L.A. Focus On The Word January 2019 by LA Focus Newspaper

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J A N U A RY

L.A. FOCUS

2019

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Church News: Brooklyn Pastor To Build $1.2 billion Housing Development PAGE

Storm: Mel B Gets Brutally Honest About Abuse in New Book PAGE

SEE PAGE

UPFRONT “LAUSD Teachers Strike Will Hurt Kids,” Superintendent Says United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) announced teachers will go on >> The strike on January 10, if a labor agreement with the Los Angeles Unified

Saving Grace : Angela Bassett

School District (LAUSD) can’t be reached by that date. LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner, who is hoping to ward off a strike said, “The union’s proposal would cost about $900 million and would bankrupt the district…and lead to a state takeover.”

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contents JANUARY 2019

L.A. Focus Publications

Left: Magic Johnson delivered the morning message at West Angeles COGIC on Sunday, December 30 (Photo: Courtesy of Ricky Brown); Middle: Members of Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Marching "100" performed outside of First AME Church prior to their scheduled January 1 performance in the Tournament of Roses Parade (Photo by Clayton Everett); Right: Metro CEO Phil Washington receives the 2018 Los Angeles Sustainability Coalition Leadership Award from Executive Director, Dr. Sherman Gay. To his right is Metro Chief Communications Officer, Pauletta Tonilas.

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From The Editor “Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited”

Commentary

“The Worst Enemy of Black People”

UpFront

“LAUSD Teachers Strike Will Hurt Kids, Superintendent Says”; Ringing In 2019 With A Slate of New Laws

Head to Head

Debating The Trump Economy in Black & White

Headlines From Africa Feature Story

Canal Street: New Indie Film Bridges Faith and Social Justice

Money Matters

Move to Lakers Could Cost Lebron $20 Million in Taxes

Biz News Briefs

Bozoma Saint John Lands Starz TV Series

On The Money

The Rose Parade In Dollars and Sense

staff

Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Staff Writers Production Photographer Advertising Social Media

Lisa Collins Keith DeLawder, Gerald Bell Kisha Smith Ian Foxx, Rickey Brown Leatha Davis Antoinette Banks

L.A. Focus–On the Word, is published monthly. Address all correspondence to: L.A. Focus, 333 W. Florence Ave., Suite C333 Inglewood, CA 90301 • (310) 677-6011 Subscription rates $25.00 per year.

12 Red Carpet Style Eye On Gospel 13 14 Calendar/Around LA Hollywood Buzz 16 One On One British Fashion Awards

Tasha Cobbs Leonard Comes Out On Top; Yolanda Adams is Among Gospel Artists Set for Tribute Special Honoring Aretha Franklin

Regina Hall Makes History;Jennifer Lewis puts rumors of feuding to bed Samuel L. Jackson\

Siebert, Brandford, Shank & Co. Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church Morgan Stanley Bob Blake & Associates

22 23 First Lady Files From The Pulpit 24 25 In Good Taste Saving Grace 26 Pastor Rikki T. Ferrell Jr.Greater New Bethel Baptist Church

Erica Campbell Califronia Worship Center

Pastor George Hurtt Mt. Sinai Church

Kim Stratton

Angela Bassett

Game Changers

17 Through The Storm 19 The Force Behind The Kingdom Day Parade

Mel B On Drugs, Abuse & Her Healing Journey

Church News

Brooklyn Pastor To Build $1.2 Billion Mixed-Income Housing Development; 70th Annual Prayer Bowl Draws 1500

Dave Roberts, Manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers is the Official 2019 Grand Marshal for the Annual Kingdom Day Parade.ABC-7 will again broadcast the 34th Annual Kingdom Day Parade Live on Monday, January 21, 2019 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

honorary advisors West Angeles C.O.G.I.C. City of Refuge Greater Zion Church Family Southern Saint Paul Church Faithful Central Bible Church Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Mt. Zion MBC Jacob’s Ladder

Bishop Charles Blake Bishop Noel Jones Pastor Michael Fisher Rev. Xavier L. Thompson Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer Pastor Emeritus Melvin Wade Rev. Edward V. Hill II Bishop Robert T. Douglas, Sr

advisory board

Napoleon Brandford Pastor Beverly Crawford Lem Daniels Bob Blake

Pastor Profile

Cover Design: UpScale Media Group

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Walter E. Williams Guest Columnist

Commentary “The Worst Enemy of Black Peaople ” Malcolm X was a Muslim minister and human rights activist. Born in 1925, he met his death at the hands of an assassin in 1965. Malcolm X was a courageous advocate for black civil rights, but unlike Martin Luther King, he was not that forgiving of whites for their crimes against black Americans. He did not eschew violence as a tool to achieve civil and human rights. His black and white detractors accused him of preaching racism and violence. Despite the controversy, he has been called one of the greatest and most influential black Americans. Many black Americans have great respect for Malcolm X. Many schools bear his name, and many streets have been renamed in honor of him, both at home and abroad. But while black

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The worst enemy that the Negro have is this white man that runs around here drooling at the mouth professing to love Negros and calling himself a liberal, and it is following these white liberals that has perpetuated problems that Negros have. If the Negro wasn't taken, tricked or deceived by the white liberal, then Negros would get together and solve our own problems.

Americans honor Malcolm X, one of his basic teachings goes largely ignored. I think it's an important lesson, so I will quote a large part of it. Malcolm X said: "The worst enemy that the Negro have is this white man that runs around here drooling at the mouth professing to love Negros and calling himself a liberal, and it is following these white liberals that has perpetuated problems that Negros have. If the Negro wasn't taken, tricked or deceived by the white liberal, then Negros would get together and solve our own problems. I only cite these things to show you that in America, the history of the white liberal has been nothing but a series of trickery designed to make Negros think that the white liberal was going to solve our problems. Our problems will never be solved by the white man." There's a historical tidbit that those much younger than I (almost 83 years old) are ignorant of. In black history, we have been called — and called ourselves — several different names. Among the more respectable have been "colored," "Negro," "black," "Afro-American" and "African-American." I recall when Mrs. Viola Meekins, when I was a student at Stoddart-Fleisher Junior High School in the late 1940s, had our class go page by page through a textbook and correct each instance in which Negro was printed with a lowercase "n." In Malcolm X's day, and mine, Negro was a proud name and not used derisively by blacks as it is today.

From the Editor

Malcolm X was absolutely right about our finding solutions to our own problems. The most devastating problems that black people face today have absolutely nothing to do with our history of slavery and discrimination. Chief among them is the breakdown of the black family, wherein 75 percent of blacks are born to single, often young, mothers. In some cities and neighborhoods, the percentage of outof-wedlock births is over 80. Actually, "breakdown" is the wrong term; the black family doesn't form in the first place. This is entirely new among blacks. According to the 1938 Encyclopaedia of the Social Sciences, that year only 11 percent of black children were born to unwed mothers. As late as 1950, female-headed households constituted only 18 percent of the black population. Today it's close to 70 percent. In much earlier times, during the late 1800s, there were only slight differences between the black family structure and those of other ethnic groups. In New York City in 1925, 85 percent of kin-related black households were two-parent households. Welfare has encouraged young women to have children out of wedlock. The social stigma once associated with unwed pregnancy is all but gone. Plus, "shotgun" weddings are a thing of the past. That was when male members of a girl's family made the boy who got her pregnant live up to his responsibilities. The high crime rates in so many black communities impose huge personal costs and have turned once-thriving communities into economic wastelands. The Ku Klux Klan couldn't sabotage chances for black academic excellence more effectively than the public school system in most cities. Politics and white liberals will not solve these and other problems. As Malcolm X said, "our problems will never be solved by the white man." Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. To find out more about Walter E. Williams and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com.

LISA COLLINS Publisher

“Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited”

start anew, the habits of the past disrupt our charming illusions with their disarming and somewhat annoying presence and we forget that what we have so freely claimed or resolved to do requires some action on our part. As we move forward into a new year we would do well to remember that the key to every man is his thought. For as technologically advanced as we are, we remain human beings whose choices determine our individual outcomes. You can choose to excel or instead resign yourself to whatever circumstances make up your world. When resigned, no amount of direction is going to make your life any better. What you can and cannot do starts and stops with you once you find your purpose and set some goals. I am reminded of a study some years ago on graduating seniors who wrote out their goals. Just 10% of them actually had written goals. Ten years later they interviewed the same people and the 10% that wrote out their goals earned an average of 500% more than the 90% who didn’t write down their goals. So my motto is people that don’t write their goals down end up working for people that do.” The good news is that God gives us another chance every day. What's more, is that what we wish for is nowhere close to what He offers freely. And for all of our shortcomings, He keeps all of his promises to us. The best part of all is that the only action He requires is that we love Him with all of our hearts. While there is good reason for pause given the moral decline of our society, there is also great promise in each of our futures and great reason to hope for the best that life has to offer. In a tribute by former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney at the funeral of former President George H.W. Bush, Mulroney recalled a plaque at Bush’s Kennebunkport, Maine home that read, “CAVU”. Bush explained that the letters stood for “ceiling and visibility unlimited”, explaining: “When I was a terrified 19 year old pilot in the Pacific, those were the words we hoped to hear before take off. It meant perfect flying.” I wish you perfect flying in 2019 and that your ceiling is unlimited. Keep the faith.

L.A. Focus/January 2019

n most cases, the big stories of the previous year bear witness to what we can expect in the year to come. While we hope that’s not the case, we’re sure to see more of Teflon Donald Trump’s antics and the circus that he has made of GOP politics? Clearly we will see more of the (ever so painful and public) fall of icons like Bill Cosby, who went to prison last year given our propensity for the internet, twitter, Instagram and reality —all fruitful soil for scandal on the entertainment, sports and political fronts. Likely, 2019 will bring more of the severe and crazy weather patterns that touched us all last year. Prayerfully, we won’t see any more school massacres like the one that left 17 dead in Parkland, Florida. Hopefully we will see less of the police –involved shootings against young black males that have dominated the headlines in recent years and inspired the Black Lives Matter movement. Income equality remains a key issue though the fact that we are not able as a race to enjoy more of the benefits of this capitalistic society is more perhaps a reflection of our inability to forge our truest economic clout. Sadly, as mentioned by insurance expert Bob Blake, we—as a people—spend over a trillion dollars buying what we want, only to turn around and beg for what we need. Political involvement and social action will be key if we hope to change the course our nation is on and if democrats don’t unite behind one strong candidate, we all may have to endure a second go round if Trump is re-elected in 2020. As we remember Dr. Martin Luther King this month, let us remember his words, “History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of good people.” His life was a call to action. The New Year represents a renewal of sorts and a call to action for us all. A renewed commitment to lose weight, to be better parents, to be better children, to be more productive employers, to be better Christians...to make more money...to stop smoking...to stop cursing...to forgive…to get involved. And the list goes on. Simply put, the New Year represents another chance to get it right. To our advantage, we start it off as if we had a whole new slate, and all that had gone on before was miraculously erased. To our disadvantage, just as surely as we

