LAWT-02-17-2011

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W E E K E N D E R

L.A. Watts Times Vol. XXX, No. 1219

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FEATURE STORY

Thursday, February 17, 2011

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

HOROSCOPES A

RIES ~ A celebration is in store and you are the guest of honor! You’ve achieved something wonderful and you need to take some time to enjoy it. Let yourself enjoy the applause then move onward and upward. AURUS ~ Let someone else make a few decisions this week. Take a backseat and enjoy the respite from doing all the driving. You’ll enjoy the ride more this week if you just admire the view as it goes by. EMINI ~ Sometimes you imagine that everyone needs to hear your sensible opinions on all matters of significance. And other weeks you know that you are wise and generous enough to listen to others as they share their good ideas. This week is a week for listening. You’ll learn much. ANCER ~ Anybody may occasionally have a week when their energy feels low. Your natural good health will see you through a possible down time if you just go with the flow and let yourself relax. Rest if you have the chance and you'll feel like your wonderful self in no time flat! EO ~ You are the center of attention this week and while you’ll be very busy you’ll love every moment. Enjoy your time in the spotlight! You may want to indulge yourself with some emotional theatrics this week. IRGO ~ Stay flexible this week especially where a partner is concerned. While they may be moody there’s no need for you to join them in their attitude unless you really, really want to! Stay positive

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FEB. 17 - 23 and go with the good vibrations that surround you. IBRA ~ Ding-dong! Destiny is at the door. Let it in and enjoy the change of pace. You’ll be happy to make a few adjustments for this most welcome guest. Follow through on instincts and hunches! CORPIO ~ Stay on course with your current decisions and dreams. You may doubt your progress this week but you really are moving toward a better tomorrow with your determined attitude. Keep your emotions under control this week for sure. AGITTARIUS ~ You feel great! Your shining spirit attracts many seekers this week so let your best wisest self answer questions that are put to you by those who want advice. You’ll smooth over a sticky situation at work with ease. APRICORN ~ Busy week. You’ll want to get up with the birdies and you may even want to whistle a happy little tune. You’ll be very much in demand for your expertise and positive attitude. Way to go! QUARIUS ~ A quiet week will work wonders for you. Make an effort to slow your pace, both physically and mentally this week. Use your imagination to think of quiet ways to entertain yourself. ISCES ~ While you may have much work facing you in the beginning of the week, a steady, patient attitude will help you accomplish a great deal this week. Be good to yourself and take things nice and slow. You’ll finish what you need to.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Southern California McDonald’s is committed to helping African American High School Seniors pursue their dreams of higher education. To underscore this commitment, McDonald’s funds the administrative costs of the RMHC/African American Future Achievers scholarship program. Students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills and a commitment to their community are encouraged to apply. Twenty-one $2,000 college scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who have at least one parent of African American heritage. Students must reside in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino or Ventura counties. In Southern California alone, the RMHC/African American Future Achievers scholarship program has awarded $620,000 in scholarship funds to 515 African American high school seniors since the program’s inception in 1990. Please visit www.McDonaldsSoCal.com to apply. Application deadline is March 11, 2011.

©2011 McDonald’s.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

More hiring freezes for California state workers BY JUDY LIN ASSOCIATED PRESS SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In the latest departure from his predecessor’s plans for trimming a multibillion-dollar budget gap, Gov. Jerry Brown has dropped a lawsuit over whether his office has the authority to pay minimum wage to state workers. Just a week ago, Brown dropped former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s plan to sell state buildings to raise $1.2 billion and then lease them back, calling the proposal “a gigantic loan with interest payment.” The state is facing a $26.6 billion fiscal crisis. The Democratic governor said Tuesday that his administration also filed a dismissal for the wage lawsuit, ending Schwarzenegger’s battle to impose the federal minimum wage on state workers during budget impasses. Back in 2008, Schwarzenegger, a Republican, imposed minimum wage while the state operated without a balanced budget. The state’s controller, John Chiang, refused to comply, which prompted the administration to sue and Chiang to countersue.

According to Brown’s dismissal, the state’s aging payroll system was incapable of making the changes without “modifications at a potentially significant cost.” The filing indicated the administration planned to work with Chiang on future state employee pay issues. Chiang applauded the move, calling the lawsuit “a frivolous waste of hard-earned tax dollars that should be dedicated to fixing our schools, protecting our communities and rebuilding our infrastructure.” But Brown on Tuesday also took a page from Schwarzenegger’s playbook by announcing a hiring freeze that, along with a cutback of state-issued cell phones, would save an estimated $363 million in the fiscal year that begins July 1. About $200 million of that would be in general fund savings, he said. In 2008, Schwarzenegger had ordered a state hiring freeze and payroll cuts to conserve cash as California struggled with a $42 billion budget deficit. He imposed days off without pay, known as “furlough Fridays.” Brown’s hiring freeze applies to vacant, seasonal, full-time and

AP Photo by Rich Pedroncelli

California Governor Jerry Brown part-time positions. The exemptions are for positions critical to public safety, revenue collection and other core functions, such as those who respond to disasters or life-threatening situations. He will continue to make senior-level appointments to form his new administration. “We must do everything possi-

ble to save money and make government leaner and more efficient,” he said in a statement. According to the state controller’s office, California had about 234,000 employees as of Jan. 31. Brown has made a point of trimming back as the state faces its latest multibillion budget gap. He issued an executive order to halt

new vehicle purchases by the state and directed vehicles not essential for state business to be turned in. Schwarzenegger made similar efforts to reduce the state vehicle fleet. Brown has also ordered half of the 96,000 cell phones issued to state bureaucrats to be turned in over an 18-month period.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

NAACP Legal Defense Fund joins Abu-Jamal defense team SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPERS The NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund has joined Mumia Abu-Jamal’s defense team to

represent him in his ongoing appeal of his capital murder conviction. “Mumia Abu-Jamal’s conviction and death sentence are relics of a time and place that was notorious for police abuse and racial discrimi-

Ousted employee Sherrod sues Breitbart BY MARY CLARE JALONICK ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON (AP) — A former Agriculture Department employee who was shown in an

edited video making what appeared to be racist remarks has sued the conservative blogger who posted the video that led to her dismissal. See SHERROD SUES, page 19

$50,000 reward for info on LA street killing THE ASSOCIATED PRESS A $50,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of a killer who shot a Los Angeles man in the back as he crossed a street. Los Angeles officials announced the reward on Tuesday. Police say 31-year-old Herbert Eugene Seymour Jr. was walking home from a liquor store on Western Avenue Monday night when a man came up behind him and shot him several times for no apparent reason. Seymour collapsed and was pronounced dead at the scene. The man who ran off is described as being in his late teens to early 20s.

nation,” said John Payton, directorcounsel of the LDF in a statement. “Unless and until courts acknowledge and correct these historic injustices, death sentences like Mr. Abu-Jamal’s will invite continued skepticism of the criminal justice system by the African-American community.” Abu-Jamal was convicted in 1981 for the killing of Philadelphia Police Officer Daniel Faulkner. He was sentenced to death. He and his defense team have been fighting to initially, get him off of death row, but now to get him out of prison. His sentence was vacated in 2001 when a federal court found error in the jury instructions and verdict form used in his initial trial. In 2008, a formal petition from Abu-Jamal seeking reconsideration of the conviction was denied by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, while the United States Supreme Court also denied his appeal. However, on Jan. 19, 2010, the Supreme Court ordered the appeals court to reconsider its decision. LDF will serve as co-counsel with Judy Ritter of Widener Law School.

AP Photo by Chris Gardner

In this July 12, 1995 file photo, Mumia Abu-Jamal, convicted of killing Philadelphia police officer Daniel Faulkner in 1981, leaves a Philadelphia court. The Supreme Court on Jan. 19, 2010 threw out a court ruling that invalidated Abu-Jamal’s death sentence for killing Faulkner. The justices ordered the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia to take another look at Abu-Jamal’s claim that the jury weighing his punishment was given flawed instructions.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

President Obama presents nation’s highest civilian honor to three Blacks Dr. Maya Angelou, Congressman John Lewis, and NBA great Bill Russell receive 2010 Presidential Medal of Freedom in White House ceremony. BY DORINDA WHITE NNPA CONTRIBUTOR

Photo by Fred Watkins

President Obama presents NBA Great Bill Russell with Medal of Freedom.

