Man in the Music: The Jackson produced a lifeCreative Life and Work of time’s worth of music that Michael Jackson” (Sterling became a soundtrack to the Publishing), by Joseph lives of millions.

Vogel.

Jackson’s Motown years, We get it already: including his work with The Michael Jackson was kind Jackson 5, isn’t covered in of a weird dude.

“Man in the Music,” which In the weeks, months focuses on the singer’s solo and now years since the work, beginning with 1979’s music icon’s death, news mega-selling “Off the Wall” consumers across the globe all the way through have been inundated with “Invincible” in 2001. examinations of Jackson’s Vogel, relying on news life. And frankly, too much archives, Jackson’s words of it has focused on the senand interviews with those sational aspects of his 50 who collaborated on the years on Earth. albums, opens the door to the Luckily, for those of us studio and provides an inwho prefer to remember Jackson as a once-in-a-genPhoto: Sterling Publishing / AP depth picture of the artist’s eration entertainer and the MJ: This is the cover of “Man in the Music: The creative process. Each song undisputed King of Pop and Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson” by Joseph Jackson recorded during his solo career is examined with not so much for his some- Vogel, is shown. a critical eye. times peculiar personal It’s a fascinating read and really a must-have for any choices, we have Joseph Vogel in our corner.

Vogel, who writes about popular culture, music and Jackson fan.

“I wanted to write something historically and critipolitics for The Huffington Post and teaches at the University of Rochester, has written a book that focuses cally rigorous, but approach the subject with less cynicism and curiosity,” Vogel writes in the preface. solely on Jackson’s creative output.

Mission accomplished, sir.

“Man in the Music” is thankfully all about just that

BY MIKE HOUSEHOLDER AP WRITER

AP Photo/Donald Traill, file

Controversy: Filmmaker Tyler Perry announced that TV personality Kim Kardashian will have a role in his next film “The Marriage Counselor.”

He says he wanted a younger cast — which includes Kardashian.

ATLANTA (AP) — Filmmaker Tyler Perry is defending his controversial decision to cast reality television star Kim Kardashian in an upcoming film about marriage.

Perry had announced that Kardashian would have a role in “The Marriage Counselor” shortly before she ended her 72-day marriage to NBA player Kris Humphries.

Perry says he wanted a younger

cast, which Kardashian rounds out, to help attract younger viewers. In a statement on his website, Perry says he thinks “it would be a very responsible of her to be a part of this film” and good for young people who see her as a role model to “see her in a film that is about what happens in life when you make the wrong choices.”

Perry asked for his fans’ understanding.

14

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Brilliant first lady Michelle Obama

BY DR. BENJAMIN F. CHAVIS, JR. NNPA COLUMNIST At a time when there is so much doubt about the future and apprehension about the global economy, it is refreshing and reassuring to millions of people across America and throughout the world to witness the steadfastness of leadership that daily exudes from the First lady of the United States of America. Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama has evolved into one of the most admired first ladies in the history of America.

It is said that what the economy needs more than anything else today is to regain a sense of economic “confidence” by both producers and consumers. But when it comes to how the majority of people feel about first lady Michelle Obama, there is no lack of confidence and there is no hesitation to salute her dedication to family, nation and to the uplift of humanity. As we are about to enter into the heated national political debates and campaigns of the 2012 national election year, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama will be under intense pressures to maneuver through what may be one of the most difficult periods of time to maintain resilience and hope.

I am encouraged and optimistic, however, that President Obama will be reelected if millions of us do what we are supposed to do — and that is go out and vote in record numbers 12 months from now. The pivotal role of women who will vote and the critical role of the youth vote will help to determine the outcome of 2012 elections.

Here is where Mrs. Michelle Obama can be and will be an invaluable asset to President Obama’s reelection campaign. Recently, the first lady spoke to grassroots campaign workers at the Obama 2012 National Headquarters in Chicago. It was reported that she was enthusiastically received by the campaign workers, not only for her charm and motivational spirit, but also for Mrs. Obama’s grasp of the challenges ahead of campaign. As a result of her spending time with the workers in the Chicago campaign office, the staff and volunteers were thoroughly reinvigorated.

David Axelrod, President Obama’s key political strategist, affirmed, “Her mission is to energize folks and give them encouragement to go out and to the work.”

According to U.S. News & World Report, the first lady “has attended dozens of events with and for veterans and earlier this month announced a program at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters in Washington to get 100,000 vets hired by American firms.”

