LAWT-12-23-2010

W E E K E N D E R

L.A. Watts Times Vol. XXX, No. 1211

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

FEATURE STORY

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HOROSCOPES

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Inside this Edition

DECEMBER 23 - 29

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RIES ~ You and your honey have so much to talk about; listen! He or she is trying to come out of a whole new bag.

Accept! Change is a good thing this week.

Expect to travel soon. Savor the thought.

AURUS ~ If nothing much is happening on the job, remember that chilling is good sometimes. Use this week to return phone calls and answer letters. Be low key. Wonderful things flow from what you don’t do.

EMINI ~ You can turn that obstacle into an opportunity at work. Check out the players carefully. Watch your back and hold your tongue around workplace rivals.

Aggressively seek agreement.

ANCER ~ Don’t let your outer space infringe on your inner peace. Control situations that might affect your ability to get that important job done. Remember people are only human.

EO ~ Mail, e-mail, or telephone brings news of a matter that demands more attention than you might think. Opportunity knocks at work this week. Tonight spend some quality time with your family.

IRGO ~ Listen well for the indications that money can be found in an unusual place. Social and romantic interest should be your focus this evening. Love comes from what you do not say.

IBRA ~ Some people may not “get” where you’re coming from, but ask your family and significant other to give you time to explain your way of looking at life this week. Do it calmly and confidentially.

CORPIO ~ Now’s a better than usual time for self-reflection and meditation. Share your ideas. They’re more valuable than you think. Appreciation comes from someone far away. You make the call.

AGITTARIUS ~ Listen carefully and follow good advice that will come from someone you’ve often regarded as foolish. You run into difficulties with one of your projects; don’t worry, it’s only temporary. How you manage your mind will affect the eventual outcome.

APRICORN ~ If there is someone or something that you’re avoiding don’t panic if you find you must confront what you’ve been hiding from. Wait for things to work themselves out. Don’t force the issue. Time solves more problems than you ever can.

QUARIUS ~ Be flexible. Yes, you.

There are many ways to be right and your lover or friend will have come up with one that is different from yours.

You’ll be asked to compromise this week or you just have to give in. Remember you sometimes have to give a little to get a little.

ISCES ~ Use your natural magnetism to get to someone who might be hard to reach. If you have a problem that you need to get off your chest tell a relative or friend, don’t hold it inside. Where’s the party? Find it. You need a social setting to make the magnetism work best.

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Comics

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER Published Weekly – Updates 3800 S. Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90008 Administration – Sales – Graphics – Editorial 323.299.3800 - office 323.291.6804 - fax Beverly Cook – Publisher, Managing Editor 1976 – 1993 Charles Cook – Publisher, 1976 – 1998 Melanie Polk – Publisher 1998 – 2010

MOMBASA SQUARE

POLL RESULTS If teachers made salaries similar to lawyers and doctors, do you believe Americans would receive a better education?

63.8%

Yes

30.8%

No

ANSWERS FROM 12-16-10

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

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

BY MARK S. SMITH ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON — Fulfilling a campaign pledge, cheering his party’s downcast liberals and striking a blow for what he sees as basic human rights, President Barack Obama is signing a landmark law Wednesday that tells America’s armed services to let homosexuals serve openly for the first time.

So many gay rights and Democratic activists were expected at the signing ceremony that the White House booked a large auditorium at the Interior Department.

“This day has come!” said an elated Mike Almy, an Air Force major discharged four years ago when his sexual orientation became known. “ ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ is over, and you no longer have to sacrifice your integrity.”

AP Photo by Alex Brandon

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

Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton

Audience members interact with President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden on Dec. 22 after the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010 is signed.

While the elation is real, Pentagon officials caution it could be premature, since the bill requires service chiefs to complete implementation plans before lifting the old policy — and certify to lawmakers that it won’t damage combat

Hillsides collapse as storm lashes SoCal

BY RAQUEL MARIA DILLON AND GILLIAN FLACCUS ASSOCIATED PRESS LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. — Axl Dominguez awoke early Wednesday to a bumping sound and looked out the window to a scary sight: plastic trashcans floating down the flooded street.

And then the water came rushing into his house.

“We didn’t have time to get anything ...

Water started coming in from all the walls.

Then the wall fell and we got out through the window,” the 15-year-old Dominguez said hours later, shivering in shorts, mud-splashed sweat shirt and bare feet as he carried his pajama-clad little brother to the truck of a neighbor who finally took them to an evacuation center.

See HILLSIDES COLLAPSE, page 14

AP Photo by Danny Moloshok

A motorist drives through a flooded lane on Wilshire Boulevard in the Westwood portion of Los Angeles, Monday, Dec. 20, 2010.

readiness, as critics charge.

Also, guidelines must be finalized that cover a host of practical questions, from how to educate troops to how sexual orientation should be handled in making barracks assignments.

While officials have avoided timetables, the process will probably take months.

Still, for gay and lesbian Americans, Wednesday is a watershed. And for Obama, it is a day to See OBAMA SIGNING, page 15

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Mayor Villaraigosa and Supervisor Ridley-Thomas launch Truck Driver Training Academy in South Los Angeles Bringing Federal dollars to South Los Angeles, Villaraigosa and Ridley-Thomas work together to launch Transportation Opportunity Program Truck Driver Training Academy in South Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas were joined recently by a coalition of industry and union leaders to celebrate the expansion of the Transportation Opportunity Program to South Los Angeles. The program will operate on a 1.5-acre parcel of land directly behind the Jordan Downs Housing Development in Watts. Funding for the academy comes from a $650,000 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant made possible by President Obama.

“The Transportation Opportunity Program will create middle-class jobs where they are most needed and help narrow the economic gap in our City,” said Villaraigosa. “By training Angelenos for good-paying jobs as truck drivers, we can ensure a strong and vibrant economy.”

The Truck Driver Training Academy is run by the Transportation

Opportunity Program (TOP), a 501(c)3 nonprofit. The academy will offer four weeks of intense, behindthe-wheel training for drivers seeking a “Class A” license to drive bigrig trucks and tractor trailers. There is no cost for participation.

Graduates can typically earn $60,000 in their first year out of the program — plus health and pension benefits — which is double the salary of “Class B” drivers who operate dump trucks and school buses.

Over the next two years, the program will graduate 120 Angelenos into high-paying careers.

On hand for the ribbon cutting were many of the partners of the academy including ABF Freight; Horizon Freight; the Teamsters Joint Council 42; El Proyecto del Barrio; and the California Employment Training Panel.

To determine drivers’ eligibility, the academy uses hiring standards

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (front, center) participates in a recent ribbon cutting with L.A. County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas (immediately left of the mayor). laid out by the employers on its board. To qualify, drivers must be a minimum 23 years old; have a clean driving record without DUIs; undergo a background check; and pass a Department of Transportation-mandated drug screening and physical.

Any qualified Los Angeles County resident can apply, and onequarter of students will come from the areas surrounding Jordan Downs. As a nonprofit, the academy has no requirements for union affiliation for entering students or graduating drivers.