UpFront “LAUSD Teachers Strike Will Hurt Kids,” Superintendent Says

he United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) announced teachers will go on strike on January 10, if a labor agreement with the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) can’t be reached by that date. Representing some 33,000 LAUSD teachers, the union is calling for decreased class sizes, an increase in the number of counselors, nurses and librarians at schools throughout the district, reductions in standardized testing and accountability for charter schools. LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner, who is hoping to ward off a strike said, “The union’s proposal would cost about $900 million and would bankrupt the district…and lead to a state takeover.” The Superintendent released a statement declaring, “The district has offered to spend $30 million to hire more teachers, counselors, librarians and nurses at schools where the student population is considered ‘high needs.’” Conversely, UTLA has reported that the district is holding back nearly $2 billion in reserves. In addition, they are pointing fingers at Beutner for letting a strike ensue because the district has hired some 400 non-union substitute teachers anticipating the walk out. “We do not want a strike and we know that many of our educators don’t want one either,” Beutner said. “Los Angeles Unified is committed to providing our teachers with as much support as we can, given Los Angeles Unified’s resources.” UTLA representatives, however are not buying the Superintendent’s approach that includes speaking to the

media before communicating with union officials. They have called some of Beutner’s strategies and tactics “outrageously irresponsible.” “We should expect more from the Superintendent of the nation’s secondlargest school district,” said UTLA President Alex Caputo-Pearl. “Rather than formally communicate with the union that represents all LAUSD teachers, Beutner once again tries to spin the narrative to make it seem UTLA is unreasonable.” “It is even more irresponsible to think that 400 substitutes can educate more than 600,000 students,” Caputo-Pearl adds. “We believe that it is illegal for the district to hire people outside our bargaining unit to teach in LAUSD classrooms…United Teachers Los Angeles proudly represents more than 2,000 substitutes in our bargaining unit, and we are fighting for improvements for them and all of our members.” LAUSD and UTLA have been in negotiations since April 2017 and both sides have held more than 20 bargaining sessions and three mediation meetings. With more than 20 contract terms in dispute, they have only been able to reach agreement on two or three items. In November, the state of California appointed an independent, neutral Fact Finder to help find a solution. The independent Fact Finder went on to warn that Los Angeles Unified does not have sufficient financial resources to comply with all of UTLA leadership’s demands. UTLA’s in turn hired their own Fact Finding contractor. Both entities agreed that a 6% salary increase was within the

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

•Employers with five or more employees must provide two hours of sexual harassment prevention to supervisory employees and one hour of training to nonsupervisory employees by Jan. 1, 2020. •Employers must make reasonable efforts to provide an area for breastfeeding that is not a bathroom. •Publicly held corporations with executive offices in California must have a minimum of one female director on its board of directors. •Employers are no longer prohibited from asking an applicant about or seeking any source of information regarding a past conviction if, (1) the employer is required to obtain information regarding a conviction, (2) the applicant would be required to possess a firearm, (3) an individual who has been convicted of a crime is prohibited by law from holding the position sought, or (4) the employer is prohibited from hiring an applicant convicted of a crime. Environment/Public Health: •Restaurants are limited to giving out single-use straws upon request of customers, though fast food restaurants are exempted. Restaurants violating the law could be fined $25 daily for violations, or a maximum of $300 per year. •Child meals in restaurants must now have a "healthy" beverage as the drink default option, such as milk, water, sparkling water or flavored water with no added natural or artificial sweeteners. • Beginning next school year, charter schools will be required to provide low-

GERALD BELL Contributor

Austin Beutner interest of the district and UTLA at this time. Teachers are demanding a 6.5% hike in pay. The Report from the independent Fact Finder also provides a framework to help settle most of the other contract issues. “Los Angeles Unified is doing everything possible to minimize the impact of these contract negotiations and a potential strike on our students, families and the communities we serve,” Beutner said. “Our goal is to continue working to provide the best possible education for all our students…[We want] to keep kids safe and learning in school.” At press time, the Superintendent had offered UTLA teachers, counselors, nurses and librarians the following: • A 6 percent raise • No additional work or professional development required to receive the raise continued to page 25

Ringing In 2019 With a Slate of New Laws s the New Year has arrived, so have hundreds of new laws enacted by the California legislature for 2019. From the controversial to the downright quirky, the new slew of new legislation will have significant effect on the daily lives of million of Californians across the state. Starting January 1, individuals convicted of a DUI can regain full driving privileges only if they install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles that will prevent the car from starting unless the driver is sober. Another new law mandates that the California Department of Justice review marijuana convictions that could be reduced or purged since voters approved Proposition 64. Speaking of voters, they will never again have to use a stamp to mail their ballots in thanks to a new law that allows for prepaid postage. And as controversial as it is impactful, a new law ending cash bail for suspects awaiting trial is set to take effect in October. Instead, judges will use a pretrial risk assessment to determine who should be released from jail. In most nonviolent misdemeanor cases, defendants would be out within 12 hours. In more serious cases, factors such as how likely they are to show up for trial and past criminal records will be key. Here are some other key new laws: Workplace: •The minimum wage rises to $12 an hour for businesses with 26 or more employees, and $11/hour for small businesses.

News Briefs

KEITH DELAWDER Staff Writer

income students with one nutritious meal each school day. Those students must also be offered reduced-price meals. •The sale of breeding dogs, cats and rabbits is prohibited in pet stores as these animals are now required to be obtained from animal shelters or rescue groups. Criminal Justice: •Images of body cameras on police officers and any other audio recording acquired by a police agency are now required by law to be disclosed to the public within 45 days after a police shooting or excessive force causes death or injury to a person. •Public access is granted to police records in cases of force and investigations that confirmed the lack of honesty in the police work or sexual misconduct. •Defendants under 16 can no longer be tried as adults and sent to prison instead of a juvenile detention facility. Gun Control: •Anyone convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense after January 1, 2019 will incur a lifetime ban from possessing a firearm. •Fees for requesting a Firearms Violence Restraining Order have been eliminated. •Gun owners with a concealed carry license are required to undergo eight hours of training, and demonstrate proficiency and safety on the shooting range. •Those under 21 are prohibited from purchasing a long gun from a licensed firearms dealer. (Law enforcement officers, military and with hunting licenses are exempted).

Congress Passes ‘First Step Act’-- Largest Criminal Justice Reform Bill In Decades The criminal justice reform bill known as the “First Step Act” which sends some of the most significant changes to the federal criminal justice system in decades has been signed by President Donald Trump and made into law. The bill will pull back mandatory minimum sentences, allowing judges to give shorter sentences in some cases and relaxing a “three strikes” law to give 25 years instead of life in prison. It makes the 2010 crack sentencing reforms which makes crack sentences more in line with powder cocaine penalties, retroactive allowing those previously sentenced to potentially have reduced time. It expands “good time credits” that well-behaved inmates can use to get out of prison a little earlier. It creates “earned time credits” that encourage inmates to take part in rehabilitative programs for an earlier release. The bill only affects the federal system, which is about 181,000 of the 2.1 million people imprisoned in the U.S. and will likely let 6,00-7,000 inmates out of jail early once enacted. The bill does not end the war on drugs or mass incarceration. It won’t stop police from locking up nonviolent drug offenders. It doesn’t legalize marijuana. It doesn’t even end mandatory minimums or reduce prison sentences across the board, only tweaking both. As the First Step Act’s name suggests, its supporters consider it a first step.

Security Guard Charged With Murder in Fatal Shooting At Walgreens; Attorney to Bring $525 million suit

The security guard who allegedly shot Jonathan Hart, 21, inside the Walgreens store at the corner of Sunset and Vine in on December 2nd has officially been charged with one count of murder, according to a press release from the L.A. County DA. According to prosecutors, Donald Vincent Ciota II, 28, accused Hart of shoplifting which lead to a physical altercation between the men. Ciota pulled out a gun and is “alleged to have fatally shot Hart in the back as he ran away,” the release stated. The attorney representing the Hart’s family, Carl Douglas, has made public his plans to file a $525 million lawsuit against Walgreens for employing armed security guards at the store. “There is no defense that I can think of that would justify this use of deadly force,” said Douglas. “He was unarmed. He was not shoplifting. But even if he was, the officer that shot him does not have a reasonable basis to say that he was then facing an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to himself or to anyone else. Jonathan was walking away from him, beginning to run toward the door.” A spokesperson from Walgreens said that they were cooperating with authorities. "We are fully committed to providing a safe environment for our employees, patients and customers in the communities we serve.

Michelle Obama Named Most Admired

”In a Gallup poll of Americans, former First Lady Michelle Obama has been named as the woman most admired. Oprah Winfrey was second and Hillary Clinton placed third.

HeadToHead “Debating The Trump Economy In Black & White” onald Trump promised White America standing of trade and being tariff manufacturing and coal Is Waking Up to obsessed, with protestations that jobs to white America in a other countries are ripping off the a Trump campaign message laden U.S. with trade surpluses, and Hangover with racial scapegoating. Yet, two engaging in a crony capitalism years later, the economic indicators show that benefits his family and friends and that Trump made false promises. On the punishes his enemies. one hand, unemployment is low, albeit as Trump added that he would “fight for part of a trend that began under President you with every breath in my body, and I Obama and for which Trump as president will never, ever let you down.” However, would take all the credit. On the other critics have noted that hand, many jobs are disappearing amid in practice he has the administration’s policies, including his undermined the “forglobal trade war involving tariffs against gotten” workers by China and other nations. Further, the clamping down on Republican tax break for the wealthy and workers’ rights and corporations will only exacerbate income making it harder for and wealth inequality, in a country where workers to unionize. workers suffer from the squeeze of wage Further, Trump is stagnation. undermining rules “We’re going to win so much. You’re and regulations to pro- David A. Love going to get tired of winning,” Trump said tect factory workers, farmers and conon the campaign trail in 2016. sumers, and attempting to take away their General Motors, which benefited from a health care, while providing substantial government bailout under Obama and tax breaks to the wealthy. In so-called promised to increase manufacturing jobs, Trump country, in the industrial Midwest recently announced it is eliminating 15 and the farm belt, the trade war is wreakpercent of its workforce. This includes clos- ing havoc on his white supporters and fueling the Lordstown, Ohio, plant in the once- ing regional decline, killing manufacturing Democratic Trumbull County, which jobs and family farms alike. For all their swung 30 points to vote for Trump in 2016. troubles, some farmers receive less than The news from GM comes as Ford Motor $25 in tariff assistance from the governCompany announced the steel and alu- ment to ostensibly offset the effects of minum tariffs imposed by the Trump other nations’ retaliatory tariffs that hit administration — including a 25 percent agriculture. That Michigan, Wisconsin and tariff on imported steel and a 10 percent Pennsylvania — states that Trump won in tariff on imported aluminum, which have 2016 — turned against him in 2018 with led to China imposing retaliatory tariffs on resounding Democratic wins in statewide the U.S. — have cost the auto manufactur- and congressional elections could reflect er $1 billion in profits. disillusionment with Trump promises of Trump benefited from his reality show- economic relief that never came to fruition. crafted image of a business mogul and ecoStudies have shown that despite the nomic genius and parlayed it into the pres- assertion that Trump appealed to the idency. His “Make America Great Again” white working class because of his promisslogan came with appeals to racial scape- es to address economic issues — such as goating and making false and empty prom- job loss, foreign competition and wage ises to the “forgotten” Americans. The stagnation — white support for Trump was Trump strategy has employed white unrelated to economic distress, and had nationalism — of tapping into white griev- everything to do with racial attitudes. A ance and stirring up white anger — but Pew study found that there is a wide gap with a message of economic nationalism — between college-educated whites and nonrenegotiating trade deals, bringing jobs college-educated whites in attitudes back home to America and enacting mas- toward Trump. Non-college educated sive infrastructure programs — that was whites, who experienced more economic mere rhetoric and could not deliver tangi- distress, were far more approving of ble benefits. Meanwhile, Trump himself Trump, but this was because of their continued to page 25 has been accused of lacking any under-

Headlines From Africa Burundi: The government “has just adopted an historic bill making Gitega the political capital and making Bujumbura the economic capital, though the move will have to be approved by the country’s Parliament. Congo-Kinshasa: The Democratic Republic of Congo's government cut internet and SMS services across the country, further threatening the credibility of a delayed presidential election marred by irregularities and voting problems as votes were being tallied from its December 30 election. Eritrea: The United States and Eritrea have reiterated their commitment to building warm bilateral relations, and pursuing issues of mutual interest in the Horn of Africa region. Ethiopia: Ethiopia has been ranked in the top ten 2019 International Rescue Committee's Emergency Watch list of the countries at greatest risk of experiencing the worst humanitarian crises over the coming year.