Michelle Obama continues to be a strong advocate for the support of veterans and their families across the nation.

She also is helping to champion passage of the President’s American Jobs Act to put millions of Americans back to work.

While the U.S. Congress is taking too long to act or vote on many of the provisions of the American Jobs Act, the clear articulation of support for the Jobs Act by the first lady helps to arouse a groundswell of national support for Congress to act on this important pending legislation.

“Women for Obama” is an initiative

by President Obama’s reelection campaign. The purpose of this initiative is to galvanize millions of female voters to be active in the 2012 elections on behalf of

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. President Obama. The honorary chair of Women for Obama is first lady Michelle Obama. In 2008, President Obama received a plurality of votes from the majority of women voters. A CNN exit poll showed that Obama received more than 56% of the female in 2008. A large percentage of independent swing voters are also women and the calculus of victory in 2012 will hinge on the largest turnout of female voters and young voters in every state.

At a youth get-out-the-vote (GOTV) rally last month at Ohio State University both the president and the first lady emphasized the importance of the youth vote in helping to continue to change America for the better. The crowd of college students gave a thunderous affirmative response to a question posed by Michelle Obama about the readiness of students and young voters to rise to the occasion again with a large voter turnout. She asked, “Can we do this?” The crowd shouted back with a tremendous roar, “Yes, we can!”

The Obama 2012 reelection campaign made the right move in establishing the “Greater Together: Young Americans” initiative that is focused on registering and mobilizing millions of young voters to support President Obama. The national youth-vote director for Obama 2012 Reelection Campaign is Valeisha Butterfield-Jones, a young dynamic leader, who is proving to be another important asset to the president’s reelection efforts.

The point here is the first lady is leading the way and young leaders and activists are being inspired every day to defy the negative pundits who are underestimating the growing national support for President Obama.

First lady Michelle Obama is brilliant, determined, caring, effective and very resourceful. All of us should be responding by lending a helping hand, giving of our time, energy and money, and making our own contributions to push forward for more progress to ensure the reelection of President Barack Obama.

Let’s determine the future by how we act today.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. is senior advisor to the Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) and president of Education Online Services Corporation and the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network (HSAN).

We must create jobs

BY DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX Last week, I had the opportunity to testify before the Congressional Progressive Caucus. I am grateful to Congressman Keith Ellison for the invite.

Here are excerpts of my testimony: “While I am sure that you are familiar with the data, I would like to take a moment to discuss the magnitude of the unemployment challenge.

Officially, the unemployment rate in October was 9 percent, which meant that, officially, 13.9 percent of all Americans were unemployed. 5.8 million Of these folks, or 42 percent of the unemployed have been without work for more than 27 weeks, or half a year.

The average unemployed person has been out of work for 39 weeks.

But these data are a pleasant fiction that ignores the reality of our nation’s unemployment. From Table A-15 of the monthly BLS Employment Situation report (USDL-11-1576), we learn that when those marginally attached to the labor force and those working part time who want full-time work are included as unemployed, the rate for all Americans soars to 16.2 percent. That means that one in six Americans are unemployed.

The situation is far more severe in the African American community, where the unemployment rate is 15.1 percent.

This represents an improvement over the 16 percent rate that was measured last month; yet this is a rate that is still too high. If we look at this through the lens of the A-15 data — in other words, using the same projection that is used with overall rates — the 15.1 percent black unemployment rate actually looks more like 27.2 percent.

African American men over 20, with an official unemployment rate of 16.2 percent, actually experience unemployment at the 30 percent rate. In some of our nation’s largest cities, half of all African American men do not have work. Overall, the employment population ratio for adult African American men is 57.4 percent, a full ten percent below the same rate for white men.

It is important to review the magnitude of this problem because different tactics may be used to respond to a 9 percent unemployment rate than a 16 percent unemployment rate, than a 27 percent unemployment rate. A 9 percent rate might simply be considered a challenge, but a 27 percent rate, or the 30 percent rate for African American men must be considered a crisis.

What are the solutions, then, for the challenges we face? Not only must the federal government be involved in job creation, but the private sector must be offered incentives to be part of this solution. We have a rich tradition of federal involvement in job creation, ranging from the Depression era Works Progress Administration (WPA) to the JTPA (Jobs Training Partnership Act) of the 1980s.

There are unmet needs in public infrastructure, in health care and in social services. Creating 5 million jobs at $50,000, with benefits and administrative costs, would run us $500 million and would reduce the unemployment rate by about 5 percent and would increase tax revenue significantly. Those employed by federal programs could work in schools and in libraries, in repairing infrastructure, and in implementing neglected public services.