Washington, D.C. — President Barack Obama awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor to a diverse group of recipients, including three African Americans prominently known for their civil rights activism. The president and First Lady Michelle Obama honored the winners at a White House ceremony this week. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is presented to individuals recognized for “especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.” Among the 15 recipients of the 2010 Presidential Medal of Freedom were Congressman John Lewis of Georgia, celebrated author and poet, Dr. Maya Angelou and former basketball great Bill Russell. These well-known African Americans re-

w w w . l a w a t t s t i m e s . c o m

Photo by Fred Watkins

President Obama presents Georgia Congressman John Lewis with the Medal of Freedom. ceived their medals along with former President George H.W. Bush, businessman Warren Buffett, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, amongst others. It was especially befitting that the AfricanAmerican Medal of Freedom recipients were honored for their achievements during Black History Month. One of the African American awardees, Civil Rights hero Congressman John Lewis (D-GA), served as chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), helped to organize

the first lunch counter sit-in in 1959 at the age of 19, and was the youngest speaker at the 1963 March on Washington. “John Lewis is not only an American hero and a giant of the Civil Rights Movement but time and time again, John Lewis has faced down death and today is the conscience of the U.S. Congress,” said President Obama. “He is an American who knew that change could not wait for another place or See MEDAL OF FREEDOM, page 20

Photo by Fred Watkins

President Obama presents poet Maya Angelou with Medal of Freedom.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Republican-led House blocks D.C. delegate from testifying, CBC chair outraged BY RICHETTE L. HAYWOOD NNPA CONTRIBUTOR WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressional Black Caucus Chair Emanuel Cleaver II (D-MO) was outraged over the Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives refusal to hear testimony from Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton on spending local taxpayer-raised funds to provide abortions for low-income residents. “I am extremely concerned that Congresswoman Norton was shut out of a very important hearing that affects the community in which she represents. Not only is it unfair, it’s disrespectful and I plan on speaking with Chairman Franks about this matter,” said Cleaver. Congresswoman Norton also released a statement strongly objecting to being denied the opportunity to testify during the House Judiciary Subcommittee Hearing on a Bill targeting Washington, D.C. Norton was denied the opportunity to testify by Chairman Trent Franks (R-AZ), although Ranking Democratic Member Jerrold Nadler, of New York, submitted Norton’s request to give testimony in advance, and although members of Congress are routinely given the courtesy to testify at any hearing of their choosing. “Not only do Republicans seek to trample on D.C.’s rights as a selfgoverning jurisdiction, they apparently seek to trample on my right as a Member of Congress to participate in the legislative process by giving testimony on a bill that directly affects the District,” Norton said. “We will not give up on our efforts to use every legitimate means to stop all anti-home rule attempts to roll back the progress the District has made over the past four years, including today’s attempt to prevent D.C. from funding abortions for low-income residents.” A 20-year veteran of the legislative body, Norton said, she has never seen a Member of Congress turned away from testifying, particularly when the bill under consideration directly impacts the representative’s district. “I strongly oppose the harsh

anti-choice H.R. 3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, in its entirety, but I am specifically compelled to discuss an unprecedented provision of the bill, Section 310, “Application to District of Columbia,” said Norton, in a prepared statement. “This provision is entirely unrelated to the purposes of the bill, which seeks not only to write the Hyde amendment into federal law and extend it permanently, but to go much further, threatening the health of millions of women.” Last month, one of the first acts of the Republican-controlled House was to strip the floor voting rights of six delegates representing areas such as the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and American Samoa. Five of those delegates are Democrats, while one, from the Northern Marianas Islands, is an independent. The Republican-led decision to rescind the delegates’ ability to vote on amendments on the House floor was no surprise considering Democrats extended the voting rights in 1993 when they controlled the House, Republicans took it away when they regained control of the House in 1995 and Democrats restored it in 2007. When stripped of the voting rights, Virgin Islands Del. Donna Christensen, told The Associated Press, “This is a very undemocratic way to start the 112th Congress.” In January, Norton’s offer to establish a special committee to study the delegate voting rights issue was defeated along party lines. Last week, after being denied the opportunity to testify before the committee, Norton said, “The District of Columbia is not a colony of the Congress. We refuse to submit the funds we alone raise and decisions about how to spend our own local funds to Members of the House. We will not let the Majority get away with supporting democracy everywhere on earth except its own nation’s capital. The House [Republican] Majority goes many steps too far when they introduce a bill with such potential harm to all women and then try to make it worse for the women of the District of

Columbia by taking down part of the local government’s authority in the process with such potential harm to all women and then try to make it worse for the women of the District of Columbia by taking down part of the local government’s authority in the process. The new House [Republican] majority says it supports limiting the federal government’s power and devolving that power to the states and localities. This bill does the opposite by using federal power to snatch local authority from the District of Columbia and its people. The time has come to practice what the House Majority preaches.”

AP Photo by Jacquelyn Martin

District of Columbia Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton speaks to members of DC Vote, in Washington, on Monday, Oct. 5, 2009.

Black Facts Feb. 17, 1902 Opera singer Marian Anderson is born in Philadelphia. Anderson was entered in the New York Philharmonic Competition at age 17 by her music teacher, and placed first over 299 other singers. Awarded a Rosenwald Fellowship in 1930, Anderson went to Europe for a year of study. She returned briefly to the United States but went back to Europe in 1933 to debut in Berlin and again, in 1935, in Austria. In 1933, Anderson performed 142 concerts in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland. On Easter Sunday in 1939, Anderson performed an open-air recital at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The performance was scheduled for the concert hall controlled by the Daughters of the American Revolution but was cancelled when the DAR refused to allow Anderson to sing there. In 1955, Anderson signed with New York’s Metropolitan Opera Co. Source: blackfacts.com

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

A New Year: A worsening crisis BY LEE A. DANIELS SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THEDEFENDERSONLINE.COM Black America has pneumonia, and the fact that it’s winter has nothing to do with it. No, the virus that’s gripped growing numbers of Black Americans is a longstanding economic ailment intensified to a devastating degree by the consequences of the Great Recession, America’s worst economic crisis in 70 years. It proves once again the old adage about the economic fortunes of Black America compared to White America when White America has a cold, Black America has pneumonia. It is true, of course, that the Great Recession itself, which officially ended two years ago, has wrecked the job prospects and careers of millions of all kinds of Americans, not just Blacks — as a substantial number of governmental and private-sector studies and reports have documented with both dry statistics and often-wrenching personal stories. At the high levels of the national economy, a slow-moving recovery appears underway — the stock market is back over 12,000 again,

and a cautious confidence is more the base unemployment measure of make a real dent in unemployment and more being expressed by those 26 weeks. Given that monthly job and that there are no jobs for more in the government and in the finan- growth continues far below the hun- than three out of every four jobless dreds of thousands of jobs needed to workers, prospects that those numcial sector. bers will decline But, strikingly, appreciably are the news last week dim. that the unemployThat reality ment rate for has driven millions January fell to 9.0 of discouraged jobpercent — its lowless workers to est level in more stop, at least temthan a year — proporarily, looking voked no cheering for work. at all. Indeed, it “One can only was quickly distake ‘no’ so many missed as meantimes,” one erstingless, because it while job-seeker was accompanied told The Huffington by an anemic job Post recently after growth of about spending the last 36,000 new jobs. three years fruitHowever, lessly sending out January’s 9.0 perhundreds of job cent unemployment applications. The rate does have holder of a master’s meaning — a grim degree in biology significance. It who had worked underscores the fact for a biotechnology that the official firm before being number of out-oflaid off in 2008, the work Americans hovers around 14 AP Photo by Matt Rourke married father of said, “I million, 6 million of In this June 23, 2010, Frank Wallace, who, in June, had been unem- two whom have been ployed since May of 2009, is seen during a rally organized by the thought, ‘I’ve got over 12 years of jobless longer than Philadelphia Unemployment Project, in Philadelphia.

experience … with excellent success. So I looked for a year and a half and got nowhere. All these years of experience and this fabulous degree, and no one cares.” Such stories prove that beyond the boundaries of those who can afford to view the crisis with a certain amount of detachment, the vast pool of pain persists — the more so because a cloak of invisibility seems to have been thrown over the millions of the jobless. The possibility that America may be building a huge class of the once-employedbut-now-permanently-unemployed has all but disappeared from most media venues since President Obama and the Congressional Republicans forged a compromise tax bill that extended emergency unemployment benefits for another 13 months. That extension has eased the pressure on those who’ve been out of work for more than 26 weeks; but a social and economic catastrophe looms in both the short- and the long-term. Both consequences spring from the same source: the combined dynamics of globalization and technological advances have made it possible for more and more businesses to “produce” profitably See JOBS CRISIS, page 19

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Thursday, February 10, 2011

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L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

People in Egypt are still protesting and making demands. A former ambassador to the nation says Egypt has ‘formidable’ challenges that lie ahead. By Sam Richard Associate Editor In a historic push for change, opposition protestors in Egypt forced Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year-old presidency to an abrupt end Feb. 11, but some say that while his departure was good, the nation faces significant challenges. The tests that lie ahead include successfully holding elections in about six months, transitioning from a military-run government to a civilian one, and drafting an updated constitution in less than two weeks, as well as other matters. “The challenges ahead are, in some respects, even more formidable than those of the past few weeks,” Daniel Kurtzer, a former U.S. ambassador to Egypt, told the L.A. Watts Times in an e-mail. “For example, the opposition will need to negotiate ‘political space’ within which to operate and, while doing so, will need to get organized, form political groupings, plan election campaigns and develop platforms and programs. In the meantime, aggressive action will be needed to jumpstart the economy so as to create jobs.” To have a successful transition, emergency regulations that allowed for arrests without due process must be formally abolished, he said. Kurtzer added that a successful transition would require a partnership that needs to be worked out with the opposition to amend the constitution, plan new elections, and develop the rules of a new political process. Egypt experienced 18 days of protests before Mubarak left, and it has been reported that at least 365 people died. A number of protests have taken place in several countries in January and February, including Tunisia, which also overthrew its president, Bahrain, Yemen, Iran and Libya. Although protests to drive Mubarak out of office have ceased in Egypt, there were still some demonstrations taking place on Wednesday in the North African nation of about 80 million people. The Associated Press reported on Wednesday that textile workers have gone on strike and that airport workers who want better pay are also protesting. The Supreme Council of Armed Forces, the temporary military government currently overseeing Egypt, has dissolved the parliament and plans