Ivory Coast: Ivory Coast officials have compiled a list of 148 works of art taken during the colonial period that it wants France to return. The west African state joins Senegal and Benin in lobbying France, their former colonial power, to hand back cultural treasures. Kenya: Kenyans had to bear the burden of high energy costs after the government reneged on promises to make power more accessible and affordable. The impact of those price increases has been evident in the cost of living, with 24 percent of Kenyans contending that it is a major cause of worry, according to a recent poll. Mozambique: The Mozambican Ministry of Education has revoked a misogynist decree of 2003 ordering all pregnant schoolgirls to attend night classes, while banning them from day classes.

A look at current news from the continent of Africa Nigeria: Economists are warning that bad debt and low savings are threatening the survival of many of the nation’s commercial banks. Millions of people do not deposit their savings in banks and the wealthy choose to invest elsewhere. The country's central bank says just two percent of Nigeria's 190 million people have savings of at least $1,400, and just 350 individuals are responsible for 80 percent of the country’s bank debts. Senegal: A new museum has opened in Senegal tracing millions of years of African history. Changing the downtown landscape of Dakar, the Museum of Black Civilizations is part of the nation’s attempt to turn Senegal into an intellectual and cultural capital of the black world". Somalia: Somalia has kicked out the nation’s top UN envoy in a move that will no doubt hurt relations with those backing attempts to restore stability after decades of turmoil. Somalia has charged that the UN diplomat violated international diplomatic norms by intervening in the nation’s sovereignty. Tanzania: Tanzanian have not taken kindly to a State Department advisory urging US citizens to "exercise increased caution" while in Tanzania due to concerns over crime, terrorism and official actions targeting people on the basis of their gender or sexual identity. They have termed the action as “malicious” and “cheap propaganda.” Uganda: Government officials are consulting religious leaders for their input before introducing a controversial sexuality education policy intended to provide guidelines on teaching materials and information in schools. The consultations followed protests from the Church, an instrumental player in provision of education services, that the pending framework on the policy in its current form would not be allowed in their schools unless the cited contentious issues have been adequately addressed. Zimbabwe: A month-long impasse between government and doctors over pay and conditions has left Zimbabwe’s health care system in a critical state. Thousands of patients are without adequate treatment. After a labor court ruled in favor of the government last month, doctors were given a 12-hour ultimatum to return to work but doctors did not comply, leaving the government to suspend 500 doctors without pay.

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

Ghana: A phenomenal number of African American celebrities—including Anthony Anderson, Idris Elba, Boris Kodjoe, Naomi Campbell, Rosario Dawson, Nicole Ari Parker and Michael Jai White—made news celebrating Christmas in Ghana. Some had Ghanaian roots, others just had a good time.

uring Christmas week, Fox have unique problems. A diffiTrump Using News invited me to discuss cult, often brutal, history has American how President Donald placed too many on the sideCapitalism to Trump's achievements for lines. Help the Poor black Americans are registering in The approach of this awareness in these communities. administration is to seek opportunities to Unfortunately, we didn't succeed in sched- inject economic vitality into our hardest hit uling the interview. communities. It's a subject of enormous importance Trump just issued an executive order not just because of what the president is establishing the White House Opportunity doing to the benefit of and Revitalization Council. This council low-income Ameri- will set into motion implementation of a cans, but also because provision in the 2017 tax bill establishing of how he is doing it. economic Opportunity Zones. First and foremost, Governors in the 50 states were asked the economy needed to to identify their most economically disgrow. And we needed tressed ZIP codes, neighborhoods where, to make sure that all for instance, poverty stands at twice the Americans participate national average, to qualify as Oppor-tuniand contribute. ty Zones. More than 8,700 ZIP codes have H o o v e r been designated and qualify for tax-preStar Parker Institution's John Cochrane points out ferred investment that, by estimates from that the U.S. economy grew 3.5 percent the Treasury department, could amount to annually from 1950 to 2000. Since 2000, it $100 billion. This is all private investment, has barely choked out 2 percent per year which can flow into these troubled areas, on average. Cochrane notes that if the that because of preferred tax treatment — economy had grown 2 percent per year forgiveness of capital gains taxes — would from 1950 to 2000, instead of 3.5 percent, not otherwise be made. average income in 2000 would have been Present at the White House ceremony $23,000 instead of $50,000. was Bob Johnson, the billionaire founder It appears that in 2018, because of the of BET. Johnson stated his conviction that Trump tax cuts and deregulation, the U.S. this program "will cause people to invest economy will have its first year of 3 per- money where before they saw risk, now cent growth in over a decade. Black unem- they will see opportunity. And that combiployment, 5.9 percent, and white unem- nation of putting money into communities ployment, 3.4 percent, are at historic lows. will allow for those communities to become And the gap between black and white vibrant, to become safe, to create ownerunemployment has shrunk, showing that ship, and, most important, to contribute to blacks are, in an unprecedented way, par- the well-being of this country." ticipating in the economic recovery. Johnson related his own experience Looking at unemployment data (1979 - when, as a young man, he convinced leg2016), the Federal Reserve Bank of San endary media mogul John Malone to invest Francisco reports that during economic to create a cable station aimed to black expansions, black unemployment averages audiences. He grew Malone's $500,000 6.4 points higher than white unemploy- investment into a $4 billion business. ment. During economic contractions, black "What this proves," says Johnson, "is unemployment averages 6.9 points higher the efficacy of a program that allows capithan white. The latest data shows black tal to flow to places where people are seekunemployment just 2.6 points higher. ing out opportunity." Cochrane notes that if growth averages Let's hope the big government 3 percent annually over the next 30 years, Democrats about to take over Congress rather than 2 percent, average income per don't mess up President Trump's commitperson will be 35 percent higher. So, of ment to using American capitalism to lift highest importance was getting the up the poor. American growth engine restored, and this Star Parker is an author and president of is happening to the benefit of every CURE, Center for Urban Renewal and American. However, black communities Education (www.urbancure.org).

or writer/director Rhyan LaMarr the path to getting his latest film, Canal Street, produced and released was long-- fourteen years long to be exact. But coincidentally, the timing seems fitting for the fictional tour de force about the all too familiar realities of wrongful convictions in America-- as once again the picture proved, the arch of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice. The modern drama-- which was an Official Selection of the American Black Film Festival- tells the haunting story of a young black teen from Chicago’s south side named Kholi Styles who gets wrongly accused of the death of one of his white classmates, and the journey of faith and redemption that he and his father-- who also serves as his lawyer-- endure as they battle for freedom and the validation of his truth. Kholi is played by Bryshere Y. Gray, best known by audiences as Hakeem Lyon from FOX’s smash hit “Empire”. In Canal Street, Gray transforms from the spoiled brat caricature of Hakeem to portray a vulnerable black adolescent male who falls victim to fluke circumstance and bitterly preconceived racial profiling. "What brought me to this project was the simplicity and care into how much it related to this generation. Some people have stories that need to be told, and I felt like this was a project for a story that I could tell,” said Gray. He is part of an ensemble cast that is something of a “who’s who” of black Hollywood, including Mykelti Williamson (“Fences”) who plays Kohli’s father Jackie Styles, Mekhi Phifer (“ER”), Lance Reddick (“The Wire”), Jamie Hector (“Power”), Woody McClain (“The Bobby Brown Story”), Harry Lennix (“The Blacklist”), Michael Beach (“If Beale Street Could Talk”) and “This Is Us” costar Lyric Ross. "Canal Street is one of the most important motion pictures I've ever done. If the relationship between fathers and sons and what's going socially means anything to you, you’ve got to see Canal Street because it will speak to your

KEITH DELAWDER Staff Writer heart and soul,” raves Gray’s co-star Mykelti Williams. "I for one am relieved there are talented artists out there who are making convincing and it is compelling work, and I think it’s the type of message we need right now. Canal Street is about what's happening right now," echoes cast member and veteran actor Harry Lennix. But where Canal Street is truly unique is in its ability to bridge a faith driven story of a father and son who have their faith tested by a cruel and unwelcoming world, while showing the haunting realities of false convictions in America’s “injustice” system, in a manner that connects with both secular and faith communities alike. “I feel like the whole purpose of faith based and faith driven stories is to involve all of the world. How do you save people if your only preaching to choir?”, Rhyan LaMarr tells L.A. Focus of Canal Street’s crossover appeal. “If you've seen the film, you know it doesn’t feel like a cookie cutter [Christian] film. And people say, ‘oh you shouldn't call it a Christian film,’ and I say ‘why not? Why can’t the Lord be cool? Why do we always have to be so stuffy?’ And when you do have something that is cool and is relatable, why don’t we want to call it a Christian film? Then we want to call it something else!” Bishop Dr. Eric Garnes of Tabernacle of Praise Cathedral in Brooklyn, New York, who is an executive producer of Canal Street concurs with LaMarr’s position on faith based story telling being contemporary and accessible and encourages the church to branch out and embrace a role supporting Christian artists as he did with Canal Street. “The church needs to get outside the four walls that it’s accustomed to being apart of and the traditionalism that we honestly hate to access the reality of,” Bishop Garnes states. “We get locked into our own circles and it’s high time that the people of faith understand we can penetrate areas we believed we couldn’t, and now we can. “Hollywood should not just be pegged for people outside of the Body of Christ, but it should be pegged for us also because we believe we serve God without limitations so therefore he has an opportunity to propel the gospel of Jesus Christ into the media where most people would not expect it to come from.”

And with the cast’s star power, Canal Street has the serious potential to bring a faith driven plot to audiences who wouldn’t otherwise see a faith-based film. “The people that are coming to see Bryshere Y. Grey are not coming to see Christ they’re coming to see Bryshere from “Empire”, but they’re going to leave changed,” says LaMarr. “The last time you saw Mekhi Phifer was not a Christian film. Last time you saw Mykelti Williamson it was a Denzel Washington movie. So we’re already doing His work when it comes to riding the line and I feel like we’re using the platform so to not hold back on the faith.” “Those artists that Rhyan just mentioned were all mentioned and aligned with the secular and secular movies. However, it's unfortunate the sensitivities of the term need to be defined,” notes Garnes. “Is it being defined by the “traditional” church or do we need to also be sensitive and understanding that people like Mykelti Williamson and Bryshere Gray have faith in God too? They happen to work in Hollywood but that doesn't mean that they don’t have faith in the Lord or don’t believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.” While faith plays a subtle but steady role in the the message of Canal Street, it was also a devout faith that propelled the film into existence despite over a decade of hurdles and in the face of much rejection and doubts of seemingly insurmountable odds. LaMarr, who is a Chicago native, began writing Canal Street with his writing partner Jon Knitter starting in 2005 when they were at Columbia College Chicago. "I would get on the red line and take it from the Southside of Chicago all the way to end of the line on the Northside and just people watch and dream up some of the diverse characters we birthed in Canal Street,” LaMarr remembers. “Chicago, to me, was one of those cities that had caught a bad rap and I wanted to shine a different light on it through politics and grit. Me and Jon started writing about our different experiences and that is really how the script began to take form.” The duo would move out to Hollywood and spent the better part of the next decade polishing the script and knocking on doors of production companies trying to

