LAWT 04-18-2013

W E E K E N D E R S E E PAG ES

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Vol. XXX, No. 1332

www.lawattstimes.com

Thursday, April 18, 2013

L.A. Watts Times

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

HOROSCOPES

Apr. 18 - 24

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RIES ~ Ease into the week (to the best of your impatient ability). Monday’s about steadiness and showing how rock-solid you can be. By Tuesday and Wednesday, though, your orbit is definitely gaining speed, and your quick thinking and wit make for some real opportunities. In what areas will you direct your efforts?

Around the end of the workweek, home and your comfort zone are important.

AURUS ~ Charge into your week on Monday, when your willpower (plus a little extra charm) can get you nearly anywhere (or anyone!). By Tuesday and Wednesday, the cosmic energy’s more at odds with your nature, and you could find yourself doing something out of character – making a sudden snap decision or just wasting time. But you find your pace again and then some at the end of the workweek; it’s a stellar time to make your wishes and hopes known.

EMINI ~ Monday’s about being consistent – show 'em you do indeed have the ability to follow up and follow through. Tuesday and Wednesday are much more free-form and creative; your social side’s out to play, and people are loving you and your many-splendored ways. Is that love in the air? With you around, signs point to yes!

But beware of moodiness or being at odds with someone close to you at the end of the workweek.

ANCER ~ The odder the idea, the more you should consider it on Monday. By Tuesday and Wednesday, communication is in the stars for you, but that doesn’t mean it’s automatically smooth. Take care to make yourself understood, especially with family or a significant other. Then, at the end of the workweek, all your signature traits are highlighted — you’re super tuned in, and the chance of romance is high!

EO ~ Yes, you’re good at what you do, but make an effort to recognize others on Monday, too – it’s all about balance. By Tuesday and Wednesday, though, things tend to balance themselves, and you're pretty much a treasure to those around you, whether in work, play or love. Hint: Ask them for their input on a certain decision – they’ll love it, and it could be surprisingly helpful.

IRGO ~ A little difference matters a lot on Monday.

Be proactive and make a minor but positive change.

By Tuesday and Wednesday, work or communication issues surface – could it be that your usual attention to detail is slipping? Reread, double-check and check in, whether it’s with your boss, a friend or a certain someone.

You’re warm and wonderful at the end of the workweek as the give-and-take of life nurtures you, and you nurture it.

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IBRA ~ Good manners count on Monday, and you might have to do more than your fair share in this regard. Take the high road – you look good up there. On Tuesday or Wednesday, a one-on-one looks extremely productive. Will it be a brainstorming session, a negotiation, a heart-to-heart? Bring a new idea to whatever kind of meeting you set up. .

CORPIO ~ Do your best to practice detachment on Monday – trying to force an issue may not go well now. By Tuesday and Wednesday, you can get a better read on all sorts of situations; all you need to do is look closely, particularly before you leap (and particularly if money and other people are involved). A lesson from the past can help, too. An unusual experience creates a real bond at the end of the workweek, building work relationships or intensifying romantic ones.

AGITTARIUS ~ Buckle down and deal on Monday; the stars reward steady stuff like finishing a project, calling your family and exercising. And never fear – things get more interesting by Tuesday and Wednesday, even alarmingly so. Life looks busy now, and the potential for change is tremendous. If you want to move from talk into action, now’s the time!

APRICORN ~ Monday’s about both work and play, so create a balance in your (probably very busy) day.

By Tuesday and Wednesday, the stars put the emphasis on the ‘give’ part of give and take. Count your lucky stars, and show the universe your thanks for what you’ve got.

You might donate your time or hard-earned cash, and show your love to your loved ones (and, heck, even to strangers!). At the end of the workweek, are you a social butterfly or focused on one person in particular?

QUARIUS ~ If you’re less than thrilled on Monday, the ennui shouldn’t last long – by Tuesday and Wednesday, your energy’s sizzling hot. All things romance-related have a fire under them now, so get some sweet stuff cooking! The end of the workweek looks rather emotional. Will you be the master of your ups and downs – perhaps by exercising, meditating or simply sorting through stuff in your head – or let them master you?

ISCES ~ Monday’s about sharing your thoughts and feelings, as well as hearing those of others. You may want to keep stuff to yourself a bit on Tuesday and Wednesday, when all things are in flux. Go with the proverbial flow – you’re great at it. Be sure to keep those options open. At the end of the workweek, love’s the focus – who are you seeing and how do they look right about now? If you’re wearing rosecolored glasses, recognize it and enjoy the view.

Inside This Edition

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Bakewell Media Partners with BET and AEG

‘Taste of A Taste of Soul’ to debut as part of the BET Experience at L.A. Live June 28-30. Partnership brings city’s most popular food event to downtown Los Angeles

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Photo by Troy Tieuel for LAWT

Bakewell Media Partners with BET and AEG to bring city’s most popular food event to downtown Los Angeles.

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

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WWW.LAWATTSTIMES.COM Danny J. Bakewell, Sr. ............Executive Publisher & Executive Editor Brenda Marsh Mitchell ..................................Executive Vice President Tracey Mitchell ......................................................................Controller Brandon I. Brooks........................................................Managing Editor Kenneth Miller ..............................................Assistant Managing Editor Jennifer Bihm................................................................................Editor Dennis Hunn ......................................................Director of Advertising Benjamin Samuels ....................................................Graphic Designer Kim McGill ............................................................Production Designer EMAIL: wattsweekender@yahoo.com Circulation ..................................................................................30,000 The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the L.A. Watts Times.

The L.A. Watts Times is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, CDs or tapes.

CIRCULATION AUDITED BY CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL

BlackFacts.com April 18, 1983 Alice Walker is awarded the Pulitzer Prize for The Color Purple. Ten days later the novel will also win the American Book Award for fiction.

April 19, 1910 The National Urban League was formed in New York City. The league was born out of a merger of the National League for the Protection of Colored Women, National League on Urban Conditions Among Negroes and the Niagra Movement.

LAWT NEWS SERVICES The BET Experience at L.A. LIVE just got a little tastier with the addition of ‘Taste of A Taste of Soul.’.

Everyone is encouraged to bring their appetites to BET Experience at L.A. LIVE, June 28-30, 2013 as Bakewell Media reached an agreement with BET and AEG to bring a ‘taste’ of ‘Taste of Soul’ blockbuster food festival, it was announced at L.A. Live on Wednesday April 17.

As chefs from Harold & Belles restaurants served up tasty sample to City Council President Herb Wesson and other dignitaries, officials from Bakewell Media, BET and AEG all applauded the new joint partnership.

Says Tom Reynolds of BET, “We wanted to be able to showcase African American foods during the event.

What better way to do it than with those who have a run a highly successful food festival that boasts an attendance of over 300,000? Our collaboration with Danny Bakewell, Sr. and Bakewell Media affords BET Experience at L.A. LIVE participants the opportunity to taste delicious cuisines from a variety of African American restaurants located in the Los Angeles area. This is not only a treat for those locally, but also for those who are coming in from all over the country who want to try regional twists on dishes that they know and love—or those they want to try for the first time.”

Taste of A Taste of Soul as the BET Experience Festival will be called, it will be located in the Fan Festival area of the BET Experience at L.A. LIVE. In addition to the over 50 purveyors that will be selling foods from everything such as red beans and rice and jerked and fried chicken to pecan pies and peach cobblers, Taste of Taste of Soul stage will feature cooking demonstrations by top LA chefs and food competitions. Live music performances with major artists and Bakewell Media’s owned StarQuest winners from 2012’s Taste of Soul are also scheduled.

“I believe that as African American businesses we need to collaborate as often as possible with each other,” says Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., Founder/Creator of Taste of Soul and President/CEO of Bakewell Media.

We need to develop strategic alliances that benefit each of us and our businesses individually and also help strengthen our community collectively.

The partnership of Taste of Soul and the Taste Of Soul Nation alongside BET and its worldwide fan base is a win-win for everyone--for the food vendors and other businesses that are a part of the Taste of Soul, for our community and for BET and the BET Experience because it brings the local fan base of Taste of Soul together with the BET’s national fan base--all to celebrate the Black Experience and to have a good time in an atmosphere of love, peace and togetherness. I applaud AEG for hosting this event along with BET. Other than the Taste of Soul, this will probably be one of the largest gatherings of Black businesses and economic empowerment for Black businesses in Los Angeles. This will certainly be the largest gathering of Black businesses in downtown Los Angeles in the history of this city.”

“From the moment we began planning the BET Experience with our partners at BET, we knew that to create a truly authentic cultural experience for our guests, food would be a critical component as we highlight the positive aspects of African American life and our community,” said Sean Dee, Chief Brand Officer, AEG Live.

“Without a doubt, our partnership with Danny and Bakewell Media was the one and only way to proceed to create L.A.’s one of a kind food experience within the Bet Experience in L.A. LIVE. There is nobody better to produce this one of a kind food experience in an atmosphere of respect, peace, pride and pleasure than Danny and his organization.”

“It was my privilege to be the Honorary Co-Chair for last years’ Taste of Soul. Drawing over 250,000 See ‘TASTE OF SOUL’, page 14

Thursday, April 18, 2013

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Obama says Boston bombings an act of terrorism

BY JULIE PACE ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama pronounced the deadly Boston Marathon explosions an act of terrorism on Tuesday as individuals close to the investigation said the two bombs were made of pressure cookers packed with ball bearings and metal shards that cut into the victims.

Speaking at the White House, Obama said investigators do not know if the attack was carried out by an inter-

national or domestic organization, or perhaps by a “malevolent individual.”

Three people were killed, including an 8 year-old boy, and more than 170 were wounded.

In his second public statement in less than 24 hours since the explosions, the president said, “Clearly we are at the beginning of our investigation.” He urged anyone with information relating to the events to contact authorities.

Individuals briefed on the probe said the two bombs were made up of pressure cookers, one packed with ball

AP Photo/MetroWest Daily News, Ken McGagh

Injured people and debris lie on the sidewalk near the Boston Marathon finish line following an explosion in Boston, Monday, April 15, 2013.

AP Photo/Elise Amendola

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks as Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis, middle, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Richard DesLauriers, far right, listen at a news conference in Boston Monday, April 15, 2013 regarding two bombs which exploded in the street near the finish line of the Boston Marathon on Monday, killing three people and injuring more than 130.

bearings and the other with shards of metal, presumably to inflict maximum injuries. The bombs were placed inside black duffel bags on the ground near the finish line of the annual race, they said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the investigation remains active and they were not authorized to be quoted by name.

Obama said investigators “don’t have a sense of motivation yet” as they begin to evaluate the attack.

Despite the loss of life and limb,

Obama declared, “The American people refuse to be terrorized.”

