LAWT-11-26-09

Vol. XXX, No. 1155

SERVING LOS ANGELES COUNTY WITH NEWS YOU CAN USE

November 26, 2009

FIRST COLUMN

1962 Killing in Georgia Probed

BY AMY LEIGH WOMACK THE TELEGRAPH, MACON

MACON, Ga. (AP) — The year was 1962.

In the midst of the Civil Rights Movement, two Macon police officers fired shots at A.C. Hall, a 17-year-old black youth, killing him.

Hall had been walking home near the old Carver Elementary School on Hazel Street when a police car pulled into the school’s driveway. The driver got out and Hall started running. Shots rang out. Hall died of a single shot to the chest.

The officers were later charged with murder. They said they fired at Hall because it appeared to them as though Hall was reaching into his pocket for a gun.

An estimated 400 people protested Hall’s shooting at Macon City Hall on the day testimony began during a coroner’s inquest into the teen’s death. Then they walked three and four abreast to the county courthouse to sit in on the hearing.

Now, more than 40 years later, the FBI has reopened the case, and authorities are searching

for Hall’s family members.

It’s part of the FBI’s Civil Rights-Era Cold Case Initiative, a program in which more than 100 cases nationwide are being reexamined with fresh eyes, said Chris Allen, an FBI spokesman.

“We’re looking at unsolved or inadequately solved cases,” he said.

Stephen Emmett, a spokesman for the FBI’s Atlanta field office, said it’s possible that witnesses that were reluctant to come forward at the time of the crime, and with the changing times and the passing of time, they might be willing to talk with investigators.

“New technology that has emerged might shed light on the investigations,” he said.

Although a few of the cases have resulted in criminal prosecutions, agents have found during the course of their investigations that suspects in nearly half the cases have died.

Each of the cases was recommended by agencies such as the Southern Poverty Law Center, the NAACP, and the National Urban League.

See PROBE, page 9

Photo by DAMIEN SMITH

MAKING A SPLASH — Olympic medal winner Cullen Jones visited Bethune Middle School Nov. 20 to help promote water safety among youths, especially minorities. Almost 90 children in Los Angeles County drown every year, according to the county’s Department of Public Health. Pictured (counterclockwise) Jones, Anna, Kimberly, Timothy, Kenneth, and Derian.

Cullen Jones Makes a Splash At Bethune Middle School

BY CHICO C. NORWOOD STAFF WRITER

Almost 90 children in Los Angeles County drown every year, the majority being minorities, according to the county’s Department of Health.

In an effort to help this trend,

State Attorney Investigates Scam Targeting Black Churches

BY ROBERT JABLON THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

California is investigating several companies suspected of bilking churches nationwide of hundreds of thousands of dollars through fraudulent computer leasing schemes, authorities said Nov. 20.

State Attorney General Jerry Brown said as many as 30 Southern California churches may have been defrauded, with the same companies suspected of bilking other churches in as many as 10 other states.

The companies offered churches free computer kiosks that could serve as electronic message boards and generate advertising revenue, Brown said.

“Instead, churches were left

Olympic swimmer Cullen Jones has joined with the USA Swimming Foundation and Conoco Phillips in the foundation’s Make a Splash with Cullen Jones Program.

The goal of the initiative is to promote water safety and raise awareness about swimming, especially among minority youth.

The program, which is on a six-city tour, made a stop Nov. 20 at Bethune Middle School in Los Angeles, the only middle school in the Los Angeles Unified School District to have a swimming pool.

Joining Jones at the school to promote swimming and water safety were Olympic medal winner Rowdy Gaines, who engaged the youngsters in a contest that yielded the winners $50 Conoco Phillips gas cards, and USC alum and 2000 Olympic gold medal winner Lenny Krayzelburg, who launched a swimming program at Bethune earlier this year.

In his address to the students, Jones emphasized the importance of learning to swim.

“In L.A. alone 85 kids drown See CULLEN JONES, page 10

NEWS IN BRIEF Getaway Driver in ATM Murder Gets 25-to-life LAUNCHING AN INVESTIGATION — (Right to left) The Rev. Ronald Woods, senior pastor at Moreno Valley’s AK Quinn Community African Methodist Episcopal Church, California Attorney General Jerry Brown, and the Rev. Gayle Davis-Culp, senior pastor of Long Beach’s Holy Trinity AME church, speak at a news conference held Nov. 20 at Bryant Temple AME Church in Los Angeles. Brown stated that several Southern California churches were victims of a fraudulent computer leasing scheme.

with leases as high as $45,000 per year for what amounted to little

more than desktop computers and See SCAM, page 9

Photo by MARTY COTWRIGHT

SHOP TALK — LT’s Barber Shop on Florence Avenue in South Los Angeles has been a gathering place for religious and political leaders for several years. Newly appointed Chief of Police Charlie Beck took time out of his schedule to stop by the shop Nov. 21 and introduce himself to members of the community. Pictured (left to right): Beck; Bernard Tolliver; Mack Hall; Lawrence (LT) Tolliver (owner of LT’s Barber Shop), and Eric Clay (seated).

(AP) — A woman who drove the getaway car after a robbery and murder at an ATM in Los Angeles last year will spend 25 years to life in prison.

Twenty-three-year-old Enjoli McClendon was sentenced Nov. 20 for first-degree murder and attempted robbery.

Her co-defendant, 25-yearold McKenzie Bryant, was sentenced earlier this year to life in prison on the same charges.

Prosecutors say Bryant was robbing a customer at a Ladera Heights automated teller machine in March 2008 when an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection worker approached.

Authorities say Bryant ordered the worker, 48-year-old Mylus Mondy, to hand over his money and then shot him in the back when he ran.

McClendon and Bryant were arrested several days later.

Man Pleads Guilty to Killing 6-Year-Old Boy (AP) — A man has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in the beating death of a 6-year-old Los

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Angeles boy.

Prosecutors say Marcas Fisher entered his plea Nov. 16 in Compton Superior Court.

Fisher is accused of killing Dae’von Bailey in his South Los Angeles home. The boy’s body was found July 23.

The boy’s mother left the boy and his sister with Fisher, and child welfare officials approved the temporary custody arrangement.

Fisher was arrested in Las Vegas in August.

Prosecutors have agreed to drop a charge of assault on a child causing death.

Fisher faces 25 years to life in prison when he is sentenced next month.

THE STATE Report: Calif. Faces $20B Deficits for Years to Come SACRAMENTO — Despite multiple attempts to balance California’s budget, the state can still expect to confront shortfalls approaching $20 billion during each of the next five years, according to a long-range forecast released Nov. 18.

See BRIEFS, page 11

Page 2

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

OPINION EARL OFARI HUTCHINSON

America Should Join the Civilized World on Teen Life Sentences In 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court took a huge step toward joining nearly all nations on the globe when it banned teen executions.

But it was only a step.

The United States still locks up more juveniles for life without the possibility of parole than all nations combined.

The Supreme Court will rule on two Florida cases where juvenile offenders got no-parole life sentences. In those cases, as well as others, the juvenile offenders received life-without-parole sentences for crimes that did not involve murder.

The offenders ranged in age from 13 to 16 years old. There are about 100 juvenile offenders incarcerated for life in eight states with no chance for parole. Nineteen states have no-parole sentences for juveniles on their books.

The 100 offenders who are serving the draconian no-parole sentences, though, are only the tip of a more terrifying iceberg.

A year ago, Human Rights Watch found that more than 2,000 juvenile offenders are serving lifewithout-possibility-of-parole sentences. A significant number of the juveniles sentenced to no-parole sentences did not actually commit murder but were participants in a robbery or were at the scene of the crime when the death occurred.

The majority of the teens slapped with the sentence had no prior convictions, and a substantial number were age 15 or under.

The stock argument against a

blanket prohibition against noparole sentences is that violence is violence no matter the age of the perpetrator, and that punishment must be severe to deter crime.

Prosecutors and courts in the states that convict and impose no-parole life sentences on juvenile offenders have vigorously rejected challenges that the sentences are a violation of the constitutional prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.

Hollywood sensationalism and media-driven myths about rampaging youth — not to mention the very real horror stories of gang violence and young persons who do commit horrendous crimes — also reinforce the popular notion that juveniles are violent predators. This has done much to damp down public sentiment that juvenile offenders can be helped with treatment and rehabilitation and deserve a second chance rather than a prison cell for life.

This is not to minimize the pain, suffering and trauma juvenile offenders cause with their crimes to victims and their loved ones.

However, a society that slaps the irrevocable punishment of life without parole on juveniles sends the terrible message that it has thrown in the towel on turning the lives of young offenders around.

Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy hinted at just that in his majority opinion that scrapped teen executions. Kennedy noted that, “the punishment of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole is itself a severe sanction, in particular

for a young person.”

Kennedy acknowledged, as have legions of child violence experts, that juveniles don’t have the same maturity, judgment, or emotional development as adults. Many child experts agree that children are not natural-born predators and that, if given proper treatment, counseling, skills training and education, most juvenile offenders can be turned into productive adults.

In a report on juveniles and the death penalty, Amnesty International found that a number of child offenders sentenced to death suffered severe physical or sexual abuse.

Many others were alcohol or drug impaired or suffered from acute mental illness or brain damage.

Nearly all were below average intelligence.

Some of the juvenile offenders were goaded, intimidated, or threatened with violence by adults who committed crimes and forced them to be their accomplices.

Then there’s the issue of race.

The no-parole sentences are hardly race-neutral. Black teens are 10 times more likely to receive a noparole life sentence than white youths. They are even more likely to get those sentences when their victims are white.

This was the case in the two Florida cases the Supreme Court will look at. These cases are often tried by all-white or mostly white juries.

Those same juries seldom consider age as a mitigating factor. The racial See HUTCHINSON, page 11

Ain’t I A Woman?

BY SHAUNELLE CURRY

Caster Semenya, an 18-yearold South African women’s middledistance runner, has received worldwide attention in recent months. She made her country proud when she won the 800 meters at the World Athletics Championship in Germany in August.

She received the hometown welcome of a hero, with public officials and throngs of people singing, dancing and cheering upon her return home.

Yet, it is the seed of doubt surrounding her gender that has cast the world’s eyes upon her.

Semenya’s record-setting times on the track field, coupled with her masculine features, prompted gender testing by the International Association of Athletics Federation, the sports global governing body. Leaks to the media suggested that gender test results may show that Semenya is intersex and has both male and female sex organs.

