LAWT-02-03-2011

W E E K E N D E R

L.A. Watts Times Vol. XXX, No. 1217

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

MO’NIQUE

EDDIE MURPHY

BILL COSBY

RICHARD PRYOR

CHRIS ROCK

MOMS MABLEY

REDD FOXX

WHOOPI GOLDBERG

DAVE CHAPPELLE

FEATURE STORY

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

HOROSCOPES A

RIES ~ You don’t have to worry about being alone in the journey that you have undertaken. You are on this path because someone guided you. Take the memory of their guidance as comfort and keep on trucking.

AURUS ~ Commit to a way this week, lucky archers! You are developing your craft by practice and more practice. Accept recognition gracefully, and keep on task.

You are investing in your art this week.

EMINI ~ Your word this week is “Persistence.” Keep at the task of persuading others that your idea or vision is as remarkable as you know it is. You just need to get the word out, and you need to be persistent in your efforts. Make a game out of it and have fun!

ANCER ~ Results that seemed like they would never show up may arrive this week, and it will make you very happy.

Keep the feeling this week in mind so that you’ll remember and benefit from it next time you are impatiently waiting for an outcome. Everything is working to your good.

EO ~ Your exciting and adventurous self will want to come out and play.

You’ll be happiest if you are exploring something, and then topping it off with a visit to a restaurant that serves something you’ve never tried before. Live it up at the banquet of life this week!

IRGO ~ Watch for that item you’ve been wanting to be on sale at a good price this week. While you are feeling pretty confident with money, you don’t want to splurge or overspend just yet. Keep your eye

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FEB. 3 - 9 out for bargains for a little while longer!

IBRA ~ It’s easy to take it easy! Just slow down and let each moment arrive at its own speed. You’ll get a lot done this week if you get in tune with the rhythm of the week. Each moment has its own beat.

Stay with it.

CORPIO ~ Change is near, and it’s going to be good. Clear your desk of pesky tasks this week and get your mind free to receive what life brings. Positive results help you feel even more positive.

AGITTARIUS ~ You are the boss of your week this week, so act like the leader you are and let the week follow you around. Your creativity is soaring; schedule enough time to get some of your brilliant ideas on paper.

APRICORN ~ A steady stream of opportunities is beaming your way, lucky you and they contain endless variations of possibilities. Wear your instincts like a rainbow colored coat this week and gather the good resources that you need.

QUARIUS ~ Some down time will work wonders for you this week.

You’ve been running fast with your projects, and now it’s time to slow it down. Try to spend time outdoors and with nature.

Enjoy!

ISCES ~ You’ll have lots of contact with folks you wanted to hear from this week. Your telephone is your best tool, and you’ll enjoy talking and listening to many supportive and loving friends. A letter may arrive with an invitation.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Egyptian military calls for end to demonstrations

BY MAGGIE MICHAEL ASSOCIATED PRESS CAIRO — The Egyptian military called Wednesday for an end to more than a week of demonstrations demanding President Hosni Mubarak step down immediately after nearly 30 years in power.

Mubarak’s embattled regime and the powerful military appeared to be making a unified push to end a street movement to drive out the 82year-old leader.

The declaration was a clear shift in the stand of the army, which gave a tacit endorsement to the movement on Monday by saying it would not use force against protesters, and that they had legitimate demands.

The emboldened protesters brought more than 250,000 people into Cairo’s main square Tuesday to demand Mubarak leave within days.

The president responded with a defiant statement pledging to finish out his term and serve seven more months in office.

The army’s message to the demonstrators Wednesday had a conciliatory tone, appealing to young protesters to stand down “out of love for Egypt.”

“You have started coming out to express your demands and you are the ones capable of returning normal life to Egypt,” military spokesman Ismail Etman said in an address on state television. “Your message has arrived, your demands have become known.”

Immediately after his statement, state television ran a scrolling message reading: “The armed forces call on the protesters to go home for the sake of bringing back stability.”

Internet service also began returning to Egypt after days of an unprecedented cutoff by the government, and state TV said authorities were easing a nighttime curfew, which now runs from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. instead of 3 p.m. to 8 a.m.

Several thousand pro-Mubarak demonstrators were rallying in sup-

AP Photo/Khalil Hamra

port of him in Cairo.

The movement against Mubarak is fueled by deep frustration with an autocratic regime blamed for ignoring the needs of the poor and allowing corruption and official abuse to run rampant.

After years of tight state control, protesters emboldened by unrest in Tunisia took to the streets on Jan. 25 and mounted a once-unimaginable series of protests across this nation of 80 million.

Mubarak who addressed the nation around 11 p.m. Tuesday said he would serve out the last months of his term and “die on Egyptian soil.” He promised not to seek re-election, but that did not calm public fury as clashes erupted in at least one city between his opponents and supporters.

Michael Weissenstein and Diaa Hadid contributed to this report.

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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.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Farmers Insurance and AEG agree to deal for L.A. stadium in effort to attract NFL Politicians, sports luminaries and organized labor celebrate reported $700 million naming rights agreement for proposed ‘Farmers Field.’ AEG executive says, ‘Our goal is to host Super Bowl 50’ in 2016.

BY MICHAEL BROWN CONTRIBUTING WRITER Hundreds crammed a theater in downtown L.A. during a press conference and celebration in light of a naming rights agreement to a new football stadium, struck between Farmers Insurance Exchange and Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) and reportedly worth $700 million over 30 years.

The crowd — comprised of media, politicians, former athletes, executives and organized labor — listened to

Photo by David Starkopf, Office of the Mayor

speakers Feb. 1 in the Los Angeles Convention Center’s West Hall. Interspersed were video montages, which displayed simulated images of the future “Farmers Field,” and speakers touted the potential economic benefits the stadium could bring to L.A. “This is a vision that’s been tried, tested and has worked,” AEG president Tim Leiweke said during the press conference.

He later added, “I promise this will be paid for completely and privately,” while he looked directly at Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. “There’s no hidden agenda. You’ve got my word on that.”

Leiweke said the deal was the largest naming rights agreement in history. He said the proposed 1.7-million-square-foot stadium would be located at the Convention Center’s

current West Hall, which would be demolished to make room.

AEG has asked the City of L.A. to issue $350 million in bonds to help build an extension to the Convention Center.

Leiweke insisted that taxpayers wouldn’t incur any costs and that AEG would “write an annual check to cover any financial shortfall the city experiences.”

A longtime opponent to using public funds to build a private stadium,

Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry said she considers a potential stadium to be downtown’s “very own stimulus package … (to) generate tax dollars our city desperately needs.” She added, “It’s based on a model that has already worked for my constituents (downtown), the Staples Center.”

L.A. City Councilwoman Janice Hahn said she has proposed that the city,

See NFL DEAL, page 14

I gave you love.

You gave me asthma.

Secondhand smoke can cause childhood asthma and other lung-related illnesses.

First5California.com/parents

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Gov. Brown urges lawmakers to allow special election In State of the State address, the governor urges voter action on extending tax increases

BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS SACRAMENTO — In the first State of the State speech of his new administration, Gov. Jerry Brown on Monday urged lawmakers to let California voters decide the direction of the state as it faces a gaping budget deficit, saying it would be “unconscionable” for them to block his request for a special election.

In a somber address to a joint session of the state Legislature, Brown again asked lawmakers to set aside their partisan differences for the good of California, which faces a $25.4 billion deficit through June 2012.

The Democratic governor has proposed a ballot measure this June that would ask voters to extend temporary increases in the states sales, income and vehicle taxes for five years, but Republicans have said they will not allow it to go before voters.

Brown noted the recent political upheaval in Tunisia and Egypt, saying the urge to vote had stirred the imagination of people there.

“My plan to rebuild California requires a vote of the people, and frankly I believe it would be irresponsible for us to exclude the people from this process,” Brown said. “They have a right to vote on this plan. This state belongs to all of us, not just those of us in this chamber. The voters deserve to be heard.”

The budget shortfall has overwhelmed all other issues since Brown took office at the beginning of January. Brown’s budget proposal includes about $12.5 billion in spending cuts and borrowing, in addition to the tax extensions and fees that are part of a plan to raise an additional $12 billion.

Even if his plan is adopted, it will leave little money to pay for a host of state programs. Interest

groups already have been lining up in protest over the expected loss of money, including mayors and other local elected officials who object to Brown’s plan to eliminate redevelopment agencies that divert local tax revenue to developers.

Brown said none of those who have opposed the cuts or taxes has offered credible alternatives.

The Legislature has until March to call the election, but GOP leaders have called the tax plan a “non-starter,” saying they are opposed to even putting the vote before the people. While Democrats are the majority party in the Assembly and Senate, some Republican support is needed to reach the two-thirds vote threshold to place the question on a ballot.

A California Public Policy Institute poll last week found that two-thirds of likely voters say they support Brown’s proposal for a special election.

AP Photo/Steve Yeater

Gov. Jerry Brown delivers his State of the State address during a joint session of the California Legislature at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 31, 2011.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Judge: Obama’s health overhaul unconstitutional

BY MELISSA NELSON AND RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR ASSOCIATED PRESS PENSACOLA, Fla. (AP) — A federal judge in Florida ruled Monday that President Barack Obama’s entire health care overhaul law is unconstitutional, placing even noncontroversial provisions under a cloud in a broad challenge that seems certain to be resolved only by the Supreme Court.