(L) Actors Jamie Hector and Bryshere Y. Gray pray in scene from movie; (M) Mykelti Williamson plays Gray’s father in the film; (R) Woody McClain and Gray pose with Exec Producer, Bishop Eric Garnes

acquire funding for the project, to little avail. “We heard everyone say, ‘you're not going to be able to do it’ while continually doing what we’ve been doing,” tells LaMarr. “It wasn't like, ‘oh we wrote it and then a year later we met somebody and a year later we put it out’. We’re talking about a lot of closed doors. A lot of, ‘go home’. Myself and John Knitter were homeless for a year living in a Uhaul van in Van Nuys-- this has not been a cake walk!” Fortunes changed for LaMarr and Knitter when they met executive producers Bishop Garnes and Kevin Mullens in 2016. “Canal Street is a visual and emotional tour guide that challenges your perspective through every character and ultimately inspires you to stop waiting on change to happen to you, but rather through you,” says Mullens on what drew him to the project. Within six months of meeting Garnes and Mullens, the film found a home with investors who would ultimately finance pre-production in October of 2016 followed by production in February 2017. “Finances are always a challenge,” LaMarr says, “But the biggest challenges are not always finances, but faith. The money is always out there, but it’s how much can you take and how much can you go through to get to the end of it. “I feel like the Lord has always been in this project. It’s at those moments where everything is about to shut down and things don’t look good where He shows up every single time. And then after that, we get a little more and a little bit more. And I’m not talking about finances, I’m talking about His favor and grace. “We shot this movie for under two million dollars in 16 and a half days with no marketing whatsoever. We released a trailer last week and we have three million views. Currently, we’re going to be opening up in about 25 cities-- and that's His Favor!” “Being faith driven means you execute,” says Bishop Garnes, “I have learned through the Lord pressing my spirits on this journey, what faith is all about. You're gonna have to take a leap of faith. “Every vision that a person gets has to be tested, and trust me we have been tested-- and in testing believe that God will see us through. Testing to believe that even when it looked like we were gonna be shut down, we were not. A constant test of our faith is for us to believe everyday that God had put us on this project. So faith is a major piece, and people need to start moving away from just hearing the Word and start recognizing that faith is an action mode.” And while the fourteen year haul in getting this picture made may have been tough on Rhyan, he admits that it has been even harder on the people who are reflected most in Canal Street-- the good people of Chicago’s south side. “It’s kind of sad that we can write a film in 2005 and it can still be relevant in 2019. We shouldn’t have been able to do that. But things haven’t changed that much,” LaMarr reflects. “Had we utilized and executed our power, and executed the strength that we’ve been given earlier-- we should have been able to stomp out some of this by now and it's not been happening,” Garnes adds. “So Canal Street is not just about a movie, but an opportunity to wake up the church, and an evangelicalism way of winning souls to the gospel of Jesus Christ from the medium of the big silver screen as well as saying, ‘we’ve got work to do let’s stop talking it, let’s start doing it!” One thing that has changed in the time since 2005 is technology and the way people digest their news-- which lead to some interesting and practical changes to the

“

If you've seen the film, you know it doesn’t feel like a cookie cutter [Christian] film. And people say, ‘oh you shouldn't call it a Christian film,’ and I say ‘why not? Why can’t the Lord be cool? Why do we always have to be so stuffy?’ And when you do have something that is cool and is relatable, why don’t we want to call it a Christian film? Then we want to call it something else?

”

Filmmaker Rhyan Lamarr

film’s script. As the plot of Canal Street unfolds and the Kholi Styles murder case becomes news, LaMarr filmed segments with real media personalities on their shows discussing the events, seemingly in real time. “The things that I wanted to convey in a traditional news setting didn’t feel right anymore so we started reaching out to podcast, radio and television hosts to convey the message,” recounts LaMarr. “Also social media influencers, like DeStorm Power, Da Brat, Casper Smart, Yandy Smith, Don Benjamin, Sarah Jakes, Angela Yee and Pat Smith-- I put them in the movie, and not just having them play cameos, but having them be the choir throughout the film.” “As a member of the media we get to impact a lot of opinions because we are sometimes viewed as the authoritative voices on a lot of subjects. So if someone's favorite DJ or News person weighs in on something, the people often side with that trusted voice," says Headkrack of The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, who was featured in the film. “As we have observed in countless situations, the media and the public have a tendency to look at young black and brown men as guilty when they are accused of a crime. It was important for me to have a voice in Canal Street to show how dangerous this practice is, and the important role that media plays in our perceptions," comments Angela Yee of iHeart Radio’s The Breakfast Club on her role. And the technique also worked to “kill two birds with one stone” so-to-speak. “If you look at it from the producing side, it costs a lot of money to get the budget to promote our movie-- however, if they’re in it, they’ll promote it themselves!” So far the reactions from general audiences and churches alike have been astounding. “The reactions from the screenings have been phenomenal. Depending on where you are in the country people perceive it differently but we have not had any negative screenings-- people just take different things out of it,” says LaMarr. “The common denominator was that the movie was warm,” says Garnes on the different reactions they’ve received. “People walked away challenged. They kept anticipating one thing and as the movie kept moving along, they realized that their anticipations kept being sent down a different avenue. I heard many people say that they were sitting at the edge of their seats just trying to see what they thought was going to happen, but found out it went a different way.” “The church has also had an excellent response,” reports LaMarr. “One of the things that we’re getting from churches is that the movie is different from their expectation. They have been used to seeing the faithbased movie in a more “faith-like” way which are not necessarily touching the realities of life, primarily in our urban communities. “When they realize that we pushed the envelope, we stretched the rubber band but didn't burst, they went, ‘wow this is not just a faith based movie, this is a movie that happens to have faith in it.’ “The social justice thread is there along with the faith, and the big issue is the church is going to have to embrace all different angles and deal with uncomfortable subjects at times. They were all in scripture, so if God has no problems having a conversation about it, then why do we?” Now at the end of the project, Rhyan acknowledges that all the tests of his faith only made him and the film stronger: “I’ve enjoyed every step of the way, I wouldn't tell you I haven’t because every trial we’ve gone through has made us stronger in each moment. I've enjoyed this ride.”

MoneyMatters Move To Lakers Could Cost Lebron $20 Million In Taxes

ov. Jerry Brown has gotten a lot of credit for California’s fiscal rebound. When he came to office, the state budget was running a deficit of $27 billion; now, as Brown leaves office, he’ll leave his successor, Gavin Newsom, with a $15 billion rainy day fund. Thanks, Jerry! But Californians actually should be thanking other, richer Californians. Under the state’s progressive tax structure, 46 percent of state income taxes are paid by the top 1 percent. Tales of the rich supposedly fleeing the state’s high income taxes are hardy perennials, but California still leads the nation in billionaires, and recent studies have found that, among higher earners, California has experienced a net gain. In fact, one such report, by Stanford University’s Center on Poverty and Inequality and the state Franchise Tax Board, came out this year right around the time a Percenter 1 famous announced that he was departing the snow belt to join the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James has been, in theory at least, a California taxpayer for several months now. How grateful should the rest of us in the Golden State be to him for his contribution? As an illustration of the state’s fiscal dependence on the wealthy, and perhaps as solace to the shivering fans James left behind in Cleveland, let’s count the ways. First, what is a California 1 percenter? It’s those making at least $580,429 a year, according to the state Department of Finance. And the average earnings of the 1 percent? $1.9 million. That’s 23 times more than the average California filer’s $83,256 income. Celebrities, moguls and techies don’t just pay out of their paychecks, but any time they cash in on their investments. As a result, California’s income taxes are much more volatile because the state treats capital gains, partnership income and dividends, interest and rent—all the ways the rich make their money—the same as wages. That volatility has spawned debate in Sacramento about whether California needs tax reform. Newsom warns that when the economy catches a cold, “our budget is going to catch the flu.” (Check out our tax

On the Money JUDY LIN CALmatters

explainer for a primer on where California’s tax dollars go.) Newsom says there are a variety of approaches to help stabilize the state budget, including a sales tax on services, changing property taxes, adding an oil severance tax, and adjusting income tax rates. While he acknowledges the risk, he hasn’t endorsed any plan yet. But all else being equal, we can make this back-ofthe-envelope calculation: Over the course of his four-year $153.3 million contract, James could pay more than $20 million in California income taxes. That’s about $1 for everyone in the state workforce. It’s also more than double what he would pay in Ohio if he kept his residency there. Now, how do I know James will file as a California resident? Well, I don’t know for sure and the Lakers haven’t called me back. But circumstantial evidence suggests the bean counters at the California Franchise Tax Board will figure it out. are you Where taxed is generally based on work. and residency California checks off both. There’s his $21 million mansion in Brentwood. Then there’s his second $23 million mansion in Brentwood. And his son, LeBron James Jr., attends a private school in Santa Monica. Even as a part-year resident, he’ll pay on the games he’s played in California since signing with the Lakers in July. All professional athletes pay to the states where they have games, says wealth manager Rob Seltzer of Seltzer Business Management in Century City. “If he decided to stay in Ohio, he would then have California residency for the 41 home games he has with Lakers, as well as for the games that he plays on the road with the Clippers, the Warriors and other California teams,” Seltzer says. Assuming he is a Californian, he’ll get taxed at the state’s top tax rate of 12.3 percent plus another 1 percent on income in excess of $1 million. However, he will get to claim some credit for taxes paid to other states. For example, his games in Portland, Phoenix CalSavers continued to page 24

The Rose Parade In Dollars and Sense What started in 1880 as a show of Southern California’s abundance of flowers even in the midst of winter, the world famous Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade takes place around New Year’s Day each year in Pasadena, California, and over the last 130 years the tradition has become one of America’s most popular and iconic holiday events. And last year marked another milestone for the Rose Parade with the election of the organization’s first black president, Gerald Freeny. With a viewing audience of 47 million Americans, another 28 million more viewing worldwide from 220 different territories, and over 700,000 attendees lining the streets of Pasadena, the historic parade remains a hot ticket and a prime opportunity for businesses and community organizations to expand their name recognition and visibility to a worldwide audience. But making the cut as one of the 45 rose-covered floats which cruse the five-and-a-half mile stretch, doesn’t come easy…or cheap! The participation fee for businesses and commercial enterprises to have a float in the parade is $16,500, and a reduced fee of $5,500 for non- commercial enterprises such as nonprofits and hospitals. The real cost of being in the parade comes with the construction and design for the floats which typically run around $250,000, according to the Tournament of Roses Association, although design and construction costs will vary depending on the sophistication of design, degree of animation and variety of floral materials. “The bigger the budget the more things we can do with size, length and the amount of animation,” says Tim Estes, president of Fiesta Parade Floats in Pasadena, one of four Tournament-approved float builders in the Pasadena area. “Some at the bottom end can start as low as $80,000, but we’ve also had floats get as high as $350,000.” Good seats at the parade range in price from $55 to 100, which can also mirror the cost of parking. The parade itself generates upwards of $400 million to the Southern California economy and in the neighborhood of 6,000 jobs. In what may be yet another show of diversity, this year’s Grand Marshal was none other than ten time Grammy award winning recording artist, Chaka Khan, who makes history as the first Grand Marshal to be a featured performer in the parade’s 130year history.

Biz News Briefs Marketing maven Bozoma Saint John, who’s currently CMO of the global media conglomerate Endeavor, has been tapped to host and produce the upcoming documentary series Bozoma: Being Badass on the Starz network. The show has been described as a cross between Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, Mister Rogers, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. Each episode will spotlight both Saint John’s personal and professional struggles and successes, including the loss of her husband five years aga to

January 2019

Bozoma Saint John Lands Starz TV Series

cancer. “Being black, being the child of immigrants [her parents came to the United States from Ghana], being a widow, a mother—all of those things that make up who I am,” Saint John has said. That’s what’s so beautiful about the human experience.”