City residents interested in finding more information about the program and about how to apply should call (800) FOR-A-JOB (800-3672562), 3-1-1 or visit the City’s Workforce Investment Board website at www.lacity.org/wib.

BRIEFS 3 black Chicago mayoral candidates agree on little CHICAGO (AP) — Three leading black candidates for Chicago mayor say they agree on the need for increased transparency at City Hall and the importance of putting a professional educator at the helm of the Chicago Public Schools, but little else.

Congressman Danny Davis, former U.S. Sen. Carol Moseley-Braun and Illinois state Sen. James Meeks participated Dec. 15 in a candidate forum on WVON-AM, a black-oriented radio station.

The event was billed by moderator Cliff Kelley as an attempt to help find a consensus candidate for African Americans.

Mosley-Braun and Meeks were in the studio, while Davis participated through a phone link from an airport before boarding a flight to Washington.

They clashed on such issues as downtown casino gambling, school vouchers and term limits for city and state elected officials.

Congressman Danny Davis

Carol Moseley-Braun

2010 census says U.S. population at 308.7 million WASHINGTON (AP) — The Census Bureau says the U.S. population is 308.7 million, reflecting the lowest growth since the Great Depression.

Census Bureau Director Robert Groves says the figure represents an increase of 9.7 percent over the 2000 U.S. resident population of 281.4 million.

California is the most populous state with 37.2 million residents. Wyoming is the least populous with 563,626 residents.

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

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

See BRIEFS, page 14

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Great Beginnings host “Boys to Men Symposium” at Dorsey High School

Photo by Michael Riddick

they braved the elements to attend Councilmember Herb Wesson’s annual Winter Wonderland for at-

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This is the fourth year that Wesson has hosted this event. Each family was provided free presents for the kids, a fresh patch of snow in which to play, and a lunch.

A special highlight was a visit from Santa Claus, who contributed time from his busy schedule to greet all of the families and take photos with the kids.

“The holiday season is about giving,” said Wesson. “There are so many families in need this year. So, whatever we can do that will get a smile out of a youngster is the most rewarding thing we can do. That kid’s smile is priceless.”

Sponsoring an event for 1,200 people is a major undertaking.

Joining Wesson in supporting the event this year was the 101 Enterprises Foundation; Community Build Inc.; Paramount Pictures; LA Shares; Women for Wesson; the Olympic Park Neighborhood Council; the United Neighbors Neighborhood Council and SORO. “I am deeply grateful for the community partners that we work with in sponsoring this event,” said Wesson. “They understand that it is our generosity and our spirit of giving that makes our community great.”

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Designed to educate, empower and enlighten males from middle school through adulthood, Great Beginnings for Black Babies’ Fatherhood Initiative recently hosted a “Boys to Men Symposium” at Dorsey High School, 3537 Farmdale Ave. Covering the topics of “Balancing Sports and Academics,” “Turning Your Passion into a Business,” and “A Guide to Manhood – Street Life 101,” the symposium featured area expert speakers (from left) Dr. Joseph Bailey, retired neurosurgeon; Gary Easley, director, Smart G Intervention Programs; Aquil Basheer, CEO, Maximum Force Enterprises; Rae Jones, executive director, Great Beginnings for Black Babies Inc.; Roderick Elzy, program coordinator, GBBB Fatherhood Initiative; Torre Reese, CEO, FAMLI Inc.; and, Nikko Deloney, instructor, Professional Community Intervention Training Inc. Dorsey High School’s new principal, Dr. Reginald Sample, also served as an opening presenter. In addition, L.A. County Supervisor Mark RidleyHealthy & Delicious Vegetarian, Thomas, City Councilman Herb Vegan & Organic Food Wesson, and LAUSD School Board Member Marguerite LaMotte WE DELIVER offered opening remarks.

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

SPORTS BEAT B

Y BRAD PYE JR.

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

Merry Christmas to you and yours and a healthy and happy New Year.

It’s only about two more days before Christmas and that longawaited basketball battle between Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and the rest of the back-to-back NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers and those monsters called the Miami Heat, featuring LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

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

Andrew Bynum is back in action. And if he can remain healthy for the rest of the season, the Lakers should be the team to beat.

And the beat continues‌ The black-laden women’s basketball team of the University of Connecticut, coached by Geno Auriemma, did something historic: It beat coach John Wooden’s old UCLA record of 88 wins in a row.

The lady Huskies won 89 on Dec. 21 with a 93-62 slaughter against Florida State. Next up, the ladies will come to the West Coast in Stockton, Calif., to play against Pacific on Dec. 28.

Will UCLA’s women’s basketball coach, Nikki Caldwell, who got

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AP Photo by LM Otero

In this Dec. 12, 2010, file photo shows Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick after an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, in Arlington, Texas. The convicted dogfighting-ring operator tells TheGrio.com in a video interview that he genuinely cares for animals and one day hopes to have a dog as a household pet. Vick says it would a “big step� in his rehabilitation process.

Vick says he hopes to own a dog as a pet someday AP Photo by Kathy Willens

Philadelphia Eagles’ DeSean Jackson celebrates as he leaves the field the Eagles defeated the New York Giants 38-31 in an NFL football game at New Meadowlands Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. off to a 7-0 start, continue to show up the men’s basketball team coach, Ben Howland, for the rest of the season?

We’ll see.

And the beat continues‌ The New England Patriots’ quarterback Tom Brady has the superior numbers, but come rain, sleet or snow, I want the Philadelphia Eagles’ QB Michael Vick on my team.

Brady recently put on a super performance in the snow against the Chicago Bears, but Vick topped that when he helped the Eagles win in a comeback over the New York Giants, 38-31.

Vick wasn’t the whole show, though.

The Eagles’ DeSean Jackson returned a punt 65 yards for the clincher as time ran out.

Jackson, quoted by ESPN,

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declared: “It’s a dream come true.

Sitting back there looking at 12 seconds left before the referee put the extra two seconds on — not that it mattered, but I’m just sitting back there and thinking to myself, ‘They’re really not going to kick it to me.’ I was thinking he was gonna kick it out of bounds or do something out of the ordinary.�

And the beat continues‌ Check this out: Reggie Jackson, the New York Yankee Hall of Famer, told USA Today: “ ‌ When I played, there were writers making the same as ballplayers. Guys were making $50,000. Now, you look at guys like (Yankees shortstop) Derek Jeter, and he’s probably got $200 million in the bank. If Hank (Aaron) and Willie (Mays) were playing today, they’d be making more than $30 million a year.â€?

Now hear this: The Oklahoma City Thunder’s Kevin Durant has been named USA Basketball male athlete of the year. Durant led the USA Americans to a world championship for the first time in years and earned an MVP award.

And the beat ends.

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

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Convicted dogfighting-ring operator Michael Vick hopes to own a dog again someday.