As he had on Monday, he said those responsible for the attacks would be brought to justice.

The president had avoided labeling the incident a terrorist attack when he stood at the same White House lectern shortly after the explosions.

Members of Congress quickly concluded on Monday afternoon that's what it was, and White House officials said the FBI was investigating the

attack as a terror incident.

The administration’s public assessment began to shift when Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told Congress in a morning appearance that the attacks were “a cruel act of terror.”

Appearing on television a short while afterward, Obama said the events in Boston were a "heinous cowardly act, and given what we now know about what took place, the FBI is investigating it as an act of terrorism.”

See BOSTON BOMBING, page 15

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

Photos Of The Week VP Swears in Congresswoman Robin Kelly

Race will be close for Compton Mayor Both political newcomer Aja Brown and former Compton Mayor Omar Bradley have large voter support

BY JENNIFER BIHM LAWT EDITOR

Official White House Photo by David Lienemann

Vice President Joe Biden ceremonially swears in Congresswoman Robin Kelly in his office at the U.S. Capitol, in Washington, D.C., April 11, 2013.

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Preliminary election results from the Compton City Clerk’s office this week alluded to a run off between community development professional Aja Brown and former Compton Mayor Omar Bradley, who had a ‘misuse of funds’ conviction overturned last summer. Brown, who is new to the political scene says she has an entirely new vision for the city, while Bradley who led Compton for eight years prior to his conviction is promising get things back on track, the way they were when he was in charge.

“When I was mayor, were the streets filled with potholes,” he asked voters on his ballot statement.

“Back then, did your street sweeper run on time? Were your trees trimmed and your sidewalks repaired? Were there new trashcans, trash trucks, buses and fire trucks?

More importantly, was there ever a layoff or a deficit? Now ask yourself, is the same true today?”

Meanwhile Brown, 31, said her vision involves a five-point plan focused on youth development, economic improvement, crime reduction, reforming city government and re-branding the city of Compton.

“I have over 10 years of community development and economic development experience working with the municipalities of Gardena, Inglewood, Pasadena (former Planning Commissioner) and the city of Compton’s Redevelopment Agency,” said Brown during an interview for 2urbangirls.com.

“I am the only candidate who has worked in community development and who fully understands how cities operate cross departmentally. I can identify key components necessary for reform and revitalization. Any person can identify the problem; few can identify viable solutions…”

Compton resident Donald Patton said he voted for Brown because he feels she is someone who can move the city, which narrowly missed bankruptcy, forward.

“It’s good to have somebody young with fresh ideas,” Patton recently told the L.A. Times. “I just want to see change in my community.”

Apparently a hefty percentage of the city’s voters agree with Patton.

The unofficial election results on Tuesday showed Brown very slightly in the lead. However, Bradley has his own significant chunk of supporters, mainly residents like Patsy Rice, wishing for Compton’s “good old days.”

Rice said she put in her vote for Bradley amidst the city’s financial crisis that resulted in service cut backs with rising costs and layoffs.

Aja Brown

Omar Bradley “Maybe we could have been in better shape if Bradley remained as mayor,” she told the Times.

Wrote election participant Vonn Bowman on Bradley’s Facebook campaign page, “Omar Bradley has the love and the hustle in him for our great city and the people who make it their home. [He will] put Compton back on top against all seeming challenges and odds! Re-elect Mayor Omar Bradley…”

Bradley has not listed any endorsements on his website.

Brown’s endorsements include Los Angeles County Democratic Party, Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, L.A. County Board of Supervisors Chairman Mark Ridley Thomas and the National Women’s Political Caucus. Voters will make their final decision in June.

Other winning candidates are Lillie Dobson and Isaac Galvan, who will run off for City Council District 2; Yvonne Arceneaux, District 3; Craig J Cornwell for city attorney, Alita Godwin for city clerk and Douglas Sanders for treasurer.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

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Black Generals, Genocide survivor: saved rich in legacy, by member of enemy tribe make history

BY VERENA DOBNIK ASSOCIATED PRESS

Army’s second highest position, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army. In 1979, Brooks became the first AfricanAmerican to assume the cadet First Captain position at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, the highest position a cadet can hold.

Along with their graduations from West Point, their honorary doctorates degrees and their 6-foot, 4inch frames, these generals also share an ability to understand, counsel and inspire others toward excellence.

members of the Tutsi tribe pitted against the ruling Hutus.

Life for her family — four siblings with parents who were teachers — changed on April 7, 1994, when she was a college student visiting her village and her brother announced that the Rwandan president died in a plane that

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was shot down.

He belonged to the Hutu tribe, and the Tutsis were blamed. The killings began.

Ilibagiza said her father decided she should flee to the home of a neighbor he knew and trusted — a Hutu.

See GENOCIDE SURVIVOR, page 10

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In this Aug. 31, 2012 file photo, Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III speaks in El Paso, Texas.

“Gen. Austin …is an outstanding illustration of what a Black male can achieve in America,” said Craig Hanford, president of Hanford Consulting and Austin’s West Point classmate. “He’s a great leader, decorated warrior, and compassionate mentor.”

“Lt. Gen. Brooks is a soldier’s soldier,” said Col. Rivers Johnson Jr., public affairs officer for U.S. Cyber Command. “I’ve never worked so hard in my Army career as I did when I was his executive officer. He was the consummate mentor, teacher and dedicated leader.”

Both generals have legacies rich in military service. Austin, who hails from Thomasville, Ga., traces his military roots back to his distant relative, 2nd Lt. Henry O. Flipper, the first African American to graduate from West Point in 1877.

Brooks, born in Anchorage, Alaska, comes from a family of generals. His father, and older brother, Leo Brooks Sr. and Jr., retired as general officers. Brooks’ family service dates back to the Civil War, when his great-great grandfather, an escaped slave, joined the Union Army.

While some may see these nominations as the reasoned and strategic choices of a wise president, Foster Payne II, retired Army Col., also sees their value to others.

“In a society that searches for role models for our youth, both generals are trailblazers not only for their service to the nation but to mankind,” said Payne.

Whether defending America’s interests, developing soldiers or inspiring youth, these storied generals continue to make history.

AP Photo

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AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez, File

AP Photo/Richard Lewis

United States Brigadier General Vincent Brooks, points to take a journalists question, during a news conference at Camp As Sayliyah, Central Command Centre, Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, April 2, 2003.

Immaculee Ilibagiza

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Two African-American generals made history this year by simultaneously taking charge of major regional commands.

President Barack Obama nominated Generals Lloyd Austin and Vincent Brooks to head U.S. Central Command and U.S. Army Pacific, respectively. Each powerful command position allows the generals to oversee operations in either the Middle East or Asia. Brooks will earn his fourth star upon assuming command, while Austin is already a fourstar general.

Although the nominations highlight a first for African Americans, both generals have had a career of firsts. A year ago, Austin became the first African American to hold the

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BY FRANK J. PHILLIPS SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER

NEW YORK (AP) — A Rwandan genocide survivor who became a U.S. citizen Wednesday says she was saved because her father trusted an exceptional member of an enemy tribe that slaughtered the rest of her family.

“My father always used to tell us, ‘Never judge people by putting them in boxes, because of their country, their race, their tribe,’” Immaculee Ilibagiza, a Tutsi, told fellow immigrants at a Manhattan naturalization ceremony.

The 43-year-old mother of two is the author of “Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust” — a best-selling book translated into 35 languages that has turned her into a successful speaker around the world.

Eyes brimming with tears, she received her citizenship 14 years after being granted asylum in the United States. Then, as the ceremony's keynote speaker, she took 50 other immigrants on the personal journey that transformed her from an angry, emaciated young Rwandan hiding from ethnic killers into a radiant American who forgives them and feels “that no tragedy is big enough to crush you.”

The 1994 civil war claimed more than a half-million African lives, with

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

Proposal would ban lenders’ Pell Grant changes ability to garnish wages of college will slow Black graduates with private loans

BY LAURA OLSON ASSOCIATED PRESS Graduates in California struggling to repay private student loans could get a reprieve under legislation that passed the state Assembly on Thursday April 11.

The bill from Assemblyman Bob Wieckowski, D-Fremont, would prevent private lenders from garnishing the wages of indebted former students.

Wieckowski said the creditors are allowed to withhold up to 25 percent of a delinquent borrower’s disposable income. Preventing such automatic withholding would encourage lenders to create manageable repayment plans for graduates, he said.

Supporters said the increasing level of student loan debt, which cannot be eliminated during bankruptcy proceedings, endangers the state’s economy by limiting young adults’ ability to buy homes and make other investments.

“It’s placed an inordinate burden on underemployed graduates,” Wieckowski said.

In California, 51 percent of college graduates in 2011 left school with public or private loans, according to a study by the Institute of College Access

AP Photo Alex Brandon

Rep. Karen Bass who introduced the Student Loan Forgiveness Act of 2013. and Success, a nonprofit research group based in Oakland. Their average debt burden is nearly $19,000.

A federal study released last year by the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau said outstanding student loan debt in the U.S. exceeds $1 trillion.

Private student loans account for more

than $150 billion.

The percentage of private student debt continues to grow, Wieckowski said. In 2004, 5 percent of the average student’s debt was privately held. By 2008, that figure had risen to 14 percent.

The bill, AB233, would not affect the government’s ability to tap wages for the repayment of federal student loans.

Republican lawmakers who opposed the bill said it would be unfair to private lenders if the federal government could continue garnishing wages while private lenders cannot.

The strategy is one method they use for ensuring debts get repaid.

Access to private loans could shrink as a result, opponents said.

“You may dry up the market of private loans being accessible in the future,” said Assemblywoman Shannon Grove, R-Bakersfield.

Texas, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and North Carolina have enacted similar laws to prohibit wage garnishment on private student loans.

The legislation was sent to the Senate on a largely party-line, 50-22 vote. GOP lawmakers opposed it, along with Democratic Assemblyman Mike Gatto of Los Angeles.

graduation rates

Photo Credit: Community College of Philadelphia

Bonita Rex (right), a Student Ambassador, passing out information about the changes to Pell eligibility rules and encouraging fellow students to sign onto the college’s Save Pell web site to send letters to their elected officials.

BY MAYA RHODAN NNPA WASHINGTON CORRESPONDENT WASHINGTON (NNPA) – In many ways, the route Bonita Rex took to college is not unusual. After graduating from high school in 2007, family issues forced her to delay enrolling in college. Two years later, thanks to Pell grants and an improved family situation, she enrolled in the Community College of Philadelphia with a focus on general studies in cultural science and technology.

After Rex earns an Associate degree while holding down two parttime jobs, she plans to complete requirements for a bachelor’s degree at California State University.