Faced with a major legal setback, the White House called the ruling by U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson — in a challenge to the law by 26 of the nation’s 50 states — “a plain case of judicial overreaching.” That echoed language the judge had used to describe the law as an example of Congress overstepping its authority.

The Florida judge’s ruling produced an even split in federal court decisions so far on the health care law, mirroring enduring divisions among the public.

Two judges had previously upheld the law, both Democratic appointees. A Republican appointee in Virginia had ruled against it.

The Justice Department quickly announced it would appeal, and administration officials declared that for now the

federal government and the states would proceed without interruption to carry out the law. It seemed evident that only the U.S. Supreme Court could deliver a final verdict on Obama’s historic expansion of health insurance coverage.

On Capitol Hill, Republican opponents of the law pledged to redouble pressure for a repeal vote in the Democraticcontrolled Senate following House action last month. Nearly all of the states that brought suit in Vinson’s court have GOP attorneys general or governors.

Vinson ruled against the overhaul on grounds that Congress exceeded its authority by requiring nearly all Americans to carry health insurance, an idea dating back to Republican proposals from the 1990s but now almost universally rejected by conservatives.

His ruling followed the same general reasoning as one last year from the federal judge in Virginia. But where the first judge’s ruling would strike down the insurance requirement and leave the rest of the law in place, Vinson took it much farther, invalidating provisions that range from Medicare discounts for seniors with high prescription costs to a change that allows adult children up to age 26 to remain on their parents’ coverage.

The central issue remains the consti-

tutionality of the law’s core requirement that Americans carry health insurance except in cases of financial hardship.

Starting in 2014, those who cannot show they are covered by an employer, government program or their own policy will face fines from the IRS. Opponents say a federal requirement that individuals obtain a specific service — a costly one in the case of health insurance — is unprecedented and oversteps the authority the Constitution gives Congress to regulate interstate commerce.

Vinson agreed that lawmakers lack the power to penalize citizens for not doing something. He compared the provision to requiring people to eat healthful food.

“Congress could require that people buy and consume broccoli at regular intervals,” he wrote, “Not only because the required purchases will positively impact interstate commerce, but also because people who eat healthier tend to be healthier and are thus more productive and put less of a strain on the health care system.”

Defenders of the law said that analogy was flawed. Insurance can’t work if

See HEALTH OVERHAUL, page 13

AP Photo/Ben Twingley

In a July 27, 2007 photo, Senior U.S. District Judge Roger Vinson speaks to candidates for citizenship during a naturalization ceremony at the U.S. District Court in Pensacola, Fla. Vinson declared the Obama administration’s health care overhaul unconstitutional Monday, Jan. 31, 2011, siding with 26 states that sued to block it, saying that people can’t be required to buy health insurance.

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Commentary

Mayor honors Sugar Ray, Bakewell and Freedom Riders As African American Heritage month begins, the City of Los Angeles opens its doors to kick off the celebration and honor some who have paved the way for many.

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attorney and the city controller for being gracious and forthcoming in acknowledging “our work in making this city and this society a better place.”

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Riders … Their deeds withstood hostility in the face of violence, and they did not blink.”

Bakewell also wanted to thank the entire City Council, the city

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Dr. Robert Singleton, speaking for the group, said, they saw the need to change America and they took that ride.

The next award went to Bakewell, whom the Mayor said was changing the quality of life for Blacks in L.A. is in his DNA. Leading the Brotherhood Crusade, he provided over $60 million to the community. His work has borne fruit, as he built Mothers In Action, Sabriya’s Castle of Fun, the National Black United Fund and Brotherhood Crusade.

Bakewell thanked the Mayor, the council president and the entire City Council for receiving the award “… not just for civil rights but just for rights,” recalling past and present African-American City Council members who made that celebration possible. Bakewell named, Bernard Parks, Herb Wesson, and Jan Perry (current members of the City Council), and as the theme stated, lest we forget, he also recalled those of the past: Gilbert Lindsay, Tom Bradley, Nate Holden, Dave Cunningham and Robert Farrell (who was present, as one of Freedom Riders, also).

Sugar Ray Leonard was remembered for the numerous boxing titles he held and whom the Mayor said was solely focused on winning. He was pound-for-pound the greatest boxer and a class act, who is now one of the most sought-after speakers of Fortune 500 companies.

The former boxing champion thanked “… the Mayor and all of you who honor me, but these (the Freedom Riders) are the real heroes.”

Herb Wesson spoke of his work in the 10th district and said, in the 10th district, we vote for short people and for tall people, referring to himself (short) and Tom Bradley (tall) who previously held the 10th district seat as a councilman.

Council President Eric Garcetti, who chimed in periodically as the moderator mentioned, we’re honoring a freedom rider, a freedom fighter and the freedom riders.

The other council members, the city attorney and the city controller, one by one, took turns serenading the honorees.

In thanking the city and the City Council, Bakewell said, “It was very gratifying and humbling, particularly to share the honor with the Freedom

business

The history of the Freedom Riders, who traveled to the South during the 1960s to help rid the country of its darkest past, is a story that needs to be told over and over.

In celebrating the beginning of African American Heritage month, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa honored legendary boxing icon Sugar Ray Leonard, with the Hope of L.A. award; gave businessman, philanthropist, community activist and media mogul Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., the Dream of L.A. award; and also honored the people we’re forever indebted to, the Freedom Riders, with the Spirit of L.A. award.

The theme of the celebration

was appropriately coined, “Lest We Forget: from Civil War to Civil Rights.” In addition to the honorees and the City Council members, the council chambers were graced with the presence of the Buffalo Soldiers, who themselves have earned a place in American history.

Councilman Bernard Parks let it be known that, in spite of the climate of violence that the Freedom fighters faced, they did what they did for all of us, and they did it in peace and with dignity.

Furthermore, he informed the gathering and boasted proudly that there were about 436 of them in 1961, 54 were from L.A. They rode buses to challenge segregation in the South.

On presentation of the award,

Photo by Jason Lewis

Mayor Antonio Villraigosa (center) stands with Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. (directly left of Villaraigosa), Sugar Ray Leonard (directly to the right of the of mayor), and Freedom Riders.

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

By The L.A. Watts Times

AP PHOTO

AP/TINA FINEBERG

AP/TONY GUITERREZ

Just a cursory review of the experiences of African Americans in the United States can bring someone to tears — and for good reason: As part of the slave trade, untold numbers of enslaved Africans came to America and experienced abuses that should never be experienced, were called names that should never leave someone’s lips, and treated with blatant hate and racism.

Despite all of this, as well as many other wrongs, Black Americans have proved themselves to be a strong people that endures, reaches milestones, fights and overcomes.

One interesting aspect of Black life in America that touches on racial, cultural and other issues is comedy.

African Americans have — in part — relied on comedy for a good laugh during hard days.

And many of those they laughed with were Black comedians who told them about their issues and families, made fun of society and its ills, and, in the process, made their mark in history as some of the greatest comedians.

There was the late Redd Foxx, who definitely told silly jokes, including about midgets and, well, farting.

“My main subject tonight is the fart,” he told an audience, evoking laughter as he smoked on stage. “You folks look at me like, ‘The fart?’ Yeah the (expletive) fart! Don’t look at me; I had nothing to do with it. The Lord created the fart, then put a smell in it so the deaf can enjoy it.”

And who can talk about good Black comedians

AP PHOTO

A look at those who have contributed to our laughter and to social commentary.

without bringing up Bill Cosby?

Years ago, he spoke to a crowd about his father coming over to the house and passing out money to Cosby’s children.

“My father began to pass this money out, and I thought, ‘This is the same man who, when I was his child, I would ask him for 50 cents. This man would tell me his life story, and my father never told a happy story … the man ate dirt till he was 30 years old ... and he was thankful to eat that dirt,” he told the audience. “That’s the part I couldn’t understand: No matter how much he suffered, he’d always say, ‘And I was thankful to get it.’ My father walked to school, 4 ‘o clock every morning, with no shoes on, uphill, both ways! — in 5 feet of snow, and he was thankful. I asked my father to give me a dollar for the school picnic. He told me how he killed a grizzly bear with his loose-leaf notebook.”

These jokes only give a glimpse into the type of comedy Black comedians have provided to untold numbers.

As part of Black History Month, the L.A. Watts Times is highlighting its selected “Architects of Comedy.”

BARRIER-BREAKERS Over the years, the Black community has turned to comedy to escape the harsh realities that can engulf one’s daily life. However, Black comedians have not always enjoyed the influence on society that they have today.

Those like Foxx, Moms Mabley and Flip Wilson led the way into mainstream comedy, using the healing power of laughter to treat the wounds of the aching souls of Black people across the nation.

Without the likes of personalities such as LaWanda Page as Aunt Esther, or Nipsey Russell on screen, African Americans would have been left with little escape from the hard times that define Black history.

The stand up material of Jackie Mabley, commonly known as Moms Mabley as well as John Sanford, widely known as Redd Foxx helped masked the economic and social issues that plagued the Black community. This contributed to creating

a sense of unity, allowing a culture of people a vantage point to view their troubles, while making light of their circumstances.