The Eagles quarterback told TheGrio.com in a video interview posted last week that he genuinely cares for animals and one day hopes to have a dog as a household pet, saying it would be just another “big step� in his rehabilitation process. “I would love to get another dog in the future,� Vick told TheGrio, a website that’s affiliated with NBC and focuses on AfricanAmerican issues. “I think it would be a big step for me in the rehabilitation process. I think just to have a pet in my household and to show people that I genuinely care, and my love, and my passion for animals.�

Vick served 18 months in prison after being convicted in 2007 in the Virginia-based ring. The federal judge overseeing the case also prohibited him from ever owning another dog. “Vick should be banned from owning dogs for life,� Jane Dollinger, spokeswoman for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said in a news release last week. “Just as convicted pedophiles aren’t allowed free access to children, anyone who is responsible for hanging, electrocuting, or shooting dogs and who causes them to suffer in other unimaginable ways should never again be allowed access to dogs.�

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

ances to talk to students about his past. Vick said he’s doing that work because he wants to. “Well first off, the court doesn’t make it an obligation for me to go out and speak,� Vick said. “It doesn’t make it an obligation for me to work with the Humane Society.

I’m putting in the hard work to do it so it's not for any personal benefit, it’s to help others.�

Vick’s on-the-field success this season has made his story more compelling — from star quarterback to reviled dogfighter to comeback kid. And now he’s adding mentor to his resume. “I think if I can help five or six kids daily, then I’m playing my position as a positive role model in our society,� Vick told TheGrio. “I tell a lot of people that it’s easy to do the wrong thing. It’s hard to do the right thing.�

Vick said he allowed outside influences to affect his behavior, but said prison helped him see the changes he needed to make. “I hate to use our culture as an excuse, but it is what it is and that’s what happened and that’s the way I thought about it growing up,� Vick told TheGrio about dogfighting. “This is just the way we were brought up.�

The quarterback said he hopes his success with the Eagles will continue breaking the stereotype that black athletes can’t or shouldn’t play the position. “I think if you’re good and good enough to play the position, I think you’ll get the opportunity,� he said.

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Christmas or New Years Eve? Celebs Wax About Which is Their Favorite

BY DARLENE DONLOE CONTRIBUTING WRITER Whether it’s Christmas or New Year’s Eve, much ado is made about them.

Christmas is a religious celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and is traditionally observed with family gatherings and the exchanging of gifts. New Year’s Eve is known for its parties, resolutions and new beginnings.

We asked some celebrities which they prefer and why?

Dwayne Johnson (“Faster,” “The Scorpion King”) — That is so easy; it’s Christmas because Santa Claus comes.

Chiwetel Ejiofor (“Salt,” “American Gangster”) — New Year’s because you get the fresh new person and people are much more at ease and happier. It’s about having a new beginning, a way of starting over.

Blair Underwood — Christmas, by far. Without question it’s Christmas because I’m all about family and Christmas is all about family. Every year we go home to Virginia.

El DeBarge — I prefer Christmas because it brings in the new year. When you learn how to give and you become a part of that joyful occasion of giving, then your New Year’s resolutions are just that much better.

Malcolm Jamal Warner Malcolm-Jamal Warner (“The Cosby Show”) — I like New Year’s Eve because Christmas feels like a forced joy. You’re supposed to give presents, be joyful and treat people right. New Year’s feels like a new beginning. It’s easy. It’s another opportunity to do better.

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

Year’s Eve people are too ignorant and start making silly resolutions and making a big deal out of it. I just like living in the moment.

Photo by Darlene Donloe

Bokeem Woodbine Bokeem Woodbine (“Devil”) — I like New Year’s because it’s like turning the clock back to zero.

It’s a good measuring tool. What was I doing this time last year? How far have I come? What am I doing now? What goals did I set that I met? And, also there is something very festive. Nothing against Christmas, but I’m not crazy about Christmas.

Leslie Uggams (“Uptown Downtown”) — I know it wasn’t one of the choices, but I like Thanksgiving. I just love the holiday time. I love it because we all get together.

Donald Faison (“Scrubs”) — I love Christmas. I like it the most because it’s great to see people’s faces when they open up gifts. I like the joy and happiness it brings. New Year’s is the day you should focus on yourself and your next journey.

Christmas you share with your family.

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

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

Salli Richardson-Whitfield (“Criminal Minds,” “I Will Follow”) — Christmas because it’s about family. I have two little boys.

I gotta set up trains. They don’t care anything about New Year’s.

Randal Pinkett (“The Apprentice”) — Christmas because I love to give. I don’t have to receive anything. I love to spend time with family.

Beverly Todd (“I Will Follow,” “The Bucket List”) —Neither, my favorite is my birthday, which is July 11. I make it a holiday that I celebrate two days before and two days after. I think the most important day is the day God gave me life.

KiKi Shepard (“Showtime at the Apollo”) — As an “auntie mom” I think Christmas is very, very important. But New Year’s signifies a new beginning.

Kenny Lattimore (R&B singer) — That’s a tough one. I was married New Year’s Day. That will always be special to me. But, you know growing up as a child Christmas was a great holiday. It’s about a loving family. The family being together and spending time with those I haven’t seen in a while. Both events are great.

Brandon T. Jackson (“Tropic Thunder,” “Lottery Ticket”) — Christmas. I love being around my family. I love the whole atmosphere.

Naturi Naughton (“Notorious”) — Christmas because I’m a sucker for the whole lights, presents, family thing.

Camille Winbush (“The Bernie Mac Show”) — Christmas, definitely. I’m a sucker for decorations and being with family. There’s a warmth that takes place.

Marcus Miller (jazz musician) — Christmas makes you thankful and you look back. You’re thankful for the birth of Jesus. New Year’s is about looking forward. What resolutions do I want to make. I like both.

Kim Wayans (“In Living Color,” author of “Amy Hodgepodge”) — I love Christmas. I’m with all of my family and counting my blessings. I’m eating good food and enjoying the holiday. When we were kids I remember my mom made it wonderful and special for us.

Damone Roberts (beauty therapist, “I Will Follow”) — Christmas.

It’s about family coming together and being with the people you love.

I like the season, the candles, the food, everything.

www

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AP Photo by Paul Jeffers

In this Oct. 26, 2010 file photo, Jermaine Jackson arrives at The Asian Awards at Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.

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

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

Detectives say there are no suspects and no clear leads.

Authorities say Jackson and his wife noticed the items were missing on Sept. 18 and realized that one of the doors of their Calabasas home had been left unlocked.

The investigation was first reported by celebrity website TMZ.

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COMMENTARY

BY YUSSUF J. SIMMONDS Co-Managing Editor May the wisdom of the ancestors always walk with us.

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

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

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

— Dr. Maulana Karenga (In honor of the celebration of Kwanzaa, the L.A. Watts Times has chosen this message because it is timely and appropriate in accordance with the holiday season).

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

According to Dr. Maulana Karenga, the creator of Kwanzaa, it is a nonreligious, cultural holiday, and it is not meant to supplant the occasion of Christmas.