to hold elections in September. Al Jazeera English recently reported that a senior army officer said, “The military will ‘guarantee the peaceful transition of power in the framework of a free, democratic system which allows an elected, civilian power to govern the country to build a democratic, free state.’ ” P.J. Crowley, a spokesman for the U.S. State Department, told the L.A. Watts Times that the goal for Egypt is to have “free and fair and legitimate elections.” “Egypt does not have a tremendous m nd u amount m un off recent experience on how to do o this, so they’re going to need help,” he said, “and, and, as we’ve indicated, we’re prepared ared to help if they identify … specific ific needs.” To have a successful transisition, Crowley opined that the he country needs to open up a broad-based, transparent process ess in which significant people — including opposition figures and nd other members of society — are brought into the process. In the past couple of weeks, ks, hundreds upon thousands of protestors have been making ng demands for change due to frusstrations with what many considdered a repressive and corrupt pt Mubarak regime, high unemmployment, poverty and more. Professor Laurie Brand, who is the director of the School of International Relations at USC, said that for people like her who have lived in Egypt, and followed its policies over the years, they want something: “We want very much to see the end of dictatorship and we want to see this be the beginning of a democracy,” Brand said. “And I think there are hopeful indicators, but I also think that there are huge challenges ahead.” The transition to a civilian government could lead to more progress in the nation. Brand said that if the military is truly committed to leaving then it won’t be a problem, but she added that it’s “entirely possible” that things can go wrong if the military develops a taste for ruling the country, as opposed to just being a temporary

caretaker. “But it is going to be ruling for six months, and sometimes the best of intentions go awry,” she said. “So far … they’re saying all the right things, so one hopes that that stuff won’t come to pass,” she later added. But “you can’t completely rule it out because you look at experiences of militaries elsewhere in the world and you see examples of those kinds of things.” Thomas Lippman, an adjunct senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, that Mubarak stepped R l i n , said id he h it i was good g down as president, but he has h his skepticisms. “I’m pleased to see the Egyppl tian people finally rise from peo their so to speak,” said t eir stupor, th stu Lippman, L ppman later adding, “but I Li don’t yet see that there’s been don’t ye fundamental break with the a funda attitudes of the ruling class in attitude Egypt.” His th thoughts on the government m nt transition? me tran “I’m not sure that the military intends to foster t ry actually ta ac a successful transition to a suc civilian government,” he civi said. said “I mean they say that but don’t they always.” He H said that it may be that the th power of the protesdemonstration will be suftors’ de ficient to fforce the military to do things in a fundamentally different way. “But if I had to predict, I would say that what will happen is there will be an election in September in which opposition candidates will be permitted to run but they won’t be permitted to win, if you know what I mean,” he said. Crowley, the U.S. State Department’s spokesman, said that there are current challenges that could slow down the transition or cause it not to take place. “Because they don’t know how to do this, there’s very real danger that this process could be hijacked … in any number of directions, but that’s where the transparency is so important,” Crowley said. “The people have to feel that they not only have a stake in what happens, but (that) they have a voice and a role in what happens.”

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Thousands of state workers and impoverished Egyptians launched strikes and protests around the country over their economic woes as anti-government activists sought to expand their campaign to oust President Hosni Mubarak despite warnings from the vice president that protests won’t be tolerated much longer.

THROUGH THE PEOPLE’S EYES The 11-year-old’s thoughts captured the feelings of many as the world watched Egypt’s protests and recent departure of Mubarak: “I beg President (Hosni) Mubarak to say to the people that he is stepping down,” Abdel Rahman el Sweify, who lives in Alexandria, Egypt, wrote in an e-mail sent to the L.A. Watts Times. In another e-mail, as the turmoil continued, the fifth-grader wrote: “Egypt now is the worst country. People are killing each other and hitting each other with guns.” Then Mubarak resigned — and Abdel Rahman reacted with the rest of the world: “Now I’m very happy, because President (Hosni) Mubarak had stepped down. He gave the country to the army. “The Egyptian people are happy now. They are celebrating and saying good things about the country.” His sister, Amina el Sweify, was also happy about the former president’s departure. “I am really happy that president (Hosni) Mubarak had left, because even after 18 days of shouting out that we want him to leave, after 30 years of not doing anything to help our country … and even though he said that he was going to save the country, he tried to but not as fast as we asked for,” the 13-year-old wrote in an e-mail. “So I am happy that this crisis is over and happy because we are safe again and no danger will come near Egypt any more.” Their sentiments mirror those of many throughout Egypt, the world and also in Los Angeles. John Abdelmalak, who has a brother and sister in Cairo, Egypt, told the L.A. Watts Times his family

members are “cautiously happy.” “… They hope for the best,” said Abdelmalak, 63, who used to live in Cairo and is now in Los Angeles. “Obviously it can’t get worse than what it was before.” Abdelmalak expressed concerns about the Muslim Brotherhood, the Islamic organization founded in the 1920s that has been Mubarak’s foe. Abdelmalak expressed fear in seeing the Brotherhood get a hold of power in Egypt, characterizing the group as Muslim fanatics. Not all see the Muslim Brotherhood in that light, however. Brand, the USC professor, said it’s “ridiculous” to compare the Brotherhood with Al-Qaeda. The group represents a point of view that has supporters, and they should be part of the political system, she said, noting that she wasn’t advocating for the group. Lippman, of the Council on Foreign Relations, also said the Muslim Brotherhood is not like the Taliban or Al-Qaeda. The Muslim Brotherhood recently announced its intentions to form a political party but, reportedly, won’t have a candidate run for the presidency. No person knows for certain what Egypt’s future holds. After Mubarak, 82, resigned, President Barack Obama said: “The people of Egypt have spoken. Their voices have been heard and Egypt will never be the same.” He continued: “By stepping down, President Mubarak responded to the Egyptian people’s hunger for change, but this is not the end of Egypt’s transition. It’s the beginning.”

Photo by: AP Photo/Ben Curtis

Photo by: AP Photo/Khalil Hamra

Photo by: AP Photo/Tara Todras-Whitehill

The crowd gathers in Tahrir, or Liberation, Square in Cairo, Egypt, Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011. Tens of thousands of people flooded into the heart of Cairo Tuesday, filling the city’s main square as a call for a million protesters was answered by the largest demonstration in a week of unceasing demands for President Hosni Mubarak to leave after nearly 30 years in power.

11

A coalition of opposition groups called for a million people to take to Cairo’s streets Tuesday to ratchet up pressure for President Hosni Mubarak to leave.

COVER PHOTO A man is taken away after he fainted during a scuffle with policemen that were protesting in Tahrir Saquare in Cairo, Egypt, Monday Feb. 14, 2011. Egypt’s military rulers called for an end to strikes and protests Monday as thousands of state employees, including police, demonstrated to demand better pay in a growing wave of labor unrest unleashed by the democracy uprising that ousted Hosni Mubarak’s regime. (Photo by: AP Photo/Hussein Malla)

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Abdul-Jabbar shows film, says cancer at ‘minimum’

AP Photo by Charles Dharapak

In this Oct. 28, 2009, file photo, NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith, right, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sit at the witness table on Capitol Hill in Washington. In a letter obtained Thursday by The Associated Press, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka offered to sit down with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith to work on the parameters for a new collective bargaining agreement.

Letters galore about NFL labor negotiations BY HOWARD FENDRICH AP PRO FOOTBALL WRITER WASHINGTON — Both sides in the NFL’s labor talks are trying to spread the word by putting their positions in writing, and everyone’s getting in on the act — from Hall of Fame players Jack Youngblood and Bruce Smith, to Commissioner Roger Goodell, to mayors of league cities. In a letter obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday, Youngblood and Smith asked NFL owners to promise not to lock out players even if a new collective bargaining agreement isn’t reached by the time the current one expires at the end of the day March 3. Youngblood was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001, Smith in 2009. Their letter was addressed to “Owners of the National Football League� and sent Jan. 31 to Goodell at league headquarters in New York. “As former players, it is crystal clear that the vast popularity and financial success of football means that a lock out cannot be in the inter-

est of anybody involved, particularly the fans who support the game,� Youngblood and Smith wrote. “We understand the need for both sides to create pressure, but also know that at times it is important to decrease tenor and tone in order for the right deal to be made in a nonemotional atmosphere.� They noted that the players’ union already “pledged to not strike.� “By making the parallel commitment,� they wrote, “the owners would create the breathing room for a deal to be struck.� That exact wording also was used in a Feb. 7 letter from Kansas City, Mo., Mayor Mark Funkhouser to Clark Hunt, the owner and chief executive officer of that city’s NFL team, the Chiefs. Indeed, Funkhouser’s two-paragraph letter to Hunt uses phrases throughout that echo the letter to Goodell from Youngblood and Smith. Mayors or city officials from at least five sites of NFL teams have written letters to the league or a club See NFL LABOR NEGOTIATIONS, page 18

In this Jan. 31, 2009, file photo, former Buffalo Bills defensive end Bruce Smith gestures after being elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame during a news conference in Tampa, Fla. Pro Football Hall of Famers Jack Youngblood and Bruce Smith have asked NFL owners to promise not to lock out players if a new labor deal isn’t reached by early AP Photo by Chris O’Meara March. In a letter obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2011, Youngblood and Smith note the players’ union already pledged to not strike.