There were tangible images for people to look to and see that they were not alone in their struggles. The “Flip Wilson Show” of the 1970s brought Black people together in front of the television to share a laugh at the end of the day.

African-American sitcom characters like Aunt Esther broke down the barriers in mainstream entertainment to shed comedic light on the Black community — helping change the industry and the very lives on which the comedy was based.

And one cannot go without paying homage to Richard Pryor and Paul Mooney, who helped write some of Pryor’s jokes.

The two have gone down in history as two of the funniest comedians to ever live. Pryor helped address many racial issues.

‘SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE’ When discussing American comedy from a historical perspective, one cannot leave out the impact of NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” (SNL) and how it has been a launching pad for many of today’s top Black comedians.

For more than 35 years, SNL has provided television audiences with cutting-edge sketch comedy that pushes the lines of society. Nothing is off limits at SNL, and the fact that it is filmed live makes for a unique viewer experience.

Being that SNL is a key part of American comedy, many critics have criticized SNL for not properly representing the diversity of America. For example, on many occasions, skits may feature an actor or actress playing outside of their natural ethnicity or sex, and the authenticity of the joke is lost.

Even with harsh critiques of the sitcom, such as criticism about diversity, one thing for sure is SNL has featured some of the more noteworthy Black comedians of our generation. SNL has featured many Black comedians, including: Ellen Cleghorn, Dean Edwards, Yvonne Hudson, Tim Meadows, Jerry Minor, Finesse Mitchell, Tracy Morgan, Garrett Morris, Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Maya Rudolph, Kenan Thompson,

AP/MATT SAYLES

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‘QUEENS OF COMEDY’ The notion that women are not funny was dispelled years ago, and Mo’Nique, Sommore, Laura Hayes, and Adele Givens proved that they are every bit as funny as their male counterparts when they came out with “The Queens of Comedy.”

These four women are as witty, sharp and raunchy as any man that ever stepped up to the microphone.

All four of these women have been able to cross over into acting.

Mo’Nique has had the most success of the four.

She has been able to cross over into the mainstream.

NEW-SCHOOL COMEDIANS Chris Rock is probably the most successful black comedian out today. Actually, he is one of the most successful comedians regardless of race.

Rock produced a hit show called “Everybody Hates Chris,” which was based on his life.

Dave Chappelle and Wanda Sykes have also been successful mainstream comics.

Comedians such as Eddie Griffin, Katt Williams, and Mike Epps have also become some of the top performers around. All three have recorded numerous comedy specials and have appeared in several films.

J. Anthony Brown has used his fame to open his own comedy club, The J Spot, in Inglewood.

The L.A. Watts Times also acknowledges the following standout comedians and shows that have made significant contributions to comedy: Michael Colyar Arsenio Hall Dick Gregory Godfrey Cambridge George Wallace Whoopi Goldberg Sinbad Marc Curry

Robin Harris BET Comic View Martin Lawrence 1st Amendment Bill Belamy’s Who’s Got Jokes Reynaldo Rey

Writers Aryssa Durrell, Biko PoindexterHodge, Jason Lewis, Samuel Richard, Brandon Brooks, Robert Gillard and Brian Carter contributed to this report.

AP PHOTO/NICK WASS

AP PHOTO/HECTOR MATA

made another shift in the form of the hit television show, “In Living Color.” A brainchild of brothers Keenan Ivory and Damon Wayans, the show remained on Fox for several years and is remembered as one of the funniest shows that featured not only African Americans, but people other races.

The show can be credited for giving more name recognition to the likes of Kim Coles, David Allen Grier, Tommy Davidson, Jamie Foxx, Anne-Marie Johnson, and Marc Wilmore.

It also set the stage for future comedy sketches and skits and acted as a launching pad for Black comedians.

The comedy show managed to capture Black culture during the ’90s and turned into something that is still held today as an example of quality, Black comedy.

“In Living Color” skits addressed Black stereotypes, music, celebrities and a variety issues.

It managed to make social bridges across many ethnic backgrounds with its skits and multiracial comedians.

Timeless characters were created on “In Living Color” such as Wanda, portrayed by Jamie Foxx and Homey D. Clown portrayed by Damon Wayans.

‘KINGS OF COMEDY’ In early 2000, the world was introduced to “The Original Kings of Comedy.” The film follows comedians Steve Harvey, D.L. Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and the late Bernie Mac during the final two shows of The Kings of Comedy Tour in February 2000.

Although the comedians had been performing for years and achieved great success with Black audiences, the film catapulted them into the mainstream.

Americans grew to love the outrageous funny men. Each comedian starred in his own television show, reaching varying levels of success — with “The Bernie Show” winning a Peabody Award in 2002.

The remaining comedians continue to stay busy. Harvey is currently the host of “Family Feud,” Cedric will co-star in the film “Larry Crowne,” and Hughley appears in the TBS series “Glory Daze.”

AP/EVAN AGOSTINI

AP PHOTO/ANN JOHANSSON

BERNIE MAC: AP Photo/ Ronald McDonald House Charities, Aynsley Floyd)

Danitra Vance, Damon Wayans and Jay Pharaoh.

Eddie Murphy and Chris Rock are without a doubt the most notable of the Black comedians to come out of the SNL family tree, with Tracy Morgan coming in as a close third.

‘DEF COMEDY JAM’ Russell Simmons’ “Def Comedy Jam” premiered in the summer of 1992. With a young, vibrant Martin Lawrence as the host, the show immediately gained notoriety and Martin’s career took off.

Lawrence went on to have a successful television series, “Martin,” in addition to becoming a very lucrative movie star.

“Def Comedy Jam” was not only a launching pad for Lawrence’s career, but it also helped boost and launch many other famous comedians.

The comedy series garnered a cult following.

Many people credit the series for helping to shape mainstream comedy as the new millennium approached.

It has to be noted that “Def Comedy Jam” gave Black comedians a platform that had never freely been given to Blacks in the past. The cuffs and censors were taken off, and Black comedians were allowed to tackle any subject matter.

Early on, when the show first gained notoriety, a big criticism of the series was the foul language.

But after a few years of success and above-average ratings, the raw Def Jam approach settled in, and “Def Comedy Jam’s” style of comedy became the golden ticket to stardom in Hollywood.

Many talents graced the stage of “Def Comedy Jam,” but none are more notable than the performances of Bernie Mac, Dave Chappelle, Chris Tucker, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Griffin, Bill Bellamy, Adele Givens, Craig Robinson, Mike Epps, Sommore, D.L. Hughley, Mo’Nique, J. Anthony Brown, Paul Mooney, Tracy Morgan, Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, Kevin Hart, Katt Williams and Gina Yashere.

These men and women are part of the reason Def Comedy Jam will forever be linked to the progression of Black Comedy.

‘IN LIVING COLOR’ In the early 1990s, Black comedy standup

BERNIE MAC MARTIN LAWRENCE

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

SHOTS OF THE WEEK Clippers’ Blake Griffin visits 42nd Street Elementary L.A. Clippers superstar Blake Griffin made a special appearance recently at 42nd Street Elementary. Blake visited the students and challenged them to charge their way to a healthier lifestyle through exercise and nutrition. As a member of the NBA FIT team, Blake serves as an ambassador and role model for kids and parents. He selected the 42nd Street Elementary school to host a FIT clinic for 100 students. Twenty five students received tickets to the NBA All-Star Jam Session, presented by Adidas, which will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center Feb.18 to 21. Five of those students will join Blake on Feb. 20 at Jam Session for a special basketball showcase.

In February, Los Angeles will host the 60th NBA All-Star Game. This will be the fifth time that the event takes place in the city. The NBA All-Star Jam Session will feature more than 450,000 square feet of NBA All-Star excitement, where fans can meet NBA players and legends and collect free autographs. Jam Session is nonstop basketball action, where fans can shoot, slam, dribble and drive all day; compete against their friends in skills challenges; or score basketball tips from NBA players and legends. Young fans can hang out in the Kids Zone — with hoops and interactive activities that are the perfect size for kids’ slam dunks, three-pointers and jump shots.

Photo by Andy Berstein, NBAE

Blake Griffin, No. 32 of the Los Angeles Clippers, holds an NBA Fit Clinic at 42nd Street Elementary School on Jan. 28, 2011, in Los Angeles. Through the initiative, Griffin is challenging students to charge their way to a healthier lifestyle through exercise and nutrition. Blake also provided students tickets to the upcoming NBA All-Star Jam Session, which will take place Feb. 18 to 21 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

A look at this weekend’s Super Bowl

BY ROBERT GILLARD CONTRIBUTING WRITER All eyes will be on Dallas this Sunday as the Green Bay Packers get set to square off against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. The Steelers will be playing for the National Football League’s top prize for the third time in six years.

The Packers are back in the big game for the first time since 1998, when quarterback Brett Favre was with the team.

Pittsburgh’s playoff journey included a first-round bye, a comefrom-behind victory at home against the Baltimore Ravens, and another win at home in which they outlasted the New York Jets. Green Bay reached Super Sunday as a wild-card team, beating the Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons, and Chicago Bears, all on the road.