But recent changes made to Pell grants has Rex, 24, worried that she might not be able to complete her bachelor’s degree at Cal State or anywhere else.

The Pell Grant program nearly doubled from assisting about 5 million students in 2009 to 9.4 million students in 2012. The program, which provides low-income students with financial aid they do not have to repay, was projected to face an $18.3 billion shortfall during 2012-2013 academic year because of an increase in need.

In an effort to maintain the maximum grant of $5,550 per academic year, Congress opted to eliminate four qualifications for the program, making an estimated 145,000 students suddenly ineligible for funds. In addition, students are no longer eligible to receive their Pell Grants during the summer semester.

During the 2012-2013 school year, if a student did not have a high school diploma or GED, had a family income of more than $23,000, needed less than 10 percent of the maximum award, or had received a grant for longer than 12 semesters, they were no longer able to receive Pell funds.

“Twelve semesters is kind of slim,”

says Rex. “It’s unfair. They’re forcing non-traditional students to rush through our courses so that we have enough money to last through an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and potentially a Master’s.”

After this year, Rex will have completed nine semesters on her Pell Grant, leaving only three to lead her through her studies at her dream school of California State University where she wants to study to become a dietician.

The 1,200 community colleges across the U.S. educate about 8 million students every year, representing almost half of all undergraduate students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Of the nearly 40,000 students enrolled at the Community College of Philadelphia, 56.7 percent are Black. Nationally, 32 percent of community college students are African-American.

About 92 percent of Black students received financial aid during the 20072008 school year, 80 percent of which came in the form of grants. Blacks received $4.5 billion in Pell Grant funds during the 2008-2009 school year.

A 2010 Journal of Blacks in Higher Education special report titled, “Pell Grants: The Cornerstone of AfricanAmerican Higher Education,” stated, “The importance of the federal Pell Grant program cannot be overemphasized. This federal grant program for low-income students is the life-blood for hundreds of thousands of African Americans seeking higher education.

Without this important program, many Black students would not be able to enroll in higher education. Hundreds of thousands of other Blacks would have to go deeper into debt or hold down a job while attending college if it were not for the Pell Grant program.”

Lezli Baskerville, president of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) based in Washington, D.C., says the changes to the financial aid See PELL GRANTS, page 15

Thursday, April 18, 2013

7

Some states dropping GED as test AP source: price spikes Immigration bill could exclude many

BY HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH ASSOCIATED PRESS

BY ERICA WERNER ASSOCIATED PRESS A bipartisan immigration bill soon to be introduced in the Senate could exclude hundreds of thousands of immigrants here illegally from ever becoming U.S. citizens, according to a Senate aide with knowledge of the proposals.

The bill would bar anyone who arrived in the U.S. after Dec. 31, 2011, from applying for legal status and ultimately citizenship, according to the aide, who was not authorized to discuss the proposals before they were made public and spoke on condition of anonymity.

It also would require applicants to document AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin that they were in the country before Dec. 31, 2011, Ajna, 28, of Washington, an artist who goes by have a clean criminal only her first name and is of Ethiopian and record and show enough Eritrean descent, poses for a portrait at the end employment or financial of the “Rally for Citizenship” on Capitol Hill in stability that they're likely Washington on Wednesday, April 10, 2013. to stay off welfare.

Those requirements could exclude status of their workers, greatly boost hundreds of thousands of the 11 million border security and put millions of immigrants in the U.S. illegally from immigrants living in the U.S. illegally the path to citizenship envisioned by on a 13-year path to citizenship. A top second-term priority for President the bill, the aide said.

Although illegal immigration to the Barack Obama, it would enact the U.S. has been dropping, many tens of biggest changes to U.S. immigration thousands still arrive each year, so the law in more than a quarter-century.

Deals gelled over the past two days cutoff date alone could exclude a large number of people. That may come as a on a new farm-worker program and disappointment to immigrant rights visas for high-tech workers, eliminatgroups that had been hoping that any- ing the final substantive disputes on the one here as of the date of enactment of legislation.

Next will come the uncertain pubthe bill could be able to become eligible lic phase as voters and other lawmakers for citizenship.

But Republicans in the immigra- get a look at the measure. Already, tion negotiating group had sought strict some conservatives have made it clear criteria on legal enforcement and bor- their opposition will be fierce.

Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., comder security as the price for their support for a path to citizenship, which is plained that the bill would ensure that still opposed by some as amnesty. millions get amnesty but border Details on the criminal record require- enforcement never happens.

“This is also why it is so troubling ment were still being finalize,d but anyone with a felony conviction was likely that (Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.) has rejected the to be excluded, the aide said.

The new details emerged as nego- GOP request for multiple hearings and tiators reached agreement on all the that members of the Gang of Eight major elements of the sweeping legisla- have publicly announced their intention to oppose any amendments,” Sessions tion.

After months of closed-door nego- said in a statement Thursday. “To protiations, the “Gang of Eight” senators, ceed along these lines is tantamount to equally divided between the two par- an admission that the bill is not workties, had no issues left to resolve in per- able and will not withstand public son, and no more negotiating sessions scrutiny.”

Pro-immigrant activists also were were planned. Remaining details were left to aides, who were at work com- gearing up for a fight even as they expressed optimism that this time, pleting drafts of the bill.

“All issues that rise to the member Congress will succeed in passing an level have been dealt with,” Sen. immigration overhaul bill. Many of Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a those pushing for the legislation were statement Thursday. “All that is left is involved in the last major immigration fight, in 2007, when a bill came close the drafting.”

Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of on the Senate floor but ultimately Illinois said the bill probably would be failed.

“I think it’s a pretty remarkable introduced on Tuesday.

The landmark legislation would breakthrough that eight ideologically overhaul legal immigration programs, diverse senators are working so well require all employers to verify the legal See IMMIGRATION BILL, page 15

Several dozen states are looking for an alternative to the GED high school equivalency test because of concerns that a new version coming out next year is more costly and will no longer be offered in a pencil and paper format.

The responsibility for issuing high school equivalency certificates or diplomas rests with states, and they’ve relied on the General Education Development exam since soon after the test was created to help returning World War II veterans.

But now 40 states and the District of Columbia are participating in a working group that’s considering what's available besides the GED, and two test makers are hawking new exams.

“It’s a complete paradigm shift because the GED has been the monopoly. It's been the only thing in town for high school equivalency testing. It’s kind of like Kleenex at this point,” said Amy Riker, director of high school equivalency testing for Educational Testing Service, which developed one of the alternative tests.

Last month, New York, Montana and New Hampshire announced they were switching to a new high school equivalency exam, and California officials began looking into amending regulations to drop the requirement that the state only use the GED test.

Missouri has requested bids from test makers and plans to make a decision this month. Several others states, including Massachusetts, Maine, Indiana and Iowa, are making plans to request information about alternative exams.

Meanwhile, Tennessee and New Jersey are exploring offering more than one test.

“The national situation is definitely fluid,” said Tom Robbins, Missouri’s director of adult education and high school equivalency, noting that other states plan to use the GED for now and bid later.

The pushback comes as GED Testing Service prepares to introduce a new version of the exam in January. In the first revamp since for-profit Pearson Vue Testing acquired a joint ownership interest in the nonprofit Washington-based GED Testing Service, the cost of the test is doubling to $120. That’s led to a case of sticker shock for test takers, nonprofits and states. Some states subsidize some or all of the expense of the exam, while others add an administrative fee. The new GED test would cost $140 to take in Missouri if the state sticks with it.

Kirk Proctor, of the Missouri Career Center, said the organization is looking for a way to cover the increased test cost for students participating in a GED preparation and job training program he oversees. He said his students can’t come up with $140, noting they need help paying for the current, cheaper test.

“A lot of them are just barely making it,” he said. “Transportation is a challenge. Eating is a challenge. For them, coming up with $140 for an assessment, it's basically telling them, ‘Forget about ever getting this part of your life complete.’”

One program participant, Nicole Williams, a 21-year-old Kansas City mother of three, said she was hopeful she’d pass the GED test soon so she could avoid the electronic version.

With it, she said, “you’ve got to learn how to type, use the computer, plus your GED. That’s three things instead of just trying to focus all on your GED test.”

Developers say the new version is needed because nearly all states are adopting tougher math and reading standards to ensure students are prepared for college and careers. Because the new version is so different, a million or so adults who have passed some but not all of the five parts of the current GED test must complete the miss-

ing sections by Dec. 31. If not, their scores will expire and they’ll have to begin again under the new program Jan. 1.

“The GED was in dangerous position of no longer being a reflection of what high schools were graduating,” said Randy Trask, president and CEO of GED Testing Service, which previously was solely operated by the nonprofit American Council on Education.

He said the computerized version, which students are passing at higher rates than the paper version in pilot sites, will be cheaper to administer because states will no longer have to pick up the tab for things like grading the exam. For test-takers who fail a See GED DROPPED, page 15

Emergencies Do Happen

Know your neighbors.

Plan together.

Be ready.

Wind Storms, fires, earthquakes or floods can strike at anytime. These emergencies do happen, and it’s important to be ready. That means knowing your neighbors, making a specific plan and working together to be prepared. Take the first step today. Visit bereadyla.org.

This project was supported by Grant/Cooperative Agreement Number 2U90TP917012-11 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the CDC.

8

F E AT U R E

Thursday, April 18, 2013

L.A. Watts Times WEEKENDER

BY KENNETH D. MILLER LAWT Assistant Managing Editor

Jackie Robinson is the most important Americ ‘42’ Born January 31, 1919, in Cairo, Georgia, Jackie Robinson was the first African-American to play major league baseball. Throughout his decade-long career with the Brooklyn Dodgers, he made advancements in the cause of civil rights for black athletes. In 1955, he helped the Dodgers win the World Series. He retired in 1957, with a career batting average of .311 ‘41’ The youngest of five children, Robinson was raised in relative poverty by a single mother.

‘40’ He attended John Muir High School and Pasadena Junior College, where he was an excellent athlete and played four sports: football, basketball, track, and baseball. He was named the region’s Most Valuable Player in baseball in 1938.

‘39’ Robinson’s older brother, Matthew Robinson, inspired Jackie to pursue his talent and love for athletics. Matthew won a silver medal in the 200-meter dash—just behind Jesse Owens—at the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin.

‘38’ Jackie continued his education at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he became the university’s first student to win varsity letters in four sports.

‘36’ In 1941, despite his athletic success, Robinson was forced to leave UCLA just shy of graduation due to financial hardship.

‘35’ He moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, where he played football for the semi-professional Honolulu Bears.

‘34’ His season with the Bears was cut short when the United States entered into World War II. ‘33’ From 1942 to 1944, Robinson served as a second lieutenant in the United States Army.