AP Photo

Newark Mayor Cory Booker, left, laughs as he and former NBA basketball star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar watch a screening of Abdul-Jabbar’s documentary film “On the Shoulders of Giants� at Science Park High School, Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011, in Newark, N.J. NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — A few days after putting a comment on his Twitter account that he was cancer free, basketball great Kareem AbdulJabbar said Thursday that it was a “misstatement.� “You’re never really cancer free and I should have known that,� Abdul-Jabbar said. “My cancer right now is at an absolute minimum.� The 63-year-old Abdul-Jabbar, a six-time NBA Most Valuable Player, was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia in 2008. He spoke Thursday at Science Park High School, after the screening of his new full-length documentary about the Harlem Rens basketball team, “On the Shoulders of Giants.� “It’s not life-threatening,� he said, “at this point in my life.� Abdul-Jabbar said when he was first diagnosed with leukemia, he didn’t know what to think. He feared the worst. “I thought I might be dead in a few months,� he said. “I had a good friend (actor Bruno Kirby) who was diagnosed with leukemia and was dead within 30 days. I really had no understanding of what I was dealing with.� With the help of a medication called Gleevec, CML can be monitored better, and the chances for recovery are improved. AbdulJabbar is a spokesman for Novartis, the company that produces Gleevec. “Medical science has made great strides over the last 20 years,� he said. “People in my position are able to live their lives to the fullest. I’m very grateful for that. I’m lucky that they caught it in enough time, and I’ve responded well to the medication. If not for the success that medicine has made, I might be part of a much different story right now.� The basketball star turned author wrote a book about the

Harlem Renaissance Big Five, also known as the Harlem Rens. They were a basketball team comprised of African-Americans who fought to be a part of the game, only to be set back by the racism that plagued the United States before World War II. The book chronicles the Rens as they made their way toward playing in the first non-segregated championship in 1939 against a team from Oshkosh, Wis. Abdul-Jabbar’s book became a documentary that was shown to approximately 1,000 Newark high school students on Thursday. A panel discussion followed. “The film has all the things I love,� Abdul-Jabbar said. “It has basketball, jazz music and the history of African-American people. I think the film came out really well. I’m happy with it. I spoke with various educators and they believed that New Jersey would benefit from seeing it. It seemed to me that they were interested in it.� Perhaps it’s the start of something special for Abdul-Jabbar. “The main reason why I did the film is that it is enabling me to make the transition from a jock,� he said, “and give me credibility as a scholar and a filmmaker. I’m going to continue to make that work.� Abdul-Jabbar made sure to get his message across to the nation’s youth. On Wednesday, the film was shown to students at the Schomburg Center in Harlem, where AbdulJabbar grew up. “You’re the main reason why I did what I did with this film,� Abdul-Jabbar told the students. “I want to challenge you to make Newark and New Jersey a better place. I hope to read about you doing good things in the future. So go forth, do your thing and be successful.�

Abdul-Jabbar has scheduled another screening next week in Los Angeles.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Celebrity hairstylist Keith Campbell decides to empower women with new book BY TENE PERRY CONTRIBUTING WRITER On the eve of the 53rd annual Grammys, celebrities and tastemakers came together at the lush Salon 180 Beauty Lounge — located between Mid-Wilshire and Miracle Mile — in support of acclaimed hairstylist and author Keith Campbell and his new book “Cuts for Our Infirmities.� The book also serves as the backdrop for his cross-media campaign, Decide to Be Beautiful, which targets women of all ages, worldwide, providing those with the personal tools needed to realize their beauty within. An invitation-only event, the book signing was hosted by two-time Grammy nomi-

Keith Campbell book cover

nee Melanie Fiona and actress Nicole Ari Parker. There were industry professionals treating themselves to complimentary hors d’oeuvres and beauty treatments such as manicures and make-up, while enjoying Campbell’s imagery and inspiring anecdotes from his book which made for good conversation. When asked why she supports Campbell’s book and his Decide to Be Beautiful campaign, Parker said that Campbell’s campaign, “puts the power back in the woman’s hands, where she can choose and decide to be beautiful ‌ it points to a bigger issue of loving yourself; it doesn’t take a whole lot of money to decide to be beautiful — it is a free decision. It is a moment to decide to make the highest, strongest and most beautiful choice for oneself and I support any man or woman that chooses to help other women do that.â€? The St. Louis native is an industry veteran servicing a loyal client base of women from all walks of life for over 19 years. His clientele is easily a list of who’s who in the entertainment industry. He has “beautifiedâ€? the likes of Iman, Keri Hilson, Rihanna, Eva Pigford, Taraji P. Henson, Serena Williams and Grammy award winning

Chrisette Michele (who also wrote the forward in Campbell’s book). In an effort to give back, Campbell chose to create a movement with his Decide to Be Beautiful campaign, which focuses on empowering the everyday woman to make the decision to be beautiful in finding their own personal beauty. This movement inspired his new book “Cuts for Our Infirmities,� which is a ‘collection of Keith's work alongside self-written poetry and inspirational words meant to encourage, inspire and uplift the inner beauty that lies’ in every woman. Campbell’s own definition of beauty is “accepting who you are� and he identifies beautiful characteristics as “confidence, grace, honor, trust, humility and loyalty.� Campbell feels the challenges he will face for acceptance of his campaign will be the propaganda that women face everyday that try to manipulate the popular idea of what a woman should be and look like – which is purported by the media. Salon 180 Beauty Lounge owner Melanie Charlton has been in the beauty industry for more than 13 years and refined her career in the prestigious Beverly Hills area. After meeting and becoming friends on Facebook just six months ago, Charlton backs Campbell’s effort one hundred percent. “I love Campbell’s definition of beauty,� Charlton said. “Decide to Be Beautiful is an awesome campaign empowering women to stay strong and to stay inspired in whatever way you choose.�

Nat ‘King’ Cole’s TV show gets digital release BY LYNN ELBER AP TELEVISION WRITER LOS ANGELES (AP) — Television’s groundbreaking “The Nat ‘King’ Cole Show� is getting a digital release more than 50 years after it aired. Cole’s widow, Maria, saved kinescopes — copies made by filming a TV monitor — of the 1956-57 show that See NAT ‘KING’ COLE, page 19

In this undated file photo, singer and pianist Nat “King� Cole is shown. More than 50 years after its AP Photo initial airing on television, the estate of Nat King Cole plans to digitally release The Nat King Cole Show on iTunes.

Keith Campbell and Nicole Candid

Keith Campbell and Melanie shop owner.

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Proposed Scattergood-Olympic Transmission Line

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Presentation and Q & A – 7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Staff will be available to answer questions until 8:30 p.m. West Los Angeles Municipal Building Open House – 2nd Floor, Presentation – Hearing Room #200 1645 W. Corinth Ave., Los Angeles

)HEUXDU\

Presentation and Q & A – 7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Staff will be available to answer questions until 8:30 p.m. Courtyard Marriott, Palos Verde Meeting Room 13480 Maxella Avenue, Marina Del Rey LADWP invites the public to attend an open house and presentation for a new underground 230 kV transmission line called the Scattergood-Olympic Transmission Line Project. LADWP will present the preliminary alternatives developed to connect the Scattergood Generating Station in Playa Del Rey to the Olympic Receiving Station in West L.A.

Turkey Wings and Dressing Also Chicken and Dumplings PLEASE COME AND CHECK IT OUT Open at Noon on Sunday, We serve Shrimp, Oysters, Gumbo, Fish and Chicken Daily 6055 S. Vermont Ave.. Los Angeles, CA 90044, Ph. (323) 758-1980

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and a presentation will take place at 7:00 p.m. The latest information regarding the Draft Environmental Impact Report and project schedule will be displayed and the project team will be available to answer questions and take input regarding the proposed transmission line until 8:30 p.m. For more information about the project, please visit: www.ladwp.com/Scattergood-Olympic. You may also call our toll-free number, (877) 735-8407 or send an email to Scattergood-Olympic@ladwp.com As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, service and activities. To ensure availability, such requests should be made 72 hours in advance by calling (877) 735-8407, TDD: 1 (800) 432-7397.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

EVENT

LISTINGS

2-17-11

2-19-11

PAINT IT FORWARD (POETESS MEDIA) — Mothers of NBA players will be honored at the “Art That Saves Lives!

AFRICAN HARP MUSIC (WILLOWBROOK COUNTY LIBRARY) — To celebrate Black History Month, a classical African harp music program will take place Feb. 19, 1 p.m., at the Willowbrook Library, 11838 Wilmington Ave., Los Angeles. Asha Baba, a storyteller and musician, will introduce the news and views of the Africa of yesterday and today through story and music. The event is free and open to the public. More information: (323) 564-5698.

Sports Art Exhibition & Charity Auction” on Feb. 17, 6 to 9 p.m., at the California African American Museum. Proceeds will benefit various youth and community-based programs. Art That Saves Lives! and She Cares will pay tribute to the moms for their sacrifice, commitment and leadership in the lives of some of the greatest NBA players. The museum is at 600 State Drive, Los Angeles. More event, sponsorship information: Carl Washington/UMCA Sports, (323) 934-8622, carlw@umcasports.com, www.facebook.com/pages/Paintitforward. “HUMMINGBIRD WARRIOR” (FROM LIBBY HUEBNER) — A 45-minute oratorio called “The Hummingbird Warrior Oratorio,” based on an exploration of the Aztec culture and the creation legend of Huitzilopotchli, the Hummingbird Warrior — will take place Feb. 17, 7 p.m. The performance is free to the public. The event will take place at Central Los Angeles High School #9, the school from which students composed the music and lyrics for “The Hummingbird Warrior.” The event will take place at the high school’s main theater. In conjunction with the oratorio’s world premiere, the L.A. Master Chorale Chamber Singers will perform. The school is in downtown Los Angeles at 450 N. Grand Ave. Campus parking is free (enter on Cesar Chavez Avenue). Information: (213) 217-8600.

DANCE TOUR (EMC BOWERY) — On Feb. 19 and 20, the Millennium Dance Complex unleashes “The Experience” in its hometown of Hollywood with a star-studded event taking place at The Music Box, and will then will set out to embark on a nationwide tour promoting passion for dance throughout the United States. “The Experience” is a multi-city, multifaceted dance tour that reveals a behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional dance, taking participants through a two-day journey of intensive dance training with Hollywood’s elite choreographers and offers first-hand guidance on what it takes to make it as a professional dancer in Hollywood. “The Experience” in Hollywood will feature special guest appearances including, JoJo Wright (KIIS FM DJ), JesseLee Santos (performed with Britney Spears, Madonna & Alicia Keys), Omar Epps (celebrity actor, singer, songwriter and record producer) and a special musical performance from recording artist and dancer Colby O’Donis. The Music Box is at 6126 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles. Tickets for “The Experience” are available for purchase at http://millenniumdancecomplex.com/main/th eexperience/.