The concern is that she may have internal testes, causing her body to produce more testosterone than the average woman. There was speculation that Semenya’s medal, won in the 800-meter women’s championship race, would be in jeopardy because of this.

Last week brought good news for Semenya when it was announced that she will be able to keep her medal and prize money. And the results of her gender tests will be held in confidence. But, the question still remains how this will impact the current guidelines for dealing with gender testing and female athletics.

What’s Sex Got to Do With It? Gender is a social construct of our maleness or femaleness. Sex, on the other hand, is a biological concept of male and female currently categorized on the basis of our chromosomes and sex organs.

Many of us assume that our gender identity, our sex, and the societies’ perception of our gender must line up on the same side of a very clear man/woman line. However, statistics from the Intersex Society of North America (ISNA.org) state that the total number of people whose bodies differ from standard male or female is about 1 in 100.

For many people, sex actually falls somewhere along a continuum between male and female. Earth shattering, isn’t it?

Calling Into Question the Question In the case of Semenya, her external sex organs are female. Her gender identity — how she views

herself in the world — is fem a l e . A n d h e r Shaunelle Curry gender, that social construct that is reinforced by her family and clan and the members of her society, is female. All of these appear to line up. Then what was the catalyst for questioning her gender in the first place?

“The questioning of her gender is based on (a) stereotypic view of the physical features and abilities attributable to women. Such stereotypes demonstrate the extent of patriarchy within the world’s sporting community,” Noluthando Mayende-Sibiya, South Africa’s minister for women, children and people with disabilities, said in a letter, according to news reports quoting the South African Press Association.

Mayende-Sibiya has written a letter to the United Nations’ Division for the Advancement of Women. In it, she calls for an investigation into whether or not Semenya has been treated in line with U.N. protocols on gender and equality. She is challenging the gender testing done on Semenya on the basis of a possible violation to the protection of women’s rights.

I stretched my brain a bit and See CURRY, page 10

Remember, Remember

BY MAYA RUPERT CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Democrats have my number.

I don’t mean that figuratively, as in, “I can’t get anything by them” because, let’s be honest, if the Stupak ban making its way into the House’s version of the health care bill teaches us anything it’s that people can get anything by the Democratic Party.

No, I mean Democrats — lots of them — literally have my number.

And my e-mail address. And my mailing address.

And they’re using them.

Apparently, the anniversary of a previous election is the unspoken, imaginary starting line in the fundraising race for the next one.

Ever since the beginning of this month, my inbox has been inundated with e-mails, my cell phone won’t stop ringing, my mailbox is full of postcards — all reminding me that while we’re still floored with the outcome of the previous election, it’s time to get ready to do it again.

They want me to give money to the fight for health care, women running for office in 2010, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee … and this is only the start.

As the midterms approach, I’ll be asked to phone bank, to send out mass e-mails to my contact books, to attend rallies. Say what you will about the beauty of democracy, but election fatigue could make the most democratic-minded individual long for a good, old-fashioned military coup.

The calls are the worst because they invariably come as I’m trying to leave my place for work, and I’m never clear about exactly which organization I’m talking to. In my defense, the names sound similar when you’re barely listening and just waiting for the spiel to end so you can offer a credit card number — or not — and be on your way.

The problem with that tactic is

that I never know which organizations I’ve supported or which initiative that money went toward. So all of the subsequent calls take on a “Who’s on Maya Rupert First?” quality as I insist to the volunteer that we just spoke yesterday while he explains the subtle distinction between what I funded yesterday and what they’re asking for today.

But my complaining about the inconvenience of civic efficacy was interrupted this month by the realization that in a wonderful coincidence, November is ushered in by Guy Fawkes Day and ushered out by Thanksgiving. It’s an incredibly fitting order that, until this year, I had never connected.

I had actually never given much thought at all to Guy Fawkes Day. You know the story: Guy Fawkes was a part of a group of Catholic revolutionaries who, in 1604, set out to end Protestant rule of England by assassinating King James I and blowing up the House of Parliament. They were caught, captured, and executed, and the conspiracy is remembered (mostly in the United Kingdom) with a day of fireworks, possibly a viewing of “V for Vendetta,” and a song: Remember, remember the fifth of November, The gunpowder treason and plot, I know of no reason Why the gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot.

Honestly, it took happening upon a story about Fawkes and rereading that rhyme to remind me of how much of a privilege it is to ever grow tired of being a part of the political process. My leaders e-mail, call, and write me, asking me to do what Fawkes died trying to do — put the government in place that I want there.

It really is something to be See RUPERT, page 5

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CIRCULATION AUDIT BY

November 26, 2009

L.A. WATTS TIMES

Page 3

BUSINESS NEW YORK (AP) — Shoppers’ focus on staples such as socks and underwear is driving murky holiday outlooks at Wal-Mart and Kohl’s, even as both posted higher third-quarter earnings Nov. 12.

Both signaled they plan aggressive discounting to hang on to customers and drive sales this holiday season.

Wal-Mart Stores’ price-cutting campaign is bringing more shoppers in the door. But they’re spending less when they get there because the goods are priced lower.

Meanwhile, department store operator Nordstrom Inc. announced late Nov. 12 that its profit rose 17 percent in its fiscal third quarter, and it raised its 2009 profit outlook.

Luxury stores such as Nordstrom saw solid sales gains last month from the sharp falloff a year ago.

Study Finds Few Female Execs at Calif. Companies SACRAMENTO (AP) — The corporate glass ceiling remains firmly in place at companies based in California, according to a study released Nov. 18.

The University of California at Davis study found that women account for about 10 percent of executives and board members at the 400 largest publicly traded companies headquartered in California.

The findings have changed little

since the first survey in 2005.

The university’s annual survey comes from reports the companies file with the federal Securities and Exchange Commission. Nearly 30 percent of the companies had no women in executive or board positions.

California’s corporate gender mix is similar to that in many companies nationwide, said Wendy Beecham, chief executive of the Palo Alto-based Forum for Women Entrepreneurs & Executives, which helped promote the study.

She cited national research showing companies with the highest concentration of women in leadership are more profitable than those with low representation.

The study found women hold less than 10 percent of the seats on the boards of directors for California corporations and less than 12 percent of top executive positions, such as chief executive officer, chief operating officer, chief financial officer and chief information officer.

Nearly half the companies have no female executives, and just 15 of the top 400 companies have a woman as chief executive, up from 13 in 2008.

Weak Home Building a Drag on Economic Recovery WASHINGTON (AP) — The budding economic recovery isn’t getting much help from the homebuilding industry, which normally creates jobs and drives growth when a recession ends.

Uncertainty over whether a homebuyer tax credit would be

extended weighed down construction last month — a sign of how much the fledgling recovery depends on government support.

Home building unexpectedly plunged to its lowest point since April, the Commerce Department said Nov. 18. The figures show that builders fear there aren’t enough buyers to soak up the glut of unsold homes already on the market — a supply magnified by record-high foreclosures.

California Requires More Energy-Efficient TVs SACRAMENTO (AP) — California regulators have adopted the first energy-efficiency standards for televisions in the United States.

The action by the California Energy Commission could lead the way in a general reform of standards for an industry increasingly focused on wideview, flat-screen, high-definition sets.

California represents such a big consumer market that environmental groups hope the new standards will lead manufacturers to make energysaving TVs for the rest of the nation, just as California’s stringent fuel standards for cars and trucks forced automakers to produce more efficient models for all of the United States.

Some manufacturers warned that the regulations will cripple innovation, limit consumer choice, and hurt California stores, because people could simply buy TVs out of state or online. The industry also complained that manufacturers will be forced to make televisions with

poorer picture quality and fewer features than those sold elsewhere in the United States.

The regulations requiring televisions to be more efficient will be phased in beginning in 2011.

The new standards will apply to new televisions up to 58 inches.

The commission estimates that TVs account for about 10 percent of a home’s electricity use. The fear is that energy use will rise as people buy bigger, more elaborate TVs, put more of them in their homes and watch them longer.

Firm: SoCal Median Home Price Increases in October (AP) — The median home price in Southern California rose nearly 2 percent last month from September, as the inventory of homes for sale continued to shrink and lenders worked to avoid fresh foreclosures, a tracking firm said Nov. 17.

Last month’s median home price of $280,000 in the six-county region of Southern California was

W

about 7 percent less than the October 2008 median price of $300,000.

That’s the median’s smallest yearover-year decline since September 2007, San Diego-based MDA DataQuick said.

The region’s median sale price has risen or held steady on a monthto-month basis since it dropped to $247,000 in April, its lowest point in more than seven years.

DataQuick said foreclosures accounted for about 41 percent of sales in October, down from a high of nearly 57 percent in February.

The firm also said home sales in October increased about 3 percent from a year ago to more than 22,000.

The increase made for 16 consecutive months of year-on-year gains.

G.U. Krueger, an economist at research and consulting firm HousingEcon.com, said the numbers show that the housing market is recovering, but he cautioned that the increasing number of borrowers delinquent on mortgage payments foretells a rebound in foreclosure rates in the coming months.

metro.net

Welcome Aboard

MetroBriefs Thousands Celebrate Metro Rail to East LA An estimated crowd of 75,000 was on hand to celebrate Sunday, November 15 as rail returned to East LA with the opening of the Edward R. Roybal Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension. The six-mile extension serves the Little Tokyo/Arts District, Boyle Heights, East LA and links to the existing Gold Line to Pasadena.

Find out more at metro.net.

Breaking Metro News Online At “The Source” Now you can get instant updates on the issues and actions that keep LA County moving. Just go to “The Source,” a real-time online news and feature service that is updated throughout the day on developments that a=ect Metro’s projects and services.

Look for it today at metro.net.

Go Gold Line to The Roses Trade the tra;c and parking hassles of attending the Rose Parade for the fast and convenient Metro Gold Line. The Memorial Park, Del Mar, Lake and Allen stations are all just a short walk from the parade route. The Gold Line runs overnight New Year’s Eve. Find out more at metro.net.

Find Unique Gifts At The Metro Store Online Exclusive rail posters, one-of-a-kind commemorative lapel pins and other authentic Metro merchandise is available by shopping the Metro Store online at metro.net. Whether it’s that special gift for out-of-town friends or just something to set you apart from the crowd, you’ll >nd it at the Metro Store.

Help The Census Help Transit Make sure you’re counted during the upcoming 2010 U.S. Census. Population >gures generated by the census play a key role in the amount of federal funding Metro receives for transit purposes. The more accurate the census count, the more service Metro can provide. For more information, go to census.gov.