The two storied franchises will be looking to make an addition to their respective trophy cases in a match-up that appears to be far from a Texas shootout, as each team ranks in the top five in total defense.

The Steelers, who are traditionally known for their defense, have a group that features arguably the best corps of linebackers in the league (James Harrison, Lawrence Timmons, James Farrior, and LaMarr Woodley), as well as safety and Defensive Player of the Year Troy Polamalu.

Cornerback Charles Woodson stars for the Packers’ defensive unit, along with linebacker Clay Matthews and safety Nick Collins.

Both teams run a 3-4 defense.

Green Bay is anchored in the middle by defensive tackle B.J. Raji, while his Pittsburgh counterpart is Casey Hampton.

The Steelers’ dominant linebackers give their defense the edge over the Packers’ unit.

Although defense wins championships, fans want to see fireworks on offense. Neither team is short on offensive weapons.

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger missed the first four games of the season with a suspension, but his play didn’t seem to suffer much.

His 97.0 passer rating was fifth best in the league.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers finally gets his chance to step out Favre’s shadow, similar to how Steve Young got the Joe Montana monkey off his back with the 49ers in 1995.

Rodgers’ 28 touchdown passes ranked sixth in the league. Both quar-

terbacks have good mobility, but Roethlisberger’s size and strength make him harder to tackle.

After struggling to consistently rush the ball this season, Green Bay’s ground game has been somewhat resurrected by running back James Starks, who is averaging 87.6 yards per game in the playoffs. Yet the rookie faces a tough task against the Steelers, who are allowing a leaguebest 52.5 rushing yards per game in the playoffs.

Rashard Mendenhall led the Steelers with 1,273 yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground during the regular season. His 3.5 yards-percarry average in the playoffs could dip even lower if the Steelers are without rookie center Maurkice Pouncey. Pouncey started every game this season, but injured his ankle in the AFC championship game and his status for Sunday has yet to be determined. Mendenhall’s big play ability gives him the edge over Starks.

The receiving corps for each team is a major strength. Former Super Bowl MVP Hines Ward may not have great speed, but his hands, leadership and blocking ability make him fit just fine in Pittsburgh.

Mike Wallace’s speed makes him a big play threat whenever he’s on the field. Green Bay features several good, yet-not-quite-great receivers. Twelve-year veteran Donald Driver is the leader in the clubhouse.

Greg Jennings is the best of the bunch, having reached his first Pro Bowl this season.

For the third straight year, a Black head coach will lead a team in the Super Bowl. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin will be looking for his second Super Bowl ring after winning his first piece of jewelry two years ago.

Green Bay’s Mike McCarthy is in his fifth season as head coach. He reached the NFC championship game with the Packers during the 2007-08 playoffs. Although McCarthy has been a head coach longer than

Tomlin, Tomlin’s post-season success trumps McCarthy’s tenure.

Prediction of the Super Bowl’s winner: As rapper Wiz Khalifa would say, “Black and Yellow, Black and Yellow, Black and Yellow, Black and Yellow.�

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‘What would Jesus do?’ — National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Dave Chappelle back with all new material

The award-winning stage play about family, church, sex and HIV entitled “What Would Jesus Do?,” written and directed by Yvette Heyliger, with music by Larry Farrow, will be performed in a staged reading at the Lucy

20 minutes?

No, six hours!

Yvonne Farrow and Yvette Heyliger, Twinbiz

Florence Cultural Center in recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 2011, at 3351 43rd St., Feb. 6 at 3 p.m., and Feb. 7 at 7 p.m., $15 minimum donation. Call (323) 293-1356 for reservations.

President Obama delivers message to youth via Myspace as part of Russell Simmons Hijack Legendary hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons delivered a direct message from the President of the United States, Barack Obama, to young Americans. In order to reach the largest possible audience, Myspace is extending Simmons’ weeklong takeover as the celebrity “Editor-In-Chief” of the social entertainment website.

“Over the past week, I have had the great pleasure of taking over Myspace, which was suppose to end on Thursday, but I just couldn’t let go. I have shared my musical influences, exclusive excerpts from my new book, Super Rich, inspiring content from GlobalGrind, the best in art and culture, and even a little yoga. I couldn’t let go because I had one more thing to share. Nothing makes me prouder than what I received late last night from a hero of mine, the President of the United States, Barack Obama, and I am overjoyed to deliver his exclusive message to young people of this great nation. As we move forward, let us move forward together as one,” said Simmons.

Obama said: “I’ve always believed that here in America, every young person should be able to set goals and reach them; to discover their passions and follow them; and to earn their piece of the American Dream. That’s why, during the last two years, my administration has worked hard to give people like you the opportunities you need to reach your potential and win the future. We passed the Affordable Care Act that allows young people to stay on their parents health care plan until they’re 26 — allowing more time to find a job that carries insurance. We reformed the student loan system to put billions of dollars back into the pockets of students paying for college instead of watching it pad the profits of big banks. We’ve invested in clean energy and encouraged a generation of innovators working to start the companies and build the technologies of the future. We’ve ended combat operations in Iraq and brought more than 90,000 troops home from the battlefield, and also made sure they get the care they have earned when they got back. And, even though there’s still a tremendous amount of work to be done, I promise that every decision I make in the years ahead will be made with you in mind. Each of you represents our hope for this country.”

Yvonne Farrow and Yvette Heyliger (twins in the business) and twin brothers, Richard and Ron Harris of the Lucy Florence Cultural Center, are launching the National Black HIV & AIDS Awareness Day Theatre Initiative and the Lucy Florence Reader’s Theater with the reading of this critically acclaimed play.

Heyliger states, “It is my intention that What Would Jesus Do?, or any play on the topic of HIV prevention, be read or produced once a year in conjunction with National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, held on Feb. 7. We hope that this initiative will inspire Black theaters do more to address this epidemic by producing at least one play a season in Black communities across the country until HIV is eradicated.”

“What Would Jesus Do?,” which had its world premiere in Los Angeles, swept the 2010 AUDELCO Recognition Awards for Excellence in Black Theater in New York, winning seven of its eight nominations including: Dramatic Production of the Year to Billie Holiday Theater, Lead Actress to Yvonne Farrow (who originated the role of Mrs. Wilson), and the August Wilson Playwright Award to Yvette Heyliger. The reading will also star Staci Ashley, Danielle Green, Andre Henry, Beth Lane, Stevie Mack, Iona Morris, Kenneth Rosier, Nita Whitaker, Damon Wilson, John

See BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY, page 15

www

. la watts times

Comedian Dave Chappelle arrives to the 8th Annual GQ Men of the Year Awards broadcast live on Spike TV, Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2003, in New York.

AP Photo/Jennifer Graylock

Hollywood — “You can’t keep a genius comic down,” says Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada.

“What else to say?” Masada was quoted after comic Dave Chappelle finished another marathon session at the Laugh Factory this past Sunday night.

Chappelle started his set by commenting on his career: “I need the right comeback … you know what I mean? I need to shock people. I can’t do ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ cause then in the back of their minds they’re gonna be like ... it’s over. Now here to do the salsa, it’s Dave Chappelle! Like what?”

Chappelle famously turned down a $50 million contract from Comedy Central because he felt he had lost control of his own material.

One sure way to keep control of one’s material is to return to the standup stage, and recently Chappelle went into overtime, yet again, on the stage where he started as a teen and returns to —without fanfare — off and on as an adult.

Masada looked cheerfully amazed after Chappelle’s second

night. “He just performed six hours of brand new material. Six hours,” said Masada. “For most good comics, new sets of 20 minutes take years to perfect. He is our comic jazz artist who can rip all night long and one of the most genius comedians of our time.”

The night before, Chappelle arrived and did almost four hours of new material. He announced that all the old jokes and routines were out and he had burned them. He also announced that he’d try, yet again, to beat the Laugh Factory record for continuous stand-up set by Dane Cook at 7 hours and 11 minutes, and he’d do it with only new material.

Members of the audience teased him as they took restroom breaks throughout the show. And surprisingly, the packed house stayed well past 4 a.m. to witness Chappelle’s set. “Everyone focused on the record on Sunday night since he had gone (more than) five hours and was drinking coffee on stage,” Masada said, “but his bladder beat him again. He set the record once, and he’ll eventually set it again.”

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

My body to your body! Like father, like daughter: Withers follows dad’s songwriting path

BY MINISTER JABARI STEWARD SADDLEBACK CHURCH OF ANAHEIM Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 The messages we hear permeating throughout and propagated in our society today are filled with sexual innuendo. Television glorifies the disappearing G-string and idolizes the rock-hard, chisel-cut biceps of some handsome beefcake with a chest that will make you slap your mamma.

We hear music about sexual exploits with songs entitled, “Touch My Body,” “My Body” and even “Work that Body.” But there is a more profound message to be heard concerning the body. This message originates from the throne of God. It was given to our Lord Jesus Christ, Who commissioned the Holy Spirit to reveal it to the apostle Paul. In this message, I hear Jesus saying, “Sit down and let me compare My Body to your body.”