It is would be my recommendation that employment funds flow to cities, not states, as urban issues are far more acute

Julianne Malveaux that statewide issues, and because cities are likely to be Blacker, Browner, older, younger and both richer and poorer than the rest of American. The economic bifurcation we see in cities is likely to be one of the reasons we see such strong Occupy movements in urban areas.

Many will ask where the money will come from to create jobs, especially as Congress grapples with debt ceiling related issues. There is overwhelming evidence that a country does not work its way through a recession, official or unofficial, by cutting employment or cutting programs.

While there is no denying the selfimposed constraints that have come from the August agreement to cut the longterm debt, I might posit that the debt might be eliminated more quickly if American were put back to work. I would suggest that if cuts are necessary, then a tax increase to put America back to work would be in order. However, it might also be necessary to consider a special appropriation directed to job creation.

Our nation’s future depends on it.

Job creation is only the first step for securing America’s future. We also have

to look at the issue of workforce readiness and job preparation. We are lagging woefully behind in the STEM areas, and in other international indicators of economic prosperity. We are 11th in the world in the number of people over 25 who have A.A. or B.A. degrees, falling behind Finland, South Korea, Ireland and Canada, among other nations.

In order to continue to innovate and to produce educated global citizens, we must spend more money, not less, on both K-12 and higher education. While I realize that there must be a spirit of shared sacrifice in this economic climate, I would also suggest that cutting higher education is equivalent to a farmer eating her seed corn, choosing to sacrifice tomorrow for the exigencies of today.

My special concern is for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), the work we do in postsecondary education and job creation, and the extent to which we may experience cuts in Title III funds in Supercommittee deliberations. Although the 38 HBCU colleges represent just 1.6 percent of the 4-year degree-granting colleges, we produce more than 5.6 percent of our nation’s college graduates. We do more than our share of heavy lifting, preparing inner-city, first generation, and financially challenged students. We need more support, not less.

Our nation is losing ground and losing our leadership status internationally because we are neither generating jobs nor investing in the education that will prepare the workforce of the future. I realize that these are trying times, and yet innovation often emerges from trying times. We can create jobs at a modest cost and improve communities along the way.

We can support higher education, especially for the underserved. We can connect the public and private sectors with tax incentives to encourage business to employ those who have been out of work.

Finally, we can encourage entrepreneurship by strengthening new businesses with government grants and tax incentives.

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is president of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, NC.

NBA TOUR Continued from page 10 opportunity to participate in this tour,” Anthony said in a press release.

“To couple two of the things I love to do — play basketball and give back — is special. This is just the beginning of a movement to facilitate change in our communities, and I am happy to be a part of a group of guys willing to lead the charge.”

Events begin Nov. 29 in New York with a court dedication and food drive, before the group moves to Akron for events the following day that include a Wheels for Education program — something James is extensively involved with in an effort to help keep kids from dropping out of high school — and a basketball clinic at the Boys & Girls Club bearing the two-time NBA MVP’s name.

“I am really proud of the work we’re doing in Akron and know what this tour means for the community,” James said.

Paul will host an educationthemed event and a clinic in New Orleans on Dec. 2, in advance of the game there two nights later. Wade

hosts two events for charity in Chicago on Dec. 6, and another clinic is planned for New York on Dec. 9.

“Being able to play the game I love alongside my friends … as well as raising money for charity is a winwin situation,” Paul said.

Wade said another element he’s looking forward to is simply being around NBA players on a full-time basis again, if only for a couple of weeks. While he remains hopeful that much of the season can be saved, he’s also not necessarily optimistic that he’ll be back in a Heat uniform again and trying for another NBA finals trip anytime soon.

“We’re approaching it as basketball,” Wade said. “We’re not doing it so people don’t forget our names.

We’re really doing this to continue to make an impact in the communities that we go to and also to show that we love this game, we’re going to continue to play it and that this is something we all decided to do together. So that’s what makes this special.”

Thursday, November 24, 2011

COMMON Continued from page 12 slaves free a year before the Civil War. He takes a job overseeing the workers on the transcontinental railroad, which includes Elam Ferguson (Common).

Common, who appeared in “Smokin’ Aces,” ‘‘American Gangster” and “Terminator Salvation,” and does a voice in “Happy Feet Two,” says the show focuses on issues that still exist in today’s world.