One may celebrate Kwanzaa and still celebrate Christmas. The significance of Kwanzaa comes with a full understanding of its meaning and living according to its principles. After the seven days of celebration, it is necessary to inculcate the principles into one’s daily life throughout the year.

In celebrating the fullness of Kwanzaa, it is essential to know the basic principles and to strive to live according to them after the celebration ends on Jan. 1.

The seven principles, or the Nguzo Saba, are:

• Umoja (Unity) • Kujichagulia (Self-determination) • Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) • Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) • Nia (Purpose) • Kuumba (Creativity) Each day during the Kwanzaa celebration, a candle is lighted to memorialize a principle, and this year, according to Chimbuko Tembo of the African American Cultural Center, there is a specific activity scheduled each day of the Kwanzaa week for the Kwanzaa Ujima Collective (KUC). The purpose of the KUC is to jointly plan, coordinate and organize Kwanzaa events in the city, which express and reaffirm the dignity, beauty and expansive meaning of the holiday. This year, KUC will be celebrating the 44th anniversary of Kwanzaa.

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

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

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

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

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

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

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

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

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

The principle of Ujamaa could help change that.

Black people have never seemed to fully understand their traditional greatness. Ebony magazine wrote, “Not only did African Americans come from Africa, every human did.” Having the understanding and the “purpose” of that statement will go a long way in implementing Nia in “our” lives.

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

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

The successes and implementation of Kwanzaa could be gleaned from the struggle that it has taken to reach this point in its development as an African and PanAfrican holiday. As Dr. Karenga has previously stated: “I think it’s also important to mention that Kwanzaa was not established because of petitions to the local, state of federal government to recognize it. On the contrary, we did not and would not seek permission or recognition to celebrate our own history and culture.”

Nguzo Saba The Seven Principles Dr. Maulana Karenga

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

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

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

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

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

5 Nia (nee-AH): Purpose To make as our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

6 Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah): Creativity To do always as much as we can, in the way that we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful than when we inherited it.

7 Imani (ee-MAH-nee): Faith To believe with all our hearts in our parents, our teachers, our leaders, our people and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

EVENT

LISTINGS

12-24-10

12-26-10

CELEBRATION — The 51st annual L.A. County

ONE-MAN PLAY — “Heaven Can’t Wait No Mo,’ ” a one-man play featuring actor, singer, writer and poet Isaac Clay, will take place at the Lucy Florence Coffee House on Dec. 26, 4 p.m. A dinner buffet starts at 3. The “dramedy” has biblical principles. In the play, Willy is asked

by God to complete several tasks. During his journey, he encounters several obstacles and experiences individuals with various perceptions about life, according to an ad promotion on the play. Tickets for the play cost $25. The coffee house is in Leimert Park, at 3351 W. 43rd St., Los Angeles. More information: (323) 301-0582, (323) 293-1356.

Holiday Celebration will be held Dec. 24, 3 to 6 p.m., at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion of the Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. The event will feature 23 dance and music groups, including the Pacifico Dance Co., Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers and Women’s Chorale. Admission is free, but people must have a wristband to get in.

Wristbands will be passed out the day of the event, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Free parking will be available in the Music Center’s garage. More information: (213) 972-3099, www.HolidayCelebration.org.

12-25-10 TOY DRIVE & PARTY — “Christmas With A Clause,” a toy drive and party that will be hosted by Sheryl Lee Ralph, will take place Dec. 25, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., at Samba, which is at Universal CityWalk.

People interested in attending must bring an unwrapped toy, and toys will benefit Women Alive and the Union Rescue Mission. Universal CityWalk is at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. Information: (818) 763-0101.

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

Thirty tons of snow will be brought in to the event. More information: www.kidspacemuseum.org, (626) 4499144, ext. 5210.

KWANZAA — The 34th Annual Kwanzaa Gwaride Parade and Festival will be held Dec. 26, noon, and this year’s theme is “Improving Ourselves Naturally.” The day will include spoken word, ceremonies, dancing and more. The parade will start at Adams and Crenshaw boulevards and proceed to Leimert Park. At 8 a.m., from Dec. 27 to 31, attendees can work out and walk 2 miles at Rancho Cienega Park.

During Kwanzaa, there will also be candle lighting ceremonies in Leimert Park at 6 p.m. For more information on Kwanzaa events, visit www.kwanzaastuff.com, or call Tammy Lee at (323) 735-6643.

12-28-10 CONCERT (LYNN JETER & ASSOCIATES) — R&B singer and “The Oprah Show” karaoke winner Abraham McDonald will continue the spirit of giving when he holds the last performance of his “Home For The

12/10 - 1/11

happening these months

Holidays” concert series at 8 p.m. on Dec. 28 at Busby’s Mile High Club at 5361 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. He will perform his single “Giving You My Heart,” which is now available on iTunes, his ballad “Miracle,” and other R&B songs. Part of the proceeds will go to the Rowell Foster Children’s Positive Plan (www.rowellfosterchildren.org). There will be celebrity guest appearances by Kelly Price, Kenny Lattimore and K.D. Aubert and more.

More information: (323) 525-2615.

01-06-11 (COMPANY OF ANGELS) “FATIGUED” — Company of Angels, a nonprofit repertory theater, will premiere “Fatigued” — two plays, which illustrate how friends, families, neighborhoods and communities experience the emotional casualties of war.

“Fatigued” opens Jan. 6 at Company of Angels at The Alexandria, 501 S. Spring St., third floor, in downtown

12-31-10 “NOON” YEAR’S EVE — Kidspace Children’s Museum won’t be having a New Year’s Eve celebration leading up to midnight. This year, there will be a (l to r) Juanita Chase, Joshua Lamont, Charles Maceo “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration on Dec. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will take place at the museum, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. More information: www.kidspacemuseum.org, (626) 4499144, ext. 5210.

01-01-11 Photos by Danny Munoz

KWANZAA CELEpton, Carolyn Zeller (l to r) Monica Sanchez, Chris Ham BRATION — The Kwanzaa Heritage Los Angeles. It is scheduled to Foundation will hold the Kwanzaa end Jan. 23. Performances on Heritage Festival and candle lighting ceremony on Jan. 1, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday evenings are at 8 p.m. and on in Leimert Park. This year’s theme is Sunday at 7 p.m. There is no “Up-Lifting Our Youth.” The free performance on Jan. 13, and event will include face painting for there is an added matinee on children, a food court, live music, a Jan. 16 at 3 p.m. The general drum circle and more. It will take ticket price is $20. Tickets can place in the Leimert Park Village be purchased at www.companyVision Theatre lot at 4300 Degnan ofangels.org. More informaBlvd., Los Angeles. Organizers are tion: (213) 489-3703, looking for vendors and entertainwww.companyofangels.org. ment. More information: (213) 4884421, kwanzala7@yahoo.com.

www.lawattstimes.com 11

Thursday, December 23, 2010 FILM FEST (BWR PR) — The Palm Springs International Film Festival will take place from Jan. 6 to 17. Recently, a new program highlighting African cinema was announced. The “Cinema Safari: A Showcase Of African Cinema” will premiere 13 new films made in Africa or reflecting contemporary African stories and themes. The films include the road movie “Africa United,” “I Am Slave,” a drama about the modern-day slave trade, and more. The showcase reflects the upsurge of film production across the African continent and the concurrent emergence of new filmmaking talents throughout the region. For more information, call (760) 322-2930 or (800) 8987256, or visit www.psfilmfest.org.

personal stories, cheers on the radicals who changed and blended the sports, and the artistry and livelihoods that have grown out of these respective fields. The exhibit is a mixture of various mixed media installations, a large amount of historical memorabilia and artifacts, intertwined with historical facts, personal accomplishments, vintage and contemporary photos and videos. Information: www.caamuseum.org.