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:27) God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body. (1 Corinthians 12:18) The church is the Body of Christ. It consists of people with various giftings, skills, and talents working together to fulfill God’s plan on earth. The church is a Minister Jabari Steward living organism. Its function is not unlike the human body, whereas “no part is important on its own. Can you imagine Eye telling Hand, “Get lost; I don’t need you”? Or, Head telling Foot, “You’re fired; your job has been phased out”? (1 Corinthians 12:21 MSG) All parts of the human body are equally important. In the church there is no position, job or individual more important than any other position, job or individual. All systems in the body work collectively to maintain life.

For generations, the purveying myth in the Church has been that pastors, apostles, preachers, pulpit persons and even platform artists are more important than others who work in the Body of Christ. The woman that washes the counter tops in the church’s kitchen, the man who sweeps the floor at the church, or the person interceding at their home on Monday morning is just as important as those aforementioned.

Some may say that those in leadership positions in the church are more prominent in The Body of Christ because “they must give an account to God” (Hebrews 13:17), thereby qualifying such positions as “head” positions. There are six vital organs in the human body. They are the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and pancreas. Only one of these six vital organs is located in the head.

Furthermore, the fact of the matter is we all must give an account to God for our stewardship pertaining to the resources and people He places in our lives. A higher degree of accountability does not make one more important than someone else in The Body of Christ. It only requires more of you. “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.” (Luke 12:48 KJV) Man is not the head of the church. “Christ is the head of the church … .” (Ephesians 5:23) We must never forget that Jesus is the Head of the Church. Like the brain, Christ regulates and orders the functions of His Body. He supplies His Body with everything necessary to maintain life. Jesus is the Life Giver. Without Him there is no Church.

So I encourage you to continue to operate diligently in your calling without jealousy or pride, knowing that Christ is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

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

Photo by Joy Childs

Kori Withers

BY JOY CHILDS CONTRIBUTING WRITER Say the name “Bill Withers,” and most can sing all the lyrics to his biggest songs from the ’70s and ’80s: “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Grandma’s Hands,” “Lean On Me,” “Use Me,” “Lovely Day” and “Just the Two of Us.” But what else do we know about Withers? That he was an aircraft toilet installer? Or an “asthmatic stutterer”?

Or that his singing career didn’t begin until he was in his early 30s?

“Still Bill: An Evening of Film and Song” (2010), the 90-minute documentary that recently screened at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, examines these and other lesser-known facts about the life and times of the man who is hands down one of most brilliantly honest American songwriter/ singers of our times — as his 2005 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame will attest.

The “evening” began with the Center’s resident company producer, Wren T. Brown, introducing the film, five years in the making. We see Withers as family man and as loyal friend to his Slab Fork, W.Va., hometown.

Interspersed between scenes of that town’s high school reunion and a Brooklyn tribute to him (where he comes onstage and surprises veteran bassist Cornell Dupree on “Grandma’s Hands”) is vintage footage of Withers’ performances on “American Bandstand,” “The Dinah Shore Show” and “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.”

There he is with his M.B.A. wife (who manages his business affairs) and his daughter Kori, living a very simple life and celebrating a 70th birthday party at his Hollywood Hills home in a low-key manner.

We learn that his son Todd is a law student. Most important for fans, we learn about his personal and the professional struggles, which may have led him, at the height of his career in 1985, to walk away from it all. And we find out where he’s been since: not performing, mostly chillin’ in and around home.

“Still Bill” really is a must-see for anyone who wants to know what makes Bill still.

One of the last times he performed publicly was with his daughter Kori in a duet of “Ain’t No Sunshine” at his 2005 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

And once the film is over, it’s really daughter Kori whose performance of her original songs makes you wonder about her own songwriter/singer career.

Her after-the-film, 10-song set — and tight backup band — showcase her mother’s funk influences, her brother’s classic influences, and her dad’s songwriting values and influences.

An interview with her reveals as much about her as a songwriter/singer as it does about him. She grew up in L.A., where she graduated from Harvard-Westlake. And then it was off to Columbia University, where she majored in English literature. Along with about 25 others, she completed graduate work in the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University — a program of just 25 students.

Her songwriter/singer journey began with family, at home.

SENTINEL: What’s your earliest memory of Kori as a singer?

KW: I always just sang to myself.

My brother and I, we weren’t too into TV or things like that. We could watch some TV. We watched ‘Sesame Street’ and stuff like that. That’s probably the earliest memory … ‘Sesame Street.’ I was just singing some of those jams this week, actually, because ‘Sesame Street’ was groovin’, and there’s a song I was gonna do — something my keyboard player was playing reminded me of ... All the cartoons had songs, the Smurfs, so that’s probably the earliest ... and then my brother played the piano and he’s older than me, so he always was very into music and he loves really classic singers like Ella (Fitzgerald), (Frank) Sinatra ... .

SENTINEL: So I would imagine that a daughter of Bill Withers grew up listening to all types of music?

See KORI WITHERS, page 15

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Egypt, economic justice Commemorating Reggie Williams and the rest of us

BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA COLUMNIST People took it to the streets in Egypt on Jan. 25, and they’ve been on the streets ever since.

They’ve been demanding the removal of President Hosni Mubarak, and agitating for “freedom, democracy, and change.”

Unemployment is high, economic opportunity is low, and people are so frustrated that they are taking it to the streets. In Egypt, at least 40 percent of the population lives in poverty, on less than $2 a day. The population of 80 million skews young, with an average age of 24 (in contrast, the average age in the United States is 36). President Mubarak, at 82, seems out of touch with the population.

The gap is not really about age. It is about class, about employment, about social and economic justice. People are furious that the elites live well while others scratch and scramble for a living. People are appalled at a city called “Garbage City” that has been broadcast on all the networks. As protests escalated, communication was stopped. The Internet was down in Egypt during part of the protests, and cell reception was also knocked out. Despite these obstacles, social networking has connected protestors and kept us at least somewhat informed.

Was the uprising in Egypt expected? It should have been, given the uprisings in Tunisia at the end of December. Also fueled by high unemployment and a high-profile selfimmolation, the protest energy in Tunisia led to the exile of President Ben Ali and to a move toward a transition to democracy there. The spark: a man who could not find a job, sold fruit on the street, and had his produce confiscated because he did not have a permit to sell. Thousands vowed to avenge his death at his funeral, and when they took it to the streets, they sparked a movement for democracy and economic justice. And, perhaps they also galvanized a region.

Despots have a way of invoking fear. They have a way of quelling opposition before it even galvanizes.

A harrowing self-immolation in Tunisia pushed thousands into the streets there, and they succeeded in removing Ben Ali. The Tunisian protests may have emboldened and empowered others, because actions in Tunisia made it clear that despotic power is not absolute in the face of popular opposition. If Tunisia sparked Egypt, what will Egypt spark? The reverberations may not only be felt in the Arab world, but also in subSaharan Africa, where there are also despots and dictatorships, a growing gap between the wealthy and the impoverished. If people are able to remove despots in Tunisia and Egypt, what will prevent them from removing those who do not encourage democracy in other parts of the African continent?

Julianne Malveaux It is important to note that these protests are both political and economic. People want democracy, and they also want an opportunity to participate in a vibrant economy. They want to work, they want to thrive, and they are clear that the playing field is not level; that the elites extract surplus value from them, and that their lives will not change until the economic rules change.

The United States dances on a dime with Egypt. We are a democracy, we support democracy, and President Obama has pushed President Mubarak on these matters. Mubarak has been

disingenuous in dissolving his cabinet, appointing a military vice president, and sending tanks to the streets. We appreciate Egypt because they have stood in the gap for us in the Middle East.

Yet, as a democracy, we must support cries for freedom and economic justice.

When I reflect on the fact that people in Tunisia and Egypt have taken it to the streets on economic issues, I wonder about economic justice in the United States.

While we have the possibility of political participation that both Egypt and Tunisia lack, there are sectors of our population that feel as marginalized around employment issues. The official unemployment rate, at 9.4 percent in December, can translate to as high as 28 percent for African Americans. And yet, President Obama’s State of the Union address addressed unemployment, but did not directly address issues of poverty. Those who were listening had to be frustrated that our leader did not give even a nod to their pain.

Will this frustration ever spill into the streets? Will we ever demand social and economic justice with the same vigor as the Egyptian people? There are many differences between the situation in the United States and that in Egypt, but the frustration over poverty and economic injustice is universal.

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

BY PHILL WILSON SPECIAL TO THE NNPA Monday of next week marks the 11th anniversary of Black AIDS Awareness Day, an annual commemoration that calls upon Black people to take action against HIV and AIDS. Nobel prize winner Andre Gide once said, “Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But, since no one was listening, everything must be said again.” The fact that HIV/AIDS continues to rage in Black communities and families — after 30 years into America’s AIDS epidemic — suggests that this thought could apply here.

According to a 2009 Kaiser Family Foundation study, 58 percent of Black Americans know someone with HIV/AIDS, and for 38 percent of us, that “someone” is a close personal friend or family member.