If you’d like to know more, please call us at 1.800.464.2111, or visit metro.net.

GEN-CE-10-006 ©2009 LACMTA

BIZSHORTS Wal-Mart, Kohl’s: Holidays Could Be Rough

Page 4

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

COMMUNITY In the Spirit of Thanksgiving: Mother Who Lost Son Finds Strength in Helping Others

BY ERIKA A. MCCARDEN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Traditionally, Thanksgiving is a time when family and friends

gather to express gratitude.

This holiday, Arvis Jones, a grief and loss counselor, finds herself giving special thanks to the

‘Tis The Season To Be Safe- Southern California Edison Offers Holiday Safety Tips With the arrival of the holiday season, Southern California Edison (SCE) encourages customers to be safe by providing a few simple tips to help you stay out of harm’s way this holiday season. The decorative lighting we utilize during this time of year is more important to monitor than any other time. “We’re encouraging our customers to enjoy this special time of the year, but also be mindful of the precautions that should be taken to reassure safety,� says Charles Basham, SCE’s manager of public safety.

As you begin preparing for the holiday season, we remind you to follow these important safety tips: • Keep electrical connections off the ground and away from moisture. Water and electricity are a deadly combination. • When hanging lights, make sure staples, tacks and nails do not pierce or pinch wires. Use plastic zip cords instead. • Do not use lighted candles on trees or decorations. • Check all indoor and outdoor decorative lighting for worn cords, broken wires and loose connections. • Change bulbs only when the lights are unplugged. • Keep indoor trees well watered so they will not dry RXW DQG EHFRPH ¿UH KD]DUGV • Keep lights away from carpeting, furniture, drapes DQG RWKHU ÀDPPDEOH PDWHULDOV • Use only three strands of lights per electrical cord or outlet. An overload could cause a short circuit DQG D ¿UH • Unplug lights and extension cords when you leave home or go to bed. Use a timer so they are on only during the hours you select, which can also help you save energy.

Before you decorate for the holiday, be sure to take time to refer back to these safety tips. Decorating your homes, work places and trees safely and with HQHUJ\ HIÂżFLHQW OLJKWLQJ ZLOO EULJKWHQ HYHU\RQHÂśV holiday.

For more holiday safety tips, please visit www.sce.com/safety.

Advertorial

community she’s helped over the years cope with the sudden loss of a loved one.

Jones has spent her entire career helping children and their families cope with grief and loss.

She was the first African American music therapist employed

by Arts & Services for the Disabled, and the first music therapist at the Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic.

Whether it’s a murder-suicide, homicide, or death from natural causes, it’s not unusual for her to be called to comfort a child at a crime scene in the middle of the night, or be at the side of a teen at a family member’s memorial service. “She’s very compassionate,� said Joan Cochran, executive director and founder of The Center for Grief and Loss for Children. “We

understand how heavy the hearts are and how sad and distraught children and parents are when they lose someone. “Arvis stays in touch with families, visits them, brings them food, clothes, and connects them in whatever way they need. It’s never just a one-hour counseling session. Once a family enters our lives we stay with them.�

By day Jones, an assistant director of The Center For Grief and Loss for Children, a program of Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services, provides grief and loss training for therapists, clinicians, teachers and parents to help provide supportive counseling to families in grief. She also conducts free English and Spanish biweekly group support workshops to all fam-

Arvis Jones

ily members. At night she’s busy checking in on “her� families, tending to the Watts Gang Task Force and responding to calls from L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s Crisis Response Team. “Every case impacts my life.

See MOTHER, page 12

COMMUNITY MEETINGS, FORUMS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS ing the public hearings, will be pre- ditionally means heavy traffic on Councilwoman Hahn Moves to Regulate Placement of Cell sented to the full board on Dec. 10. California’s roadways. Thirty-three The project’s purpose is to people were killed on California Phone Towers in Los Angeles improve public transit service and roadways during the Thanksgiving (Lacity.org) — After community outcry over the recent installation of a cell phone utility tower across from a Los Angeles elementary school, Councilwoman Janice Hahn asked city departments to review the city’s long-standing participation in an agreement that bars it from regulating cell tower installation on utility poles.

The Joint Pole Authority (JPA) is a consortium of 10 Southern California cities, government agencies, and telecommunications companies charged with negotiating 30year leases for new cell phone antennas.

Decisions on location and the appearance of new cell towers are approved by the JPA without any required public hearing.

The City Attorney and the Department of Water and Power will report back to the City Council on the feasibility of opting out of the JPA, as well as on the current policies adopted by surrounding cities that regulate cell towers on utility poles.

Metro to Present Crenshaw Transit Corridor Findings to Board Metro has completed its draft environmental impact report for the Crenshaw Transit Corridor, which extends about 10 miles from Wilshire Boulevard on the north to El Segundo Boulevard on the south.

The results of the report, along with public comments gathered dur-

mobility in the Crenshaw Corridor between Wilshire and El Segundo boulevards.

The overall goal of the proposed project is to improve mobility in the corridor by connecting with existing lines such as the Metro Green Line or approved transit lines such as the Exposition Light Rail Transit.

Information: (213) 922-3018.

Pan African Film & Arts Festival Relocates Los Angeles Headquarters The Pan African Film and Arts Festival has moved its Los Angeles headquarters from the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza to 6820 La Tijera Blvd., suite 200, Los Angeles.

The new phone number is (310) 337-4737 and the fax number is (310) 337-4736.

PAFF is currently wrapping up film submissions for its 18th annual festival taking place Feb. 10 to 15, 2010.

Information: www.paff.org.

CHP Launches Thanksgiving Enforcement Period SACRAMENTO — From 6 p.m. Nov. 25 through midnight Nov. 29, the California Highway Patrol will implement its annual Thanksgiving enforcement period. During this time, the CHP will mount a focused campaign against safety belt violators and all available officers will be out on the road.

The Thanksgiving holiday tra-

holiday in 2008. Among the 20 vehicle occupants killed in CHP jurisdiction, 35 percent were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

In addition to keeping an eye out for vehicle occupants without seatbelts, officers will be especially watchful for impaired drivers during the period.

Thanksgiving is also an Operation CARE (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) holiday. Operation CARE is a joint program of the nation’s highway patrols that places special safety emphasis on interstate highways during holiday periods.

CARE highways in California include Interstates 80, 40, 15 (San Bernardino to the Nevada border) and 5 (Bakersfield north to the Oregon line).

Information: (916) 843-3000.

N.O.I. to Host Swine Flu Town Hall The Nation of Islam’s Ministry of Health & Human Services in Los Angeles will present a town hall on what some consider the dangers of swine flu vaccines and mass vaccination Nov. 28, 1 to 3 p.m. and Nov. 29, 2 to 4 p.m., at 5350 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles.

The town hall will provide a forum for the public to get answers to questions about the safety of the Swine Flu shots.

Information: Khadijah Muhammad, ministryofhealthla@gmail. com, (323) 369-3301.

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FOR OVER 100 YEARS...LIFE. POWERED BY EDISON.

November 26, 2009

L.A. WATTS TIMES

Page 5

COMMUNITY

WHAT’S GOING ON? Deadline for receipt of What’s Going On listings is Friday, 12 p.m., at least two weeks prior to activity.

Fax to: (213) 251-5720, e-mail us at lawattsnus@aol.com or mail to: L.A. Watts Times, 3540 Wilshire Blvd., PH3, Los Angeles, CA 90010.

LUNCH AND LEARN — The Jenesse Center invites the community to learn about opportunities to partner with it in moving families from crisis to self-sufficiency. Some opportunities include beautifying the facilities where families live, raising money for family-oriented programs and services, and spreading the word about ending domestic violence in homes and communities. The lunch will take place Dec. 4, noon, at 3761 Stocker St., suite 100, Los Angeles.

RSVP information: (323) 299-9496, ext. 103, srobertson@jenesse.org.

DANCE — Afro-Caribbean Dance Classes with dance ethnologist Kimberly Miguel Mullen are held on Wednesdays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Crenshaw Yoga and Dance, 5426 S. Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles. There is live drumming, and the class is for all levels. Information: (323) 2947148, www.kimberlymiguelmullen. com.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING — Los Angeles City Councilman Bernard Parks is inviting all constituents of the Eighth District to kick off the shopping season in Leimert Park with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree in Leimert Park. This event will take place Nov. 30, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., in Leimert Park, at West Vernon Avenue and South Crenshaw Boulevard. Choirs are scheduled to be present and refreshments will be served.

MUSIC AND LAUGHTER — Laval Belle will present “A Night of Live Music and Laughter” Nov. 28, 7 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church, 1809 West Blvd., Los Angeles. This benefit concert will support children in Africa during the Christmas season.

There will also be gospel jazz and comedy. Tickets for this event are $15. Information: (323) 935-5204.

HEALTH CARE — Singlepayer advocate and neurologist Dr. Steven Strauss will explain why he thinks the health care reform proposals coming from the White House and Congress maintain insurance company profits, while medical benefits for working people are on the chopping block. Strauss will speak

Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m., at Solidarity Hall, 2170 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles. A $3 donation at the door is requested and dinner, with a vegetarian option, will be served at 6:30 p.m. for an $8 donation. Information: (323) 732-6416, fspla@earthlink.net, www.socialism.com.

DAY OF REMEMBRANCE — “Victory: A Day of Remembering” will honor those who survived the Los Angeles Police Department’s Dec. 8, 1969, SWAT team assault of the Southern California headquarters of the Black Panther Party headquarters. This event will take place Dec. 8, 6 to 10 p.m., at the Southern California Library for Social Studies and Research, 6120 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles. Speakers include survivors and eyewitnesses from that day, as well as a showing of the film “41st and Central.” Information: (323) 799-8409, (323) 294-8320.

INSTITUTE —The 18th National Training Institute of the Center for Children of Incarcerated Parents will be held Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, at the Western Justice Center, 55 S. Grand Ave., Pasadena. The institute is designed to provide descriptive and statistical information and offer practical information about service models and interventions for the children of incarcerated individuals. Information: (626) 449-2470, www.e-ccip.org.

COMEDY — “Priceless Comedy” is scheduled to take place Dec. 2, 7 to 10 p.m., at the 27th Street Bakery, 4308 S. Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles. Attendees can watch comedians work their material, or sign up at 6:30 and try out their material.

Baked goods at the cafe will be available for purchase and there is also free WiFi available. Information: (323) 233-3469.