‘32’ He never saw combat, however; Robinson was arrested and court-martialed during boot camp after he refused to move to the back of a segregated bus during training.

‘30’ He was later acquitted of the charges and received an honorable discharge.

‘29’ His courage and moral objection to segregation were precursors to the impact Robinson would have in major league baseball.

‘28’ After his discharge from the Army in 1944, Robinson began to play baseball professionally.

‘27’ At the time, the sport was segregated, and AfricanAmericans and whites played in separate leagues.

‘26’ Robinson began playing in the Negro Leagues.

‘25’ He was soon chosen by Branch Rickey, president of the Brooklyn Dodgers, to help integrate major league baseball.

‘24’ He joined the all-white Montreal Royals, a farm team for the Brooklyn Dodgers, in 1946.

‘23’ He later moved to Florida to begin spring training with the Royals.

‘22’ Jackie Robinson his first game in Ebbets Field for the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947.

‘21’ Rickey knew there would be diƥcult times ahead for the young athlete, and made Robinson promise to not fight back when confronted with racism.

‘20’ From the beginning of his career with the Dodgers, Robinson’s will was tested.

‘19’ Even some of his own teammates objected to having an African-American on their team.

‘18’ People in the crowds sometimes jeered at Robinson, and he and his family received threats.

‘17’ Despite the racial abuse, particularly at away games, Robinson had an outstanding start with the Royals,

www.lawattstimes.com

Jackie Robinson (1945)

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Jackie Robinson with Dodgers John Jorgensen, Pee Wee Reese and Ed Stanky (1947).

Jackie Robinson with wife, Rachel, pose in their Connecticut home (1962).

can sports figure and here are ‘42’ reasons why leading the International League with a .349 batting average and .985 fielding percentage.

‘16’ His excellent year led to his promotion to the Dodgers.

‘15’ April 15, 1947, marked the first time an African-American athlete played in the major leagues.

‘14’ The harassment continued, however.

‘13’ Philadelphia Phillies and their manager Ben Chapman, during one infamous game, Chapman and his team shouted derogatory terms at Robinson from their dugout.

‘12’ Many players on opposing teams threatened not to play against the Dodgers.

team captain Pee Wee Reese.

‘7’ Jackie Robinson succeeded in putting the prejudice and racial strife aside, and showed everyone what a talented player he was. In his first year, he hit 12 home runs and helped the Dodgers win the National League pennant.

‘6’ That year, Robinson led the National League in stolen bases and was selected as Rookie of the Year. He continued to wow fans and critics alike with impressive feats, such as an outstanding .342 batting average during the 1949 season. He led in stolen bases that year and earned the National League’s Most Valuable Player Award.

‘5’ Robinson soon became a hero of the sport, even among former critics, and was the subject for the popular song, “Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball?”

‘10’ Even his own teammates threatened to sit out. But Dodgers manager Leo Durocher informed them that he would sooner trade them than Robinson.

‘4’ An exceptional base runner, Robinson stole home 19 times in his career, setting a league record.

‘9’ Leo Durocher’s loyalty to Jackie set the tone for the rest of Robinson’s career with the team.

‘3’ He also became the highest-paid athlete in Dodgers history, and his success in the major leagues opened the door for other African-American players, such as Satchel Paige, Willie Mays, and Hank Aaron.

‘8’ Others defended Jackie Robinson’s right to play in the major leagues, including League President Ford Frick, Baseball Commissioner Happy Chandler, Jewish baseball star Hank Greenberg and Dodgers shortstop and

‘2’ Robinson also became a vocal champion for AfricanAmerican athletes, civil rights, and other social and political causes. In July 1949, he testified on discrimination

before the House Un-American Activities Committee.

In 1952, he publicly called out the Yankees as a racist organization for not having broken the color barrier five years after he began playing with the Dodgers.

‘1’ Robinson has also been recognized outside of baseball. In December 1956, the NAACP recognized him with the Spingarn Medal, which it awards annually for the highest achievement by an African-American.

President Ronald Reagan posthumously awarded Robinson the Presidential Medal of Freedom on March 26, 1984 and on March 2, 2005, President George W. Bush gave Robinson’s widow Rachel Robinson the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award bestowed by Congress; Robinson was only the second baseball player to receive the award, after Roberto Clemente. On August 20, 2007, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria Shriver, announced that Robinson was inducted into the California Hall of Fame, located at The California Museum for History, Women and the Arts in Sacramento.

A number of buildings have been named in Robinson’s honor. The UCLA Bruins baseball team plays in Jackie Robinson Stadium, which, because of the eơorts of Jackie’s brother Mack, features a memorial statue of Robinson by sculptor Richard H. Ellis. The stadium also unveiled a new mural of Robinson by Mike Sullivan on April 14, 2013. City Island Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida was renamed Jackie Robinson Ballpark in 1990 and a statue of Robinson with two children stands in front of the ballpark. His wife Rachel was present for the dedication.

JACKIE ROBINSON

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

Jackie Robinson: ‘Too bad he’s the wrong color’

BY LEE A. DANIELS NNPA COLUMNIST You could say “42,” the film about the life of Brooklyn Dodgers great Jackie Robinson, is a gripping baseball tale, and your assessment would be correct – but woefully incomplete.

“42” is not just a baseball story. It’s a compelling history lesson as well. It tells the story of not just baseball, but of a central facet of 20th Century American life – the suffocating reach of racism – in the decades before the 1960s.

It conveys the grievous wrong Black Americans endured and signals what it cost them, and America as a whole. And it indicates how the barrier of racism was cracked by Blacks and Whites who worked – many over the course of decades – to destroy it.

“42” reminds us, as the Major League’s season gets underway, that, given its mythic status in American life, baseball’s s most important milestone had nothing to do with the mechanics of playing the game or a particular game that was played but with cleansing the moral center of American democracy itself. It recounts once again in popular form the story of a man whose life proved that history sometimes acts through individuals and individuals can act to influence history.

“42” tells a story that never gets old; for it’s rooted in the saga of an America that once was, and then began to change sharply – a change which has yielded enormous benefits but which also remains both incomplete and resisted.

Jack Roosevelt Robinson, born in 1919, grew up in an America where the words “Too bad he’s the wrong color” were often the kindest remarks White Americans would say about Black Americans.

A Boston Red Sox scout said them in April, 1945 during the now-infamous sham tryout at which that storied team passed on signing the future Hall of Famer despite his impressing Sox offi-

Lee A. Daniels cials with his hitting and fielding. (A few years later, the Sox would also pass on signing Willie Mays. They would be the last team in baseball to add – in 1959 – a Black player to their roster.)

Of course, the scout was wrong. As would become evident two years later, beginning on April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson was the right color, and of the right character, after all, to help ratchet up the pressure that had been building for decades among Black Americans in the North and South to confront the country’s great sin. To repeat, that wrong wasn’t merely Blacks’ 50-year exclusion from the playing fields of Major League Baseball.

Even as White America was boasting that its victory over Germany and Japan in World War II had made the world “safe” for democracy, Black Americans could see in every sector of American society – higher education, the movie industry, the civil service, residential housing, the military, large corporations and small businesses alike, the labor unions, collegiate and professional sports, and so on – that bigotry,

GENOCIDE SURVIVOR Continued from page 5 She told fellow immigrants from 16 countries that “if I am here today, it's because my father had trust in the man from that tribe” — whose members “were supposed to be our enemies.”

She spent three months locked into a tiny bathroom in his house with seven women and girls, sleeping practically upright and eating what little he could shove through the door daily. She was 23 and weighed 65 pounds, her bones protruding from her limbs.

“I was angry a lot; I thought, if I ever come out, I was going to be a killer,” she said.

In despair, she said her Catholic childhood prayers. But when she got to “forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us” — she stopped.

“How do you forgive somebody who is killing you?”

Suddenly, one day, something unexpected happened inside her.

“I felt God was showing me there are two parts of the world: a part that

was love, and a side that was hate — people like Hitler, and like people causing genocide in Rwanda,” she said.

“And people like Mandela, Mother Teresa, Gandhi, Martin Luther King — people who have suffered but who will do everything to make sure that those who are wrong change their mind.”

She began to think of those doing the killing “as people who were lost, who were blind,” she said. “And if I did not let go of the anger, I would not be here today; I would have tried to kill people, and they would have killed me.”

The eight captives left their hiding spot when the genocide was over.

The Hutus had won the civil war.

Everyone in Ilibagiza’s family was killed, “my mom, my dad, my two brothers, my grandpa, my grandma, my aunts, neighbors, schoolmates, best friends.”

She got a job with the United Nations in Rwanda, and eventually moved to New York.

Here, “I saw Koreans, and Indians and Chinese and I thought, ‘Those are

not democracy, was triumphant.

The South’s apartheid system had its explicit “Whites Only” and “No Colored Allowed” signs. But, although the signs were absent, the same noxious sentiments existed almost everywhere in the North and West, from Boston to Pasadena, Calif., where the Georgiaborn Robinson grew up.

In the immediate postwar environment, Robinson’s signing by the Branch Rickey-led Dodgers was the thunderclap that heralded the massing of new forces in the domestic fight to make America itself safe for democracy.

By then, Black Americans had the diverse organizational strength at the national and local levels to field multiple challenges to racism. By then, a still very small but growing number of White organizations – and individuals like Branch Rickey – were actively looking for ways to break the numerous “color barriers” that characterized American society. And by then, America’s position of global leadership was beginning to exert pressure on it to live up to its boasts about loving freedom by extending it to Black Americans, too. It was no accident of history that within a year of Robinson’s breaking baseball’s color barrier, President Truman ordered the desegregation of America’s other signal mythic institution – the military.

Jackie Robinson’s story was but one facet of the diamond of Black determination that in the 20 years after World War II would dismantle the legalized structure of racism. But he – an extraordinarily-gifted, fiercely-competitive athlete who possessed a deeply spiritual, disciplined character – was superbly suited for the challenge he, and America, confronted.

The wrong color? Not on your life.

Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist based in New York City. His most recent book is Last Chance: The Political Threat to Black America. He collaborated with Rachel Robinson on her 1998 book, Jackie Robinson: An Intimate Portrait. not Americans,’” she said. “But no, they are Americans; every nationality here is accepted as Americans.”

And they had their stories too — some equally tinged with tragedy.

Friends who watched her thrive, despite her past, urged her to write her story. They wondered, she said, “how can you be happy after what happened to you? Why are you smiling today?”

Her explanation?

“Something in my heart was born anew; I did not have to hate no matter how much you hate me,” she said.

She gets hundreds of emails and letters “telling me, ‘because of your story, I’m a better mom, I’m a better dad, I can forgive my wife, I can forgive my husband, my friends.’”