But, rather than rehash statistics describing the magnitude of the epidemic and its disproportionate impact on Black women, youth, injection drug users, and men who have sex with men, I’d like to ask you to think about the people in your life who are at risk of HIV, who are living with the virus or have already died of AIDS. This week, I’m thinking about my friend Reggie Williams, who passed away 12 years ago on the date that now marks Black AIDS Awareness Day. I used to call Reggie my “brister” — he was both brother and sister to me. He was the person I went to when I needed to talk about my life without having to explain myself. He didn’t need a

HEALTH OVERHAUL Continued from page 6

people are allowed to opt out until they need medical attention.

Premiums collected from many who are healthy pay the cost of care for those who get sick.

Since the uninsured can get treated in the emergency room, deciding not to get coverage has consequences for other people who act prudently to buy coverage.

“The judge’s decision contradicts decades of Supreme Court precedent that support the considered judgment of the democratically elected branches of government that the act’s individual responsibility provision is necessary to prevent billions of dollars of cost-shifting every year by individuals without insurance who cannot pay for the health care they obtain,” White House adviser Stephanie Cutter wrote in an Internet posting.

Vinson, who was appointed to the federal bench by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, said in his 78-page ruling that requiring people to buy health insurance marks a break with the nation’s founding principles.

“It is difficult to imagine that a nation which began, at least in part, as the result of opposition to a British mandate giving the East India Company a monopoly and imposing a nominal tax on all tea sold in America would have set out to create a government with the power to force people to buy tea in the first place,” the judge wrote. “If Congress can penalize a passive individual for failing to engage in commerce, the enumeration of powers in the Constitution would have been in vain.”

It would be difficult to recognize any limits on federal power, he added. Defenders of the law said the founders couldn’t have envisioned Medicare or Social Security either.

Vinson did side with the administration on another major issue in the case, the expansion of Medicaid to cover more lowincome people. About half of the more than 30 million Americans who would gain insurance through the law would be enrolled in Medicaid. However, striking down the law would

also invalidate the Medicaid expansion.

Opponents of the health overhaul praised the decision.

House Speaker John Boehner said it shows Senate Democrats should follow a House vote to repeal the law.

“Today’s decision affirms the view, held by most of the states and a majority of the American people, that the federal government should not be in the business of forcing you to buy health insurance and punishing you if you don’t,” he said.

Democrats just as quickly slammed the ruling.

“This lawsuit is nothing more than an attempt by those who want to raise taxes on small businesses, increase prescription prices for seniors and allow insurance companies to once again deny sick children medical care,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. Former Florida Republican Attorney General Bill McCollum filed the lawsuit just minutes after Obama signed the 10-year, $938 billion health care bill into law in March. He chose a court in Pensacola, one of Florida’s most conservative cities.

The nation’s most influential small business lobby, the National Federation of Independent Business, also joined.

Officials in the states that sued lauded Vinson’s decision.

“In making his ruling, the judge has confirmed what many of us knew from the start: Obamacare is an unprecedented and unconstitutional infringement on the liberty of the American people,” Florida Gov. Rick Scott said.

Other states that joined the lawsuit were: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar reported from Washington.

Associated Press writer Curt Anderson in Miami and AP writers Erica Werner and Pete Yost in Washington contributed.

Courtesy of the Black AIDS Institute

Phill Wilson glossary to understand my words when I talked about the difficulty of having a partner living with HIV or the challenges of living with HIV myself because my truth was his truth.

Reggie was a remarkable leader.

We co-founded the National Task Force on AIDS Prevention, and he was instrumental in not only raising awareness about the AIDS epidemic among Black gay men, but in sounding the alarm on the AIDS epidemic in the Black community at large. He was one of the first people who understood that if Black gay men and intravenous drug users were dying from HIV, that even if we didn’t know it yet, Black women and Black children were dying as well.

Eventually he decided that the stigma and discrimination he faced in the United States was too much, so he moved to the Netherlands instead.

There, he demonstrated his skills and passion on the international stage.

Reggie died in Amsterdam in 1999; yet I miss him every day.

I use the memories and lessons I learned from him to get started in the morning and to help me stay focused and keep my eyes on the prize: the end of the AIDS pandemic. Before he died I promised him that I would not stop until this epidemic was over.

So between now and Monday, Feb. 7, think about someone that you know who has been impacted by the virus — or could be. Trust me, you have a Reggie Williams in your life. There is someone in your world who would benefit by your decision to take a stand.

On the other hand, someone in your life will suffer if you do nothing.

During this coming week, think about that person and do something — action is greater than apathy.

We can end the AIDS epidemic in Black America. But to do so, every day needs to be National Black AIDS Awareness Day. Phill Wilson is the president and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, the only National HIV/AIDS think tank in the United States focused exclusively on Black people. He can be reached at phillwilson@blackaids.org.

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Trustee Sale No. CA09002014-10-1 . Title Order No. 4636453 Loan No. 100167433 APN 6047-010-026 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED May 18, 2005. 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 February 18, 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 May 26, 2005, as Instrument No. 05 1231349 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: ROBERT T WILLIAMS, AND NORMA HUNT-ALLEN, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, as Trustor, in favor of AMERICA`S WHOLESALE LENDER 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: 8912 SOUTH BUDLONG AVENUE, LOS ANGELES, CA 90044 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 $248,958.89 (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: January 27, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09002014-10-1 . 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. 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 #8905 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 2011-02-10 Trustee Sale No. CA09002121-10-1 . Title Order No. 4649620 Loan No. 3015949906 APN 5036-004-018 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED May 13, 2008. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On February 18, 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 May 27, 2008, as Instrument No. 20080924366 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: OSCAR A. MAZARIEGO, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, in favor of WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA 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: 1411 ROLAND CURTIS PLACE, 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 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 $354,247.30 (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: January 27, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09002121-10-1 . 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. 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

Thursday, February 3, 2011 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 #8913 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 2011-02-10 Trustee Sale No. CA09001480-10-1 . Title Order No. 100503495CA-LPI Loan No. 1010225371 APN 2502-024-117 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED July 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 February 10, 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 July 25, 2007, as Instrument No. 20071755173 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: ROBERT S CHACON AN UNMARRIED 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 IN 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: 14425 FOOTHILL BLVD UNIT 17, LOS ANGELES, CA 91342 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 $364,300.04 (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: January 20, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09001480-10-1 . 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. 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 #8931 2011-01-20 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 Trustee Sale # CA0927268-2 Loan# 1009252345 Order # 080049817 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 01/18/2007. 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 02/14/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 01/25/2007 as Document No. 20070156148 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, BLANCA JANETH CUADRAS MONTES, A MARRIED WOMAN AS HER SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, DEL SUR CORP. DBA CAMINO REAL MORTGAGE BANKERS, 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 # 2533-029-055 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 12900 FILMORE STREET #101, LOS ANGELES, CA 91331 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: $337,134.49 (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: 01/20/2011 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 #8938 2011-01-20 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 Trustee Sale No. CA09000495-10-1 . Title Order No. 55013535 Loan No. 0145169280 APN 6086-025-032 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED May 11, 2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On February 23, 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 May 24, 2006, as Instrument No. 06 1140862 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA , executed by: FRANCISCO M FERNANDEZ, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, in favor of SUNTRUST MORTGAGE, INC. 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: 641 EAST 121ST STREET, LOS ANGELES, CA 90059 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 $416,321.12 (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: January 20, 2011 MTC FINANCIAL INC dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09000495-10-1 . 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.NoticeSolutions.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 714-786-5351 Compliance with California Civil Code Section 2924f: The Beneficiary or Beneficiary's agent has indicated that the requirements of California Civil Code Section 2924f have been met. 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 not 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. The time frame for giving a notice of sale specified in Civil Code Section 2923.52 subdivision (a) does apply to this notice of sale. Clarisa Gastelum, Authorized Signature TRUSTEE CORPS IS A DEBT COLLECTOR. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Ad #9196 2011-01-20 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 Trustee Sale # CA0924205-3 Loan# 1010281762 Order # G853750 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 07/30/2007. 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 02/18/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 08/01/2007 as Document No. 20071814979 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, HUMBERTO ARCINIEGA AN UNMARRIED MAN, as Trustor, INDYMAC BANK, F.S.B., A FEDERALLY CHARTERED SAVINGS BANK, 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 # 5005-010-022 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 5421 AND 5423 CIMARRON STREET, 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: $595,847.36 (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: 01/27/2011 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 #9249 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 2011-02-10 Trustee Sale # CA0951502-3 Loan# 502216497 Order # 55007896 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 07/31/2009. 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 02/18/2011 at 01:00PM, MTC FINANCIAL INC., dba TRUSTEE CORPS as the duly appointed Substituted Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 08/06/2008 as Document No. 20081407463 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CALIFORNIA, executed by, ANTHONY LARAY MITCHELL, A SINGLE MAN, as Trustor, FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, 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 # 5015-021-004 AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 5133 CIMARRON ST, LOS ANGELES, CA 90062-2142 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: $320,737.09 (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: 01/27/2011 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 #9299 2011-01-27 2011-02-03 2011-02-10 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, ROSALBAALVAREZ, 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

NFL DEAL

Continued from page 4 in the interests of transparency, hire an independent financial analyst to ensure public funds aren’t used.

Although there has been talk about building a football stadium in downtown L.A., there is still work to be done, including a review of the proposed stadium’s environmental impact.