02/11 - 03/11

happening these months

EARTH, WIND & FIRE (CAL STATE FULLERTON) — Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Earth, Wind & Fire will headline Cal State Fullerton’s Front & Center 2011 for an evening in sync with the Grammy-winning group’s hit single “Let’s Groove.” The soul, funk and R&B group’s gold and platinum albums feature such hits as “Boogie Wonderland,” “Singasong,” “Shining Star” and “September.” The event will take place Feb. 19, 8 p.m, at the Honda Center, Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim. Baritone Jubilant Sykes will serve as master of ceremonies of the 16th annual event. A Cal State University, Fullerton Class of ’79 music graduate, Sykes was a 2010 Grammy Award nominee for Best Classical Recording. Known to Hollywood Bowl audiences, he has been a featured soloist with many of the world’s most prominent orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, London Symphony, Boston Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Chicago Symphony and Los Angeles Philharmonic. From Carnegie Hall to the New Orleans Jazz Festival, Sykes has performed at hundreds of major venues. Joining him on stage at the Honda Center will be student performers from the university’s College of the Arts. More information: www.fullerton.edu/frontandcenter.

Photo by Thomas Andersen

2-20-11 TRIBUTE (STEVE MOYER PR) — The Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center will present “A Tribute To Billie Holiday,” in celebration of Black History Month, starring jazz pianist and vocalist Corky Hale, Billie Holiday’s pianist, as well as performances by jazz

s Photo by Bobby Collin

Tricia Tahara

vocalists Barbara Morrison and Tricia Tahara. Karl Vincent will be featured on bass. The event will take place Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. and include some video footage of Hale being interviewed by a television crew about working with Holiday. The performance will be at the Barbara Morrison

www.lawattstimes.com 15

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Photo by Tony Maddox

Barbara Morrison

(CAAM) on Feb. 20 at 2 p.m. A book signing will follow. CAAM is at 600 State Drive, Los Angeles. More information: (213) 744-2024, www.caamuseum.org.

only. More information: (562) 467-8818, www.cerritoscenter.com. The center is at 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. More information: (562) 467-8818.

2-26-11

ONGOING

BOOK SIGNING, DISCUSSION (AC BILBREW LIBRARY) — A book signing and discussion featuring Francella Henderson, author of “Hidden Secrets About Black History, Vol. 1,” will take place Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. The program is free and open to the public. AC Bilbrew Library is at 150 E. El Segundo Blvd., Los Angeles. More information: (310) 538-3350, option 5.

“WENCH” (SANTA MONICA PUBLIC LIBRARY) — Santa Monica Citywide Reads, a community reading program that invites everyone in Santa Monica to read and discuss the same novel in book discussions and special events held throughout the city, will take place Feb. 14 to March 12. This year, Citywide Reads celebrates its ninth anniversary with the featured book “Wench” by Dolen Perkins-Valdez. “Wench” was borne out of the author’s musings on why, when presented with the possibility of becoming free, some slaves would run, while others would choose to stay with their masters. “Wench” was recently nominated for Best Novel and Best First Novel at the NAACP Image Awards, and debuted at No. 16 on The New York Times’ Trade Paperback Best Sellers chart. Citywide Reads will have several public discussions led by a facilitator, including one on Feb. 19, 12:30 p.m., at First AME Church, 1823 Michigan Ave. The Citywide Reads blog, www.santamonicacitywidereads.blogspot.com, contains

A CONVERSATION (LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS) — Sandy Bourne, a former executive director of

up-to-date and in-depth information about the book, author, and special events, and provides community members an opportunity to respond to the book and programs, and to start a dialogue with others. More information: (310) 458-8600, www.smpl.org/cwr, www.santamonicacitywidereads.blogspot.com. FREE LECTURES — Lectures by Dr. Maulana Karenga will be given at the African American Cultural Center throughout February, from 3 to 5 p.m., in light of Black History Month. The lectures include: “The Reaffirmation of our Africanness and Social Justice Tradition in the Sixties” on Feb. 20; and “Current Times and Challenges” on Feb. 27. The center is at 3018 W. 48th St., Los Angeles. Information, registration: (323) 299-6124.

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., L.A., CA 90008. All calendar items are received from various senders and are subject to being edited.

AND

Photo courtesy of Ray Avery

(l to r) Billie Holiday and Corky Hale

enter today

PRESENTS

AFTERNOON WITH GARY HARDWICK (LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS) — Writer and director Gary Hardwick will discuss his new novel “Dark Town Redemption” at California African American Museum

Poetry

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONTEST

Submit a poem of 100 words or less!

MAYA ANGELOU 1928 - Present

Contestants ages 7-18 are welcomed to enter.

3-4-11 SPAMALOT (CITY OF CERRITOS) — The Tony winner for Best Musical, “Spamalot,” will be at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) from March 4 to 6. The March 4 show will take place at 8 p.m., while the one on the 5th takes place at 2 and 8 p.m. The March 6 event will begin at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $28 to $67 and are available at the CCPA ticket office and www.cerritoscenter.com. People interested in attending can also call (562) 467-8818. This show contains strong language and adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences

Top Prize $500 - 4 winners will be selected to receive special prizes and featured in the Sentinel and L.A. Watts Times.

LOS ANGELES SENTINEL 3800 S. CRENSHAW BLVD. LOS ANGELES, CA 90008

(323) 299-3800 Remember to please include name, age, address, email address, and phone number with your poetry submission. The deadline for contest and all entries is Feb. 28, 2011. Submissions are to be made to: Attn: Brian Carter or Tracy Mitchell, or by e-mail to brian@lasentinel.net or tracy@lasentinel.net (Subject: BHM Poetry Contest). Good Luck and let's remember our history together!

S P O N S O R S

UNFINISHED BATTLE (FREEDOM SOCIALIST PARTY) — A discussion about the “Unfinished Battle for Quality Public Schools” will take place Feb. 20, 2 p.m., at Solidarity Hall, 2170 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles. Education proponents will highlight the role of freed slaves in winning free, integrated public schools for the first time in U.S. history during the post-Civil War reconstruction era. A southern-style dinner, with a vegetarian option, will be served at 4:30 p.m. for a $10 donation, and there is a sliding scale for those who have a low income, as well as the unemployed. Information: (323) 732-6416, fspla@earthlink.net, www.socialism.com.

the Pasadena Enterprise Center, will interview businessman, attorney, author and newspaper publisher Joe C. Hopkins at the California African American Museum on Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. Hopkins is owner of the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley News Journal, founder of the Pasadena/Atlanta Black Lawyer Association, and president of the West Coast Publishers Association. This event is free and open to the public. The museum is at 600 State Drive, Los Angeles. More information: (213) 7442024, www.caamuseum.org.

2011

Performing Arts Center in Leimert Park, 4305 Degnan Blvd., suite 101. Tickets are $25 each and may be purchased by calling the box office at (310) 330-0178. People can also buy tickets at www.barbaramorrison.com.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

ANGELS WALK AMONG US

How unwavering faith in angels can assist you in unstable times BY THE REV. JOSEPH OLOIMOOJA Personally, I believe in angels. I’ve experienced quite a few angelic intercessions in my life and ministry, and so believe firmly that angels do exist. In each instance, I felt overwhelming gratitude for my angel’s help, and fortunate to be the recipient of such awesome, generous blessings. However, in my mind, as well as in the minds of many others, the question arises as to why these guardian angels do not intercede more often in our lives? Wouldn’t we love it if they did? And aren’t there numerous occasions when we feel that we certainly could use a guardian angel right now, and where is he? It sure feels disappointing when nothing and no one shows up, and we have to muddle through on our own. At such times, most of us have a tendency to lose faith, as well as wonder if we simply had not imagined the prior angelic help in the first place. So the question comes back to why angels do not intercede more

The Rev. Joseph Oloimooja often. I think there is more than one answer to this question. For one thing, I believe we are always heard. No prayer or plea ever goes unnoticed. However, on many occasions, when I felt abandoned, it was only with the passage of time that I was able to look back and see connections between certain events. I came to see how what felt

like a hardship had to occur in order for some other fortuitous event to result, thus realizing that God had, indeed, stepped in. And invariably I would become extremely grateful. My faith was renewed once again. Also, be aware that the angels are never permitted to interfere with our choices. We humans have the option of choice at all times. So if we sincerely pray for help, and then go ahead and decide on our own to take a specific action, the angels cannot interfere with that, no matter whether our choice of action was a good one or a bad one. That’s why the best prayers are when we let go, do nothing, and just simply surrender to God’s will. At these times, we are more likely to see prayers favorably answered, and maybe even realize an angelic intercession. We have not been put in this world as hapless, helpless beings, without help to survive and prosper. As I stated above, we have a lot more at our disposal than we often are willing to acknowledge. Another matter to consider See ANGELS WALK AMONG US, page 18