“SWEET MAMA STRING BEAN” (FREMONT CENTRE THEATRE) — By popular

Jan. 1, and 3 p.m. on Jan. 2.

Admission for the musical play cost $30. Students and seniors can pay $25 on Saturdays and Sundays. There will be a New Year’s Eve gala, which will include the show, a party with dinner, wine, live music from the Sweet Mama String Bean Combo and more. The cost for that is $80. The Fremont Centre Theatre is at 1000 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena. There is free parking behind the theater.

Reservations: (866) 811-4111.

Online ticketing: www.fremontcentretheatre.com.

01-15-11 CIRCUS — “Circus INcognitus,” a one-man circus comedy performed by Jamie Adkins, will take place at the Kirk Douglas Theatre from Jan. 15 to 23. Tickets cost $20. To purchase tickets, call (213) 628-2772 or visit www.centertheatregroup.org. The Kirk Douglas Theatre is at 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City. Attendees can find free parking at City Hall, which is behind the theater. More information: (213) 628-2772 (TTY 213-680-4017), www.centertheatregroup.org/theatres/douglas/.

01-21-11 CONCERT (PEPPERDINE) — Ken Page, who won a Drama Desk Award for his role in the Tony-winning musical “Ain’t Misbehavin’ ”, will perform a solo concert at Pepperdine University’s Smothers Theatre on Jan. 21, 8 p.m. Page, in a career spanning more than 30 years, has worked in nearly all areas of the entertainment industry.

His motion pictures include “Dreamgirls” and “Torch Song Trilogy.” He has also voiced the characters King Gator in “All Dogs Go to Heaven” and Mr. Oogie Boogie in the cult classic “Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Page made his Broadway debut in 1976 in the all-black revival of “Guys and Dolls.” His gospel rendition of “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” earned him critical praise and the Theatre World Award. The event will take

Ken Page

place at 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Tickets, priced at $40 for the public and $10 for full-time Pepperdine students, are available now by calling (310) 506-4522.

Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787.

More information: http://arts.pepperdine.edu/. ead Photo by Robert Whiteh

ONGOING ALLENSWORTH EXHIBIT (CAAM) — “Allensworth: A Place.

A People. A Story.” is a photography exhibition of 65 photographs representing 10 photographers who collaborated on a photo series documenting Allensworth, the historic settlement as part of the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park.

The exhibition runs through Feb. 27, 2011. In 2008, the California African American Museum presented “Allensworth: 100 Years of the California Dream,” a historical overview of Allensworth through photographs and text. Information: Information: www.caamuseum.org.

“HOW WE ROLL” (CAAM) — “How We Roll,” a California African American Museum-curated exhibition has been extended through March 20, 2011. This exhibit offers insight into the engagement and cultural influence of African Americans in the sports of skateboarding, surfing and roller skating. “How We Roll” celebrates

demand, ValLimar Jansen and Frank Jansen have returned in their “two-person, one-woman show” about legendary performer Ethel Waters — star of radio, TV, Broadway and feature film — at the Fremont Centre Theatre.

“Sweet Mama String Bean” has been extended through Jan. 2. Showtimes for the play are 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 and

The deadline for receipt of calendar listings is Friday, noon, at least two weeks prior to activity.

Fax to: (323) 299-3896, e-mail us at lawattsnus@aol.com or mail to: L.A. Watts Times, 3800 Crenshaw Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90008.

All calendar items are received from various senders and are subject to being edited.

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

Person of the Week Assemblyman Mike Davis Collects Toys for Underserved Children

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

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

Bernice Riley

The Rev. Dr. Harold E. Kidd

St. Paul Presbyterian Church Culminates 100th Anniversary 1910-2010

BY MARGARET WHEELER St. Paul’s had much to celebrate, having represented church, family, and forum in the community for 100 faith-filled years. After a series of fetes in recent months, Los Angeles’ own St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church at 5100 Coliseum St. commemorated its 100th Anniversary with a momentous celebration luncheon Saturday, Oct. 23, at Knox Presbyterian Church.

The speaker for the 100th anniversary luncheon was the Rev. Dr. Harold E. Kidd, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Inglewood.

He gave the congregation a message, “From Generation to Generation,” Matthew 1:1-7, 16-17; We are grateful to God and give all praises to Him for the Word.

Dr. Kidd is a graduate of San Francisco State University. He received his Master of Divinity degree from Howard University School of Divinity. Pastor of First Presbyterian Church since 2002, Dr. Kidd also serves as coordinator of Pacific Presbytery Mission workers to aid New Orleans and a PCUSA delegate to Ghana and Jordan.

Mrs. Bernice Riley, an active member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, was honored for 45 years of commitment, dedication, service to the community and many other contributions.

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

Guest clergy in attendance were Dr. Leon E. Fanniel, pastor emeritus; the Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Steele; the Rev. Virginia Brown; the Rev. John Cager; Dr. Bill Hazen; the Rev. Calvin Moore; Dr. Kikanza Nuri; the Rev. Donald Wilson; the Rev. Hugh Wire; and the Rev. Kerry Allison.

As the members of St. Paul’s, we will continue to observe this historic moment in the life of the church. We thank all former members, friends, and the greater Los Angeles community who helped us to celebrate with food, music, memories and we praise God for His blessings and sustaining power.

“We’ve come this far by faith.”

Assemblyman Mike Davis hosted the 2010 Holiday Celebration and Toy Drive at the Natural History Museum, African Mammal Hall in Exposition Park.

As guests entered the Grand Foyer to deliver their handpicked toys, they were greeted by the Assemblyman and the Little Dickens Carolers dressed in Dickens-styled costumes.

“Each year we look forward to setting the holiday mood to help brighten the day for children in our city by collecting toys to distribute to those in need,” remarked Davis.

“I am grateful for the support and performances given by our celebrity friends who made this an enjoyable and unforgettable Shanice sings her rendition of “What About The Children.” event,” he added.

The hall was dressed in holi- feet as she day red and was the setting for this extolled the true year-end celebration that had holi- reason for the day food treats, entertainment and season with a peropportunities for networking. rousing Master of Ceremony Davis present- formance of “To ed an show of local and national God Be The The artists. Musical director Richard Glory.”