CAROL’S DAUGHTER — Lisa Price, the founder of Carol’s Daughter, which specializes in beauty products and other gifts, will be at the opening of her latest store Nov. 28, noon to 3 p.m., at Westfield Culver City, 6000 Sepulveda Blvd., suite 1531, Culver City. Price will share her recipe for holiday potpourri — an original gift. Information: (310) 313-1770.

URBAN LIFE MIXER — The Urban Life Cleaners and Art Gallery, located in the old “Bank District” at 412 S. Main St., Los Angeles, will host a business network mixer the

RUPERT Continued from page 2 thankful for: Every two to four years, aided by neither gunpowder, nor treason, nor plot, we get to overthrow our government. I can’t believe I almost forgot.

And as I’m giving thanks for all the goodness that has so generously rained down on this little life of mine this year, I’m adding to that list the annoying phone calls from Democratic groups.

We’re in a serious and dangerous political time. We’re fighting two wars, the economy is still in a tenuous position, and it will likely still be another couple of years before we feel the recovery.

Unemployment is high and growing. Globally, we are depleting our resources at an alarming

rate, and something needs to be done if we expect future generations to be able to live on this planet.

These problems are huge, and our leaders want our involvement in the process of making things better. So when your phone rings, answer it.

And even if you can’t afford to give money or time, give thanks that we live in a place where they’re asking.

Maya Rupert is an attorney in downtown Los Angeles. She has previously contributed to the San Francisco Chronicle, as well as other publications. Her column explores issues of race, gender and politics and appears in the L.A. Watts Times regularly. She can be reached at maya.rupert@gmail.com.

first Thursday of every month. The next mixer will be Dec. 3, 5 to 7 p.m.

The public is invited to come mingle and network with other “Urban Life” business people and residents of the Old Bank District community, promote their business, or just meet neighbors. Refreshments will be served. Information: (310) 595-4180.

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE — The Inglewood/Airport Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a Holiday Open House Dec. 2, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at 330 E. Queen St., Inglewood. Catering will be provided by La Quinta Inns & Suites, and music will be provided by Totally Entertainment. Information: (310) 677-1121, inglewoodchamber@sbcglobal.net MILITARY INSPECTION — Locke High School’s National Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps annual military inspection/pass in review will be held Dec. 2. The personal inspection will occur at 8:30 a.m. and the ceremony will occur at 9:30. The community is invited to come and observe this event at 325 E. 111th St., Los Angeles. Information: (661) 714-9116, chiefmel_99@ yahoo.com.

MANUSCRIPT WORKSHOPS — The International Black

Writers & Artists/Los Angeles’ manuscript workshops are held in Los Angeles on the first Saturday of each month. The next workshop will be Dec. 5, 2 to 4 p.m., at St. Elmo Village, 4830 St. Elmo Drive, Los Angeles. Information: (323) 9643721, www.ibwala.com.

PARADE — The 2009 Hollywood Christmas Parade will take place Nov. 29, 6 p.m., along a Ushaped route throughout Hollywood beginning at Orange Street and Hollywood Boulevard, traveling East on Hollywood Boulevard, turning South on Vine Street, and then traveling West on Sunset Boulevard back to Orange Street. The Brother Team of Kyle Massey (“That’s So Raven,” “Corey in the House”) and Christopher Massey (“Zoey 101,” “City Girls”) will serve as parade route reporters who will interact with parade attendees on camera. Reserved grandstand seating are available for purchase within Associated Television International’s “live set” area located on Hollywood Boulevard between Orange Street and Highland Avenue. The cost is $35 per ticket. Group discounts are available.

Information: 1 (866) PARADE1 (1 (866) 727-2331).

COMPTON CHRISTMAS — Compton Mayor Eric J. Perrodin and the City Council are inviting the public to attend the city’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Dec. 3, 5:30

REMEMBRANCE — A public celebration of the life of Tommy Jacquette, former executive director of the Watts Summer Festival, will be held Nov. 28, 10 a.m., at the Watts Labor Community Action Committee, 10950 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles. A repast will follow the celebration at 1 p.m. at Ted Watkins Memorial Park, 1335 E. 103rd St., Los Angeles.

to 7:30 p.m., at Heritage House, 425 S. Willowbrook Ave., Compton. This event will be the kickoff for a series of December holiday events including the Compton Christmas Parade on Dec. 12, starting at 11 a.m. The ceremony will feature holiday entertainment including dancers, choirs, and a surprise grand finale. There will also be a special visit from Santa Claus. Refreshments will be provided. Information: (310) 605-5500.

WARNING Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm are contained in crude oil, gasoline, diesel fuel and other petroleum products and byproducts.

Chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm are also contained in and around oil fields, service stations, refineries, chemical plants, transport and storage operations, including pipelines, marine terminals and tank trucks, and other facilities and equipment that manufacture, produce, process, handle, distribute, transport, store, sell or otherwise transfer crude oil, gasoline, diesel fuel or other petroleum products or byproducts.

The foregoing warning is provided pursuant to Proposition 65. This law requires the Governor of California to publish a list of chemicals “known to the State to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity." This list is compiled in accordance with a procedure established by the Proposition, and can be obtained from the California Environmental Protection Agency. Proposition 65 requires that clear and reasonable warnings be given to persons exposed to the listed chemicals in certain situations.

Aera Energy LLC BP America Inc. and its subsidiaries (and under the trademarks ARCO and Castrol) Chevron Corporation its affiliates and subsidiaries ConocoPhillips Company including its divisions and subsidiaries (and under the trademark 76)

Exxon Mobil Corporation its affiliates and subsidiaries Shell Oil Products US Tesoro Refining and Marketing Company and its subsidiaries (and under the trademarks Mirastar and USA Gasoline) Valero Refining Company - California and its affiliated companies including Ultramar and Beacon Venoco Inc.

For more information, please call: 1-800-523-3157 11-09

Page 6

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

ARTS & CULTURE Family Drama Abounds in ‘The River Niger’

BY DARLENE DONLOE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A good reason to see “The River Niger” is because it was the first play by an African American writer (Joseph A. Walker) to win a Tony Award.

Another good reason is to see Ben Guillory, who gives one of the best performances of the year.

Watching him inhabit the character of Johnny Williams, a poem-writing house painter, is like observing a master thespian at work.

All at once he is engaging, intense, witty, philosophical, bitter, unapologetic, bullheaded, simplistic, complicated, unsure, confident, defiant and loving.

It’s a tour de force for Guillory, who, from the moment he hits the stage, brings his colorful character to life. Authentic, commanding and yet vulnerable in the role, when Guillory is not on stage, you wish he were. He delivers a performance that is affecting and impressive.

“The River Niger,” set in Harlem, is a poignant family drama, an examination of black individuality and a heartrending allegory about love.

It’s the story of the Williams family. There’s Johnny, the alcoholic

Photo by ROY HURST

AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE — Veteran actors Ben Guillory and Margaret Avery star as Johnny Williams, a poemwriting house painter and his strongwilled wife Mattie, in Joseph A. Walker’s Tony Award-winning play “The River Niger.”

patriarch; his wife, Mattie (Margaret Avery), who is a strong woman but who must become even more resilient after hearing some troubling news. And then there’s their son Jeff (Dane Diamond), who is coming home after what his parents mistakenly think was a successful tour of duty as an Air Force navigator.

It all comes out in the wash as, one by one, layers are peeled back and secrets and situations are revealed.

The “B” story involves some old friends of Jeff’s (Big Mo, Gail,

Chips, Skeeter and Al) who have formed a black revolutionary army of five. The twist is that one of them is apparently a police informant. This subplot is not as interesting as the one surrounding the family, but it helps move the story along.

Avery and Guillory, who last played opposite each other in “The Color Purple,” still have chemistry.

Alex Morris, who plays Dr. Dudley Stanton, Williams’ friend and physician, is a standout as he goes to toe-to-toe with Guillory, matching him stride-for-stride as they waltz around the stage.

The rest of the cast is sturdy and effectively buoys the production.

“The River Niger” is presented by the Robey Theatre Co. at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, Theatre 4, 514 S. Spring St., Los Angeles. It plays at 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday; and 3 p.m., Sunday, through Dec. 20.

Costs: $20 to $30.

Running time: 2 hours, 15 minutes.

For information, call (213) 4890994, ext. 107, or visit www.thelatc. org.

On the Donloe Scale, D (don’t bother), O (oh, no), N (needs work), L (likable), O (OK) and E (excellent), “The River Niger” gets an O (OK).

SHORT TAKES • “Wherever There’s a Fight: How Runaway Slaves, Suffragists, Immigrants, Strikers, and Poets Shaped Civil Liberties in California” tells the story of how freedom and equality have grown in California,

from the gold rush to the precarious post-9/11 era. The book illuminates the hidden stories of individuals who have had to stand up for their rights, and it connects the experiences of early Chinese immigrants to runaway enslaved Africans and World War II

internment of Japanese Americans to professionals who challenged McCarthyism. Published by Heyday Books in Berkeley, the 512-page paperback book retails for about $25.

Information: www.heydaybooks.com.

• “Liberation Song: The Book of Resurrection,” by local author, lecturer and advocate Sadiki Bakari, was released Nov. 18. The author of four books, Bakari’s latest work is full of quotes, affirmations and proverbs and was written with the inner ascendance and personal growth

and development of the individual in mind. The 161-page paperback book retails for about $13. Information: www. sadikibakari.com/products.html.

DISCUSSION/BOOKSIGNING

• Center Scene Public Programs will present a public conversation entitled “A Question of Freedom: Learning, Survival and Coming of Age in Prison,” featuring author Dwayne Betts. This event will be held at the The California Endowment’s Center for Healthy Communities See SHORT TAKES, page 11

INVITE YOU AND A GUEST TO ATTEND A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING OF THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3 AT 7:30 PM IN LOS ANGELES FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN SEND AN E-MAIL TO ARMOREDLA@ALLIEDIM.COM

INCLUDE YOUR NAME, ADDRESS AND DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER. THIS FILM IS RATED PG-13. PARENTS STRONGLY CAUTIONED. Some Material May Be Inappropriate For Children Under 13.

Please note: Passes are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. No phone calls, please. Limit one pass per person. Each pass admits two. Seating is not guaranteed. Arrive early.