Chris Albrecht, president and CEO of Starz, says, “There is so much more to Bozoma than what you have read in the headlines. Boz is an incredibly dynamic woman with an undeniable spirit that she infuses into every aspect of her life. She brings a wholly new perspective to television.” Saint John—once dubbed the Queen of Silicon Valley— is the creative force behind such popular ad campaigns for Apple Music as the commercial starring Mary J. Blige, Kerry Washington, and Taraji P. Henson. While at Pepsi, she orchestrated the halftime at the Super Bowl featuring Beyoncé. The 41-year-old daughter of Ghanaian immigrants also held key positions with Beats and most recently Uber, where she served as Chief Brand Officer. TV One Launches CLEO TV In accordance with the conditions of its recent merger, Comcast is gearing up for the January launch of two new African American majority owned independent networks— AFRO and CLEO TV. Derived from the name Cleopatra, one of the most powerful, trendsetting, rule-breaking and iconic women in history, CLEO TV will offer quality content that defies negative and cultural stereotypes of today’s modern women. The network promises a unique and diverse

offering of short-form and long-form content including travel, home design, cooking, talk shows, movies, docuseries, sitcoms and much more. “We’re at a pivotal moment in history where women are making a huge impact in our society and culture, especially women of color,” said Michelle Rice, TV One’s General Manager. “CLEO TV will offer a diverse mix of lifestyle and entertainment content through the unique lens of Millennial and young Gen-X women of color, an audience segment that is currently underserved. CLEO TV will leverage the comprehensive media platform of our parent company Urban One, Inc. which includes digital, television and radio divisions that will each play an integral role in bringing this new network to the marketplace. We are grateful to Comcast for the tremendous opportunity to elevate new voices in our industry.” AFRO, a channel from Afrotainment, is a 24-hour polycultural black network mainly broadcasting top-rated Nollywood and black movies, dramas, sitcoms, music, talk, and late night comedy shows. “The offerings from both AFRO and CLEO TV serve as an excellent complement to the growing catalog of programming choices we offer about global black communities,” said Keesha Boyd, Executive Director, Multicultural Products at Comcast Cable.

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Red Carpet Style

NAOMI CAMPBELL in a black velvet gown by Azzedina Alciia.

WINNIE HARLOW wowed in a fringe adorned silver gown by Versace.

The best red carpet styles of the British Fashion Awards 2018. This fashion awards show is a celebration of creative and innovative talent held at the iconic London venue the Royal Albert Hall.

JOURDAN DUNN is phenomenal in this floor length gown by 16 Arlington.

NAOMIE HARRIS went vintage in this silver and gold dress by Miu Miu

ADUT AKECH rocked a gold embossed Valentino dress.

Eye On Gospel Tasha Cobbs Leonard Comes Out On Top Billboard Magazine released its rankings for the top gospel artist of 2018 and coming out on top was Tasha Cobbs Leonard, who also ranked as gospel’s leading female artist of the year. Leonard's Heart. Passion. Pursuit.: Live at Passion City Church arrived in the Top Gospel Albums chart on Nov. 17 and was ranked as 2018’s No. 1 on the year-end Top Gospel Albums recap. Recorded live at Passion City Church in Atlanta, the album’s success was fueled in part by hip-hop queen Nicki Minaj, who was featured on Cobbs Leonard’s "I'm Getting Ready,” which debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart and finished as the No. 9 title on the Hot Gospel Songs year-end chart. Koryn Hawthorne—who reigned supreme as gospel’s top new artist—was ranked as number two on Billboard’s list of the year’s top gospel artists. Hawthorne, who turned 21-years-old on Dec. 26, struck gold this year with her hit single “Won’t He Do It,” which became the second single by Hawthorne's to reach number 1 on the hot gospel songs chart. As a finalist on the eighth season of NBC's The Voice, she first led with "How Great Thou Art," which she performed on the show in 2015. Co-written by

Hawthorne, “Won’t He” spent most of the 2018 chart year at No. 1 on the weekly Hot Gospel Songs chart. In its 26th week at No. 1, the track became the longest-running No. 1 by a woman in the tally’s history, surpassing Tamela Mann’s 25 week reign with “Take Me to the King.” Travis Green came in at number three of the year’s top gospel artist, also ranking as gospel’s top male artist. Greene had two albums in the year-end Top Gospel Albums tally, as The Hill and Crossover: Live From Music City ranked at Nos. 6 and 7. Greene also performed on Israel Houghton’s “Promise Keeper” and Elevation Collective’s “Do it Again,” which also featured Kierra Sheard. Tamela Mann—who along with her husband is gearing up for Tyler Perry’s Farewell Madea Tour 2019 which kicks off later this month—came in at number 4 on the list. And placing at number five was Marvin Sapp—who was inspired to release a book on relationships this year (Suitable: Choosing and Being Chosen by the Right Mate). The number six slot on the list belonged to Anthony Brown & group therAPY, also crowned the top gospel duo/group of 2018 thanks to their hit single “I Got That.” Rounding out the top ten are Todd Dulaney (#7), Kirk Franklin (#8), Jonathan McReynolds (#9) and Tori Kelly (#10) Jekalyn Carr may have just missed the list, coming in at number 11, but was able to join this year’s list of Grammy nominees with the announcement of nominations for the 61st Annual Grammy Awards last month. Carr scored two nods for “Best gospel performance/Song” and “Best Gospel Album”. In the performance/song category she will face some pretty stiff competition with Koryn Hawthorne, Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds and Brian Courtney Wilson. Rounding out the Best Gospel album category are Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, The Walls Group and Brian Courtney Wilson. The awards are set to be broadcast live from Staples Center in Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019, on CBS.

Yolanda Adams is Among Gospel Artists Set for Tribute Special Honoring Aretha Franklin

Yolanda Adams, who has a new single out on Valentine’s Day and a new album coming around Mother’s Day—is among the gospel artists set to perform at a special televised tribute to Aretha Franklin. The special, hosted by Tyler Perry, will also feature BeBe Winans, Shirley Caesar as well as Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Janelle Monáe, Patti LaBelle and SZA. “This special will celebrate Aretha Franklin’s numerous accomplishments as an entertainment icon, singer, songwriter, pianist, actress and civil rights activist,” said Jack Sussman, CBS’ exec VP of specials, music and live events. “Aretha had an incredible effect on humanity and music with her indomitable spirit and grace. We look forward to honoring this music legend with numerous performers who all admire and respect the Queen of Soul.” “Aretha! A Grammy Celebration for the Queen of Soul” will be produced by legendary music exec Clive Davis and is set to tape on January 13 at the Shrine Auditorium.

Carvin Winans Set To Release Solo Project

Carvin Winans, twin brother to Marvin Winans and member of the famed Winans quartet is gearing up for the release of a solo album, entitled In The Softest Way. The project’s first single, “Once In A Lifetime”, can be heard online. Winans, whose daughter—Deborah Joy Winans—co-stars on the OWN series, Greenleaf, has penned such hits as Regina Belle’s “Make It Like It Was”, the Winans’ “Tomorrow” and Whitney Houston’s “Love Is”. Briefly: The Gospel Music Workshop of America has set is 2019 GMWA Board Meeting dates for Monday, March 18, 2019 thru Thursday March 21, 2019. The meeting will be held in Los Angeles at the Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport. The groups annual convention is set for Saturday. July 27, 2019 thru Friday August 2, 2019 in Washington, D.C.

Calendar of events

Ongoing

Exhibits: Los Angeles Freedom Rally, 1963 Coined the “Los Angeles Freedom Rally,” it was one of the nation’s largest civil rights rallies featuring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Through March 3, 2019) Free (Parking = $12) California African American Museum 600 State Drive Info: (213) 744-7432 http://caamuseum.org On Ice (Through January 21) Annual outdoor skating rink featuring a variety of free activities, including special events, and live music. Open daily $5 - $15 Admission; $4 – Skate Rental Pershing Square 532 South Olive Street Contact: (213) 847-5970 holidayicerinkdowntownla.com Downtown

Yoga Class On the Macy’s Bridge Free •10AM -11:00AM Saturdays Baldwin Hills Mall 3650 W. King Blvd

DBFit

Info: (323) 290-6636 Baldwinhillscrenshawplaz a.com Stage: “Wicked” (Through January 28) Check online for times/prices Pantages Theatre 6233 Hollywood Blvd Contact: (323) 468-1770 hollywoodpantages.com

DOn

Friday, January 11

In Concert: The Temptations 8pm • $70–$90 Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts 12700 Center Court Drive Contact: (562) 916-8500 www.cerritoscenter.com Torry’s 50th Birthday Roast with Kevin Hart, Cedric The Entertainer, Nick Cannon, Joe Torry and Tony Rock Hosted by Jemele Hill Also featuring Kym Whitley, Tommy Davidson and more 8PM • $20 - $35 The Novo 800 W. Olympic Blvd Info: (213) 765-7000 www.thenovodtla.com

DGuy

Saturday, January 12

L.A. Focus/January 2019

Regina King was honored with the Chairman’s Award at the 30th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival.

ing the n attend s and so w re. ie re C m pre Terry an” film “Aquam

“Create A Crown to Honor Dr. King For children aged 3 – 13 (All supplies are provided) Free 3650 W. King Blvd Info: (323) 290-6636 www.baldwinhillscrenshawplaza.com

www.laphil.com

Social Justice Conversation with Common and Angela Davis Featuring Kareem AbdulJabbar, Angela Rye, Dr. Tyrone Howard and more Sponsored by UCLA Black Alumni Association 4PM – 5:30PM • Free UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center 425 Westwood Plaza

Thursday, January 17

Studio Audience for Cedric The Entertainer’s The Neighborhood By Audiences Unlimited 3:30PM – 9PM • Free CBS Studio Center 4024 Radford Avenue

Discussion: The Treatment of Facial Aging: Surgical and Non-Surgical Options UCLA Medical Center 200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 206 Must sign up on website Contact: (424) 259-8390 connect.uclahealth.org/calendar

Tuesday, January 15 The Edge of Jazz Herbie Hancock highlights new works from some of the most important and forwardthinking composers 8PM • $20- 60 Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S. Grand Avenue Contact: (213) 972-7211

Friday, January 18

Sharing The Dream Awards Luncheon Honoring Marian Wright Edelman & Tony Gonzalez Presented by the MLK

eveNT SPoTliGHT Wednesday, January 23- Saturday, January 26 On Stage: Tyler Perry’s Medea’s Farewell Tour With Tamela Mann, David Mann and Cassi Davis $50 - $155 • Check website for times Dolby Theatre 6801 Hollywood Boulevard Information: (323) 308-6300 www.dolbytheatre.com

2019 Gra nd Marsh waves to al Chaka fans at th Khan e Roses Para 130th Tournmen t of de in Pasa dena.

Mae Blake and First Lady Bishop Charles hnson at Jo ie ok Co d an pose with Magic C. GI CO West Angeles

Central California District Council Leadership Conference 2019 (66th Episcopal District – Pentecostal Assemblies of the World) With Suffragan Bishop Vanessa Ussery, Dr. Byron Brazier and Dr. Ricky Allman (Thru Saturday, Jan 19) Greater Emmanuel Temple 3740 E. Imperial Highway Lynwood www.centralCDC.org

Sydney Kamlager-Dove is op officially sworn in as Assemblymember for the 54th district.

Charlie Wilson performs at the Brotherhood Crusade’s Golden Anniversary at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles.