w w w . l a w a t t s t i m e s . c o m

Person of the Week: Valeisha Butterfield

Business tycoon transforms racial controversy into righteous conglomerate BY STEPHEN D. RILEY SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPERS Controversial radio host Don Imus infamously outraged sections of the Black community on April 4, 2007, when he shrewdly called members of the Rutgers University basketball team “nappy-headed hos” during a live broadcast. Coincidentally, one of the components that Imus unknowingly angered was the executive director of the Hip Hop Summit Action Network, led by rap mogul Russell Simmons. Emerging from the fallout of Imus’ remarks, Valeisha Butterfield, the network’s executive director at the time, then hosted a meeting at her house featuring some of the most powerful Black women working in media to come up with a counterpunch to Imus’ verbal onslaught. That same year, Women in Valeisha Butterfield Entertainment Empowerment Network (WEEN) was born. Butterfield, co-founder of WEEN, has successfully created a coalition that stretches to more than 43,000 young women worldwide. WEEN hosts programs year round designed to educate women in the areas of health, financial literacy, career development, and personal advancement. The company recently celebrated its three-year anniversary and will host its first Ween Summer Academy where 60 women will undergo a sixweek crash course in the entertainment business that will acclimate them to an industry of which most are begging to be a part. Butterfield’s vision has exploded before her very eyes into a growing movement. But, it was a vision that successfully grew despite a controversial comment that helped unite the African-American community. “From that meeting we decided that something had to be done and one day I decided to put my foot down and make a stand,” Butterfield said. “As a woman who worked in the business, I felt like it was my responsibility and my obligation to do my part to create more balance in the way women, like me, are portrayed in the media.” WEEN’s achievements haven’t totally caught the self-assured Butterfield by surprise, but it is a feat the soon-to-be 33-year-old Wilson, N.C. native is most proud of. “It’s amazing because not only has it been successful but it’s gotten a lot of exposure,” Butterfield admits. “With exposure you have to have substance and it was important for me to make sure we were backing up all this access that we had with real programs that touched young women in a real way.” After working with Simmons and now the driving force behind WEEN, Butterfield has also applied her services to working with President Barack Obama as the deputy director of public affairs for the International Trade Administration in the U.S. Department of Commerce. She has also served as the director of diversity for the national office of the Alzheimer’s Association. With a laundry list of duties and accomplishments firmly in her pocket, Butterfield’s drive earned her a spot in Essence magazine’s Top 40 executives under 40 for 2010. When asked about her many accolades, Butterfield alluded to her personal secret: “Having no fear,” she revealed. “As kids we have no fear and as we become adults we kind of, you know, over think and over analyze everything. I’ve always jumped in feet first.” To find out more information on Valeisha Butterfield and the Ween Summer Academy visit www.weenonline.org.

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

Young people falling behind economically BY MARIAN WRIGHT EDELMAN NNPA COLUMNIST While there is a lot of talk today about jobs, there has been far too little attention paid to the job prospects of young people. A new report prepared for the Children’s Defense Fund shows young people have lost more ground economically than any other age group during the last three decades. Dr. Andrew Sum, professor and director of the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University, and his colleagues paint a grim economic picture for the futures of young workers and young families, and Black young people and young families fare the worst. The widening income inequality and declining real incomes of young Black families with children raise serious questions about the economic and social futures of their children. The American Dream for poor young people and their children is vanishing on our watch. Why does employment for these young people matter so much? The researchers have pointed out that what might seem like “just” a first job is much more important: early work experience is a form of “human capital investment” that influences the future employment and annual earnings of young adults. But, employment rates for teens and young adults often decline at above average rates during economic recessions and jobless recoveries. The number of teens and young adults ages 16 to 29 who were “underutilized” in the labor market grew substantially between 2000 and 2010. These are young people who were unemployed (jobless but actively looking and available for work); not actively looking for work (but still wanting to work); or underemployed (in part time jobs but wanting to work full time). Black young adults, and especially Black males, had the highest labor underutilization rates, at 40 percent and 43 percent respectively. As the Children’s Defense Fund re-launches the Black Community Crusade for Children to strengthen our children’s futures, these vanishing employment opportunities are one part of the huge crisis for which we need to find solutions. Dr. Sum and his colleagues found the young people who need applied work experience most were

the least likely to receive it, with negative consequences for their own future school retention, employability,

Marian Wright Edelman

wages, and earnings. Between 2007 and 2010, the number of young people 16 to 29 officially unemployed rose by nearly 80 percent. Education levels make an enormous difference in the employability of young people. Black high school dropouts 16 to 29 were four and a half times as likely to be underutilized as Black young people in the same age group with master’s or higher degrees. Employment rates of the nation’s 20-24 year olds ranged from a low of 49 of every 100 high school dropouts to a high of 85 of every 100 bachelor’s degree holders. The deteriorating labor market has also resulted in another problem — a rise in “mal-employment” among young college graduates, meaning more of them are holding jobs in occupations that don’t require much schooling beyond high school. And, this ultimately hurts younger and less educated workers too, as malemployed college graduates often displace their less educated peers from these jobs. These gaps based on educational attainment widened between 2000 and 2010, reducing the opportunity for young adults without post secondary schooling to form households, marry, and support their children in young families. Along with the decline in employment opportunities, family in-

come inequality has risen for young families, and the median real incomes of young families have declined — once again, taking an especially great toll on young Black families. The median income for young Black families in 2009 was slightly under $20,000 — a decline of 24 percent over the last three decades, and only 45 percent of the level for White families. Once again, education levels mattered: the median family incomes of young Black families ranged from under $9,000 when the family householder did not have a high school diploma to $17,000 for high school graduates and to nearly $65,000 for those headed by a householder with an advanced degree. Overall, 55 percent of young Black families with children were either poor or near poor, and nearly three-fourths were low-income. Three of every four single mother families with a head lacking a high school diploma were poor in 2009. The gap in young families’ income has risen so dramatically that children in the bottom half of the distribution are falling backwards. What does all of this mean? It means no discussion of continued economic recovery and how to add jobs can be complete without a special focus on how to help young workers — and no discussion on ending child poverty or securing the futures of our nation’s children, especially Black children, can be complete without special attention to the economic status of young families. Creating more employment opportunities for younger workers and making sure young people graduate from high school and move on to higher education are essential to address the needs of young families and their children. Their children’s economic and social futures depend on it. To read the full report, “Deteriorating Employment Rates and Incomes Threaten the Future of Young Workers and Young Families: Black Young People and Young Families Fare the Worst,” visit the Black Community Crusade for Children’s Web page. Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund, whose Leave No Child Behind mission is to ensure every child a healthy start, a head start, a fair start, a safe start and a moral start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www.childrensdefense.org.

Unemployment dropping for everyone but Black folks BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA COLUMNIST The first Friday of every month is the time when we learn what is happening with the prior month’s employment. Many are excited that in a two month period the unemployment rate dropped from 9.8 percent in November to 9.0 percent in January. Good news? Not really. Only 36,000 new jobs were created. The unemployment rate drop is mostly a function of people dropping out of the labor market. More importantly for those who concern me, the Black unemployment has scarcely changed. So while the overall unemployment rate is down, the Black unemployment rate has held constant at 15.7 percent. The old adage of last hired, first fired holds true. African Americans are not really participants in this so-called economic recovery. If any other community had these recalcitrant rates, we could expect a targeted program to improve or fix the matter. African Americans, however, have been ignored by public policy, being relegated to the “suck it up” school of development. African-American workers have had no opportunity to experience this so-called recovery. We are out of luck, out of line, at the periphery of the employment situation. So there are a group of Republicans that have come to Washington shooting for bear. They want to cut government spending. They think that their cuts will create jobs. But, there are no jobs, not for African Americans, and few jobs for others. To be sure, employment creation is a lagging indicator, and we won’t see the real results of economic recovery for months after it has actually occurred. At the same time, it is most discouraging to see unemployment rates drop while African American unemployment rates stay high. African-American workers have been sitting at the periphery of this economic recovery for more than three yeas. People want to call our world post-racial, but there is no post racialism in these high unemployment rates. Indeed, the fact that recovery does not trickle down means that President Obama must take time to look at what is happening with African American workers. Congressman Jim Clyburn (DSC) says that recovery funds need to be targeted to those communities that have the greatest burden of recession. Communities with more than 20 percent unemployment should get 10 percent of the recovery funds that are provided for the next 30 years. He calls it the 10-20-

30 plan, an opportunity for specific communities to roar back from recession. I call it a good idea. It’s not enough. It is to post

Julianne Malveaux racial to be post racial. It suggests that distressed communities are the only communities that need help. It takes race away, when race is so much there, when African Americans are sitting, like little children, with their noses to the glass wall of economic recovery. The data suggest that other communities are recovering. The reality is that the AfricanAmerican community is not. Here is how it shows up for me — students who are excellent, exceptional and qualified cannot find work because there is little work out there for them. They do what they can to participate in the economy using entrepreneurship to create income producing situations for themselves. Still, they want work that provides benefits — health insurance and sick leave, especially. These jobs just are not there. If they owe Bennett College a balance, they cannot pay it much as they want to. They can’t pay because they just aren’t earning the dollars. Yet accreditors will look at our college’s balances and say that there is a problem, that students failing to pay means that we have not done due diligence. What diligence can we offer when the unemployment rate is so high? What dollars can we collect when the dollars are not there? Our nation’s high unemployment rate reverberates. People are struggling and this struggling is unaddressed. Many will applaud the drop in the unemployment rate. Who will remind us that the Black unemployment rate remains at a crisis-level high? Julianne Malveaux is president to Bennett College for Women. Her most recent book, “Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History,” can be ordered at lastwordprod.com.