Theater is not responsible for overbooking. This screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to bring any audio or video recording device into the theater (audio recording devices for credentialed press excepted) and consent to a physical search of your belongings and person. Any attempted use of recording devices will result in immediate removal from the theater, forfeiture, and may subject you to criminal and civil liability. Please allow additional time for heightened security. You can assist us by leaving all nonessential bags at home or in your vehicle.

IN THEATERS DECEMBER 4

AN OLD CLASSIC WITH A NEW TWIST — Prince Naveen (voiced by Bruno Campos) and Princess Tiana (voiced by Anika Noni Rose) are the stars of Disney’s new animated comedy, “The Princess and the Frog.”

Disney Makes History With ‘The Princess and the Frog’

BY DARLENE DONLOE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

For the first time in its animation history, Walt Disney will release a film starring a black princess.

Set in New Orleans, “The Princess and the Frog,” tells the story of Tiana, the princess who kisses a frog. The frog wants to once again become a human and goes on a journey with Tiana through Louisiana’s bayous.

The highly anticipated musical, opening nationwide Dec. 11, is voiced by a star-studded cast that includes Tony Award-winner Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana; Terrence Howard as James, the princess’ father; Oprah Winfrey as the princess’ mother; and several others.

The releasing of the film, featuring the first black princess in Disney’s history, is not only looked upon as historic, but welcomed and long-awaited in the African American community.

In the past, Disney has rolled out princesses from various cultures including Pocahontas, who is Native American; Mulan, from China; and Jasmine, who is from the Middle East.

The scope and historic significance of Disney’s decision to feature its first black princess wasn’t lost on two of the film’s stars.

Howard (TH) gave a warm and heartfelt voice to Tiana’s father, James. Rose (ANR) exudes confidence, spunk and sass in the voice of Princess Tiana.

I sat down recently with Rose and Howard to talk about being a part of not only the film, but history.

LAWT: What was it like for you the first time you saw the image of the princess?

ANR: The first time I saw her in color was at a toy fair in New York. It was the first time I was singing the song in public. I couldn’t even breathe. I just started to cry.

Even thinking about it now, I’m such a wuss. It was the most amazing, awesome, I don’t even know if I have real words for it. This is something I’ve always dreamed of doing. This is like when your dreams take off and become bigger than what you had imagined.

LAWT: Can you put it in perspective what this film means to the African American community at this time?

ANR: That’s interesting. It will mean different things to different people as they sit in that theater.

It will mean different things depending on what time they grew up in. For my nephew, it will be the norm. He will think nothing of it. It will be his first princess, period. For my mother, it’ll be something she’s been waiting for. For my grandmother, it’ll be something she never thought would have happened.

Each person that sits in that theater will have a different journey that they’re bringing to the story and it will make the story different for them. That’s really beautiful about what’s being made. Disney is Americana. We have simply opened another chapter of Americana.

Something that’s been here for a long time, but hasn’t necessarily been shared. So, in that respect, it’s just another step in the completion of what America is in this fantasy world.

LAWT: When you were a little girl, did you ever ask your mother, ‘Where are the African American leads in these cartoons?’

ANR: I don’t remember asking my mother that. I was just watching the movies and loving them. I do remember wondering if there would be a chocolate brown after seeing Snow White. I didn’t necessarily feel deprived, because as a child you don’t know. I do remember seeing Charlayne Woodard on television in a production called ‘Cindy.’ It was about Cinderella.

LAWT: The role of James, Tiana’s father, wasn’t huge in terms of screen time, but it was in terms of who and what Terrence Howard was representing. Talk about that and the importance of the role.

TH: In taking this role, it was one of the easiest roles I’ve ever done because I was talking to my own little girls. I have two daughters who are my princesses. They gave me the words of what we needed to say, but the inspiration of how to say it came from a natural inclination to teach my own children. I’m happy Disney took this step.

LAWT: Were you conscious about the importance of your role while you were actually doing it?

TH: Not in that sense, just conscious of speaking to my See ‘PRINCESS AND THE FROG’, page 9

November 26, 2009

L.A. WATTS TIMES

Page 7

ARTS & CULTURE The 2009 American Music Awards (AMAs) were held Nov. 22 at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles.

The AMAs differ from the Grammy Awards in that the winners are determined by the public and not members of the entertainment industry.

Singer Melody Thornton

Singer Mary J. Blige

Singer Rihanna

Singer Keri Hilson

Singer Alicia Keys

Reindeer Romp

Celebrity Paula Abdul

At the LA Zoo Bring the entire family to Reindeer Romp for a fun filled day.

November 26th to January 3rd , from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Reindeer Encounter Visit live reindeer Belle, Jingle, Noel and Velvet

Photos with Santa Claus Meet Santa Claus and have your picture taken (nominal fee)*

Festive Holiday Carolers Enjoy the festive melodies of holiday carolers*

Holiday Crafts Make your very own reindeer antlers*

Animal Treats Watch as the animals unwrap their very own holiday treats*

Actress Menyone DeVeaux

Singer and model Chantel “Chani” Christie

Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, closed December 25 Location: Griffith Park, intersection of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways Phone: 323.644.4200 for more information or visit us on www.lazoo.org

*weekends only

Page 8

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

EDUCATION NOTEBOOK University Of California Headed to 32 Percent Fee Hike (AP) — The University of California is preparing to ask students to pay $2,500 more over two years, a plan that has drawn protests at two major campuses.

President Mark Yudof told reporters Nov. 18 he couldn’t rule out raising student fees again if the state is unable to meet his request for an additional $913 million next year for the 10-campus system.

The university’s governing board approved a plan that will boost undergraduate fees, the equivalent of tuition, by 32 percent in two stages by 2010. The proposal was met with student protests across the state that led to 14 arrests at the University of California’s Los Angeles campus.

After a series of deep cuts in state aid, and with Sacramento facing a nearly $21 billion budget gap over the next year and a half, Board of Regents members said there was no option to higher fees.

The Los Angeles meeting was repeatedly interrupted by outbursts from students and union members, who accused the board of turning its back on the next generation.

Police arrested 14 protesters after they refused to leave the meeting room. UCLA police spokeswoman Nancy Greenstein said a crowd as large as 500 outside the building tossed sticks, food and rags soaked in vinegar at police.

Several police and two students suffered minor injuries, she said.

Scholarships for Minority Chemistry Students Available The American Chemical Society Scholars Program is accepting applications from African American, Hispanic/Latino and American Indian students who are pursuing or intend to pursue degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, chemical technology or related majors.

Renewable awards of up to $5,000 per year are given to qualified high school seniors, communi-

✁

ty college students, and college freshmen, sophomores or juniors.

Applications will be accepted through March 1, 2010, for the 2010-11 school year.

Additional information, online application: www.acs.org/ scholars, (800) 227-5558, ext.

6250, scholars@acs.org.

Celebration Launched for ‘The Campaign for Spelman College’ (Spelman College) — The who’s who of business and entertainment recently gathered at Spelman College to celebrate the launch of the public phase of “The Campaign for Spelman College,” a $150 million fundraising effort that aims to actualize the goals identified in the institution’s strategic plan for 2015.

This is the largest such venture the college has embarked upon in its 128-year history.

Among the primary goals of the campaign are to graduate 5,000 young women — many first-generation and economically challenged — over the next decade.

Information: www.change meansaction.com.

‘Melting Point’ Exhibit to be Presented (El Camino College) — The El Camino College Art Gallery will present “Melting Point,” an exhibition of 14 Southern California artists whose works approach “melting point” from distinct perspectives.

The show runs through Dec. 18 in the El Camino College Art Gallery, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance. An opening reception is scheduled for Dec. 1, 7 to 9 p.m.

The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondays and Tuesdays; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays; and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Fridays.

Admission to the gallery and gallery events is free. On-campus parking is $2.

Information: Susanna Meiers, (310) 660-3593, ext. 3543.

Happy Thanksgiving!

SHOP AT ROADIUM FREE ADMISSION FOR 2 The Best Shopping Bargains in L.A.

7 Days a Week 7AM-4PM EXPIRES 12-13-09

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(Between Crenshaw and Van Ness) LAWT 11-26-09

(323) 321-3709

Saturday & Sunday please park at El Camino College Lot

Visit us on the web at: www.roadium.com

Photo by MELEIZA FIGUEROA

‘DEATH’ OF EDUCATION — Hundreds of students protested outside a University of California Board of Regents meeting in Westwood Nov. 19, joining thousands of other students at UC campuses throughout the state. The regents voted to raise undergraduate student fees by 32 percent beginning in fall 2010. Pictured: protesters in Westwood stage a “die in” to protest the “death” of education in California.

Sex Education Looms in Health-Care Overhaul

BY MARY ANN ZEHR

(Edweek.org) — Whether sex education for teenagers should focus on abstinence from sexual activity or fully address the use of contraceptives has emerged as a topic in the debate in Congress over a health-care overhaul.

Advocates of differing approaches to sex education are watching whether Congress will come down on the side of paying for what are widely called “abstinence-only programs,” which President Barack Obama proposed eliminating in his fiscal 2010 budget, or of financing only what are known as “comprehensive” programs.

Observers say the debate over what kind of sex education programs are most effective is likely to generate some sparks among legislators, but so far it has been overshadowed by other issues, such as how the legislation will address funding for abortion.

The health care bill the U.S. House of Representatives passed this month doesn’t authorize any funding for abstinence-only programs. Rather, it contains $50 million for what advocates call comprehensive sex education. Such programs may seek to delay initiation of sex, but they also stress contraceptive use and aim for young people to decrease the number of partners they have, among other goals.

But the Senate Democratic leadership unveiled a health care bill Nov. 18 that authorizes $50 million to restore funding for abstinence-only sex education. The proposed legislation is a compromise between measures from the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee and the Senate Finance Committee.

The Finance Committee had

adopted an amendment, sponsored by Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, that called for funding for abstinence-based programs. The measure also contained $75 million for comprehensive sex education programs.

The $50 million for abstinencebased programs and the $75 million for comprehensive sex education are now part of the Democratic leaders’ bill. The bill approved by the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee didn’t authorize funding specifically focused on sex education.

Different Approaches Valerie J. Huber, the executive director of the Washington-based National Abstinence Education Association, which represents organizations that provide such education, said that federal funding for programs focused on abstinence, begun during the Clinton administration, needs to be retained so that educators can effectively teach a prevention message to youths.

“While contraceptives may reduce the risks for sexually transmitted diseases or getting pregnant, only abstinence prevents it,” she said.