District Turner provided accompaniment on 48th a white baby grand piano. Three 2010 Woman of 2010 Talent Showcase contestants, the Year, 97Roman Collins, William Hardy and year-old O.V. Phillip Lauth, performed for the Smith, was so audience with their favorite carols. moved by the On soprano sax, Mark “Panther” s p i r i t - f i l l e d Felton played a version of “God offering that she Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” went on stage Songstress Jessica Smith sang with Desiree to her “Silent Night” and “I’ll be Home express For Christmas.” Special guest gratitude and Shanice shared her vocal gifts with p r a i s e . performances of “O Holy Night” C o l e m a n and “What About the Children.” Jackson sent the home Elaine Gibbs enlisted crowd Assemblyman Davis to help her with a final wish everyone a “White Christ- number, “Have a mas.” And to end the night on a Yourself Little Desiree Coleman-Jackson lifted her magnificent voice high note, Desiree Coleman- Merry in gratitude with “To God Be The Glory.”

Jackson brought the crowd to their Christmas.”

www.lawattstimes.com 13

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Christmas, Kwanzaa and Chanukah: holiday diversity

BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA COLUMNIST Habari Gani begins the greeting. It is Swahili for “what’s happening?” During Kwanzaa, the seven days between Dec. 26 and Jan. 1, the response reflects the particular day of Kwanzaa. On Dec. 26, the response is Umoja, which means Unity.

On Dec. 29, the response is Ujamaa, which is cooperative economics. On the last day of Kwanzaa, Jan. 1, the response is Imani, which means Faith.

We are all indebted to Mualana Ron Karenga for his development of the Kwanzaa concept, and for the millions of people who celebrate African history and heritage.

As a Christian, I worship and am mindful of the birth of the Christ Child and the fact that somehow, as a greeting, Happy Holidays has swallowed Merry Christmas.

The Happy Holidays greeting is intended to be inclusive, intended to encompass Christmas, Kwanzaa, Chanukah, the Winter Solstice, and just about everything else. It is intended, by some, to indicate that we are sensitive to everybody’s needs, holidays and religious diversity. Still, I think we lose just a little bit of something when we decide to group everything into “the holidays.” We lose the majesty of the Christ Child’s birth, a day that most

Julianne Malveaux of our nation celebrates. Many Americans are self-identified Christians. Should we swallow the uniqueness of the season and the celebration, miracle, and renewal that it implies?

Our Jewish brothers and sisters also celebrate holy times in Chanukah. This celebration of lights, of rededication, has special

This is personal.

Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in the U.S., but screening helps prevent this disease.

Terrence Howard, actor/musician

If you’re 50 or older, please get screened. Screening saves lives.

1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) s www.cdc.gov/screenforlife

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Photo: Andrew Macpherson

She was the cornerstone of our family. But my mother died of colon cancer when she was only 56. Let my heartbreak be your wake-up call.

meaning that should not be reduced to just another holiday. Those of us who are not Jewish may not need to celebrate Chanukah, but we should be aware, mindful and commemorative. Religious diversity means knowing about and acknowledging each other’s holy moments. We lose some of that with the generic Happy Holidays.

Kwanzaa is a celebration unto itself. Karenga developed the holiday and its celebration in the 1960s to affirm AfricanAmerican vision and values.

The seven principles — umoja (unity), kujichagulia (selfdetermination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity) and imani (faith) — are all principles that represent the foundation of community growth and development, and a celebration of family and culture. Millions have taken the principles and used them as a way to affirm strength and resilience in the AfricanAmerican community. I am especially mindful of the principle of ujamaa, cooperative economics, as it undergirds much of the work that I do. So when somebody says habari gani to you on Dec. 29, please respond with ujamaa.

Kwanzaa does not substitute or supplant Christmas. It is an entirely different reality. It is an end-year celebration of family, faith and community, a celebration of life. A 40-plusyear tradition is a rich and rewarding way to bring us all together.

We should have enough room in our collective consciousness to allow for multiple year-end celebrations. Christmas, Kwanzaa and Chanukah each commemorate different facets of American life. And then there is the winter solstice, the changing of the seasons, the shortest day of the year, and yet also a celebration. Yes, we need to have enough room to celebrate all these things in their distinctness. To swallow them all up in a Happy Holidays greeting is a politically correct way of both lumping us all together and ignoring the richness of our differences and how our differences add to the ways we live and celebrate our lives.

Julianne Malveaux is president of Bennett College for Women. Her most recent book, “Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History” is available at www.lastwordprod.com.

To Be Equal

Historic reforms enacted by President Obama in 2010

BY MARC H. MORIAL NNPA COLUMNIST As we close out the year, this is a good time to take a look back at some of the big events of 2010 that will influence our lives for years to come. The National Urban League has spent much of our centennial year urging the Congress and the White House to focus relentlessly on job creation. But, we end the year with a socalled tax cut compromise that rewards billionaires, shortchanges middle- and working-class Americans, and does little to create jobs. We have called for changes in the tax package, including extending unemployment benefits for two years and increasing tax cuts for middleclass families. No matter what the Congress does before the end of this year, this is sure to be a fight that carries over to 2011.

But, all is not doom and gloom.

The Obama administration achieved several major legislative victories this year that will benefit all Americans.

In March, President Obama signed historic health care reform legislation into law. With the stroke of a pen, the President expanded coverage to 32 million Americans who are currently uninsured. The bill also prevents insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions and allows children to stay on their parent’s insurance plan until they turn 26.

Health care reform had been debated for decades and attempted by numerous presidents. President Obama got it done and the country is better for it.

In July, the President signed into law the most sweeping Wall Street financial reforms since the Great Depression. The bill reins in the big banks that have largely been responsible for the financial crisis. It also creates a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau that will be able to regulate mortgage and credit-card products, including predatory lenders that have operated with impunity up till now. Upon signing the bill, the President said, “From now on every American will be empow-

ered with the clear and concise information you need to make financial decisions that are best for you.”

Finally, 2010 saw the National Urban League celebrate 100 years on the frontlines of closing America’s equality gap. From July 28 to 31, the NUL held its cen-

Marc Morial tennial conference in the nation’s capital. Obama attended and delivered a major education speech.

The events of the past year remind us that we must be one nation empowered to ensure that every American child is ready for college, work, and life. That every American lives in safe, decent, affordable, and energy-efficient housing on fair terms and has access to quality, affordable health care solutions. And, most importantly, that every American has access to jobs with a living wage and good benefits. As I said at our July conference, as long as there are people out of work, as long as there are people in need of better schools, as long as there’s a need for safe, decent and wholesome afterschool programs, as long as there are people who long to become homeowners and are looking for somewhere to turn, this National Urban League and Urban League Movement is here to stay.

Enjoy the holiday and Happy New Year!

Marc H. Morial is the president and CEO of the National Urban League.

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

If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder`s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. DATE: December 16, 2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09001518-10-1 .