“Things that we try to hide and put under the table, things that we act like, ‘Oh no, that’s not how I feel’ — some of that is still there from hundreds of years back. It’s still in us and we’ve got to remove it,” he says. “Along

WALT HAZZARD Continued from page 10 Hazzard was co-captain of the 1964 national title team that went 30-0 under Coach John Wooden. He averaged a career-high 18.6 points as a senior playmaking guard. He was chosen college basketball’s player of the year, having averaged 19.8 points in the NCAA tournament, where he was selected as the most valuable player.

As a junior, Hazzard led the Bruins with a 16.3 scoring average and they won 20 games for the first time since 1957. In his sophomore season, he averaged 13.2 points and the Bruins reached the Final Four for the first time in school history, losing by two points to eventual national champion Cincinnati in the semifinals.

Hazzard transferred to UCLA after spending one season at Santa Monica College.

In 1996, UCLA retired his No. 42 jersey.

“Walt was one of the pillars of UCLA’s first championship team in men’s basketball,” current coach Ben Howland said. “He was a great player and an outstanding coach at UCLA. He is a huge part of the Bruin legacy, and he left lifelong memories for the Bruin faithful.”

Hazzard helped the U.S. win a gold medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and played 10 years in the NBA, including a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, who made him the No. 1 overall pick.

Hazzard averaged 12.6 points and 4.9 assists during his career with the Lakers, Seattle, Atlanta, Buffalo and Golden State. He ranked among the league’s top 10 in assists during six of his seasons. In 1968, he averaged 23.9 points and 6.2 assists, culminating in an appearance in the All-Star game.

During his four years as UCLA coach, the Bruins had a 77-47 record. In 1985, he led them to the school’s first NIT championship. In 1987, UCLA won the (then-) Pac-10 title and the league’s first postseason tournament with future NBA star Reggie Miller in the lineup. They finished with a 25-7 mark, losing in the second round of the NCAA tournament, with Hazzard selected league coach of the year.

“Thoughts and prayers go out to the Hazzard family on your loss,” Miller tweeted Friday night. “Coach Hazzard was not only a STUD point guard at UCLA under Coach Wooden … but a great Coach as well. He helped shaped me into the ball player I was.

“Thanks so much, Coach.”

The Bruins slumped to a 16-14 record the following year, and Hazzard was replaced by Jim Harrick for the 1988-89 season.

“This is a sad day for the UCLA basketball family,” Bruins athletic

15

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with it just being entertaining and being fresh — it’s an important show.” director Dan Guerrero said.

“Walt was the catalyst for Coach John Wooden’s first championship team and played the game with a style that excited Bruin basketball fans everywhere. He contributed to his alma mater in numerous ways, including as a student-athlete, coach and honored alum, and he will be greatly missed by all of us knew him.”

Before taking over at his alma mater, Hazzard coached two seasons each at Compton College near Los Angeles and Chapman College in Orange County.

In 1994, Hazzard re-joined the Lakers as a West Coast advance scout.

After his stroke, he served as a special consultant to the team for another 15 years.

Lakers owner Jerry Buss said, “Walt was a man of extremely high character.”

Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said, “Not only was Walt an outstanding player, but his knowledge of the game was extremely valuable to our front office as well over the past 17 years. In the years since his stroke, he has been an inspiration to many of us with his perseverance and his passion for the game.”

Hazzard, a native of Wilmington, Del., starred at Philadelphia’s Overbrook High, where Wilt Chamberlain had played years earlier.

During his three-year varsity basketball career, Hazzard led the school to an 893 record and two city titles. He also played baseball and ran track, and was student body president.

Hazzard is survived by wife Jaleesa, a Bruins song girl during the 1964 NCAA title season, and sons Yakub, Jalal, Khalil and Rasheed.

During his NBA career, Hazzard converted to Islam and changed his name to Mahdi Abdul-Rahman. He felt the change was poorly received and cost him professional opportunities so he returned to using his given name professionally while remaining a devout Muslim.

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UC DAVIS Continued from page 7 with the chancellor in power.

“We were just kids sitting down in a circle singing,” said student David Buscho, 22, of San Rafael, Calif. “It felt like hot glass ... I was paralyzed with fear.”

Pepper spray is an inflammatory agent that derives its active ingredient from chili peppers. When the spray is deployed, it causes nearly instant inflammation, resulting in dilation of the capillaries in the eyes, paralysis of the larynx and a burning sensation on the skin.

Buscho said students were yelling at police Friday that they were peacefully protesting. One of the helmeted officers began pointing a spray can at close range on the seated group, he said.