Huber said, however, that she doesn’t like to use the term “abstinence only” to describe the kind of programs she supports because they do include discussions about contraceptives. Still, she said, the discussion is within a context of “why it’s better to abstain.”

William A. Smith, the vice president for public policy for the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States, a Washington-based nonprofit organization that provides education about sexuality and sexual and reproductive health, contends that comprehensive sex education programs are

more effective than abstinencebased ones in reducing risky sexual behavior.

“These new programs will have a strong emphasis on abstinence and delaying sexual activity,” he said, “but they also give young people the full range of information that we know young people need.”

He added, “It’s morally wrong to provide an abstinence-only-untilmarriage message for sexually active kids.”

The birth rate for 15- to 19year-olds increased in 2007, the most recent year for which data are available, for the second year in a row, after a 14-year continuous decline, according to the National Center for Health Statistics.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently awarded a contract to the Princeton, N.J.-based Mathematica Policy Research to conduct an eight-year, random-assignment evaluation of approaches to preventing teenage pregnancy.

The evaluation will aim to document effective ways to reduce teenage nonmarital sexual activity, pregnancy, and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

One of the subcontractors for the evaluation is the National Abstinence Education Association.

In a statement sent via e-mail to Education Week, Sen. Hatch acknowledged a lack of consensus by researchers on the effectiveness of abstinence-only education programs.

“One thing is for certain,” he said. “Most parents, when given a choice, want their school-age children to remain abstinent.”

He cited a 2008 analysis by the Heritage Foundation, a Washington think tank, as evidence that Congress should fund abstinence-only education. Out of the 21 studies of abstinence-based education reviewed by the foundation, he said, 16 were found to have statistically significant positive results in delaying early sexual activity.

Huber of the National Abstinence Education Association said it’s expected that the sex education programs embedded in the legislation would predominantly be carried out by schools, usually in health classes.

Typically, she said, schools might invite educators focusing on contraceptives to provide part of the program, and educators focusing on abstinence the other part.

November 26, 2009

L.A. WATTS TIMES

Page 9

HEALTH UC Regents Vote to Reopen Troubled L.A. Hospital

THE PULSE Kaiser Permanente to Present Fibroid Program “Fibroids and You: A Group Appointment for Kaiser Permanente Patients” will take place Dec. 3, 1 to 5 p.m., at the Kaiser Permanente Playa Vista Clinic, 5620 Mesmer Ave., Culver City.

The meeting is for women who urinate frequently, experience pelvic pain, have heavy menstrual periods, and other physical problems. These are all symptoms of uterine fibroids.

Gynecologists will discuss these physical issues along with treatment methods. The meeting is for Kaiser patients only.

Free parking will be available.

Registration, information: (310) 737-4872, www.ask4UFE.com.

California Unveils Report Card for 5 Health Insurers (AP) — California has unveiled a new consumer report card on five health insurers — and none got the top rating.

The report on the Department of Insurance Web site grades PPO insurers in such categories as diabetes care and cancer checks. It can award up to four stars.

The scores rely on a combination of customer feedback and how well the care of a sample of policyholders rates when compared with standards set by not-for-profit group National Committee for Quality Assurance.

Aetna, CIGNA HealthCare of California, and Health Net of California received three stars.

United Healthcare and Anthem Blue Cross got two stars.

CIGNA spokeswoman Gwyn Dilday said the report card is an important tool for the insurer to help focus improvements, and that

the company is pleased with its first grade.

Anthem Blue Cross said in a statement it is “an important barometer for improving quality, safety, transparency and wellness for all members.”

Terri Schroeder, quality management director for Aetna’s West Region, said the insurer regularly designs and implements initiatives based on such rankings.

Blue Shield of California wasn’t graded because it failed to report findings. Spokesman Aron Ezra said a computer system upgrade made it impossible to provide data this year.

A state report card covering HMOs has been in place since 2002.

Report Projects Soaring Obesity by 2018 in Ill., U.S. CHICAGO (AP) — A new obesity report has some sobering estimates for Illinois and the rest of the nation.

If current trends continue, about 43 percent of adults in Illinois and nationwide will be obese by 2018. That’s up from about 31 percent last year.

Oklahoma is projected to have the highest rate — 56 percent — and Colorado the lowest — 30 percent, within nine years.

Obesity-related health-care spending per adult will quadruple in Illinois, to about $1,500. Overall, the United States is expected to spend $344 billion on obesity-related health costs in 2018 if current rates persist.

The estimates are in a recent report from United Health Foundation, the American Public Health Association and Partnership for Prevention.

California’s public university system on Nov. 19 agreed to fully reopen a troubled South Los Angeles hospital that was partially closed in 2007 after deadly lapses in care.

The Regents of the University of California unanimously approved the plan to provide doctors and residents for Martin Luther King Jr. hospital. Los Angeles County will foot the $353 million bill to expand and fully reopen the facility in 2012.

The reopening will restore emergency and inpatient services to the estimated 600,000 people in the area. The hospital continued offering outpatient services after the partial closure.

Under the plan, a private nonprofit group would hold the hospital’s license, have its own independent governing board, and operate the facility under a lease agreement with the county.

The hospital, formerly known as King-Harbor and, before that, King-Drew, was built in the wake of the 1965 Watts Rebellion to serve one of the poorest neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The area is plagued by broad inequities in care for its mostly low-income, minority population.

PROBE Continued from page 1 Allen said agents need help locating family members in 33 of the cases, in part so they’ll be able to hand deliver a letter explaining the outcome of the newly opened investigation. Five of the cases are in Georgia.

“Hopefully, that will bring some closure to the families,” he said.

In the case of Hall’s death, there’s no record at the Bibb County Courthouse that the officers, J.L. Durden and J.T. Brown, went to trial, said Linda Tillman, an assistant Superior Court clerk.

Brown still lives in Macon, but he declined to comment Nov. 20.

Several people testified at the 1962 coroner’s inquest, including Macon police officers, a witness and a couple who alleged that Hall stole a pistol from their car Oct. 13, 1962.

SCAM Continued from page 1 Anika Noni Rose

Terrence Howard

‘PRINCESS AND THE FROG’ Continued from page 6 daughters. I put two pictures of my little girls on the podium. And, then I just talked to them. I think the genuine sincerity of that rang through.

LAWT: Did you ever think there would be a black princess?

And do you think it’s important for your girls to see a black princess?

TH: There has always been a black princess whether it’s been advertised or not. My children were always aware of it and will continue to be aware of it. They were made aware because I taught them.

LAWT: This movie marks the return of hand-drawn animation for Disney.

ANR: When you look at the bayou you can see the humidity (in) the air. It’s hazy and warm and

moist and thick with it. I think that’s something Disney specifically does by hand with their color palette that other people don’t do and the CGI hasn’t quite managed to get. When you’re watching a fairytale, you’re not looking for reality, you’re looking for softness and for an extension of your disbelief that takes you into your dreamland. And, that’s what hand-drawn does when I watch it.

“The Princess and the Frog” is directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, is produced by Peter Del Vecho and executive produced by John Lasseter.

“The Princess and the Frog” will open at the Disney Theater in Burbank on Nov. 25 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

In recent years, state and federal inspectors repeatedly discovered failures in care at the facility. Two years ago, a woman with a perforated bowel was ignored and died after writhing on a waiting room floor for nearly an hour.

The county tried to improve patient care, disciplining workers, reorganizing management, closing the trauma unit and reducing the number of inpatient beds — all without success.

Since the closure, local hospitals have been flooded with the estimated 50,000 patients a year who used to visit King’s emergency room, making more acute an existing shortage in emergency care in South Los Angeles.

Before the emergency room closed, the hospital frequently received victims of shootings and

stabbings — wounds that can be deadly if immediate treatment isn’t available.

The university system already runs former county hospitals at its Irvine, San Diego and Davis campuses. The University of California at Los Angeles is responsible for academic oversight of residency programs at two county hospitals, Harbor-UCLA and Olive ViewUCLA. At San Francisco General Hospital Medical Center, all the physicians are members of the UCSF faculty.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger praised the decision to reopen the hospital, saying it allows critical medical services that will address, “significant need for the people of South Los Angeles.”

Outside King’s one-time emergency room on Nov. 19, Compton resident Samaria Manzanares, 52, said she was relieved to hear the hospital would expand services.

“Health isn’t for rich people only,” Manzanares said.

In Compton, Watts and the surrounding areas, she said, “most people are poor, and we have to help not only Latinos, but the other immigrants and workers to be strong.”

Eloise Franklin, 15 at the time, testified that she and Hall were walking home from a Cotton Avenue club when they stopped beside the school to rest. Franklin needed to take a pebble out of her shoe, according to reports at the time.

They were standing beside the school when the police car turned into the driveway. As the car moved down the driveway, Hall ran in front of the car’s headlights at one point and in the direction of Ash Street.

The driver got out and fired, Franklin testified at the coroner’s inquest.

The officers filed a report saying that they ordered Hall to stop before they both fired several shots at him. Franklin testified that she didn’t hear any instructions for Hall to stop.

An attorney representing Hall’s mother said there was no evidence presented showing that

Hall had a gun.

Police were unable to find a pistol near the body on the night of the shooting.

Detective James E. Brooks testified that a .22-caliber pistol found at the scene the next morning wasn’t the gun stolen from the couple’s car.

It didn’t have fingerprints on it.

Although the police officer who found the gun said he didn’t have any “positive knowledge” that the gun was Hall’s, he testified that he believed it belonged to the teen.

The woman who identified Hall as the pistol thief testified that she recognized him by his clothing description, a white shirt outside his pants, and his general physical build.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Hall’s family or information about the incident is asked to call the FBI’s Atlanta office at (404) 679-9000.

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

printers housed in podium-sized wooden boxes,” the attorney general’s office said in a statement.

The leasing companies later filed lawsuits against churches to collect payments, interest and late fees, Brown said.

Standing beside a defunct computer system at the Bryant Temple Church in South Los Angeles, the Rev. Clyde Oden Jr. said the kiosks seemed to present an opportunity for the church to raise funds.

“This seemed to be a cuttingedge opportunity. That’s how it was presented to us. It turns out that the cut was against us,” said Oden, whose church leased a system in 2006.

Oden said he initially received quarterly checks for $3,000, supposedly for kiosk advertising, from Maryland-based Urban Interfaith Network and Television Broadcasting Online. But Oden said he had to pay the entire amount to the company that had leased the

MLK Hospital site

machine. The checks stopped after a year, he added.