17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature TRUSTEE CORPS IS A DEBT COLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Ad #7387 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30 Trustee Sale # CA0950429-2 Loan# 1009971134 Order # 090498915 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 05/16/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 12/30/2010 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 05/23/2007 as Document No. 20071249730 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JULIO LOPEZ, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, MILLE MORTGAGE INC, as Beneficiary, WILL SELLAT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5115-027-016 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1191A 1191B 1193 EAST 42ND PL, LOS ANGELES, CA 90011 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $498,953.55 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/09/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 RPRequests@trusteecorps.com

Thursday, December 23, 2010 Ad #7743 2010-12-09 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 Trustee Sale # CA0955872-3 Loan# 1880763077 Order # 4251115 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 06/05/2008. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 01/06/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 06/18/2008 as Document No. 20081082139 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JORGE PAVON AND YULMA PATRICIA HENRIQUEZ DE PAVON, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, as Trustor, W J CAPITAL CORPORATION, as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state).

AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5468-030-004 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 321 SOUTH AVENUE 56, LOS ANGELES, CA 90042 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $322,440.07 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof.

Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1.

Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 __ Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 RPRequests@trusteecorps.com Ad #7990 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30 Trustee Sale # CA0919156-1 Loan# 3002776742 Order # G828517 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 11/27/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 02/14/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 12/04/2006 as Document No. 20062681502 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, RENE H. GOMEZ, A MARRIED MAN AS HIS SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, MORTGAGEIT, INC., as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 2315-019-022 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 11109 VALERIO STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 91352 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein.

Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $497,439.26 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the

date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 RPRequests@trusteecorps.com Ad #8035 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30 Trustee Sale # CA0918994-1 Loan# 167574208 Order # G827977 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 05/02/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 01/06/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on05/11/2007 as Document No. 20071148563 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, JONATHAN HERNANDEZ, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, COUNTRY HOME LOANS, INC. DBA AMERICA'S WHOLESALE LENDER, as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash a cashier's check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). AT: At the front entrance of the Pomona Superior Courts Building, 350 West Mission Blvd, Pomona CA The property heretofore described is being sold "as is". All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State describing the land therein: APN # 5119020012 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1247 1247 1/2 EAST 27TH STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 90011 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee's Sale is: $648,586.87 (estimated amount). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.

The Beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell.

The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the County where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. See Exhibit "A" attached hereto and made a part hereof. Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2923.52: 1. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: X Servicer does hereby state that Servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date of the notice of sale is filed. 2. Timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) Section 2923.52 Does X Does not apply pursuant to section 2923.52 or 2923.55 Dated: 12/16/2010 MTC FINANCIAL INC., DBA TRUSTEE CORPS, as Successor Trustee By: CLARISA GASTELUM, TRUSTEE SALES OFFICER TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 FOR SALE INFORMATION CONTACT: (714)786-5351, (949) 252-8300 FOR REINSTATEMENT / PAY OFF REQUESTS CONTACT: (949) 252-8300 RPRequests@trusteecorps.com Ad #8036 2010-12-16 2010-12-23 2010-12-30

HILLSIDES COLLAPSE

Continued from page 3 The tail end of a storm that dumped rain on Southern California for nearly a week gave the region one final lashing, burying houses and cars in mud, washing hillsides onto highways, flooding urban streets, threatening dozens of canyon homes and spreading filthy water that prompted the closure of 12 miles of Orange County beaches.

Inflatable boats and canoes were used to rescue dozens of motorists and homeowners from flooded streets, hotels and hillsides. Others refused to leave their homes, even as dirty water and mud sliced through their neighborhoods.

The storm weakened as it moved eastward, but floods still washed away at least six vacant homes in Arizona and inundated parts of Nevada and Utah.

The low-pressure system could be in New Mexico by Thursday and reach the Gulf Coast by Saturday with some rain, but not the deluge that hit Southern California, forecasters said.

CITY OF LOS ANGELES $50,000 REWARD NOTICE The City of Los Angeles offers a reward payable at the discretion of the City Council to one or more persons in the sum or sums up to an aggregate maximum total sum of $50,000 for information leading to the identification and apprehension of the person or persons responsible for the act of murder against, ROSE GARCIA, in the City of Los Angeles.

On Sunday, January 13, 2008, at approximately 6: 55 a.m., Rose Garcia, a 35-year old woman, was discovered dead in an alley to the rear of 1504 West Florence Avenue. LAPD is still searching for the individual(s) responsible for this crime and encourages witnesses to come forward, even anonymously, to assist them in their investigations. The person or persons responsible for this crime represent an ongoing threat to the safety of the people of Los Angeles. Unless withdrawn or paid by City Council action, this offer of reward shall terminate on, and have no effect after, JUNE 17, 2011.

The provisions of payment and all other considerations shall be governed by Chapter 12 of Division 19 of the LAAC Code, as amended by Ordinance Nos. 158157 and 166666. This offer shall be given upon the condition that all claimants provide continued cooperation within the criminal justice system relative to this case and is not available to public officers or employees of the City, their families, persons in law enforcement or persons whose misconduct prompted this reward. If you have any information regarding this case, please call the Los Angeles Police Department at 1-877-LAWFULL, 24 hours.

C. F. No. 09-0010-s8 12/23/10 CNS-2007040# WATTS TIMES

CIVIL AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. BS129011 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles Petition of: Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates for Change of Name TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Jerry Daniel Ureno-Bates to Sarah Nicole James The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing: Date: January 21, 2011, Time: 9:00 a.m., Dept.: 1A, Room: 548 The address of the court is 111 N. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Watts Times Date: December 9, 2010 Matthew C. St. George Commissioner of the Superior Court 12/23, 12/30, 1/6, 1/13/11 CNS-2012228# WATTS TIMES

GOVERNMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL RFP NO. 7542 PROJECT BASED VOUCHER NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY (PBV NOFA) The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles invites proposals from qualified developers under the Project Based Voucher Program for Permanent Supportive Housing projects that serve extremely and very low income chronically homeless special needs individuals and homeless families, transition aged youth (TAY), seniors and the disabled. Copies of the PBV NOFA may be obtained beginning December 21, 2010 online at www.hacla.org/ps.

Proposals will be accepted until 2:00pm, January 21, 2011.

12/23, 12/30/10 CNS-2011800# WATTS TIMES

The storm turned the final days before Christmas into a nightmare, and left some residents fearful that more and bigger mudslides could strike the wildfire-scarred hillsides in suburban Los Angeles even after the skies cleared.

Officials on Tuesday ordered the evacuation of 232 homes in La Canada Flintridge and La Crescenta, suburbs of Los Angeles below steep See HILLSIDES COLLAPSE, page 15

The County of Los Angeles, Department of Children and Family Services is soliciting SOQs for Wraparound Approach Services. Interested persons are directed to the Los Angeles County Website at www.lacounty.info for a listing of this notice.

Please see ad on December 19, 2010.