Among the speakers during the press announcement was ex-Laker Magic Johnson, who has hinted at wanting to become a part-owner of a football team.

Johnson said, “I can remember when we had the Rams and the Raiders.

I miss watching Marcus Allen and Eric Dickerson running on Sundays. This (agreement) is real. Both the private and public sector are finally coming together to make this happen.”

Speaking of Rams legends Deacon Jones and Rosie Grier, who attended the event, Villaraigosa said, “I grew up watching Deacon and Rosie when I was in the YMCA, and I want L.A. kids to have that opportunity again.”

A press statement said the 64,000seat, retractable-roof stadium would cost $1 billion to build.

Jobs were also one of the benefits widely championed throughout the press conference. Leiweke said constructing and maintaining the proposed entertainment complex would result in additional hotels being constructed and thousands of jobs.

“Farmers Field will create over 7,000 direct construction jobs,” said Maria Elena Durazo, executive secretary-treasurer for the L.A. County Federation of Labor. “Tim and AEG understand that good union, middleclass paying jobs are important.”

The site of the stadium has been a point of contention. Critics of the proposed plan have said that the area can’t accommodate a stadium, due to potential traffic gridlock and lack of available parking.

One of those critics is John Semcken, vice president of Majestic Realty. Majestic is competing with AEG to build its own football stadium in the City of Industry.

“Our stadium has no compromises. There’s no squeezing into spaces; we don’t have to share with the Convention Center,” Semcken said during a phone interview with the L.A. Watts Times in January. “They (AEG) are building a small stadium for a large market.”

In the same interview, he later said: “Our building is designed to house a foot-

See NFL DEAL, page 15

www.lawattstimes.com 15

Thursday, February 3, 2011 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (Metro) REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

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 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 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 20101887693 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. California Kween, 2. CA Kween, 3. LA Kween, 3881 S. Norton Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90008, County of Los Angeles Registered owner(s): Kai Weathers, 3881 S. Norton Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90008 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A 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/ Kai Weathers This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on December 21, 2010 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).

Original 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10/11 CNS-2029564# WATTS TIMES

To place a classified ad call (323) 299-3800

Metro will receive proposals for OUTSIDE PRINTING SERVICES PS107140658 per specifications on file at the Metro Office of Procurement & Material Mgmt, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (12th Floor).

All proposals must be received on or before Tuesday, March 1, 2011, 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time at the address listed above, sent to the attention of Linda Wasley. 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 Linda Wasley at (213) 922-4186.

KORI WITHERS Continued from page 12

KW: Well, the thing is, my dad does not really listen to too much music, nor does he get into a record collection. He doesn’t know what CDs he has. But we had his records, and I had a little record player, and I knew where dad’s albums were, and I would pull them out and listen to them. And that’s what I would listen to in my room before I was old enough to have other music.

And then my mom had worked for record companies. So she had a lot of promotional stuff and she had a record collection. She was really into music.

So she listened to the Gap Band all the time in the car, and Prince. She liked dance music, fun stuff. She had the Eagles ’cause she was working at their label. She had Roberta Flack, Stevie Wonder ... and if she saw me looking at something in the cabinet, she’d say . .

‘Oh yeah, that’s a great record!’ She’d kinda let me know what was the stuff!

And I listened to Aretha, and the Eagles. I remember there was a solid set of Stevie Wonder, my dad, Roberta Flack, that I listened to all the time. . . and this was before there were tapes.

SENTINEL: Now what are a couple of pieces of advice that your dad gave you about songwriting, about what makes a good song?

KW: I think that he sort of taught me about what makes a good song by pointing out what he heard that wasn’t working in things on the radio and TV. He would say things like, ‘People have a problem with simplicity. Sometimes people are afraid to just say things plainly and they feel like they have to either make it more complicated,’ or he would say, ‘People use all the clichés, lyrical clichés, like Baby, I love you, I’ll always be true.’

Things like that he would say, that would suggest that you should try to be

more original. I think originality was something he stressed a lot, like when something is stock, or the genre, or when people would just repeat the same bass line, same style, same thing and he talked about coming up with a phrase that meant something and that someone hadn’t said before.

I knew he got excited by finding a way to say something that was plain as day that was universally relevant but that hadn’t been said like that ... and that was the kind of thing he was always searching for. Like finding that in himself. He was always open to that kind of creativity of finding those phrases.

SENTINEL: Which of your dad’s songs are your favorites?

KW: Oh, I couldn’t do that! But I know which songs of his my songs relate to. Like “Blue Blues,” there’s a song called “In My Heart” that he did.

SENTINEL: It’s on one of his later albums?

KW: No, on his first … and he holds a lot of notes on that, holds long notes ... [she sings it] and there’s another song: “Hope She’ll Be Happier,” which is a lesser-known but gorgeous, gorgeous song [she sings it] … And I listened to that song over and over and over again. I love that song ...

SENTINEL: Who are some of your musical influences outside your dad?

KW: Definitely Aretha ... Well, there’s that generation and then there’s contemporary ... I’m so glad that I went to college and got to go to a different city and that was kind of at the end of when hip-hop was a little bit more substantive. And I remember when Jill Scott’s first record came out — I think I was a senior in college and it just totally floored me ... and she just came out with this gorgeous voice and great songwriting and was sexy and feminine. ... I listened to that a lot.

BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY Continued from page 11

Wesley, Emily Yancy and Larry Farrow.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a national testing and treatment community mobilization effort designed to encourage Blacks across the United States to get educated! Get tested! Get treated! Get involved! While Blacks represent approximately 13 percent of the US population, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Blacks account for almost half of the nation’s AIDS cases when HIV is 100 percent preventable!

Community-based organizations lending their support, information, testing and/or prevention materials for

the reading are: The National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Organization, Commission on HIV Los Angeles County, National Action Network’s “I Choose Life” Health and Wellness Center, the JWCH Institute, In the Meantime Men’s Group Inc., Black Women for Wellness and One Woman Can. Donations, after production costs, will go to the Oliver Martin and the NYC Faith in Action Coalition, which has supported “What Would Jesus Do?” since its first production in 2005.

There are only 55 seats per reading so reservations are recommended.

A no-host bar and hors d’oeuvres will be available.

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

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We also have dedicated & regional positions available. Call 866-789-8947. Swift. (Cal-SCAN) Company Drivers (Solos & Hazmat Teams) *GREAT PAY *GREAT MILES *CDL-A Required. We also have dedicated & regional positions available. Call: 866-448-1055 SWIFT. (Cal-SCAN) COMPANY SOLOS & TEAMS - Western US! National Pay for Regional Work! Great home time. 1year OTR or recent grad. Hazmat required. 1-888905-9879 or www.AndrusTrans.com (Cal-SCAN) Drivers/CDL Training - CAREER CENTRAL. We Train and EMPLOY You. Company Drivers up to 40K First Year. New Team Pay! Up to 48c/mile Class A CDL Training Regional Locations! 1-877369-7091 www.CentralDrivingJobs.net (CalSCAN)

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DRIVERS - 100% Tuition paid CDL Training. No Credit Check. No Experience required! TRAINERS EARN 49c/MILE! 1-888-417-7564. CRST EXPEDITED www.JoinCRST.com (Cal-SCAN) DRIVERS - OVER the ROAD - Company Sponsored Class A Commercial Drivers License training & a Job! No credit checks. Minimum 21 yrs old. 1-800-7812778. (Cal-SCAN)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

LAND FOR SALE/OUT OF STATE

ALL CASH VENDING ROUTE! Be Your Own Boss!

25 Machines + Candy All for $9995. Vend3, 880 Grand Blvd., Deer Park, NY. 1- 877-915-8222. Major CC accepted! (Cal-SCAN)

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Private peaceful setting, breathtaking mountain views, abundant wildlife. Financing available. Saddle Creek Ranch by AZLR. 1-888-690-8271. (Cal-SCAN)

BUSINESS SERVICES ADVERTISING- BEST KEPT SECRET. A business card sized display ad 140 California community newspapers. Reach 3 million+ Californians. Cost $1,550.$1.33 cost per thousand. Free brochure (916)288-6019; www.Cal-SDAN.com (Cal-SCAN)

EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in 4 weeks!

FREE Brochure. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 60 www.SouthEasternHS.com (Cal-SCAN)

HEALTH/MISCELLANEOUS HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY: If you had hip replacement surgery between 2005 -present and suffered problems requiring a second revision surgery you may be entitled to compensation. Attorney Charles Johnson 1-800-535-5727. (Cal-SCAN)

HELP WANTED ABLE TO TRAVEL. Hiring 8 people. No experience necessary. Transportation & lodging furnished. Paid training. Work and travel entire USA. Start today. www.ProtekChemical.com 1-208-590-0365. (CalSCAN)

HELP WANTED/DRIVERS 17 DRIVERS NEEDED! Top 5% Pay! Excellent Benefits. New Trucks Ordered! Need CDL-A & 3 months recent OTR. 1-877-258-8782. www.MeltonTruck.com (Cal-SCAN)

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Call NMRS 1-888-791-6136. (Cal-SCAN)

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE SHARI’S BERRIES - Mouthwatering gourmet strawberry gifts fresh for your Valentine! 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Delivered nationwide. SAVE 20% on Dipped Berries! Visit www.berries.com/berries or Call 1-888-903-2988. (Cal-SCAN)

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TIMESHARES/RESORTS SELL/RENT Your TIMESHARE For CASH!!! Our Guaranteed Services will Sell/ Rent Your Unused Timeshare for CASH! Over $95 Million Dollars offered in 2010! www.SellaTimeshare.com (877) 5542098 (Cal-SCAN)

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For more information, Call 888-491-1168. (CalSCAN)

SENTINEL: The record I like is “Living my life like it’s golden, golden …”!