Community Health Foundation 11:00am -2pm • $500 + Dorothy Chandler Pavilion–Grand Hall 135 North Grand Avenue Contact: (213) 622-2344 Mlk-chf.org In Concert: Tower of Power $48 - $78 • 9PM The Saban 8440 Wilshire Blvd Info: (888) 645-5006 www.sabantheatre.com

Saturday, January 19

27th Annual Empowerment Congress Summit Keynote: Congresswoman Karen Bass Workshop topics include: criminal justice reform, gentrification, homelessness and equity in education 9am–1pm • Free Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science 1731 E. 120th Street Info: (213) 346-3247 www.empowermentcongress.org

RNB Rewind #4 (Featuring TLC, Bell Biv Devoe, Ginuwine, 112, Dru Hill and more) Hosted by Katt Williams 8pm • $39–$255 Microsoft Theater 777 Chick Hearn Court www.microsofttheater.com 3rd Annual Women’s March LA 10AM – 2PM • Free Pershing Square 532 S. Olive Street womensmarchla.org In Concert: Taj Mahal & The Phantom Blues Band $38 – 68 • 9pm The Canyon 28912 Roadside Drive Agoura Hills Contact: (818) 8795016/(888) 645-5006 www.canyonclub.net Book Signing: Fashion Designer Rachel Roy (96 Words for Love) 2PM • Free Barnes & Noble 189 The Grove Drive Info: (323) 525-0270 www.barnesandnoble.com

In Concert: Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) “A Celebration of the 90th Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.” Choral and orchestral setting of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech 7pm • Free West Angeles COGIC North Campus 3045 Crenshaw Blvd Info: (213) 788-4260

Sunday, January 20

In Concert: Scherrie Payne, Susaye Greene & Joyce Vincent (Formerly of the Supremes) 7:30pm • $25 Catalina Bar & Grill 6725 W. Sunset Blvd www.catalinajazzclub.com Calibash (Featuring Daddy Yankee, Ozuna, Lennox, Zion, Nicky Jam and more 8PM • $89 - $195 Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (213) 742-7340 www.staplescenter.com

Monday, January 21

34th Annual Kingdom Day Parade (Featuring 150 floats and marching bands) 9am–1pm Martin Luther King Blvd./Western Ave. to Crenshaw Bl./Vernon Ave. Festival at Leimert Park Info: (323) 934-3683 • (844) 454-6432 kingdomdayparade.org CAAM’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration Featuring Marathon reading of King’s lesser known speeches and sermons, food truck fare, a march and art-making activities for kids Free (Parking = $12) California African American Museum 600 State Drive Contact: (213) 744-7432 http://caamuseum.org Fuller Theological Seminary 2019 MLK Celebration (Through Friday, Jan 25) Featuring Bishop Kenneth Ulmer, Erica and Warryn

Campbell and Dr. Dwight Hopkins Theme: “The Black Church & the Urban Poor in America” Free • Check for schedule Fuller Seminary – Travis Auditorium 180 N. Oakland Avenue Pasadena, 91101 https://www.fuller.edu/pannell-center

Saturday, January 26

Wednesday, January 23

Jenifer Lewis Birthday Celebration Featuring stories, songs and readings from her memoir, The Mother of Black Hollywood 8PM • $25 The Renberg Theatre 1125 N. McCadden Place Info: (323) 860-7300 lalgbtcenter.org

2019 LA Art Show (Through Sun, January 27) 11am–7pm•Sun:11am5pm General Admission: $30 LA Convention Center 1201 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (561) 822-5440 www.laartshow.com

Thursday, January 24

In Concert: An Evening with Branford Marsalis 8PM • $35 - $78 The Soraya Center for the Performing Arts 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge 91330 Contact: (818) 677-3000 TheSoraya.org

around los angeles Sebastian Ridley-Thomas, Areva Martin and Supervisor Mark RidleyThomas at the Brotherhood Crusade’s Golden Anniversary.

pet at the LA Common on the red car eet Could Str ale Be “If screeing of Talk”.

Sunday, January 27

In Concert: Kenny Lattimore $38 - $68 • 9PM The Rose 245 E. Green Street Info: (888) 645-5006 www.wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com

KiKi Layne and Steph en James attend the LA screening of If Beale Street Could Talk.

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

ting an award Melody Hobson accep usade’s Golden Cr d oo at the Brotherh Beverly Hills Anniversary. At the Hilton.

Damien Sneed – We Shall Overcome A Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. 8PM • $34 - $79 The Soraya Center for the Performing Arts 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge 91330 Contact: (818) 677-3000 TheSoraya.org

iNSiDe Ho l lY W ooD with Neily Dickerson Happy New Year Y’all! 2019 promises to be a year of good movie-ing and I’m going to do my best to take you through what I believe will be some of the must see picts of the year. Grab a pen and let’s do this. In the first quarter we have; “Canal Street” (a timely movie that examines the intersection of faith and justice) “Escape Room,” “Glass,” “The Upside,” “Serenity,” “Captain Marvel,” “A Madea Family Funeral,” “Miss Bala” and one of the films I want to see most is from the creator of, “Get Out,” Jordan Peele’s ~ “Us.” The nostalgic Nelly in me will have to see, Disney’s “Dumbo.” In preparation for the spring and summer month’s I’ll be ready for, Taraji P. Henson in, “The Best of Enemies,” “Shazam,” “Marvel’s

Lupita Nyongo in “Us”, filmmaker Jordan Peele’s followup to the 2017 smash hit, “Get Out”

Avenger: Endgame,” because I am still not happy about that “Infinity War” ending. The third installation of, “John Wick,” “Aladdin,” the bio film on Elton John - “Rocketman,” “X-Men: Dark Phoenix,” “Men In Black International,” “Shaft,” and “Limited Partners.” As we move deeper into the summer, one of the most viewed trailers of 2018

DUe iN THeATerS THiS MoNTH

HollYWooD BUZZ

The Upside January 11

Canal Street January 18

Regina Hall Makes History and Gears Up For New Show

Actress Regina Hall—who got raves for performance in “The Hate U Give”—recently made history when she became the first black actress to be named Best Actress from the New York Film Critics Circle for her performance in “Support the Girls.” Hall is presently gearing up to star in the new Showtime series, Black Monday, alongside Oscarnominated actor Don Cheadle. The comedy, set to debut on January 20, centers in on “October 19, 1987 – aka Black Monday”, the day dubbed as the worst stock market crash in Wall Street history. The 10 episode series is the story of how a group of outsiders took on Wall Street and crashed the world’s largest financial system and the glass ceiling. is sure to put a new spin on one of the most infamous days in the history of America. Jenifer Lewis Puts to Bed Rumors of Feuding with Blackish star Tracy Ellis Ross Recently, Black-ish co-star Jenifer Lewis posted a hilarious video on social media with Traci Ellis Ross to dispel reports of the two

Glass January 18

feuding. Lewis simply posted: Love & laughter. ‘Nuff said. ?? @traceeellisross. Ross responded with “love you.” The move was sparked by a Radar Online report that the two had been butting heads on set, even affecting production of the show. According to the report, the entire production shut down for about 30 minutes a few weeks ago because of the drama between the two actresses. Source says there were some heated words exchanged between the two women after Lewis called out Ross for talking while she was trying to read her lines.

On The Home Front: Usher, who officially filed for divorce from his wife, Grace, wasn’t the only star splitting up over the holidays. Forest Whitaker filed for a divorce from his wife of 22 years Keisha, citing irreconcilable differences…But love was in the air for Empire star Terrence Howard, who proposed to ex-wife Mira Pak at Crustacean’s restaurant in Beverly Hills on Christmas. In a video post, Howard said, “We have an idea of how long we think life is, but we do know how short it can be. It took me 45 years to find you. It took me 45 years to find you. But now that I have you in my 50th year, I will spend the rest of eternity at your side. And I pray that everybody finds that one that will complete them for all eternity because it means everything. I love you.”…Also getting cozy over the holidays was actress LaLa Anthony and estranged hubby, NBA star Carmelo Anthony. The two rang in the New Year together with their son in Mexico.

Kevin Hart May Host the Oscars Afterall:

Regina Hall

During his appearance on Ellen, Hart explained why he opted out of the show, stating, “To be put in a position

and a film you know we are all ready for is, “The Lion King.” “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood,” “Fast & Furious presents: Hobbs & Shaw” - you put Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham and Idris Elba on the screen together and I am there. I’m already in line for “Downton Abbey,” interested in “The Kitchen,” and “Judy.” As the year ends there’s Will Smith in “Gemini Man,” “The Woman In The Window.” No matter how many times or how it’s done, I’m going to see, “The Addams Family,” *snap - *snap. Tom Hanks in “A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood,” “Charlie’s Angels,” ”The Good Liar,” and a Christmas classic remake, “Little Women.” So whew, we’ve got a Hometown: Chattanooga, Tennessee lot to look forward to. Grab your pop- Big Break: “Do The Right Thing” corn, some socks and a blanket and Current Films: “Glass” let’s get ready to movie. Upcoming Projects: “Shaft”, “The Banker”, “Captain Marvel” and “Spider-Man: Far From Home”

Q&A

Samuel L. Jackson

Jacob’s Ladder February 1 where I was given an ultimatum— ’Kevin, apologize or we’re going to have to find another host’—when I was given that ultimatum, this is now becoming like a cloud and just got real dark…The conversation is about Kevin Hart’s tweets from 10 years ago and homophobia. I don’t want to step on that stage and make that night about me and my past when you have people that have worked hard to step on that stage for the first time and receive an award. ‘Openly I say, ‘I’m wrong for my past words.’ I said it. I understand that. I know that. My kids know when their dad messes up, I’m in front of it because I want to be an example, so they know what to do. In this case, it’s tough for me—because it was an attack. It wasn’t a coincidence that the day after I received the job that tweets just somehow manifested from 2008. That’s a malicious attack on my character. This is what I want people to understand: That’s an attack to end me. DeGeneres said that she called the Academy to get their thoughts on Hart hosting the show afterall and voice her support. Their response, she said was ‘Oh my God, we want him to host! We feel like that maybe he misunderstood or it was handled wrong. Maybe we said the wrong thing but we want him to host. Whatever we can do we would be thrilled. And he should host the Oscars.’” Briefly: Pray for Jackson family matriarch Katherine Jackson who is reportedly gravely ill and according to some reports is about to go under the knife for brain surgery. The latest reports also suggest that several of Jackson’s children have engaged in a fierce battle to control their mother’s share of the late King of Pop’s vast estate – valued at more than $1 billion.

After studying drama at Morehouse College in the early 70’s while being active in the civil rights movement, Jackson moved to New York City and began doing theater work. An introduction to filmmaker Spike Lee led to him being cast in four of Lee’s productions— “School Daze”, “Do The Right Thing”, “Mo’ Better Blues” and “Jungle Fever”. But it was with the casting of his thirtieth film, Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” that Samuel Leroy Jackson became a household name. Ironically, Tarantino had written the iconic role of Jules Winnfield in “Pulp Fiction” with Jackson in mind-- and it earned him Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for “Best Supporting Actor”. Today, with nearly 200 acting credits to his name, Jackson—nicknamed “the King of Cool”— is among the highest grossing actors of all time. What is it you look for when selecting a role? I particularly want a good story, a story I want to be a part of, and a story I want to tell and think I can make richer for an audience. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing a role that’s part of something like what I would want to go and see when I was a kid. I’m just passionate about acting, if the right television thing role along I’d do it. There’s some very fascinating and innovative things happening in television. Is there a character that you relate to the most? Zeus from “Die Hard with a Vengeance”. That was the only time I perceived myself as playing myself, because it was my job to be the audience member on the inside of a Die Hard film reacting to John McClane the way an audience member would react. You were in your mid- 40’s before you became a movie “star”. What do you attribute to your success? I was sober when it happened so that helped a lot. If it had happened sooner in my life, I would have found a way to mess it up. Being sober and understanding who I was, and what I wanted to do, and how I wanted to shape the trajectory of my career, was a result of me being more mature-- but I always attribute it to my sobriety and not listening to everything people say when they tell you how great you are. Is not having won an Oscar yet something that fuels you? If I cared about that, I could have made a big fuss and gone all OscarsSoWhite and all that for Stephen in Django, but I don’t think an Oscar is gonna validate my career. You ask the average person, you know what they’re probably gonna say? ‘He already has one!’ At this point in your career do you enjoy the privileges on set of being such an accomplished star? I can be a hard taskmaster for some directors. I’m at that point where I can say: ‘Uh, you know, that’s not going to be in the movie, right? We already got it, we got it when we did this, that, and that. I’m not going to do that. Also, part of what they call my “perk package” is being able to play golf twice a week, and they’ll pay for it!