Ilibagiza’s life now is not so different from other Americans. She's divorced and bringing up her two children — a 14year-old girl and an 11-year-old boy — on Manhattan’s East Side.

On Wednesday, Ilibagiza planned to join friends for a celebratory lunch, “and I want a really good hamburger, because I’m feeling so American today,” she said with a carefree laugh.

‘Obama’ as a prefix

BY JULIANNE MALVEAUX NNPA COLUMNIST The right wing seems determined to associate President Obama with any government program that helps people on the bottom. Thus, the term Obamacare was used to attack the health care program that President Obama fashioned and worked with Congress to approve. While Obamacare is not perfect, it brings more people into the health care system, and further solidifies the safety net that many have attempted to fray.

Now these folks are running with the term “Obamaphone,” which speaks to the fact that President Obama has simply extended a Lifeline plan that was authorized by Republican President Ronald Reagan when it was clear that those who were either isolated by poverty or by their rural status needed telephones to connect themselves to the world.

The Reagan program used taxes on some of us to provide telephones for the rest of us. People were able to get a telephone that offered basic service for a basic fee. With the onset of technology, Lifeline customers had the option of getting a landline phone or a cellular phone. This is not an Obama initiative. It began in 1996.

Those who get a subsidized telephone have numerous restrictions.

They don’t get to choose their phone, but are offered whatever is available, usually a refurbished phone. They get 250 minutes a month if they get a cell phone. The 250 minutes is about four hours a month, or an hour a week. Is this really some kind of rip off, or is it a reasonable way to bring people on the periphery to the center? What do you do with no phone when there is a medical emergency or even a job call?

Absent Lifeline, you are yet again a peripheral citizen.

Obamaphone? Give me a break.

Until the Tea Party began to hold sway on our national consciousness, Republicans were among those who embraced the notion that every American should have basic telephone service. Now, anything associated with government assistance is associated with President Obama, despite the fact that both Democratic and Republican presidents have attempted to assist people at the bottom, albeit with different levels of energy.

Let’s not forget that it was Democratic President Bill Clinton who pushed the “welfare reform” that limited government assistance to 60 months or five years. When President Clinton, long a favorite among African Americans, proffered a 1996 reform that I described as “welfare deform,” several of his African American supporters excoriated him.

He weathered the storm, as did the public assistance program. Still, nobody describes it as Clintonwelfare.

It was an ill- conceived and pandering policy change that allowed President

Julianne Malveaux Clinton to brag that he’d gotten “tough” on public assistance.

Associating President Obama with government support to the poor is a subtle way of associating people of African descent with public assistance, and with the pejorative term “welfare.” This is a most understated form of racial coding, a coding that enabled former Congressman Newt Gingrich to describe President Obama as a “food stamps” president and to falsely assert that President Obama “put” more people on food stamps than any other president in history. Does Mr. Gingrich remember the Great Recession that the scion of his party, former President George W. Bush, enabled, or is he too busy purchasing jewelry for his blushing bride of a decade to pay attention to our nation’s economic situation?

One in six Americans lives in poverty. More than one in four African Americans and Latinos live in poverty. One in 10 of all Whites live in poverty. The Great Recession and economic restructuring have kicked these diverse groups of poor people, many who are grateful for food assistance, to the curb. President Obama has been responsive to this group of people to the extent that a hostile Congress has allowed it.

If I were President Obama, I’d be flattered by descriptions of Obamacare and Obamaphones. I would not even mind having food stamps being described as Obamafood. Would we prefer to describe poverty as Romney starve, or sequester starve?

Make it plain. Associating President Obama with health care, Lifeline telephones and healthy eating is to his credit, not his detriment.

Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

11

e v e n t LISTINGS

3-4 / 2013 happening these months

L.A. Watts Times Calendar, Compiled by Brandon I. Brooks, Co-Managing Editor THIS WEEK 4/20 CONCERNED BLACK MEN OF LOS ANGELES PRESENTS COLLEGE LIFE AND WHAT TO EXPECT: The Concerned Black Men of Los Angeles, a non-profit mentoring organization, offers a powerful series of youth mentoring workshops through its signature Welcome-to-Manhood Program, promoting education, career and life skills guidance, and instructions in the importance of self-mastery and personal achievement. Workshops and youth activities are free. Workshops are designed for youth 11 to 19 years of age.

WHEN: Saturday, April 20, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hyde Park Miriam Matthews Library 2205 West Florence Avenue, Los Angeles at the corner of Florence and Van Ness.

For more information please call (213) 3593378 to preregister for yourself and friends.

4/21 “THE BLACK COMMUNITY COVENANT AND MAYORAL CANDIDATES”: Critical Discussion regarding the creation of a Black Community Covenant with the next Mayor of Los Angeles.

Questions to be addressed: What is the basis for Black Leaders endorsements? What is the benefit or harm to our community?

How should the Black Community participate?

Dr. Melinda Abdullah

ON GOING MONDAY’S FREE SMALL BUSINESS ADVISING: The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is conducting free advising for business owners and new entrepreneurs. WHEN: The informational workshops are scheduled every Monday at 9 a.m. Some of the topics include how to start a new business, licensing and permits, the planning process, how to grow your existing business, and how to obtain a business loan.

WHERE: St. Lawrence of Brindisi Church 10122 Compton Ave. Los Angeles. For more information or to confirm your participation, please call Martha G. Castro (562) 212-0312 or Email: wattsadvising@gmail.com.

NOW – 4/27 THE ARKESTRY

OF THE COSMOS: The Universe Language of Sun Ra - In 1969, Sun Ra’s first Los Angeles appearance was at the Dorsey High School Auditorium on Farmdale Avenue, just blocks from where The William Grant Still Arts Center is today. To honor our neighborhood as well as Sun Ra’s groundbreaking career as a visionary jazz composer, ARKESTRY OF THE COSMOS: THE UNIVERSE LANGUAGE OF SUN RA will exhib-

Dr. Maulana Karenga Studies at California State University, Long Beach; Ms Erin Aubry, Journalist, Columnist, author of Black Talk, Blue Talk; Dr. Melinda Abdullah, Acting Chair & Associate Professor, PanAfrican Studies, California State

p.m. BIRD LIVES! is based on the life of Charlie Parker, one of the founders of the 1945 new-jazz movement known as bebop. Parker’s legacy as a musician, composer and arranger is celebrated in this solo show, which is being presented as part of Jazz Appreciation Month at BMPAC. Tickets are $20. Call 310-462-1439 or visit bmorrblues@aol.com.

BIRD LIVES!: A solo play (with music) about the jazz giant Charlie Parker, will premiere at the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center. Written by Willard Manus, the new play stars Leslie A. Jones and is directed by Tommy Hicks, with Barbara Morrison producing. WHERE: (BMPAC) Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center located at 4305 Degnan Blvd. (in Leimert Park). WHEN: Saturday, April 20 and 27, at 8

CRENSHAW/LAX COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (CLC) QUARTERLY MEETING: Please join your neighbors, local business owners and community leaders for

FIRST ANNUAL L.A. PUPPET FEST 2013: L.A. Puppet Fest, a celebration of the art and creativity of all things related to puppetry to be presented by a myriad of puppetry organizations located throughout greater Los Angeles. WHEN: Now – April 28. Come together to create a great experience for locals and visitors of all ages. This inaugural citywide festival offers a variety of events, shows, exhibitions and classes for all ages and tastes, bringing the best puppetry can offer to fans, those who want to learn and those who want to participate. L.A. Puppet Fest 2013 is sponsored in part by a grant from the City of Los Angeles, Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA). For more information please visit the L.A. Puppet Fest website at www.LAPuppetFest.com or you can check each participating event has its own contact information. Events range from Free to $25 per person and may have age recommendations. L.A. Puppet Fest can be found on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/LAPuppetFest and on Twitter @LAPuppetFest.

CSUDH ANNUAL STUDENT ART & DESIGN EXHIBITS: Works of art ranging from

it archives, art, and interviews on Sun Ra, members of The “Ark” and their quest to expand minds, music, and souls through musical experimentation for over a half-century. WHEN: Now – April 27.

Culminating Youth Concert - Saturday, April 20, Time TBA. Center Hours – Tuesday – Saturday, Noon – 5:00 p.m. WHERE: William Grant Still Arts Center, 2520 South West View Street, Los Angeles, CA 90016. The cost is Free! For more information call William Grant Still Arts Center (323) 734 –1165.

UP & COMING 4/25

NOW – 4/28

NOW – 4/25 & 5/6 – 5/16

Ms. Erin Aubry Would a Black Community Covenant with the Mayor improve conditions? What are the critical questions of community and covenant? WHEN: Sunday, April 21, at 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: African American Cultural Center 3018 W. 48th Street Los Angeles, CA 900043.

Participants include: Dr. Maulana Karenga, Professor & Chair of African

Rev. Eric Lee

University, Los Angeles; and Rev. Eric P. Lee, President of the Black Community, Clergy and Labor Alliance. For more information please call (323) 299-6124 or fax (323) 299-0261.

For additional information please visit www.africanamericanculturalcenter-la.org or visit www.us-organization.org.

giant posters, rebranding identity, packaging and web design to mixed media assemblage, ceramic sculpture, and paintings—all created by 40 California State University, Dominguez Hills studio art and design graduates—will be featured in two exhibits with the combined title of “Annual Student Art and Design Exhibitions: B.A. Graduates” in the University Art Gallery.

WHEN April 15 Daniel Monroe to 25; the Design exhibition will run from May 6-16. Both exhibitions will include special exhibits featuring photography and motion graphics created by students in studio art, design, as well as digital media arts. The graduating students will be honored at opening receptions on April 15 (Studio Art) and May 6 (Design), both from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the gallery. Admission to the gallery and the reception is free and open to the public.

WHERE: The University Art Gallery is located in room A-107 on the first floor of LaCorte Hall on the campus of CSU Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Daily parking passes are available at each campus lot for $4. For more information about the University Art Gallery, visit http://cah.csudh.edu/art_gallery or call (310) 243-3334.

the Quarterly Meeting of the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor Project Community Leadership Council (CLC). WHEN: Thursday, April 25, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

WHERE: People’s Independent Church of Christ 5850 West Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90043. Learn the latest about our community’s 8.5-mile light rail transit project during a project update from Rob Ball, Project Director, Metro Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor Construction Project. Learn more about your Leadership Council's involvement in the project in reports from the CLC Safety, Economic Development, Joint Development and Quality of Life Project Oriented Discussion (POD) groups. CLC Quarterly Meetings are open to the public. Members of the public are invited to speak on agenda items discussed during the meeting. Public comment periods are specified in the meeting agenda. We look forward to your attendance and participation. Please confirm your attendance by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 19, 2013.