“Once the revenue stopped flowing, we started seeing it was something that was a fraud from the very beginning,” Oden said. “As it turns out there never were any real advertisers. They were taking money from the lease companies and paying into churches.”

Brown’s office said it had served subpoenas at Urban Interfaith Network and Television Broadcasting Online. Lawyers for the companies couldn’t be immediately located.

Brown said his office was investigating three men and a woman who owned the companies that offered the kiosks. Two of the men were charged in Michigan last month with racketeering, fraud and other crimes. Prosecutors there contend they bilked 21 churches of about $660,000.

Also subpoenaed were three leasing companies — Irvine-based Balboa Capital Corp.; United Leasing Associates of America Ltd. of Brookfield, Wis.; and San Fran-

The Rev. Clyde Oden Jr. and wife Velma

cisco-based Banc of America Leasing and Capital LLC. Banc of America Leasing is a subsidiary of Bank of America.

E-mails left for Balboa and United Leasing seeking comment were not immediately returned.

Banc of America spokesman Will Wilson said the firm was cooperating with the probe and it had been unaware of any allegations of wrongdoing at the time it did business with companies involved in the alleged scam.

Associated Press writer Thomas Watkins and L.A. Watts Times contributing writer Slav Kandyba contributed to this report.

Page 10

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

SPORTS BRAD PYE JR.

SPORTS BEAT Notes, quotes and things picked up on the run from coast-to-coast and all the stops in between and beyond.

The way USC has been blown out by Oregon (47-20) and Stanford (55-21), you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blame the UCLA Bruins for coming into the Coliseum Nov. 21 thinking they have more than a few prayers going for them.

The Bruins (6-5) beat the Arizona State Sun Devils on Nov. 21, 23-13, at the Rose Bowl. It will go head-to-head against the University of Southern Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football team at the Coliseum on Nov. 28 at 7 p.m., Pacific Time.

USCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last season defeats gave up 93 points. Oregon and Stanford rang the bell for 102 points. No other team in history has ever scored 55 points in one game against Troy.

No matter who wins Nov. 28, neither one will be going to the Rose Bowl. The winner between Oregon and Oregon State Nov. 26 will determine the Pac 10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entry against the Ohio State Buckeyes, a team USC beat earlier this season. Oregon earned the right to play for the Rose Bowl with a 44-41 double-overtime victory over Arizona. USC and UCLA lost to both Oregon schools.

Coach Randy Shannonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Miami Hurricanes are 7-3 at the moment and bowl-eligible.

Coach Lorenzo Romarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Washington Huskies are ranked the No. 9 team in the nation and No. 1 in the Pac-10. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re predicted to repeat

as conference champs. One of his top players, sophomore Isaiah Thomas, is featured on the cover of a recent Sports Illustrated. Romar was head coach at Pepperdine.

Lorenzo Romar

And the beat continuesâ&#x20AC;Ś Jim Caldwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Indianapolis Colts and Sean Paytonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Orleans Saints are still the only unbeaten teams in the NFL with identical 10-0 report cards. The Colts will play against the Houston Texans on Nov. 29. The Saints will try to march into their 11th straight win against the New England Patriots Nov. 30.

And the beat continuesâ&#x20AC;Ś How historic is the fact that Kobe Bryant has scored 40 points in

a game 100 times? Only Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and Jerry West have ever reached this plateau.

Brandon Jennings, the Milwaukee Bucksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rookie who scored 55 points against Golden State, is a Compton Dominquez High product.

Ex-Houston Rockets star Dikembe Mutombo has a new gig with the NBA today. He will head the newly created position of global ambassador to help promote the game internationally.

And the beat continuesâ&#x20AC;Ś UCLA should really go after Culver City High quarterback Marquel Carter. Carter has passed for 27 touchdowns and accumulated 2,495 yards passing and ran for another 15 scores. He is reportedly more than 200 pounds and over 6 feet tall.

Running back Malcolm Jones of Oaks Christian in Westlake Village scored five TDs in a 56-6 victory over Nordhoff High. Jones will do his running for the University of California at Los Angeles next fall.

Tiger Woods returns to the Sherwood Country Club on Dec. 2 for the Chevron World Challenge.

Vijay Singh

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The tournament will benefit the Tiger Woods Foundation. Tiger will take on Vijay Singh, Anthony Kim, Padraig Harrington and Camilo Villegas.

Continued from page 2 imagined that this was happening to a man instead of to a woman and that it was related to an intellectual contest instead of a physical one.

Imagine the conversation: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry, sir. You cannot compete with all of the other male geniuses. You are so brilliant that we think you might actually be a woman. This obviously gives you an unfair advantage. We noticed that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any facial hair and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no bass in your voice when you speak. And those man boobs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; well, what cup size are those? A rigorous series of gender tests should satisfy our curiosity â&#x20AC;Ś excuse me, I mean, our protocol.â&#x20AC;?

Is that absurd? Offensive?

Humiliating? Look closely â&#x20AC;&#x201D; this is the same battle that Semenya has been waging against being marginalized and dehumanized on the basis of gender and stereotypical gender roles. This time we have added some medical nuances to it.

But still, a young womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sex organs are being objectified and

her humanity diminished.

The famously recounted words of the formerly enslaved, abolitionist woman warrior Sojourner Truth ring through my ears: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look at me! Look at my arm. I have ploughed, I have planted and I have gathered into barns. And no man could head me. And ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t I a woman? I could work as much, and eat as much as a man â&#x20AC;&#x201D; when I could get it â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and bear the lash as well! And ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t I a woman?â&#x20AC;?

Semenyaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very existence has put this question before us again.

Yet, the question before us now is this: Should the sportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s governing body have the authority to decide that this woman â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or any woman â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is a woman?

Shaunelle Curry is executive director of Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Radio (www.mothersdayradio.com), a community-driven initiative designed to take direct action in challenging and expanding current media portrayals of womanhood. She can be reached at info@mothersdayradio.com.

USA Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special edition tribute to Muhammad Ali was recently published. Some of the photos in the tribute were shot by Howard Bingham, Aliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close friend.

The new Q magazine salutes Kobe Bryant as Champion of the Year, Usain Bolt as Speed Racer of the Year, and the Patriotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tom Brady as Comeback of the Year.

And the beat ends.

Brad Pye Jr. can be reached at switchreel@aol.com.

Usain Bolt

Photo by DAMIEN SMITH

(Left to right): Anna, Cullen Jones, Kimberly, Timothy, Kenneth and Derian.

CULLEN JONES Continued from page 1 every year; 90 percent of them are actually being watched. Under supervision people are still drowning,â&#x20AC;? Jones told the youngsters as he spoke about the story of his rise from the dangerous streets of Irvington, N.J., to the podium at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a way to actually reverse the problem of drowning and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swim lessons.â&#x20AC;?

Jonesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; passion for swimming unintentionally began at age 5.

After almost drowning at a local New Jersey water park, Jonesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mother enrolled him in swimming classes. The rest is history.

He has become one of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top swimmers. He is the first African American male to win a gold medal at the World University Games, his Web site states.

At the Beijing Olympics, as a member of the USA 4 x 100 freestyle relay team, he became the first African American to break a world record in swimming in an Olympic contest. He is the second African American to win an Olympic gold medal in swimming.

He also held the fastest time for an American in the 50-meter freestyle event in 2006. His prowess in the water has landed him a $2 million-plus contract with Nike, reportedly the richest endorsement deal ever for a short-distance swimmer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I never thought swimming would change my life. So many people came up to me telling me I was going to change the sport. I never understood how I was going to change the sport,â&#x20AC;? he told the students. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is my way of changing the sport.â&#x20AC;?

Following his talk, which also included a short film clip on his work with the Make a Splash Program, Jones headed to the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pool where five youngsters received personal swim and

swim safety lessons from him.

A survey by the DDB Needham Lifestyles revealed that almost three-fourths of African Americans have never participated in swimming and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that â&#x20AC;&#x153;fatal unintentional drowning ratesâ&#x20AC;? of African Americans between the ages of five to 14 is three times higher than that of white children in the same age category. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think Cullen is just incredible in terms of a person being able to understand that he is in a very unique position to impact a lot of youth around this country, especially in the African American communities and the Latino communities,â&#x20AC;? said Krayzelburg, whose KF Foundation reportedly has trained about 500 youngsters in water safety. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Drowning is at such a high rate in these communities and to be able to talk about it, support it, and engage people and make a difference, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an amazing thing what he is doing.â&#x20AC;?

Jones said his program has made a big impact. This year, he said the program has gone from 77 local partners to 124. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing,â&#x20AC;? Jones said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve doubled the numbers of people this year that have come on board and kids that have learned how to swim. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at nearly 150,000 kids learning how to swim. I can see that although it takes so much out of me to do this, because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m training all the time, I can see that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really helping.â&#x20AC;?

Jones said being a part of the program is his way of giving back to the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really big on trying to help those that really might not understand how important it is to learn to swim,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I grew up in a place where every summer people â&#x20AC;Ś went to the pool and â&#x20AC;Ś sometimes we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about people drowning. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a serious problem.â&#x20AC;?

November 26, 2009

L.A. WATTS TIMES

Page 11

PUBLIC NOTICE CLASSIFIEDS STATEWIDE “Be wary of out of area companies. Check with the local Better Business Bureau before you send any money for fees or services. Read and understand any contracts before you sign. Shop around for rates.”

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Continued from page 2 gap between black and white juvenile offenders is vast and troubling.

The rush to toss the key on black juveniles has had terrible consequences in black communities. It has increased poverty, frac-

BRIEFS Continued from page 1 The report by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office warned that the state will face huge fiscal challenges even as the national economic outlook improves and the state economy heads toward a recovery in a year or two.

In his report, Mac Taylor, the Legislature’s nonpartisan budget analyst, urged Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and lawmakers to act swiftly on permanent solutions by making deeper reductions in all state programs and looking to raise revenue.

“The sooner they act, the better,” Taylor said. “Because often times, it takes a few months to implement expenditure reduction.

They’re going to have to focus on long-lasting solutions.”

The report, intended to help lawmakers craft the new budget for the fiscal year starting next July, elicited partisan response from lawmakers that will likely set the stage for another round of a long budget fight.

Facts Nov. 27, 1957 Dorothy Height, a YMCA official, elected president of the National Council of Negro Women.

Source: blackfacts.com

The County of Los Angeles (County) Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is releasing the Request for Information (RFI.) for the Educational Services and Academic Remediation Program (Program) for youth, ages 14 to 18, in out-of-home care from the County DCFS, CMS No. 09-016.