KEITH DELAWDER

GameChangers:

Staff Writer

“The Force Behind The Kingdom Day Parade”

very year on the day our nation celebrates one of our greatest leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., thousands of people line Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. between Western and Crenshaw in south Los Angeles for America’s largest and oldest celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. King at the Annual Kingdom Day Parade. For the last 34 years, the Kingdom Day Parade has been performed as a celebration of the equality, love and respect of the legacy of Dr. King and all the other activists that have worked on behalf of justice in America, with floats, performances and presentations to entertain while promoting a new generation of efforts toward peaceful coexistence. While the parade, which this year is themed “Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds, Healthy Democracy” is an amazing moment each year, it hardly comes easy. Meet Adrian Dove, Kingdom Day Parade President and CEO, who works throughout the year to bring the display of unity and pride to life. The multi-facisited Dove is a Vice President of the Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission, President of the Los Angeles branch of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE)-- the organization which puts on the Kingdom Day Parade-- and a local businessman and writer. Dove has spent more than 20 years as a human relations and economic development professional at the federal, state and local levels of government including the Governor’s Office, the Mayor’s Business Development Office, the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Office (HUD), and serving under seven

Presidents in the White House as a Budget Analysis. Coming off the 2018 midterm elections, Dove is looking to use the recent momentum to bring more people together as we continue the fight for justice and equality into the future. “Martin Luther King Jr. would have been pleased with or, at the very least encouraged, by results from the nationwide midterm elections,” Dove said. “The Congress of Racial Equality of California longtime organizing sponsor of the Kingdom Day Parade, has as one of its mission, the nurture and preservation of Dr. King’s dream by helping to sustain his mission of fighting ferociously for equality, love and peace for black and white and all other people as well. This fight’s primary weapons are aggressive nonviolent action and love.” The parade was first organized 37 years ago as a small local community event in San Diego that spanned only five blocks. In 1985, it moved to Los Angeles and has grown every year since then. “We are the largest Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in the Country. Nobody else has 2 million viewers,” says Dove of the Parade which will be broadcast live on ABC-7 from 11am to 1pm. “Planning the parade takes all year and I think it should because we want to share the meaning of Dr King,” says Dove. “If I can make one point, it is that this is more than a parade-- the event is really about Dr. King and honoring his vision for the next generation. If we see someone suffering somewhere, we’re going to take them

and hold them up. And if we see someone that doesn’t have the money to come into it we’re going to help them.” This year’s parade Grand Marshall is Los Angeles Dodger Manager Dave Roberts, and past grand Marshals have featured powerful community leaders and entertainers such as Stevie Wonder, U.S. Senator Kamala Harris, U.S. Reps. Maxine Waters and Karen Bass, Gov. Jerry Brown, Supervisor Mark- RidleyThomas, Mayor Eric Garcetti, Council members Herb J. Wesson and Curren Price, Steve Harvey, Dodgers Star Matt Kemp, Little Richard and dance legend Debbie Allen among others. “We have an easy mantra for selecting [entertainment] and that is, choosing individuals are doing things we truly believe Dr. King would do himself if he was here,” says Dove on the selection process. Dove and CORE have always planned the Kingdom Day Parade as an event for the whole family so that successive generations can share in the legacy King together-- and have fun while they’re at it, which can make for some difficult choices when it comes to entertainment. “We shy away from having artists that relate exclusively to a particular age group or demographic, not because of any taste of music, but because we make it into a family event where the whole family comes-- from the teenager to the grandparents-- and can enjoy the show,” says Dove. Dove works all year to make the Kingdom Day Parade a reality, in the face of numerous challenges that have nearly ended the tradition in years past.

“ T h e first challenge is money,” admits Dove. “I w o r k for free b u t that’s got to change, because it’s costing a lot. I work all year on this. But I found that in the name of Martin Luther King finding support can come very easy, from of all the places I’ve ever been. We’ve been able to raise money for a specific cause that is related to the things Dr. King would do, though only raising little amounts of money at a time-- so little that none of us were on salary!” But despite some of the financial challenges, “It seems to get better and bigger every year,” Dove reports. And in the spirit of Dr. King, he won’t allow challenges to stop his cause, but only make it stronger. “I believe that when you have a challenge, you’re probably better off so long as it doesn’t kill you-- because you had to struggle to get it in place and survive. And that’s been our strong suit, just like black folks in America, we’ve had more challenges than anybody and suffered through the worst slavery in the history of the world and that’s why we’ve risen, thrived and contributed far more than the percentage of our numbers in this country.”

Throughthe Storm

ALLISON KUGEL Contributor

Mel B on Drugs, Abuse & Her Healing Journey elanie Brown aka Mel B has reigned supreme as the spiciest of her bandmates since bursting onto the entertainment scene as Scary Spice in 1996 with the Spice Girl’s #1 hit Wannabe. With her wild hair, piercings and a raucous personality to match, she instantly began making headlines. Her tempestuous marriages and some romantic near misses,

How are your spirits these days? I actually couldn’t be happier. I’m in a really good place and it’s taken me a long time to even get to this place, so I’m thankful. What do you feel you came into this life to learn? I come from a white mother and a black father. Back in the 1970s when they got together and had me, that was seen as something that wasn’t really done. They had a lot of things that they had to overcome in bringing me into the world and raising me in an area of England, four hours outside of London, where there weren’t any other mixed-race girls. That was one thing I had to find, was my own identity. Apart from the likes of Neneh Cherry and maybe Tracy Chapman, there really wasn’t anybody that I could look up to where I felt like I belonged, or anyone who I felt like I even looked like. For me, it was all about creating a path where hopefully other mixed-race girls, and other mixed-race kids could actually follow. I’m very opinionated, but for the right reasons; not just to cause a ruckus. I do believe that I am here, somewhat, to make it okay to be in the skin that you’re in and the color that you are. We can’t know everything, and knowledge is power. I wasn’t very educated when it comes to schooling or on paper. I’ve experienced more education through life’s experiences, through traveling, and through getting myself into certain situations, whether it be through work and dealing with contracts or from talking to the man down the street who’s waiting for his bus. What was the hardest part, not just to write, but to keep in the final draft of the book? Everything that is out there now is pretty salacious. The physical and emotional abuse had already kind of been out there…I just wanted to make sure that I clarified and made my puzzle understandable. When you read my book, you do understand that certain things were due to coping mechanisms, which are very common with somebody in an abusive relationship. The book addresses things like why it took me so long to leave. It’s because you’re trapped, and you don’t have friends and family because you’ve been isolated due to how your abuser does things. That’s why in the back of my book, I put the 15 warning signs of what an abusive relationship looks like. Sometimes we don’t know until it is too late. There are certain things I did leave out due to legal reasons. I didn’t want it to be a legal war. I wanted my book to be more of an education and insight into what it looks like to be in an abusive relationship.

How about a phone call from work? I wasn’t allowed to take my phone to work. And like I said, this doesn’t just happen overnight. They chip away at you, so you wind up going, “Oh, he took my phone because he wanted to get it fixed for me, or he’s going to

put a new app on there.” It’s all done in a very controlling, obvious, yet un-obvious way. That’s the part that you don’t want to believe is happening. You still want to believe they love you. It’s like, “Oh, I’ll go see the accountant because you’re working today.” You think, “Oh, that’s really nice,” when they’re actually going behind your back taking your credit cards and changing the name on the accounts to their name. When you’re in an abusive relationship, everyone is isolated from you. People are scared to get in contact with you, because they too have been verbally abused by your abuser. You end up walking around going, “Why hasn’t my mom called?” Or “Why is my friend being really strange with me?” You don’t really know why, but now looking back, I know exactly why. It’s good to gain this deeper understanding from you, because people will think, she’s not your average Jane. She has all the resources in the world. It’s like having everything and nothing. And on the flip side, you’re not ready to admit anything to anyone else. If I were to call my mom up and say, “Mom, I’m being abused,” she’ll go, “What?!” You don’t want to admit to anybody and have to explain, because there is an element of no one’s going to believe you, which is what the abuser will put into your head, “No one’s going to believe you. Your self-esteem is in the gutter and you stop believing in yourself. It becomes a mental prison, is what you’re saying. When I was at work, I did believe in myself, because he couldn’t get to me. Nobody wanted to see him. They wanted to see me on camera. I’m very experienced and I’m very confident in what I say, so that was actually my savior, going to work. It was coming home that I dreaded, because I didn’t know what I was going to be experiencing that night.

Girls fame, drugs, bisexuality, and a ten-year marriage she claims was so abusive that it drove her to attempt suicide in 2014. Four years after that horrific episode which left her with organ damage and a lot of bruised pride, Melanie slowly rebuilt her strength, finally filing for divorce from Belafonte in 2017. The two remain embroiled in a bitter legal battle, but Melanie takes solace in spreading her message about domestic abuse. Along with promoting her book, she is advocating for others who have experienced various forms of intimate or domestic partner abuse as a part of her daily work with UK’s Women’s Aid, along preparing to hit the road in 2019 with the Spice Girls.

itation, and just being mindful and thoughtful. I do go to church. I go to the Agape Church which is very spiritual. I go there two or three times a month with my kids, and it’s very uplifting. The Scary Spice of twenty years ago was brash and bold, and very tell it like it is— who will Scary Spice be as you head out on the road in 2019? I’m still the same—a little more educated and aware, and I would say more honest, which could be misinterpreted as being even more brash and even more loud. What is the rainbow or silver lining in the cloud? My kids. It’s reassuring for me that they’re happy, they’re on track academically, and with me as far as our mother/daughter relationships goes. I’m so very, very proud of them. Also, what has been eye opening and reassuring for me is the fact that Women’s Aid (https://www.womensaid.org.uk/) had made me a Patron of their federation. They deal with these kinds of abusive relationships. They reassure you that you are not alone and they make you feel safe. Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment columnist. Follow her on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonKugel.com.

Your oldest daughter, Phoenix, 19, is old enough to understand the full scope of the situation... Oh yeah. She is the one who pushed me to write it, along with my friend who wrote it with me, Louise Gannon, because this story is bigger than just me. It happens to many hundreds of thousands of women, and men. It doesn’t matter if you have no money, or if you live in a mansion with servants. They find women like me, who were in a vulnerable situation, and they latch onto you like Prince Charming, making you believe they are going to give you everything you need. Are you clean and sober today? Yeah. I haven’t taken a drug since the day I left him (exhusband, Stephen Belafonte). What you’ll find in these abusive relationships is that the abuser is the one that provides you with all your alcohol and all your drugs. I’m addicted to loving life, but that’s about it. Do you pray? I’m all about affirmations and med-

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

From reading your book, I got the impression that at any time you could have flown home for refuge and would have been met with open arms. No way. How could I do that? How could I book a flight when he had my credit cards and my phone? I’m not allowed to leave the house, I don’t have a front door key. I’m working 24 hours. I didn’t even have a holiday. And your every move is being monitored by your abuser. Every phone call, every text message.

including her split from Eddie Murphy heard ‘round the world, have at times overshadowed her on-camera talent on hit shows like X Factor and America’s Got Talent. For years, rumors swirled about drug use and a party girl image cultivated during her marriage to ex-husband Stephen Belafonte. What few knew was the house of horrors that existed behind closed doors that Melanie’s oldest daughter, nineteen-year-old Phoenix, and Melanie’s mother, Andrea, both attest to in great and excruciating detail in Melanie’s recently released memoir, Brutally Honest. Brutally honest it is, as the outspoken girl from Leeds, England, with the heavy Yorkshire accent recalls everything from growing up of mixed-race heritage to Spice

ChurchNews Brooklyn Pastor To Build $1.2 billion Mixed-Income Housing Development rooklyn Based Pastor A.R. Bernard is planning to build a 2,100-unit affordable housing development on their 10.5 acre campus in an attempt to combat gentrification. Bernard, who is the leader of the 40,000 strong Christian Cultural Center, said that his church will partner with various government and private entities to build the $1.2 billion mixed-income housing unit community which will include an education center, retail space, and performing arts center. Bernard expects the community to be ready for occupancy in the next seven to ten years, with groundbreaking on the first phase tentatively slated to begin in 2020. “In cities like New York, there is gentrification taking place,” Bernard said. “Gentrification could be racial, it could be economic. For us it is economic. Individuals who are working class or in a certain income range are being squeezed out. We wanted to respond by creating affordable housing.” Bernard stressed that the church was a 50/50 partner with the developer. “In New York”, he explained, “it is not just land but air rights that is worth millions of dollars. We are in it together to reap all that comes out of that development and to address gentrification issues that are happening in the communities there in New York City. “What we want to do is create a community and a model that is sustainable,” he added. “It is creating community and we want to do it in such a way that is sustainable long-term and a model that we can replicate in other cities across the country.” The pastor said that the development will include a mixture of tall development buildings and maisonettes and will provide rental and homeownership opportunities. “It is not just the theology of Christianity but the Christian social ethics and the responsibility that Christianity presents that we have as our brother’s keeper,” Bernard said.