Contact: Donald Taylor, CLC Lead Consultant by phone (310) 308-2136 or email: oscompdt@aol.com.

4/26 CAREER SUCCESS WITH STYLE: The Gordon Group and KL Image Group have partnered with J.C. Penney Stylist to present Career Success with Style, a workshop focused on professional women who are ready to make a career change, need help conducting an online job search or building a social media presence. The event is FREE to registered attendees. WHEN: Friday, April 26, from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. WHERE: The South Bay Pavilion Mall located at 20700 Avalon Avenue, Carson, CA. Online registration is available at http://careersuccesswithstyle.eventbrite.com.

TO MAKE A CALENDAR SUBMISSION: Include event name, date(s), time, location, contact/RSVP information and admission price, if any. Use BRIEF paragraph format (no lists, line breaks, or all caps). All calendar submissions are space-permitting and may be edited for brevity. Send submissions, along with any images, to brandon@lasentinel.net with the subject heading “LAWT Community Events.” Please include text in the body of your email, not in an attachment.

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

Griner No. 1 pick by Tyson’s ‘Truth’ hits Phoenix Mercury in WNBA highs and lows with laughter and humility Draft

AP Photo

Brittney Griner, left, shakes hands with WNBA President Laurel J. Richie after the Phoenix Mercury selected Griner as the No. 1 pick in the WNBA basketball draft, Monday, April 15, 2013, in Bristol.

BY DOUG FEINBERG AP BASKETBALL WRITER BRISTOL, Conn. (AP) – Brittney Griner is ready for a new challenge.

After dominating women’s college basketball for the past four years, Griner will head to Phoenix. The Mercury took the two-time AP Player of the Year with the top pick in the WNBA draft Monday night.

The city welcomed her with a giant billboard and renamed a street near the arena.

Griner admitted she was nervous before the draft despite knowing she was going to be taken first.

“I thought I was going to have a heart attack at the table,” she said.

Griner is excited about getting the chance to play with Diana Taurasi and the other talented players on the Mercury.

“I’m bringing the dunking element of my game to Phoenix,” Griner said.

“Everyone would love to see Dee throw that alley-oop, I catch it and slam it. The high energy I bring to the table.”

Mercury coach Corey Gaines said it took about a second for the team to decide on their choice.

“I think with the talent we have already, and it’s not going to be all forced on her to do everything, it makes her even more of a game changer because there’s no pressure on her, she can just do the things that she does naturally – rebound, block shots, putbacks and then as it goes on, she’ll learn more,” Gaines said.

The 6-foot-8 star finished as the second all-time scorer in women’s NCAA history, with 3,283 points. She owns the shot block record, shattering both the men’s and women’s college

marks with 748. She also had a record 18 dunks - including 11 this season.

WNBA President Laurel Richie opened the draft by offering the league’s thoughts and prayers to those affected by the bombings in Boston.

She said earlier in the evening that the WNBA had discussions whether to hold the draft before deciding to go ahead with it.

Soon after the draft started, she announced Griner as the first choice.

Griner joins a very talented Mercury squad that was plagued by injuries most of last season. Taurasi played in only eight games and Penny Taylor missed the entire year while recovering from an ACL injury.

Candice Dupree also missed 21 games because of a knee injury.

“I’m ready to get there and ready to learn from (Taurasi),” Griner said. “I got to play with her a little bit at USA Basketball. I’m ready to feed off her and give all I can to the Phoenix Mercury.”

Phoenix had the second-worst record and a 28 percent chance of getting the first pick. Washington, which had the worst record in the league, picked fourth.

“We have a team of All-Stars already,” Phoenix Mercury President Amber Cox said. “To add her to the mix solidifies us for a long time. When Phoenix comes to town it will be mustsee basketball.”

The Mercury have had the first pick in the draft two other times, including when they took Taurasi in 2004.

It was an eventful day for Griner.

Not only was she the top pick, but she bumped into her skateboarding idol, Tony Hawk, who was also at ESPN. “Getting drafted being the No. 1

overall pick that was above it, but Tony’s right there at No. 2,” Griner said.

Like Phoenix, Chicago added a budding star to an already stacked roster that just missed making the playoffs last season, taking Elena Delle Donne with the No. 2 pick. The 6foot-5 forward, who can play multiple positions, was second in the nation in scoring (26.0) and averaged 8.5 rebounds. She finished her career at Delaware with 3,039 career points – fifth all-time in NCAA history.

“This is a phenomenal team I’m joining, mentors who will help me out along the way,” Delle Donne said.

“I’ll learn a ton from these players. We definitely have a great team. I felt I was a good puzzle piece for this team.

You don’t say where you want to go before it was happening, but Chicago was my pick and I wanted to go there really badly.”

Tulsa took Notre Dame guard Skylar Diggins with the third pick.

Diggins averaged 17.1 points, 6.1 assists and 3.1 steals while helping the Irish reach the Final Four the past three seasons.

“When I entered Notre Dame we had lost in the first round of the tournament the year before,” Diggins said.

“At the end of my career we had brought the program back to an elite level. I’m looking forward to get to Tulsa and show my leadership skills.”

While the first three picks were almost a lock, the rest of the draft was a bit more of a mystery with no clearcut choices going in.

Washington took Ohio State guard Tayler Hill fourth.

“I didn’t know for sure,” Hill said.

“I talked to a few WNBA coaches. I talked to coach (Mike) Thibault a few times and he was excited about me.

I’m excited, really a feeling you can't explain.”

The New York Liberty and new coach Bill Laimbeer took Texas A&M's Kelsey Bone fifth and then two picks later drafted Oklahoma State’s Toni Young. Seattle, which will be without Lauren Jackson and Sue Bird this season because of injuries, took Maryland’s Tianna Hawkins in between the Liberty picks.

San Antonio took Syracuse center Kayla Alexander eighth, Cal’s Layshia Clarendon went ninth to Indiana. Los Angeles took Kentucky’s A’dia Mathies 10th. Connecticut drafted UConn forward Kelly Faris 11th and Minnesota closed out the first round by picking Nebraska’s Lindsey Moore.

“There’s no question that this draft class has potential to be a moment in time and we’ll look back 10, 20 years and remember that class that came in with Brittney, Skylar and Elena,” Richie said. “Having spent the last two days with a couple of the other prospects there are a couple surprises in there too.”

This was the first season that the draft was televised in prime time.

Training camps open May 5, with the league’s 17th season set to being on May 24.

BY KENYA VAUGHN SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE ST. LOUIS AMERICAN If there were ever a true story that could hold the attention of an audience for nearly two hours without an intermission, it would be that of boxing icon-turned punch line-turned-professional entertainer Mike Tyson.

Since he became a pop culture phenomenon nearly 30 years ago, he has gone from the pinnacle to the pits and back again as the world watched. Last year he decided to give his side of the story in front of an audience – while forging a new career path outside of the ring. And Over the weekend Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth made its way to St. Louis for a one-night run at the Peabody Opera House.

Written by his wife Kiki Tyson and directed by Spike Lee, Tyson took the crowd – which obviously consisted mostly of diehard fans – on a journey that starts with his birth at a hospital in Brownsville, Brooklyn and a boxing career that began when he was barely a teenager.

Through his narrative, they learn the explicit details of what most of the audience already knew – that Tyson was forced to grow up harsh, and in a hurry.

What they may not have known – or expected – is that AP Photo Tyson is able to look back at most Mike Tyson of his experiences and laugh now that the lessons have finally soaked in.

Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth was filled with profanity and styled in the likes of urban comedy circuit bits that use laughter as medicine for real-life pain. Not even his birth certificate was safe as he pondered who the man whose last name he bears – a man who Tyson says is by no means his father.

At its best moments the production is charming and forges an even deeper connection with the audience that curiously waited to see what Tyson would expose during his portrayal of himself as his own past and present.

He shamelessly turned the punch lines around on himself and others forever tied to Tyson’s tumultuous cautionary tale – like Robin Givens, her mother and former boyfriend Brad Pitt, Don King and his accuser Desiree Washington. And he fearlessly embraced unlikely elements of the show – including choreographed moments that ranged from ballet, to booty popping and roundhouse kicks – one couldn’t help but root for Tyson as he appeared to have come full circle from the raging boxing machine he was once believed to be.

The show was not without its weak links, however. Most notably was Tyson’s inability to slow down and lean into the story he was telling. Plenty of moments within the play felt rushed and stumbled over as Tyson struggled to fight distraction – and nerves – throughout the performance.

Another shortcoming of the show was the story itself. What could have been a streamlined transcendence from tragedy to triumph was poorly transitioned and disproportionate with respect to the ostentatious elements of Tyson’s life experiences.

For example, an after-hours street brawl with mouthy fighter Mitch Green was given more attention to detail than the moment in which Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion in the history of boxing.

His run ins with the law, short stay in a mental hospital and his rehab visit were giving higher billing than the spiritual enlightenment and life makeover that would ultimately give him the strength and courage to publicly combat his demons on stage – and learn not to take himself too seriously.

A more balanced approach to his experiences that showcase his personal growth – would have been a welcomed addition, and more accurate portrayal of Tyson’s truth.

But even in the monologues lopsided with humor at Tyson’s expense, viewers were at least exposed to his dedication to upholding the legacy of his mentor and father figure Cus D’Amato, and honoring his family (and the memory of his mother, sister and daughter Exodus) by way of his choices in the next phase of his life.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

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Zadie Smith on Granta best young novelists list

AP Photo/Sergio Dionisio, File

In this Sept. 19, 2005 file photo, British author Zadie Smith poses with her book, “On Beauty” in London. The lineup of 20 writers under 40 announced Monday April 15, 2013 included newcomer Taiye Selasi and established best-seller Zadie Smith who have been named to Granta magazine’s list of best young British novelists – a once-a-decade roster with a reputation for predicting literary stars.

LONDON (AP) — Newcomer Taiye Selasi and established best-seller Zadie Smith have been named to Granta magazine’s list of best young British novelists — a once-a-decade roster with a reputation for predicting literary stars.

The lineup of 20 writers under 40 announced Monday also includes Sarah Hall, Adam Foulds, Kamila Shamsie, Adam Thirlwell and Helen Oyeyemi.

The list includes 12 women and eight men, whose roots stretch from China, Bangladesh, Somalia and Canada to London and the north of England.

The best known is probably Smith, 37, who shot to fame in 2000 with her debut novel “White Teeth” and has gone on to write novels including “On Beauty” and “NW.” One of the least known is 33-yearold Selasi, a London-born, Bostonraised writer with Ghanaian and Nigerian parents who has been mentored by Toni Morrison. Her first novel, “Ghana Must Go,” was published last month.