The purpose of this RFI is to determine the extent of interest from agencies in providing services for this Program for the County DCFS youth, ages 14 to 18, in out-of-home care and determined to be functioning significantly below grade level.

Interested organizations are directed to the County of Los Angeles' website at http://camisvr.co.la.ca.us/lacobids/BidLookUp/ BidOpenStart._asp. To access the RFI from the website, click on “List by Department,” then select “Children & Family Services/Adoption” from the drop-down list and click on the “Select Department” button to view the Department's Open Bid listing, or go to the DCFS Website at www.lacdcfs.org then click on “DCFS Contracts” and search for RFI listing. Please see initial ad on November 19, 2009.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITIAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (Metro) INVITATION FOR BIDS PROJECT:

204112

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C0947

CONTRACT NAME:

DIVISION 21-SLOPE STABLIZATION (ROCKFALL MITIGATION):

SBE GOAL:

VALP

MBE GOAL:

Fifteen Percent (15%)

WBE GOAL

Fifteen Percent (15%)

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Friday, November 20, 2009 Metro – Office of Procurement & Material Management One Gateway Plaza, 12th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90012

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Thursday, December 10, 2009 – 10:00 a.m.

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Metro - Imperial Conference Room, 12h Floor One Gateway Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012-2952

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Wednesday, January 6, 2010 – 2:00 p.m.

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NOTICE OF RELEASE OF THE REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI) FOR THE EDUCATIONAL SERVICES AND ACADEMIC REMEDIATION PROGRAM

tured families, and further criminalized a generation of young black men.

The Supreme Court in its decision to ban juvenile executions recognized that a civilized nation can’t call itself that if it executes its very young. The court should recognize that a nation that locks up its very young and tosses the key away on

Murder Trial Move to L.A. a Setback for Transit Cop SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The decision to move Johannes Mehserle’s trial to Los Angeles County is a setback for the former transit officer charged with killing an unarmed man on New Year’s Day.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20091665785 The following person is doing business as: Families for Children, Inc. 2500 West Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90305 ADOPT-A-CHILD 2500 West Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90305 This business is conducted by a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (The registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) is Andrew Henderson. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on November 4, 2009.

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. NOTICE: This Fictitious Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the Los Angeles County Clerk. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before that time.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

First Filing: 11/12/09, 11/19/09, 11/26/09, 12/3/09 LAWT 392

them also can’t be called the same.

It should also scrap the no-parole life sentences for juveniles.

Earl Ofari Hutchinson is an author and political analyst. His weekly radio show, “The Hutchinson Report,” can be heard in Los Angeles, Fridays on KTYM Radio 1460 AM, and streamed live nationally on ktym.com.

dicts that expose many residents’ deep-rooted skepticism of law enforcement.

Mehserle is charged with fatally shooting 22-year-old Oscar Grant at an Oakland BART station. His attorney had argued for a change of venue because of what he described as excessive media coverage and racial tensions.

SHORT TAKES Continued from page 6

Oscar Grant

Jurors throughout California are typically sympathetic to police, and the former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer could’ve expected a leg up before the start of trial in most any courtroom in the state’s 58 counties.

But legal analysts say Los Angeles is atypical and a bad draw for Mehserle.

The former officer will have to overcome the lingering specters of the Rodney King beating, the O.J. Simpson acquittal because of police behavior, and other high-profile ver-

Dec. 1, 6:30 p.m., at 1000 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles. Betts is the national spokesperson for Campaign for Youth Justice, a program director at D.C. Creative Writing Workshop and the founder of YoungMenRead.

One night in 1996, however, then-16year-old Betts carjacked a man sleeping in a parking lot and subsequently spent nine years in adult prison. He uses his book and his experiences to ask questions about violence, race, opportunity and the criminal justice system. A networking reception and book signing will follow this event. Admission and parking are free. Use of public transportation is strongly encouraged. Information: email rsvpchc@calendow.org.

THEATER • “Bleeding Through” tells the story of Los Angeles’ historic

FINAL BID DUE DATE: Wednesday, January 6, 2010 – 2:00 p.m.

(Pacific Time) (at the address listed above) COST OF DOCUMENTS: The IFB Document may be picked up at the above address the cost is $25.00; or $35.00 if documents are to be mailed. Requests must be accompanied by payment to Metro in the form of; a money order, a company check, a cashier’s check, or a certified check. Personal checks or cash are not acceptable forms of payment. The Document will be available on CD or Hard Paper Copy.

BOND:

10% Bid guarantee, 100% Performance and Payment Bond upon award of contract.

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California State Contractor’s License Classification A or C-27 is required of the Prime Bidder. All Subcontractors must possess appropriate licenses for each specialty subcontractor.

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WORK DESCRIPTION: Furnish all services, labor, materials and essentials to provide but not limited to labor, materials, tools, equipments, supplies, transportation necessary for Division 21 Slope Stabilization.

You may obtain further information, by telephoning Frank Foster (213) 9223716, e-mail him at fosterf@metro.net. or you may FAX (213) 922-3883.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20091556749 The following person is doing business as: All Together Lovely 2816 S. Hobart Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90018 ATL 2816 S. Hobart Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90018 Kate Sterlin 2816 S. Hobart Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90018 Claudia Bruce 3505 Marguerite St. Los Angeles, CA 90065 This business is conducted by a General Partnership. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (The registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) is Kate Sterlin and Claudia Bruce.. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on October 14, 2009.

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. NOTICE: This Fictitious Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the Los Angeles County Clerk. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before that time.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

First Filing: 11/12/09, 11/19/09, 11/26/09, 12/3/09 LAWT 393

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20091680352 The following person is doing business as: The Rhythm Shack Production & Publishing Co. 2217 W. 25th St. Los Angeles, CA 90018 Angela Woods P.O. Box 191087 Los Angeles, CA 90019 Angela E. Woods 2217 W. 25th St. Los Angeles, CA 90018 This business is conducted by an Individual.

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (The registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) is Angela Woods. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on November 6, 2009.

The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A. NOTICE: This Fictitious Name Statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the Los Angeles County Clerk. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before that time.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State, or common law (See Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code).

First Filing: 11/26/09, 12/3/09, 12/10/09, 12/17/09 LAWT 394

Angelino Heights District and the adjacent downtown area, a neighborhood where more cinematic “murders” have occurred than anywhere else in the world. Adapted from Norman Klein’s highly praised novella, this work explores the shaping of a city’s memory by commonplace experiences, chronicled history and cinematic influences. This event will take place Nov. 29, 3 p.m., and Dec. 3, 8 p.m., at the Southern California Library for Social

Studies and Research, 6120 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles. Tickets are $20 and $15 for members of the library. RSVPs are required and a portion of the proceeds will go to the library. Information: (626) 396-0920, www.aboutpd.org.

Facts Nov. 26, 1883 Evangelist, abolitionist and women’s right activist Sojourner Truth dies in her home in Battle Creek, Mich.

Source: blackfacts.com

Page 12

L.A. WATTS TIMES

November 26, 2009

MOTHER Continued from page 4 When I work with a child or youth and can reach them, it’s incredible,” Jones said. “I’ll often go to the crime scene, funerals, memorial services, whatever is needed to support the family. I also help with finding mentoring programs and tutors for the children, and help parents with locating and securing city resources.”

Claudia Riley sought Jones’ assistance after her children lost their paternal grandmother and great grandmother within a few weeks.

“It was a triple whammy. They lost their paternal grandparents, and their father who they saw on a regular basis moved away,” Riley said. “Mrs. Jones extended herself so much of herself. She taught us coping skills, how to think of the positive fun things of that person and live in their memory. She helped us push ourselves to get through it and use resources around us, like parents, friends, family and her staff.

Facts Nov. 28, 1961 Ernie Davis, the “Elmyra Express,” becomes the first African American to win football’s Heisman Trophy.

Source: blackfacts.com

“And, she even gives out her personal phone number so that she can be reached at any time.”

Jones added, “You can literally change a child’s life for the better, and that is extremely fulfilling.

Grief touches all of us. As a grief counselor, I am trained to be as personable, loving, and as kind as can be. Grief counseling is so very different from many other forms of therapy because it has the capacity to stir up one’s own feelings.”

This statement is a testament to Jones, who was tested last year after her only son, 39-year-old Damon Jones, was shot and killed while sitting on his porch talking with a friend. The case remains unsolved, and it was devastating news that shocked some of the community which looked to her as their personal hero.

“When her son died it took all of our breaths away. We held it together as best we could. There was a lot of prayer and we took care of each other as we do the hundreds of families we help,” Cochran said. “But, she didn’t miss a beat. She was still there for the community even in her own grief.”

Damon Jones’ funeral was well attended, Cochran said, and Jones’ mother made a special request for the young men not to

show up in baggy attire.

“We all supported her. The young men showed up in nice shirts and pants. And when she got up to talk she said, ‘Look at all these beautiful people,’ ” Cochran said. “We went to her house, brought her food. The kids in the Grief and Loss Choir sang to her.

But, she didn’t want people to act special toward her. Arvis really wanted them to understand that grief is part of life.”

Riley added, “When we heard the news Mrs. Jones’ son was killed, it was like one of mine. And how she bounced back — it was so hard to think it could happen to her.

It was validity that it’s just not me.

Everyone else she helped, or tried to help, turned around and got really strong for her. It was a unique healing process for us all.”

In addition to grief and loss counseling, Jones also uses musical intervention to reach children. She started a musical choir four years ago comprised of close to 60 children and youth who are recovering from grief and loss. The choir proved to be a major therapeutic break through for many of the children.

Jones said she’s found music to be powerful, and remembered a 4-year-old in her workshop whose

HELPING OTHERS — Arvis Jones at a recent Hathaway-Sycamores event where children from the Grief and Loss Choir performed under Arvis’ direction.

Jones, who is a loss and grief counselor, lost her son last year when he was killed while talking to his friend on his porch.

dad died; the boy participated in the choir, “and loved it so much,” she said.

“His mother said it was the first time she’d seen him smile since his father died,” Arvis said.

Later she added: “When I look back, I understood grief and loss better, and my experience has helped me. I’m still handling it, but seeing the children come in and

start to support each other and connect is so rewarding. Doing this work is what gave me more strength.”

For more information about The Center for Grief and Loss for Children at Hathaway-Sycamores, contact (866) 744-7433, or its Spanish line at (213) 792-6069.

Jones may also be reached directly at (213) 924-3510.

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