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

BRIEFS

Continued from page 4

Groups: Blacks unfairly cited on Ohio bus line CLEVELAND (AP) — Civil rights groups say black riders on a Cleveland bus line are unfairly feeling the brunt of an effort against people who don't pay the fare.

The Plain Dealer reports the American Civil Liberties Union and the NAACP have complained to transit officials that nine out of 10 people ticketed on the HealthLine during one month were black.

The special bus line is meant to move along rapidly. So, unlike other Cleveland buses, riders pay at stations before they board, on an honor system.

The transit authority says police randomly board HealthLine buses and ticket riders who can't show a receipt. Agency general manager Joe Calabrese says the percentage of blacks ticketed for nonpayment reflects the population in neighborhoods served by the line.

He says the agency does not discriminate.

Information from: The Plain Dealer, http://www.cleveland.com.

Path points to Supreme Court as judge rules key provision of health law unconstitutional WASHINGTON (AP) — The scorecard on the legal fight over President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul is two judges in favor and one against.

But these are the early rounds in preliminary bouts. The one that really counts — a showdown at the Supreme Court — is at least a year away.

The health care law suffered its first major legal setback Dec. 13 when a federal judge declared that the heart of the sweeping legislation is unconstitutional. The decision handed Republican foes ammunition for their repeal effort next year.

The ruling by U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson, a Republican appointee in Richmond, Va., marked the first successful court challenge to any portion of the new law, following two earlier rulings in its favor by Democratic-appointed judges. A number of other lawsuits were dismissed early on, without rulings on the substance of the law.

The law’s central requirement for nearly all Americans to carry insurance is unconstitutional, well beyond Congress’ power to mandate, Hudson ruled. That put him in the same camp as Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli — the Republican who filed the suit — and many of the GOP lawmakers who will take control of the U.S. House in January.

www.lawattstimes.com 15

Thursday, December 23, 2010

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Orange County, Mary Adams and her husband got up in the middle of the night to check for mudslide danger as rains pounded the hill above them.

They had just crawled back into bed at 3:30 a.m. when they heard a low, dull roar and then the echoing boom of boulders tumbling into a creek. Adams, 54, jumped from bed to see a small river of mud, rocks and debris sweep past her side door, whisking the couple's travel trailer 100 feet down the hill and filling their garage and succulent garden with thick ooze.

On Wednesday morning, the rain was still coming down hard as Adams surveyed the damage. The sound of falling rocks still rang out every few minutes as the rain poured down outside.

Like Adams, dozens of her neighbors had refused to evacuate and worked with shovels to clear debris from storm drains and divert rivers of water and muck from their

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HILLSIDES COLLAPSE hillsides that burned in 2009 and where mudslides inundated homes and backyards in February.

It’s the same area where the Station Fire charred 250 square miles above suburbs tucked below the San Gabriel Mountains.

“The ground is so saturated it could move at any time” and the threat will remain for several weeks, said Bob Spencer, spokesman for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works.

Olivia Brown, 45, left her Paradise Valley home in the La Canada Flintridge area around midnight. “I’m worried about a rock coming down on the house,” Brown said at a Red Cross shelter. “My husband stayed home with two of our dogs. He had to be a man, you know, and hold down the fort.

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

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Continued from page 3 homes and cars.

“If we can get the truck out, then maybe we can leave but I’m not going to be away from my house and just be sitting in an evacuation center three blocks down the road,” said Adams, who has lived in the canyon more than 30 years.

In San Diego, the first floor of the Premier Inn in the city’s Mission Valley flooded, forcing about 50 guests and employees to the second floor where lifeguards used a rubber raft to rescue them amid floating trash bins and fast moving water, fire officials said.

SeaWorld San Diego closed for the day as water rose in the nearby San Diego River, but it was expected to reopen on Thursday.

Sixty people were rescued and more than 30 homes evacuated when water surged through Dove Canyon, a gated community in Orange County, said Orange County Fire Capt. Greg McKeown. Officials tagged five homes in Rancho Santa Margarita as uninhabitable.

In Highland, about 65 miles east of Los Angeles, two creeks overflowed, swamping as many as 20 homes in up to 3 feet of mud. Nearly 250 homes have been evacuated.

“This mud flow moved cars, picked them up, stood them up on their nose at 45-degree angles, buried them,” said Bill Peters, a spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Los Angeles County health officials warned residents to be careful through Thursday of polluted water around storm drains, creeks and rivers. The environmental group Heal the Bay said ocean water could remain contaminated with bacteria for much longer than that.

“When you have a major rain like this, we'll have an impact at some beaches for weeks,” said Mark Gold, group president.

revel in the achievement of a goal he’s long championed.

It is also the second of three expected victories in what’s turned out to be — for Obama — a surprisingly productive lame-duck Congress. Weeks after his self-described “shellacking” in the midterm vote, he's won lopsided approval of a tax cut compromise, and the Senate is poised to deliver his top foreign policy goal: ratification of a new nuclear arms treaty with Russia.

Many Democratic liberals were furious over the tax package, believing Obama blithely yielded to Republican demands to retain the same tax cuts for the rich he had loudly denounced on the campaign trail. That’s not the case with the repeal of don’t ask, don’t tell. Lifting of the ban on gays serving openly was something Obama not only campaigned on in 2008 but reiterated in this year’s State of the Union speech.

“I will work with Congress and our military to finally repeal the law that denies gay Americans the right to serve the country they love because of who they are,” he said in January to cheers in the House chamber, adding, “It’s the right thing to do.”

Born 17 years ago as a compromise between President Bill Clinton and a resistant Pentagon, the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy became for gay rights campaigners a notorious roadblock on the way to full acceptance.

Speaking in June at a Gay Pride Month observance at the White

Black Facts Dec. 25, 1971 The Rev. Jesse Jackson organizes Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity).

Source: blackfacts.com

House, Obama likened the fight to end it to the struggle of American blacks for civil rights.

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

Yet he has also faced rising discontent among gay activists who believed he hadn’t moved forcefully enough. He’s been heckled at campaign appearances over AIDS funding and the failure to end the military service ban.

Obama countered that as commander-in-chief, he had to ensure the ban’s end is carefully prepared for.

That’s just what the bill from Congress mandates.

“The implementation and certification process will not happen immediately; it will take time,” Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz warned in an e-mail that went out right after Saturday’s Senate vote. “Meanwhile, the current law remains in effect. All Air Force members should conduct themselves accordingly.”

Military and administration officials are wrestling with numerous legal questions raised by the end of the ban — knowing that courts are waiting in the wings. They include what to do about pending expulsion proceedings, and when those ousted under don’t-ask-don’ttell might apply to rejoin the armed forces.

For Almy, who appeared at a Capitol Hill ceremony Monday, the important thing is that gay and lesbian service members are no longer singled out because of who they love.

“That’s all we ever wanted,” he told reporters, “not special rights, just the same as our straight counterparts.”

Associated Press Writer Sagar Meghani contributed to this report.

16

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Thursday, December 23, 2010

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