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Trustee Sale # CA0956023-1 Loan# 1010304523 Order # 090646981 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 07/18/2007. 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 02/25/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 07/26/2007 as Document No. 20071765323 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, ROSALBA ALVAREZ, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN, as Trustor, J & R LENDING, 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 # 5016-034-008 LOT 8 IN BLOCK 4 OF TRACT NO. 401, IN THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 15 PAGE(S) 106 AND 107 OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. THE LATEST TAX ROLL INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM THE COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR SHOWS THE SITUS ADDRESS OF SAID LAND AS 1515 W. 51st STREET, LOS ANGELES,CA The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1515-1517 W 51ST ST & 5040-5042 DENKER AVENUE, LOS ANGELES, CA 90062 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: $573,651.51 (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. 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: 02/03/2011 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 #9541 2011-02-03 2011-02-10 2011-02-17 Trustee Sale No. CA09002183-10-1 . Title Order No. 100660582CA-LPI Loan No. 1010632451 APN 4204-019-036 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED October 31, 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 March 14, 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 November 6, 2007, as Instrument No. 20072488853 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: MICHELLE ZETINAA SINGLE WOMAN, as Trustor, in favor of INDYMAC BANK, F.S.B., A FEDERALLY CHARTERED SAVINGS BANK 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: 3623 KALSMAN DRIVE NO1, LOS ANGELES, CA 90016 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 $362,986.94 (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: February 17, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09002183-10-1 . 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

Thursday, February 17, 2011 indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. Regarding the property that is the subject of this notice of sale, the "mortgage loan servicer" as defined in Civil Code s 2923.53(k)(3) declares that it has obtained from the Commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Civil Code section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date this notice of sale is recorded or the time frame for giving a notice of sale specified in Civil Code Section 2923.52 subdivision (a) does not apply to this notice of sale pursuant to Civil Code Sections 2923.52. Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature TRUSTEE CORPS IS A DEBT COLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Ad #9679 2011-02-17 2011-02-24 2011-03-03 Trustee Sale No. CA7000045-09-1 . Title Order No. 090809074CA-GTI Loan No. 1010710331 APN 5186-007-003 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED November 20, 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 March 4, 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 November 30, 2007, as Instrument No. 20072632247 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: JOSE ALVARO DE JESUS A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, in favor of INDYMAC BANK, F.S.B., A FEDERALLY CHARTERED SAVINGS BANK 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: 441 S BERNAL AVE, LOS ANGELES, CA 90063 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 $431,729.71 (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: February 10, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA7000045-09-1 . 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. Regarding the property that is the subject of this notice of sale, the "mortgage loan servicer" as defined in Civil Code s 2923.53(k)(3) declares that it has obtained from the Commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Civil Code section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date this notice of sale is recorded or the time frame for giving a notice of sale specified in Civil Code Section 2923.52 subdivision (a) does not apply to this notice of sale pursuant to Civil Code Sections 2923.52. Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature TRUSTEE CORPS IS A DEBT COLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Ad #9774 2011-02-10 2011-02-17 2011-02-24

CITY OF LOS ANGELES $75,000 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 $75,000 for information leading to the identification and apprehension of the person or persons responsible for the act of murder against, ROBERT NELSON AND DRAYVON JAMES, in the City of Los Angeles. On Tuesday, August 25, 2009, at approximately 8:00 p.m., 16year old Robert Nelson and 24-year old Drayvon James were standing in front of 10107 South Main Street, in Los Angeles, when they saw a vehicle stop and park in front of 10101 South Main Street. An unknown suspect exited the vehicle, produced a handgun, and without provocation, shot and killed both Nelson and James. Los Angeles Police Department reports that although neither Nelson nor James, were gang members, they were most likely mistaken for gang members by the assailant. LAPD is still searching for the suspect(s) and encourages witnesses to come forward, even anonymously, to assist them in their investigation. 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, AUGUST 15, 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. 10-0010-s12 2/17/11 CNS-2043421# WATTS TIMES $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, CESAR GARCIA, in the City of Los Angeles. On Monday, August 10, 2009, at approximately 5:50 p.m., Cesar Garcia, a 25-year old male, was riding his bike in front of 606 West 81st Street

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20110020225 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice, 3500 W. Manchester Blvd., #309, Inglewood, CA 90305, County of Los Angeles Registered owner(s): Kol Harrell, 3500 W. Manchester Blvd., #309, Inglewood, CA 90305 Kayl Harrell, 3500 W. Manchester Blvd., #309, Inglewood, CA 90305 This business is conducted by a General Partnership The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on NA I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/ Kol Harrell, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on January 5, 2011 NOTICE-In accordance with Subdivision (a) of

NFL LABOR NEGOTIATIONS Continued from page 12

official to argue against a lockout. Goodell, meanwhile, indicated in an op-ed piece that the 2011 regular season could be in jeopardy if the league and union don’t start “serious negotiations” toward a new CBA soon. “The hard work to secure the next NFL season must now accelerate in earnest,” Goodell wrote in the piece, which has been run by more than 30 newspapers or websites since last week and was posted Tuesday on NFLlabor.com.

ANGELS WALK AMONG US Continued from page 16

when you are feeling abandoned by your guardian angels is the matter of control. We love maintaining control over what is happening or will happen. This tie in with the subject of choice, as discussed above. If we are praying for an answer, but feel that we need to take control and do something on our own in order to resolve the problem, then it is very unlikely that an angelic intercession will occur. Again, the best prayers are when we let go and let God. So, these may be some of the reasons our angels does not show up as often as we would like. Bear in mind that the works of the angels are to protect, comfort and guide. They are not to take charge of our lives and make decisions for us. That may happen, usually when you least expect it, and usually in a situation where you require supernatural intercession. But certainly this is not something to be expected all the time. Keep in mind that you always have angels all around you who

when he was approached by an unknown Hispanic male. The unknown male shot and killed Garcia, then fled the scene. LAPD is still searching for the suspect(s) and encourages witnesses to come forward, even anonymously, to assist them in their investigation. 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, AUGUST 11, 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. 10-0010-s6 2/17/11 CNS-2041223# WATTS TIMES

know of you and who love you. There are three ways to know for sure that an Angel has come to call: 1. You’ll feel a calm and peaceful serenity descending over you, even when the Angel is not seen. 2. Their messages are always along the lines of “fear not,” “don’t worry,” “things are working out perfectly,” “you’re going to like this,” and “wait.” Never once do you hear an Angel trumpeting bad news. 3. You will “remember” what you have seen or heard or felt, and you’re never quite the same again. The Rev. Joseph is a board-certified chaplain and holds Masters of Divinity degree from the International Theological Seminary in Los Angeles. He has been an ordained episcopal priest for 12 years, and he is the director for spiritual care services at Kaiser Permanente South bay Medical center and the pastor of Christ the God Shepherd Episcopal Church in Los Angeles.

He said he “cannot emphasize enough the importance of reaching agreement by” the expiration of the old CBA. Goodell also said owners need more money to offset “costs of financing, building, maintaining and operating stadiums.” He added: "We need new stadiums in Los Angeles, Minneapolis, San Francisco, Oakland and San Diego.” And in yet another letter, the advocacy group Sports Fan Coalition wrote Tuesday to the NFL and union, asking that its leadership be allowed to listen in on bargaining sessions between the sides. “We are not asking for a seat at the negotiating table — although we believe fans deserve one — but merely to be present in the room,” the letter said, “so that we may inform fans across the country about the state of ongoing negotiations and ensure that progress is being made towards an agreement that ensures a central consideration of fans.”

Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration. 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). Original 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17/11 CNS-2033453# WATTS TIMES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20110112095 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Youth Builder Enterprises, 2. Y.B. Enterprises, 4242 Fairway Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043, County of Los Angeles Registered owner(s): Phillip A. Downing, 4242 Fairway Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 1/20/11 I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) S/ Phillip A. Downing, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on January 20, 2011 NOTICE-In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration. 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). New Filings 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17/11 CNS-2031194# WATTS TIMES

The biggest issue separating the owners and players is how to divide about $9 billion in annual revenues. Under the old deal, the owners receive $1 billion off the top, and they want to increase that to $2 billion before players get their share. Among the other significant points in negotiations: the owners' push to expand the regular season from 16 games to 18 while reducing the preseason by two games; a rookie wage scale; and benefits for retired players. The NFL and union went more than two months without holding any formal bargaining sessions, until a meeting Feb. 5, the day before the Super Bowl. The sides met again once last week but called off a second meeting that had been scheduled for the following day. The most recent deal was signed in 2006, but owners exercised an opt-out clause in 2008. Associated Press Writer Bill Draper in Kansas City, Mo., contributed to this report.

URBAN DRIVER Continued from page 9

suspension, makes the Cruze put the driver at ease knowing that they can get any place in a hurry. SAFETY & SECURITY Chevrolet wanted the Cruze to be as safe as it could be, thanks to a 4-wheel ABS system, Dual front, and dual rear side mounted airbags, child seat anchors, passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation, and post collusion safety system, can put the driver and it’s passengers at ease. Matched with stability control, traction control, and electronic

brake force distribution, and Airbag deployment notification makes the Cruze an ultimately safe individual feel that they will not only have a fun time while riding the Cruze but they will have a safe time. Lastly, the Cruze is the midsize sedan that car enthusiast have been waiting for in a small car with incredible gas mileage, 24/city and 36/Freeway, it also has the entertainment, and performance that can make it a ultimate must buy for any everyday driver.

www.lawattstimes.com 19

Thursday, February 17, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS STATEWIDE

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (Metro) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Metro will receive proposals for PS11643055 - Herman Miller/Geiger Space Planning/Installation Services and Furniture per specifications on file at the LACMTA Office of Procurement & Material Mgmt, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (12th Floor). All proposals must be received on or before February 28, 2011, 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time at the address listed above, sent to the attention of Jean Davis. Proposals received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the proposer unopened. You may obtain a copy of the RFP, or further information, by faxing Jean Davis at (213) 922-1005.