The list also includes Naomi Alderman — author of three novels and creator of a zombie-themed fitness phone app — and former pro basketball player and six-time novelist Benjamin Markovits.

Granta editor John Freeman said the list demonstrated “that the novel has a bold, brilliant future in Britain.”

The Granta selection, chosen by a panel of writers, editors and critics, carries weight because the magazine's first selection, in 1983, proved prescient. Among the original 20 were future heavyweights Martin Amis, Julian Barnes, Salman Rushdie, Pat Barker, Kazuo Ishiguro, Graham Swift and Ian McEwan.

The 1993 roster included Ben Okri, Alan Hollinghurst, Jeanette Winterson and “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” author Louis de Bernieres.

Smith and Thirlwell both appeared on the 2003 list, along with “Brick Lane” writer Monica Ali and “Cloud Atlas” author David Mitchell.

Jonathan Ruppin, web editor for the Foyles bookstore chain, said the 2013 selection was “a fascinating and very promising list.”

“If you look at that first list (in 1983), the accusations of publishing being a bit parochial and white and middle class — you could make that claim. This list does reflect the huge diversity of ethnic backgrounds that are now recognized as part of the literary world.

“It’s also nice to see names who have a few books under their belt and they’re acclaimed but have not really racked up the readers yet — writers like Ross Raisin, Helen Oyeyemi, Naomi Alderman and Kamila Shamsie,” he said.

The 2013 list, in alphabetical order: Naomi Alderman, Tahmima Anam, Ned Beauman, Jenni Fagan, Adam Foulds, Xiaolu Guo, Sarah Hall, Steven Hall, Joanna Kavenna, Benjamin Markovits, Nadifa Mohamed, Helen Oyeyemi, Ross Raisin, Sunjeev Sahota, Taiye Selasi, Kamila Shamsie, Zadie Smith, David Szalay, Adam Thirlwell, Evie Wyld.

Work by all the authors is published in the latest issue of Granta.

Granta also has twice compiled lists of young American novelists, in 1996 and 2007. The earlier list included Jonathan Franzen, David Guterson and Jeffrey Eugenides, while Jonathan Safran Foer, Nicole Krauss and Gary Shteyngart were on the 2007 edition.

Chris Tucker to host BET Awards on June 30 (AP) — Chris Tucker will host this year’s BET Awards.

The network announced Tuesday that the comedianactor will host the show June 30 from the Nokia Theater L.A. Live.

Tucker is riding high off of his supporting role in the Oscar-nominated film “Silver Linings Playbook,” which starred Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper. The 41year-old is best known for starring in the “Rush Hour” film franchise opposite Jackie Chan.

He said in a statement that he’s honored and “looking forward to being part of a really great show.”

The BET Awards is part of three-day event the network is putting on that weekend dubbed “BET Experience at L.A. Live.” It kicks off June 28 with a Beyonce concert.

Other performers throughout the weekend include Kendrick Lamar, Miguel, The Jacksons and R. Kelly.

Chris Tucker

Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, file

UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH RELATIEXECUTIVE VITY MEDIA A CHERNIN ENTERTAINMENT/MONOLITH PICPRODUCED TURES/RADICAL STUDIOS PRODUCTION A JOSEPH KOSINSKI FILM TOM CRUISE “OBLIVION” OLGA KURYLENKO ANDREA RISEBOROUGH THE GRAPHIC NOVEL PETER CHERNIN DYLAN CLARK BARRY LEVINE DUNCAN HENDERSON BASED ON ORIGINAL NIKOLAJ COSTER-WALDAU AND MELISSA LEO MUSICBY M83 PRODUCERS DAVE MORRISON JESSE BERGERSCREENPLAY JUSTIN SPRINGER BY JOSEPH KOSINSKIDIRECTED STORY BY JOSEPH KOSINSKI A UNIVERSAL PICTURE

BY KARL GAJDUSEK AND MICHAEL DEBRUYN

BY JOSEPH KOSINSKI FEATURING THE ORIGINAL SONG “OBLIVION” BY M83 (FEAT. SUSANNE SUNDFØR) SOUNDTRACK ON BACK LOT MUSIC

© 2012 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

IMAX® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF IMAX CORPORATION

LOCAL LISTINGS FOR STARTS FRIDAY, APRIL 19 CHECK THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

14

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Ailey Returns to Los Angeles Alicia Keys campaigns Dance company has six performance engagements at the Music Center downtown

Photo by Paul Kolnik

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Glenn Allen Sims and Linda Celeste Sims in Jiri Kylian’s Petite Mort.

LAWT NEWS SERVICE Following performances in New York City Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has returned to Los Angeles April from 17-21 with a six performance engagement at The Music Center and activities throughout the city. The company will also hold Revelations student

residencies and master classes in schools across the city, sponsored by the Glorya Kaufman Dance Foundation.

Led by Artistic Director Robert Battle in his inaugural Music Center engagement, Ailey’s dancers, including guest artist Matthew Rushing from Los Angeles, will bring three programs to the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion:

AILEY SPIRIT (Sat Eve April 20) Ronald K. Brown’s landmark work Grace, created Alvin Ailey® American Dance Theater in 1999, has returned to the repertory in a rapturous, spirituallycharged new production, and Ohad Naharin’s unique and innovative Minus 16, breaks down barriers between audience and performers.

21st CENTURY AILEY (Thur April 18, Sun Mat April 21) Another Night, by rising young choreographer Kyle Abraham, innovatively fuses the many dynamic facets of American dance and showcases the artistry and versatility of the Ailey dancers. Artistic Director Robert Battle’s Strange Humors is a thrillingly intense duet, set to John Mackey’s propulsive score for strings and African drum that pits two men against each other. Petite Mort, a ballet of breathtaking sensuality and visual surprises, marks the first time a work by renowned European choreographer Jiří Kylián appears in the Ailey repertory.

CLASSIC AILEY (Fri April 19, Sat Mat April 20) features a vibrant anthology of highlights from founder Alvin Ailey’s prolific 30-year career including sections from Memoria, Night Creature, Phases, Opus McShann, Love Songs, For “Bird” – With Love, Hidden Rites and Cry. “All programs culminate with Alvin Ailey’s timeless American masterpiece, Revelations,” said event organizers.

See ALVIN AILEY, page 15

for HIV education

AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

Grammy Award-winning singer Alicia Keys hugs HIV positive woman as she visits an HIV women’s support group at United Medical Center in Washington, Monday, April 15, 2013. Keys is working with the Kaiser Family Foundation for “Empowered,” a campaign launched last month to educate women about HIV/AIDS and provide grants to community based projects that will do that.

BY STACY A. ANDERSON ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON (AP) – Alicia Keys says she wants to spark a global conversation about HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The Grammy Award-winning singer met with women who are part of an HIV program at United Medical Center in the nation’s capital Monday to discuss their experiences with the virus, including the fear and stigma associated with the disease.

Keys, who has also traveled to Africa and India to meet with women who have HIV, said she felt connected to the women there and here because “they looked like they could be my sister, or they could be my aunt, or they could be my cousin.”

And now, she said, she wants to “bridge” the gap between domestic and international conversations about the virus.

Keys is working with the Kaiser Family Foundation for “Empowered,” a campaign launched last month to educate women about HIV and provide grants to communitybased projects that will do that.

According to Kaiser, one in four of the 1.1 million people living with HIV in the United States are women.

Women of color account for about two-thirds of new HIV infections among women.

“Black women are disproportionally affected, making up for the majority of all new infections,” Keys said. “That’s a must-have conversation.”

The campaign includes outreach

through public service ads, social media and community programs. It encourages women to learn about HIV and AIDS, talk with family and friends, protect themselves and loved ones, get tested, prevent spreading the disease and stay on treatment.

Keys is also leading the Empowered Community Grants program with Kaiser and AIDS United that will give up to $25,000 grants to community-level projects that focus on women and HIV. “To identify those communitybased organizations is a very important part of the puzzle,” Keys said.

Valerie Jarrett, a White House senior advisor who has worked with Keys in the past on women and health issues, said she supports “Empowered” because it is part of President Barack Obama's vision for comprehensive health.

“You really have to have a holistic and comprehensive approach to this and what’s so special about what Alicia is doing now is that it will highlight how every single person can play a role in this,” Jarrett said.

The campaign is scheduled to run for five years and publish a report annually on women’s experiences with HIV and AIDS and examine cultural changes regarding education, misconceptions and the stigma associated with the disease.

Keys has been an advocate for lesser served countries for more than a decade. She is co-founder of Keep a Child Alive, which provides AIDS treatment, food and other support to children and families affected by HIV and AIDS in Africa and India.

‘TASTE OF SOUL’ Continued from page 2 people from across Los Angeles, this has become one of the most important cultural events in our city. I’m confident that under the leadership of Danny Bakewell and Brenda MarshMitchell, the LA Live downtown version of Taste of Soul will be a memorable BET Experience and

spectacular event.”

‘Taste of A Taste of Soul’ will take place from June 28-30th..

Interested vendors who want to be a part of the “Taste” of Taste of Soul should call 323-299-3800.

Online vendor applications are available at www.tasteofsoulla.org.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

15

DRIVERS WANTED

PELL GRANTS Continued from page 6 programs that have occurred throughout the past year do not align with the president’s plan to have the majority of Americans college-educated by 2020.

“The cumulative impact of the aforementioned within the past year has been nothing short of catastrophic,” said Baskerville via email. “As the colleges and universities were developing innovative ways of addressing the challenges created by [the] Great Recession and the economic and financial challenges of the day, they were hit by what I call a ‘quintuple whammy,’ including shifts in the Pell Grant Program.”

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are also feeling the pressure of the changes.

This year, President Obama set a goal of having the majority of Americans college educated by 2020. To meet that goal, HBCUs will need to increase the number of students they graduate per year from 35,000 to more than 57,000 by 2020.

“To reach the goals, approximately 8 million more Americans must attain a 2- or 4-year degree, roughly 2 million more African Americans, 167,000 of whom must graduate from HBCUs,” Baskerville said. “They cannot do this without an overhaul of the student financial aid system to invest more equitable and efficiently in expanding excellence, access, success, and diversity in higher education.”

In 2010, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 45 percent of Black students enrolled in an institution of higher education had parents with a high school diploma or less.

Studies also show that a large number of HBCU students are from low-income families In 2008, more than 155,000 students at HBCUs received federal Pell Grants—just 10,000 more than the number of those now deemed ineligible for the grants under the new qualifications.

More than half of African American professionals are graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

ALVIN AILEY Continued from page 14 “The Ailey Organization, continuing its mission of using dance to educate, inspire and entertain by reaching young people, will brings its acclaimed Revelations: An Interdisciplinary Approach curriculum program, as well as Master Classes and LectureDemonstrations, to Los Angeles area schools,” they said.