“I had my arms around my girlfriend. I just kissed her on the forehead and then he sprayed us,” he said.

“Immediately, we were blinded ... He just sprayed us again and again and we were completely powerless to do anything.”

The protest was held in support of the Occupy Wall Street movement and in solidarity with protesters at the University of California at Berkeley who were struck by police with batons on Nov. 9.

The UC Davis footage shows two officers spraying students with the chemical agent as the crowd cries out, then a slight delay before police start hauling off some of those seated while

other protesters cough violently and try to crawl away.

The spray the officers used ranked about halfway between the highest and lowest concentrations of the commercially available substance.

Nine UC Davis students hit by pepper spray were treated, two were taken to hospitals and later released, university officials said. Ten people

AP Photo/The Enterprise, Wayne Tilcock

Excessive force?: Occupy Davis protestors are pepper-sprayed by campus police, who blocked their exit from the school’s quad, Friday.

MATHEW KNOWLES Continued from page 12 Destiny’s Child, which included his daughter Beyonce Knowles, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

Originally a quartet, the trio stopped performing in 2005.

Destiny’s Child won two Grammys, had multiple No. 1 hits and multiple multiplatinum albums. Knowles also managed the group members’ solo efforts and oversaw most of Beyonce’s solo career until they split professionally in March.

Knowles says before Destiny’s Child signed a record deal in 1997, they

had performed about 1,000 shows.

“When you look at reality shows, (the success) comes overnight, and it goes away overnight because there was never artist development,” he said. “(With my new group) there’s something here, but true success in this industry is about a six-year process.”

His company, Music World Entertainment, offers boot camp training for artists who are looking to improve their skills. He had the members of Destiny’s Child jogging and singing at the same time — to build their stamina

— when they were 10 years old.

From Above will release their debut single, “Not the Same Girl,” on Nov. 29.

Their album, “Breaking From Above,” will come out digitally Dec. 12.

“The initial launch is based on TV, and we’ve all learned the power in TV in selling music today,” he said.

Knowles said he’s been affiliated with seven girl groups, including the platinum-selling Trin-i-tee 5:7. Like Destiny’s Child, the gospel duo has been downsized over the years.

“I guess I kind of have been known as the guy that shakes up girl groups,” Knowles said with a laugh.

were arrested.

Since the video began circulating Friday night, UC Davis Chancellor Linda Katehi said she has been inundated with calls from alumni, students and faculty to speed up an investigation. Students and faculty have called for her resignation.

“I’m here to apologize,” she told the crowd. “I really feel horrible for what happened on Friday.”

The spraying has reverberated far beyond the university, spawning a debate about the officers’ use of force.

Decisions on using pepper spray range by department and depends largely on the community and the police chief, Klinger said.

Klinger said the officers could have turned to other methods, such as a so-called pain compliance hold, but that would bring its own set of complications. A protester could receive a broken arm, he said, or an officer could pull a muscle.

Charles J. Key, a former lieutenant with the Baltimore Police Department, who wrote the department’s use-offorce manual, said that officers were clearly within their rights to use it.

After reviewing the footage, Key said he observed at least two cases of protesters actively resisting police. In one, a woman pulls her arm back from an officer. In the second, a protester curls into a ball. Each of those actions could have warranted more force, including baton strikes and pressurepoint techniques, he said.

“What I’m looking at is fairly standard police procedure,” Key said.

The federal courts have ruled on such cases. At the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers courts in nine western states, the cases have centered on whether or not the protesters were involved in what is called “active resistance.”

The court used the term in considering a case about another highly circulated video of a group of passive demonstrators being swabbed with pepper See UC DAVIS, page 16

16

Thursday, November 24, 2011

First “green” bike-lanes open downtown LOS ANGELES, CA – Downtown Los Angeles recently became the home of the first official “green” bike lanes in the city.

Councilmembers Jan Perry and José Huizar joined the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) and community stakeholders to officially celebrate the opening of green bike lanes and thermoplastic striping designed to support safe biking in and around downtown.

“Downtown Los Angeles is the alternative transit hub for the region.

From subway to light rail to bus and now the new groundbreaking green bike lanes, downtown continues to be the premier location for all modes of transportation. I am energized by the strong community support for the new bike lane and know that it will provide an important connection through our City’s historic core and beyond,” said Councilwoman Perry.

Perry and Huizar cut a green ribbon tied to the handles of two bicycles and then took the inaugural ride down the new Spring Street bike lane, which runs between Cesar Chavez Avenue and 9th Street.