JOBS CRISIS Continued from page 8

with fewer and fewer workers. That means that more and more skilled and even highly skilled workers, like the worker mentioned above, have become surplus labor. To put it bluntly, some significant number may never again regain the income and status of their previous jobs — if they ever again work at a stable job at all. What is now happening to millions of American workers has a bitter resonance in the recent history of Black America. In the 1960s and 1970s, the inexorable disappearance of industrial jobs that required only a high school diploma, and the movement of many other jobs out of the cities — out of “transportation reach” — to suburbia (today, for American workers as a whole it’s the movement of jobs to foreign shores), along with the persistence of discrimination which made many jobs from the lowest to the highest rungs of the occupational ladder “off-limits” to Blacks, set seemingly in concrete the social structure of

Black American society today: a highly-credentialed “opportunity class” that is doing well co-exists with a sizeable, and now growing, segment who seem to be locked in poverty. That dynamic is why the Black unemployment rate for every category of Black workers from those who are school dropout to those with advanced degrees has always been nearly double that of Whites at the comparable level. Today, for example, while the White unemployment rate is 8.0 percent, the Black unemployment rate remains in its usual place of being the highest of all the racial and ethnic groups at 15.7 percent. In many communities, and for particular groups of African Americans, the crisis of joblessness is even worse. For example, a new report from the Community Service Society, of New York City, found that in Gotham from 2009 to mid2010, only one in four Black males aged 16 to 24 had a job and that the

NAT ‘KING’ COLE Continued from page 13

have been remastered for release on iTunes beginning Tuesday. Cole was the first AfricanAmerican to star in a network variety program and he attracted a constellation of major black singers and musicians as guests, including Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Sammy Davis Jr. and Cab Calloway. Mel Torme, Peggy Lee and Tony Bennett were among the white performers who appeared. “I knew these TV shows were too important to have something happen to them, so that’s why I held on them all these years,” Maria Cole said in a statement. “Nat never looked or sounded better in those shows. It’s just a shame that the show lasted just a little more than a year.” At least 25 episodes will be released, four a month, with a suggested retail price of $1.99 an episode for download and 99 cents an episode for video on demand or rental. Some videos will be available for sale. Not all the show’s 64 original episodes have survived, according to a project spokesman. Cole, who started as a jazz pianist, was a smoothly elegant vocalist who became a pop star in the

1940s. His hit songs included “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa” and “Walking My Baby Back Home.” But viewers and advertisers snubbed his TV show, which debuted in November 1956. NBC kept it on the air despite low ratings and lack of national sponsors but it ended in December 1957. “Madison Avenue is afraid of the dark,” Cole is quoted as saying later about advertisers’ racial skittishness. TV historians have noted that variety shows hosted by other celebrated singers, including Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, were also short-lived in TV’s early years. But there was clearly an entrenched resistance to shows with black stars. It would be close to a decade before other series featuring African Americans, including “I Spy” with Bill Cosby and “Julia” with Diahann Carroll, gained a place on network TV, and the medium still has an uneven grasp on ethnic diversity. Cole died in 1965 at age 45. His daughter, Natalie Cole, recorded a Grammy-winning tribute album to her dad in 1991 that included a version of “Unforgettable” combining her voice with his recording of the song.

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overall Black unemployment rate of 14.9 percent was more than twice that of Whites. The racial disparity also showed itself in the predicament of those out of work more than 26 weeks. Among the long-term unemployed, 30 percent were out of work for more than a year; but 40 percent of all Black jobless New Yorkers had been out of work for more than a year. The data about New York City are part of a welter of statistics showing, as a report from the Center for American Progress, a liberal-

leaning think tank based in Washington, D.C., states, “All U.S. households were severely hurt by the recession but communities of color experienced larger losses than Whites. This also means that, as the economic recovery deepens and the labor market recovers, communities of color will have to climb out of a deeper hole to regain the same level of economic security as they had before the crisis.” The report identified three policy directives that are needed to pave a road to recovery: the enact-

ment of policies that ensure those at the lower rungs of the socio-economic ladder are able to regain solid economic footing; specific proposals to help communities of color, because they are most in need of aid; and, finally, the pursuit of policies that reduce the extraordinary degree of income inequality in the society. Lee A. Daniels is Director of Communications for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., and Editor-in-Chief of TheDefendersOnline.

for work, and has not received any offers from USDA. “I’m not employed and no one’s offered me a job anywhere, so I don’t know where to look at this point,” she said in a telephone interview. “I’m just trying to survive.” A statement on Breitbart’s website said he was sued but did not mention Sherrod by name. The statement said he is “confident of being fully vindicated.” “Mr. Breitbart categorically rejects the transparent effort to chill his constitutionally protected free speech,” the statement said. Breitbart’s original posting showed clips of a March 2010 speech to an NAACP group in which Sherrod talked about her reluctance to help a white farmer who came to her for help more than two decades ago when she worked at a farm aid nonprofit group. She said the man was acting “superior” to her and she debated

whether to help him. “I was struggling with the fact that so many black people had lost their farmland, and here I was faced with helping a white person save their land,” Sherrod said in the speech. “I didn’t give him the full force of what I could do.” Breitbart said at the time that the video showed the NAACP condoning racist comments from a government official. What was cut from the video was that Sherrod was telling a story of racial reconciliation, telling the audience how she eventually became friends with the farmer and helped him save his land from foreclosure. His situation, she said, “opened my eyes” that Whites were struggling just like Blacks, and helping farmers wasn’t so much about race but was “about the poor versus those who have.” “We have to overcome the divisions that we have,” she said.

SHERROD SUES Continued from page 5

Shirley Sherrod said Monday that she is “still reeling” after she was ousted in a racial firestorm in July. USDA officials asked Sherrod to resign after blogger Andrew Breitbart posted an edited video of comments she had made in a speech. Sherrod, who is Black, appeared in the video to be saying she was reluctant to help a white farmer, but the parts that were cut revealed she was not. She later received numerous apologies from the administration, including from President Barack Obama, and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack asked her to return. She declined the offer, but said at the time she might do some contract work with the department. Sherrod referred questions about the lawsuit to her lawyer, who did not immediately return a call for comment. The suit was filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. Sherrod said she is still looking

20

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Thursday, February 17, 2011

MEDAL OF FREEDOM Continued from page 6

time. Since 1987, John Lewis has continued his service to the nation as the U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th District, which encompasses all of Atlanta. From his activism in the civil rights movement to serving 25 years in U.S. House of Representatives, he rose with fortitude and purpose to organize during the civil rights movement.” Lewis received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his pursuit of equality and justice for all. Basketball great Bill Russell was voted the National Basketball Association Most Valuable Player five times. He was the first AfricanAmerican coach in national sports.

He is known to be a staunch advocate for civil rights. “When Bill Russell was in junior high school he got cut from his basketball team. He learned from that. He was the first African American to coach a major league sports team of any sort,” said Obama. “More than any athlete of his time, he is defined as a winner. When asked if he was a basketball player, he’d reply, “That’s what I do, not who I am. I am a man who plays basketball.” He endured insults and vandalism as a professional Black basketball player and coach. However, through it all he focused on making his teammates better players.” Bill Russell marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,

Medal in 2008. “Dr. Maya Angelou, out of youth marked by pain and injustice, rose to fight for civil rights. Through soaring poetry and prose she has spoken to the conscience of our nation,” said President Obama. The President bent down to kiss Dr. Angelou on the cheek after putting the Medal of Freedom around her neck. During the President’s speech, he said Dr. Angelou had such an impression on his mother, she named her daughter Maya. Dr. Angelou received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her poetry and activism. The complete list of the 2010 Presidential Medal of Freedom award recipients is as follows: for-

and has been a consistent advocate of equality. Russell received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his efforts which helped to change the culture of a sport and the course of a nation. Dr. Angelou’s words and actions continue to stir our souls, energize our bodies, liberate our minds, and heal our hearts. Angelou, a prominent and celebrated author, poet, educator, producer, actress, filmmaker, and civil rights activist, is currently the Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Dr. Angelou served on two presidential committees, and was awarded the Presidential Medal for the Arts in 2000 and the Lincoln

mer President George H. W. Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Congressman John Lewis, Natural Resources Defense Council cofounder John Adams, poet and activist Maya Angelou (WinstonSalem NC native), Industrialist and Philanthropist Warren Buffet, Artist Jasper Johns, Civil rights activist Sylvia Mendez, VSA founder and former Ambassador to Ireland Jean Kennedy Smith, Holocaust survivor and activist Gerda Weissmann Klein, Dr. Tom Little (posthumous) who was killed in Afghanistan, Musician/cellist Yo-Yo Ma, former Boston Celtic basketball player Bill Russell, Baseball Hall of Famer Stan Musial, and former AFL-CIO President John Sweeney.

Richard Vladovic Helped Create the First Teacher Prep Academy Mark Ridley-Thomas Supports Richard Vladovic for School Board. “I’m supporting Richard Vladovic for School Board because of programs like the Harbor Teacher Prep Academy. That’s the kind of improvement we need for our kids. “ Mark Ridley-Thomas, Supervisor, 2nd District, Los Angeles

Award-Winning School

With a shortage of teachers and growing class sizes, Richard Vladovic knew it was time for change. Vladovic helped create the first new high school in the harbor area in 40 years. This innovative new school prepares students to become teachers and provides access to college level courses for students acquiring degrees from a community college.

The Harbor Teacher Prep Academy has won numerous state and national awards for its curriculum and teaching. Vladovic’s leadership is the kind our kids need from the LAUSD board.

EDUCATION WORKERS UNITED Creating a Better Future for Ourselves, for our Children.

VOTE

First New School in 40 Years

Richard VLADOVIC FOR

LAUSD School Board

ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, MARCH 8TH

Paid for by Citizens for Better Schools in Support of Vladovic for Los Angeles Unified School District Board 2011 major funding by Service Employees International Union Local 99 and California State Council of Service Employees Small Contributor Committee. Not authorized by a candidate or committee controlled by a candidate.

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