“Utilizing Alvin Ailey's signature work, Revelations, the educational program is an inspirational framework for a comprehensive study of language arts, social studies, and dance. Thanks to the support of Glorya Kaufman, the programs will reach students in Los Angeles area schools.”

On Friday April 19, Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center will host the AILEY DANCE PARTY on the 5th floor of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion immediately following the performance. The party will feature a live DJ, dancing with the Ailey dancers, food and cocktails. Party tickets are $100 per person, and $75 of each ticket goes to support programs at The Music Center, including arts education and no-to-lowcost community programs.

“Given Alvin Ailey’s history with Los Angeles, the city where he grew up and began his journey in dance, it is only fitting that Ailey will be inspiring so

According to a report by the Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, the majority of HBCUs have student bodies where more than two-thirds of those enrolled are eligible for Pell Grants.

“In spite of these challenges, HBCUs and [Primarily Black Institutions] continue to do the lion’s share of educating low-income, first generation, African American and diverse other students in STEM, health processions, teaching professions, and environmental profession,” Baskerville added.

According to a study by the United Negro College Fund’s Patterson Research Institute, 46 percent of HBCU students come from families with incomes lower than $36,000 and an average of half of all students qualify for Pell Grants.

All but a handful of HBCUs are in the South and that region is also taking a beating.

Schools across the Deep South have also experienced a decline in enrollment this year, which the University of Alabama Education Policy Center attributes to the eliminations made to the Pell Grant program.

In three of the most uneducated and impoverished states in the nation— Alabama, Arkansas, and Mississippi— just under 250,000 students were awarded Pell Grants to attend public colleges and universities in the 2010-2011 school year.

Two-thirds of the full time community college students in the states are Pell recipients.

According to the report, enrollment decreased at 47 of the 62 two-year colleges in those states during the 20122013 academic year, something the authors of the report attribute to the changes made to the Pell Grant program.

“The Deep South states clearly rely on public higher education to educate their citizenry beyond high school,” the report reads. “By definition, this means that Pell Grants are vital to enhancing college degree completion in the Deep South, for it is the community colleges where economically disadvantaged stu-

dents begin higher education.”

After a round of changes to the federal Pell Grant program that eliminated assistance to low-income students in an effort to cut costs, the program is expected to have a $9.2 billion surplus at the end of fiscal year 2013.

But students no longer eligible for Pell Grants will have to look elsewhere.

“We can’t say that students will choose loans, but they are another option on the plate for them to seek out,” says Jennifer Freeman, the director of communications and marketing at Mississippi Valley State. “It’s unfortunate as it relates to the cost of education going up, but we try our best to do much as we can.”

At Rex’s school, enrollment dropped by 4 percent overall and 8 percent among full-time students, which school officials attribute in part to students’ Pell Grant funding.

Despite such dips, many students and advocates for Pell Grants remain hopeful about the program’s future.

For two semesters, Bonita Rex couldn’t afford to buy books for all of her classes when her Pell Grant didn’t provide enough and the checks from her two minimum wage jobs couldn’t cover the rest. She says without the grant, however, she wouldn’t be able to afford school at all.

She says, “My Pell Grant is keeping me here.”

many during the Company’s return,” stated Artistic Director Robert Battle. “ I’m thrilled to showcase the depth and breadth of the dancers’ artistry at the Music Center, with a diverse repertory featuring new treasures by talented contemporary choreographers and a program that highlights the genius of our legendary founder.”

Renae Williams Niles, Director of Programming for The Music Center, said, “Every time the Ailey company returns its a joyous homecoming as it was right here in Los Angeles that Ailey

spent his formative years as a dance student, dancer and budding choreographer. This year we will highlight the significance and universal allure of Ailey’s Revelations…”

Tickets are priced from $28-$110 and are available at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion Box Office, 135 North Grand Avenue. Tickets are also available by calling (213) 972-0711 and online at musiccenter.org/events/dance. html. For groups of 10 or more, call (213) 972-8555 or email MCgroupsales@musiccenter.org.

CRYOGENIC TRANSPORTATION LLC is hiring Class A CDL DRIVERS out of Azusa, CA & Fontana, CA for our OTR (3 weeks out, home for 1 week) positions! We offer competitive pay, medical benefits for you and your family, paid training on product handling, paid uniforms, paid vacations, 401K & MORE! 2 years tractor-trailer experience, Tank & Hazmat endorsements (or ability to obtain) & safe driving record required. Stop by the terminal to apply at 10787 Mulberry Ave. Fontana, CA 92337 (909) 275-7350 or apply online at TheKAG.com 800-228-8257

IMMIGRATION BILL Continued from page 7 together on such a challenging issue,” said Frank Sharry, executive director of America’s Voice, a group advocating for an overhaul of U.S. immigration policy.

“And I think the fact that they’ve come up with a bill they can all support and defend suggests that it’s the heart of a bill that will finally pass into law.”

Once the legislation is introduced, it will be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee, which has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday and likely will begin to amend and vote on the bill the week of May 6. From there, the bill would move to the Senate floor.

Both in committee and on the floor, the bill could change in unpredictable

ways as senators try to amend it from the left and the right. The Gang of Eight — Schumer, Durbin, and Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo. — have discussed banding together to defeat amendments that could significantly alter the legislation.

Even more uncertain, though, is the Republican-led House, where a bipartisan group is also crafting an immigration bill, though timing of its release is uncertain. Many conservatives in the House remain opposed to citizenship for immigrants who have been living in the U.S. illegally.

INVITATION FOR BIDS

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

On Sunday, September 2, 2012, at approximately 3:45 a.m., 32-year old Levon Hoy was in the area of 98th Street and South Hobart Boulevard when an unknown suspect or suspects shot and killed him.

The suspect(s) fled the area in an unknown direction. Mr. Hoy was pronounced dead at the scene.

To date, detectives have been unable to identify the suspect(s) responsible for the murder of Mr. Hoy, and a monetary reward my motivate witnesses to come forward with more information. The person or persons responsible for this crime represent an ongoing threat to the safety of the people of Los Angeles. Unless withdrawn or paid by City Council action, this offer of reward shall terminate on, and have no effect after, OCTOBER 12, 2013.

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

C. F. No. 13-0010-s7 4/18/13 CNS-2470634# WATTS TIMES

GOVERNMENT LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (METRO)

GED DROPPED Continued from page 7 section, the computerized version provides details about what skills they need to work on before retaking the exam.

“I personally went into it a little bit naively,” said Trask of the new version.

“I don’t know why I expected a marching band, but I did because I’m convinced that what we are doing is the right thing for the adults in this country.”

Competitors responded with a paper version and a cheaper base price, although GED Testing Service said its price includes services the other two test makers don’t. The alternative exams’ makers also said they will work with states to find ways to combine scores from the GED with their new exams so students who have passed some sections of the current GED won’t be forced to start from scratch.

GED Testing Service said that would undermine the validity of a state’s equivalency credential or diploma.

Trask also said he feared the competing exams would be confusing for colleges and employers. But states considering switching say they’ll put more emphasis on the equivalency credential or diploma they issue rather than the test taken to earn it.

Art Ellison, who leads the Bureau

Metro will receive bids for Division 10 Pavement Replacement and Division 6 & 10 Trench Drain Installation, IFB #C1062 per specifications on file at the Office of Procurement & Material Mgmt, One Gateway Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (12th Floor).

All Bids must be submitted on forms furnished by Metro, and must be filed at the reception desk of the Office of Material on or before Friday, May 10, 2013 by 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the bidder unopened. Each bid must be sealed and marked Bid No.#C1062. A Pre-Bid conference will be held on Monday, April 15th at 1: 00 p.m. at the Gateway Conference Room on the 3rd floor located at the address above.

You may obtain bid specifications, or further information, by faxing Arlene Blazevic at (213) 922-1005 4/18/13 CNS-2471576# WATTS TIMES LEGAL NOTICE Drew Child Development Corporation, Inc. (Drew CDC) is a community based non-profit organization providing family services in southeast Los Angeles for the past 25 years. Drew CDC is issuing this Request for Qualifications for legal services required to successfully complete a proposed real estate development project to incorporate business offices and program services on its current site at 1770 E. 118th Street. Legal services needed include, negotiation of contract for A&E services, funding agreements (CDBG, HUD Section 108, new market tax credits, private foundations, etc.) and a transaction agreement with the owner of the property, the Los Angeles Community Development Commission. Interested firms should submit their qualifications and fee information no later than May 1, 2013. Please submit three (3) copies of your response to: Ms. Veronica Aguilar Executive Assistant to CEO Drew CDC 1770 E. 118th Street Los Angeles, CA 90059 4/18, 4/25/13 CNS-2471041# WATTS TIMES

of Adult Education in New Hampshire, called the sudden choice in the exams “the new reality of adult education.” His state and Montana are switching to HiSET, a $50 test that the Educational Testing Service, or ETS, is offering.

Both states said cost influenced their decision, with Montana’s Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau proclaiming in a news release that residents “looking to improve their economic situation by obtaining a high school equivalency diploma should not have to overcome a significant financial barrier in order to achieve that goal.”

Ellison also noted that a paper option was important because many students in adult education classes lack the skills needed to take a computerbased test and that it will take time to beef up the courses to add that training.

Meanwhile, New York chose California-based CTB/McGraw-Hill's new Test Assessing Secondary Completion, or TASC. Developers said it will range in price from $50 to $60.

Regents Chancellor Merryl Tisch said in a news release that without the change, New York would have had to pay the GED test maker twice as much or limit the number of test takers because state law bars residents from being charged to take the equivalency exam.

“We can’t let price deny anyone the opportunity for success.”

BOSTON BOMBING Continued from page 3 “Any time bombs are used to target innocent civilians it is an act of terror.

What we don’t yet know, however, is who carried out this attack, or why.

Whether it was planned and executed by a terrorist organization, foreign or domestic, or was the act of a malevolent individual. That’s what we don’t yet know.”

The president praised those who had come to the aid of the injured.

“If you want to know who we are, what America is, how we respond to

evil, that’s it: selflessly, compassionately, unafraid,” he said.

Obama stepped to the microphone after receiving a briefing at the White House from Attorney General Eric Holder, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and other top aides.

The bombs exploded on Monday afternoon near the finish line of the famed Boston Marathon, an annual 26 mile race through the neighborhoods of the city.

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Thursday, April 18, 2013

For over 40 years, the Southern California Black McDonald’s Owner Association has been proudly committed to exhibiting leadership, supporting education, and developing partnerships for the betterment of the African American communities that they serve.

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