KW: That’s later. But the first record, “Who Is Jill Scott” — I mean that’s like the perfect record. I’ve loved Erykah Badu for years ... she’s amazing. I mean there’s lots of stuff I like [but] actual influences — I love James Taylor, songwriting, has the phrasing and the plaintive, sort of just saying way — like my dad.

That’s the second music I heard after my dad that really deeply impacted me. That’s one thread and my dad,

and my brother is another thread, and my mom is another thread. ... [James Taylor] was the second in the line ... and then the female equivalent to that would be Joni Mitchell ...

After the interview, Kori makes it clear that she doesn’t want to throw a bunch of songs together just to release a CD. She’s taking her time — writing songs, doing limited gigs here and there, like at the Nate Holden.

But it’s a sure bet that when she does lift off, fans of her dad will be pleased that they’re able to discern his values — and talents — in her songs.

NFL DEAL

Continued from page 14 ball team with many amenities for fans.

We have 600 acres while they’re restricted to a small corridor in the city. Where are fans going to park and tailgate?”

At the recent event, Leiweke countered: “Look, I’m not going to go back and forth with John Semcken. Thirteen million people came through our campus last year. Between L.A. Live and the Staples Center, we have handled upwards of 80,000 people who come here to celebrate.”

“There are 32,000 parking spaces within walking distance and freeways everywhere,” he continued. To say that

we can’t accommodate a large Sunday crowd is nonsense.”

The next phase of bringing football back to L.A. is AEG getting a deal done with the city, Leiweke said, and the NFL owners and players agreeing to a new collective bargaining agreement.

Leiweke said the stadium could accommodate two teams in 2015. He also said a goal would be to host Super Bowl L (50) in 2016.

Semcken and Leiweke said that their groups are in constant contact with NFL officials and have received assurances that L.A. will land a team. Both declined to discuss specific teams that could move.

16

www.lawattstimes.com

Thursday, February 3, 2011

EVENT 2-5-11 BOOK FAIR (J.T. CRANE) — Charles “Keep A-Knockin’ ” Connor will be a featured author at The Pasadena Book Fair on Feb. 5 and 6. The event will be held at The Pasadena Convention Center, 300 E. Green St. Connor is the original drummer for Little Richard, author, speaker and recent Louisiana Music Hall of Fame inductee.

Connor will autograph copies of his book, “Don’t Give Up Your Dreams: You Can Be A Winner, Charles Connor Too!,”

LISTINGS

drum sticks, photos of himself and posters of “The Girl Can’t Help It” (the classic musical comedy film in which he appeared with Little Richard and the Upsetters). More information: (818) 793-2122, http://pasadenacenter.com.

JOB FAIR — The California Employment Development Department will holds its 4th Annual Job Fair on Feb. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Wallis Annenberg Building, 700 State Drive, Los Angeles. The event will include workshops, and attendees should bring their resumes.

Resumes can be critiqued at the event. More information: Joan Scott, (213) 744-2111.

SCREENING, DISCUSSION (AC BILBREW LIBRARY) — A film screening and discussion of “Filling the Gap: Forgotten Chapter of American History” will take place Feb. 5, 2 p.m., at the AC Bilbrew Library, 150 E. El Segundo Blvd., Los Angeles. This docudrama commemorates the 2011 National Black History Month theme, “African Americans and the Civil War.” This event is free, and is being co-sponsored by the Black Resource Center. More information: (310) 538-3350, ext. 5.

2-6-11 BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS (LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS) — The California African American Museum (CAAM) is kicking off its Black History Month celebra-

AND

enter today

PRESENTS

Poetry

2011

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CONTEST

Submit a poem of 100 words or less!

MAYA ANGELOU 1928 - Present

Contestants ages 7-18 are welcomed to enter.

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

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

(323) 299-3800

02/11

happening this month

tions with a book and CD signing by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. Actress and comedienne Kim Coles will serve as host. Additional entertainment includes performances by NAACP Image award-winning actress Loretta Devine and actor Roger Guenveur Smith. Events will take place Feb. 6, beginning at 1 p.m. Museum galleries open at 11 a.m. CAAM is at 600 State Drive, Los Angeles. More information on events: www.caamuseum.org, (213) 7447432.

2-12-11

BLACK DANCE (SQUIRES PUBLIC RELATIONS) — The Central Avenue Dance Ensemble, in honor of Black History Month, is producing a two-hour multimedia dance performance entitled “The History of Black Dance in America.”

Directed by choreographer, 2-7-11 dancer and band leader ORIENTATION — An Freddie Mac orienChester tation regarding home ownership and other Whitmore, matters will take place Feb. 7, 6 to 8 p.m., at the show the West Angeles Community Development will be a Corp.’s conference room, 6028 Crenshaw retrospecBlvd., Los Angeles. Pre-registration, informative of tion: www.westangelescdc.org, (323) 751African3440, ext. 41. and African2-9-11 AmericanLECTURE (CLAREMONT SCHOOL OF inspired THEOLOGY) — Dr. Shayne L. Lee, an social author, commentator, and associate professor dances of sociology at Tulane University, is the 2011 that have Martin Luther King Jr. lecturer at Claremont been School of Theology. He will give a talk Feb. 9, popular7 p.m., in the Mudd Theater on the school’s ly campus. His subject: “The Shepherd’s Sling: danced Private and Public Service.” Claremont’s King in the Day celebration also will include a special worUnited ship service at 10:30 a.m. in Kresge Chapel, States featuring Claremont alumnus Dr. Cecil L. from the n nse Ha Photo by Rich “Chip” Murray, retired pastor of First AME 1800s to c director of Church in Los Angeles. Prior to the lecture by Chester Whitmore, artisti Dance in today. ck Lee, the annual MLK dinner will be held at The per“The History of Bla 5:30 p.m. in the Haddon Conference Center. forca” eri Am Advanced reservations for the dinner are mance required. Reservations: pasa@cst.edu; Janis will take place Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m., at the Crozier Brown, (909) 447-6335.

Visual and Performing Arts Theater, 124 N. Grevillea Ave., Inglewood. General admission is 2-10-11 $20, preferred seating is $25, and VIP seating is $100. Seniors and students can get in for $15.

DISCUSSION (RADICAL WOMEN) — Tickets may be purchased online at www.historyFeminist Sara Harris will discuss “The ofblackdance.org or at the door. Proceeds will Emancipation of Women,” written in 1965 at the benefit The Crozier Middle School “Gents” height of the Civil Rights movement, on Feb. 10, Character building program. Donations to support 7 p.m. This analysis addresses the emerging this program are also being accepted through the leadership of African-American and White nonprofit Performing Arts for Life and Education women, and sexism within the movement. A Foundation Inc. (P.A.L.E.F.), and can be made supper, with a vegetarian option, will be served through PayPal at www.historyofblackdance.org. at 6:30 p.m. for a $10 donation, and there is a sliding scale for those who have a low income, DRUMARAMA 2 (AC BILBREW as well as the unemployed. The event will take LIBRARY) — Drumarama 2, a group of place at Solidarity Hall, 2170 W. Washington African and African-American musicians, will Blvd., Los Angeles. More information: (323) perform with their unique gourd instruments 732-6416, radicalwomenla@earthlink.net, during a musical program at AC Bilbrew Library www.radicalwomen.org. on Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. They are known for growing the calabash plant in Watts, and making their 2-11-11 own instruments from this gourd-producing plant. They also use instruments made from COMEDY AND DINNER (WESTSIDE COM- recycled materials. Instruments and a mural will EDY THEATER) — “Love, Laughs, and be exhibited during the program. The event is Linguini!” will take place Feb. 11 at 8 p.m. The free, and is being co-sponsored by the Black event is being billed as a romantic evening for Resource Center. More information: (310) 538two, consisting of a show featuring Westside 3350, ext. 5.

Comedy’s Mission IMPROVable! The show will take place at the Bravo! Cucina Italiania’s banquet room, located upstairs. The restaurant is at 1319 The deadline for receipt of calendar 3rd St. Promenade, Santa Monica. You must listings is Friday, noon, at least RSVP for the event. The banquet room holds about 30 people, so seats will be limited. The two weeks prior to activity. occasion will be $90 per couple, which will Fax to: (323) 299-3896, include a full three-course dinner, including your e-mail us at lawattsnus@aol.com or choice of wine, as well as a fully improvised mail to: L.A. Watts Times, comedy show. People can get these tickets by vis3800 Crenshaw Blvd., L.A., CA 90008. iting westsidecomedy.com or calling (310) 451All calendar items are received from various 0850. More information: westsidecomedy.com, senders and are subject to being edited. shannon.westsidecomedy@gmail.com.