Similar green bike lanes were also installed along 1st Street between Boyle Avenue and Lorena Street in Boyle Heights.

“From Downtown Los Angeles to Boyle Heights to all parts of the City, the City of Los Angeles is committed to increasing bicycle uses and these first-of-their-kind green bike lanes are another step forward in our effort to make Los

Angeles the premier bike-friendly city in the country,” said Councilmember Huizar, adding, “From CicLAvia, to the City’s firstever bike corral, I am proud of my work to support our bicycling community and I thank the Mayor, our local agencies, my colleagues on the City Council and, most importantly, the bicycling community for their hard work, diligence and commitment.”

LADOT installed the new bike lanes over the weekend, removed two traffic lanes and installed a new buffered bike lane to support safety and promote biking downtown. A carefully selected traffic-rated green paint was used to delineate the bike lanes and enhance visibility. To further enhance safety efforts, the paint was treated and is non-slip, making it safe for both dry and wet weather conditions.

Green bike lanes have also been shown to increase both driver and bicyclist awareness of each other’s presence, promote better bicyclist positioning and provide an increased feeling of safety for bicyclists.

“LADOT is continuing to lead the way in the delivery of innovative and safe bicycle facilities in the City” said Deputy Mayor for Transportation Borja Leon. “The department has focused on public safety and outreach while accomplishing one of the Mayor’s primary goals — a robust transportation network.”

In September, LADOT joined the Downtown Los Angeles

On your mark, get set …: Councilmembers Jan Perry and José Huizar celebrate a “grand opening” Neighborhood Council (DLANC) to engage the downtown community in visioning the future bikes in an urban setting through ThinkBike LA workshop. These workshops offered a platform for stakeholders to brainstorm and discuss creative ways in which to build a bike infrastructure

that would serve downtown and provide safe and consistent transportation alternatives designed to connect surrounding neighborhoods.

The green bike lanes were an integral part of this vision.

“Downtown Los Angeles is positively buzzing with excitement at

UC DAVIS Continued from page 15 spray in 1997. The protesters had linked arms on the floor of a California congressman’s office to protest the logging of old-growth redwood trees on California’s North Coast.

Because demonstrators were using a metal sleeve to prevent the county sheriff’s office from separating them, attorneys argued the protestors’ “active resistance” left officers no other way to disperse them than dabbing their eyelids with Qtips soaked in pepper spray, said Jim Wheaton, an attorney who assisted in the prosecution of the civil case.

The 9th Circuit ruled that the protesters weren’t in “active resistance,” and because they were sitting peacefully, the use of pepper spray was excessive.

“Pepper spray is designed to protect people from a violent attack, to stop somebody from doing something,” said Wheaton, senior counsel for the Oaklandbased First Amendment Project.

UC Davis police used “it as a torture device to force someone to do something, and that’s exactly what the 9th Circuit said was unreasonable and excessive.”

Associated Press writer Nigel Duara in Portland, Ore., as well as AP Photo/The Enterprise, Wayne Tilcock Judy Lin and video journalist Excessive force?: University of California at Davis Police Lt. John Pike uses pepper spray to move Occupy UC Haven Daley in Davis, Calif., contributed to this report.

Davis protesters while blocking their exit from the school’s quad Friday.

this big step toward shifting the balance on our streets to more equitably serve people who walk, bike, drive, ride transit and do business here. Residents and businesses are eager to see how this green, buffered bike lane will start to transform a raceway into a neighborhood street, and look forward to increased traffic to our unique array of businesses as a result,” said Valerie Watson the Board Chair for DLANC’s Parks, Recreation & Open Space Committee.

DLANC and the Los Angeles County Bike Coalition (LACBC) also used the momentum to engage the community though a public information campaign about the installation of the new green bike lanes. As part of the campaign, businesses were encouraged to display signs in their windows showing support of the bike lane, seeing the lanes as a way of further driving traffic to local businesses to support the economic growth of downtown.

“We are excited to the see the city not just implementing the first bike lane in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, but implementing an innovative design that will enhance the visibility and safety of people riding their bikes to the many shops, restaurants, and galleries on Spring Street and will help encourage more folks to experience our dynamic historic core by bicycle,” says Jennifer Klausner, executive director of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition. “Spring Street is also a central part of the CicLAvia route, and we think the new bike lane will bring a little slice of CicLAvia to Spring Street everyday.”

Future installations of green bike lanes will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, subject to the results of this initial program.