70th Annual Prayer Bowl Draws 1500 Over 1500 people turned out for the 70th Annual Prayer Bowl hosted by Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church for a lineup of preachers that included Pastor George Hurtt (Mt Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles), Dr. Donald L. Parson (Logos Baptist Assembly, Chicago) and Bishop Marvin Sapp “If you want to know an important piece of L.A. history, start the year off at the prayer bowl,” said County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas. “I’ve been coming to the prayer bowl since I was 12 years old. This is part of my biography and I’m here almost every year. I’m proud to be here. This is a part of what Los Angeles is about. The annual tradition—established by Mt. Moriah founding Pastor Earl Pleasant— is the largest New Year’s Day worship experience in the city of Los Angeles.

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

In national church news, The Rev. Cameron Madison Alexander, who spent more than four decades in the pulpit of Atlanta’s Antioch Baptist Church North, has died at 86 after a brief illness. Alexander became pastor in 1969 and grew the church from a congregation of 600 to more than 14,000…In other church news, Pastor John Gray spent part of his holidays defending the gift of a $200,000 Lamborghini he gave to his wife for their eight year wedding anniversary, saying he did not use church funds to buy the car. In a 23-minute Facebook video, the pastor of Relentless Church in Greenville South Carolina maintained that he bought the car using funds from his book deal, his show on OWN and investments. “First of it all, it wasn’t a pastor that bought the car,” said Gray. “It was a husband that bought the car. Get that in your spirit, I’m a husband first — don’t confuse what I do with who I am. What I do is I pastor God’s people. Who I am is a husband and a father, and I’ll do anything to honor them and I won’t ask permission from anybody to do it. No man should.”

Agape Church of Los Angeles Worship Center Consolidated Plaza: 3725 Don Felipe Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90008 Corprate Office: 4602 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 2A, Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 295-5571 www.agapela.org Bishop Craig A. Worsham, Founder & Senior Pastor Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Loving, Lifting & Liberating Humanity Through The Word Bethany Baptist Church of West LA 4115 W. Martin L. King Jr. Bl • LA 90008 (323) 296-7223 Dr. L.A. Kessee, Senior Pastor Sunday Worship: 8am •11:00am Sunday School: 9:45am Communion, First Sundays 6:00pm Prayer Service: 10:00am www.bethanywla.com

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of South L.A. 10905 S. Compton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90059 (323) 566.5286 Pastor Reginald A. Pope Sunday School: 9:30am Morning Worship: 8am • 11am Children’s Church: 11am (2nd/4th Sundays) Evangelism Training/Bible Study/Independent Prayer: (Mon): 7:29pm Mobile Prayer/Bible Study: (Wed) 11am Book by Book Bible Study (Wed.): 6:30pm Bryant Temple AME Church 2525 W. Vernon Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90008 (323) 293-6201 • F: (323) 293-0082 Pastor Dwaine Jackson Sunday School: 8:15am Morning Worship: 9:15 am Bible Study (Tues): Noon Pastor’s Bible Study( Tues): 6:00pm

Grant AME Church 10435 S. Central Avenue • Los Angeles, CA 90002 (323) 564-1151 • F: (323) 564-5027 Rev. Dr. J. Arthur Rumph, Senior Pastor Reappointed to Grant AME Church Los Angeles Rev. Dr. James A. Rumph

Sunday School: 8am Worship: 9:30am Wed. Bible Study: 11:30am •6pm Grace Temple Baptist Church 7017 South Gramercy Place, Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 971-8192 Sunday L.I.F.E Group: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:30am Wednesday Intercessory Prayer: 6:30pm Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm E-Mail: gtbcla@gmail.com

Grace United Methodist Church 4112 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 294-6653 • F: (323) 294-8753 • graceumc1@earthlink.net Rev. Dr. Cedrick Bridgeforth, Pastor • www.graceumcla.com Early Morning Worship: 7:45am Sunday School (all ages) : 9:45am Morning Worship: 10:45am Tues. Mobile Prayer: 6:15am Wed. Bible Study: Noon Follow us on Facebook Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church 5300 S. Denker Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 759-4996 Rev. DeNon Porter Early Worship: 8am Sunday School: 9:30am Mid-Morning Worship: 11am Radio-KALI 900AM: Sun. 11-Noon, 7-8pm KTYM 1460AM Sundays: 5:30pm Bible Study (Tues, Wed & Thurs): 7pm

Christ The Good Shepherd Episcopal Church 3303 W. Vernon Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90008 (323) 295-4139 • F: (323) 295-4681 Rev. Joseph Oloimooja Sunday School: 10:00am Early Worship: 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:00am Mon. Centering Prayer/Meditation: 6:30pm Mon. Overeaters Anonymous: 7:00pm Wed. Bible Study & Eucharist: 7:00pm Wed. Alcoholic Anonymous: 7:00pm E: cgshepherd4041@sbcglobal.net

Holman United Methodist Church 3320 W. Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 703-5868 • www.holmanumc.com Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr., Senior Pastor

Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship 2085 S. Hobart Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 Phone: (323) 731-8869 • F: (323) 731-0851 www.christianfellowshipla.org Pastor James K. McKnight Sun. Early Worship: 8:00am Prayer Meeting: 10:30am Morning Worship: 11:00am Wed. Afternoon Bible Study: 1:00pm Wed. Prayer Meeting: 6:00pm Wed. Evening Bible Study: 7:00pm View Pastor McKnight’s Sermons on YouTube

Liberty Baptist Church 1500 West 51st Place, Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 295-3866 • F: (323) 295-0366 • E: LBCwim@aol.com Rev. Terry Lovell Brown Sr.

Crenshaw Christian Center 7901 South Vermont, Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 758-3777 • F: (323)565-4231 • www.faithdome.org Apostle Price, Founder

Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Los Angeles, Inc. 4269 South Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 846-1950 •Fax: (323) 846-1964 Reverend Johnteris Tate-Pastor

Sunday Service: 9:45am Bible Study (Tue): 11:00am & 7:00pm Tue. Night Children’s Ministry: 7:00pm Tue. Night Bible Study (Teens): 7:00pm Alcohol & Drug Abuse Program (Wed): 7:00pm

First AME Church (FAME) 2270 South Harvard Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-1251 • F: (323) 735-3353 • www.famechurch.org Pastor J. Edgar Boyd, Senior Pastor/CEO Sunday School: 10:00am Worship: 8:00am, 10:00am, Noon Teen Church (2nd Sundays):Noon,Allen House Wed. Prayer Service: Noon Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm Radio: 10:30am on KJLH-102.3FM First AME is the oldest Black Church in the City

Sunday School: 9:30am(Youth) & 9:45(Adult) Sunday Worship: 8am and 11am Morning Worship: 11:00am Bible Study (Thurs.): Noon Sun. Radio: KJLH 102.3FM: 11:00am Gather, Grow,Go and Live The Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Sunday Church School: 9:00am Morning Worship: 10:30am & 12:30pm Wed. Bible Study: noon & 6:30pm Prayer Meeting: 6:00pm Follow us on Twitter @dacrossculture www.thecrossculture.org

Sunday Church School: 8:00am Worship Service: 9:15am Baptist Training Union: 7:00am Tues. Bible Study/Prayer:Noon & 7:00pm

Mt. Sinai Church 3669 W. 54th St. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 291-1121 F: (323) 291-1133 • office@sinai.church • www.sinai.church George E. Hurtt, Pastor-Teacher Sunday Worship: 8:00am, 10:00am Noonday Prayer (Mon): 12:00pm Tuesday Night in the Truth: 7:15pm Noonday Bible Study(Wed): 12:00pm Radio:KKLA 99.5 FM(Sat): 9:00pm Please call for our Sunday School & Discipleship Schedule Our Goal: To glorify God by winning more Christians and developing better Christians. (Matt. 28:18-20)

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1300 E. 50th Street Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 235-2103 • F: (323) 235-3177 • www.mtzionla.org Dr. Edward V. Hill, II, Pastor Sunday Intercessory Prayer: 9:15am Morning Worship: 9:30am Children’s Church: 9:30am Sunday School: 11:30am Baptism: 2nd Sun. & Lord’s Supper: 1st. Sun. Tues. Pastor’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Wed. Noon-day Prayer: Noon

Park Windsor Baptist Church 1842 W. 108th St. Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 756-3966 • RevTerrellTaylor@sbcglobal.net Rev. Terrell Taylor

New Antioch Church of God in Christ 7826 So. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 778-7965 Elder Jeffrey M. Lewis

People’s Independent Church of Christ 5856 West Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 296-5776

Sunday Early Morning Worship: 8:00am Sunday School: 9:30 am Morning Worship: 11:00am Tuesday Prayer and Bible Band: 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30pm Wednesday in the Word: 7:30pm

Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Bible Study Wednesday: Noon & 7:00pm Communion: 1st Sunday at 8:00am & 11:00am

Sundays: Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study & Mid Week Worship: Noon & 7:00pm Prayer Meeting: 6:30pm

St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church 5017 S. Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 231-1040 • stmarkmbcofla.org Rev. Dr. Lovely Haynes Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Sunday School: 9:30am Mon-Wed: Prayer Bible Study: 6:00 - 6:55 pm Mon. Night Bible Study: 7:00pm Tue Choir Rehersal Wednesday Prayer: Noon Wed. Exposition of Sunday School Lesson: 7pm Wed. Prayer Meeting: 7:00pm Thurs. Evangelism: 7:00pm (enrollment required) St. Matthew Tabernacle of Praise “The S.T.O.P.” 1740 West 59th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90047 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 56608, Los Angeles, CA 90056 (323) 291-1115 • F: (323) 293-0471 Rev. C.Barry Greene, Pastor Sunday Worship Service: 8:00am PrayerLine: (Tuesday & Wednesday): 6:00am WordLine (Tuesday): 7:00pm ( (712) 775-7031 Access Code: 814352108) E: thechurchstop@yahoo.com pastorcbgreene@aol.com

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For information, call 310.677.6011 New Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 402 E. El Segundo Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90061 (310)324-0644 • F: (310) 769-1287 Rev. Sonja Dawson, Senior Pastor • Rev. Lonnie Dawson, Sr., Founder (1962 - 2010) Morning Worship: 7:30am & 10:45am Sunday School: 9:45am Wed. Prayer/Bible Study: Noon Pastor’s Bible Study: 7:00pm

One Church International 614 N. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 (818) 763-4521 • www.onechurchla.org Sr. Pastor Toure’ Roberts Sunday Worship: 9:00am, 11:00am & 1:00pm Wednesday Midweek Service: 8pm www.Channel1Live.tv—View live streaming

Pastor’s Bible Class & Sunday School: 8am Morning Worship: 9:30am Tues. Prayer: 7:00pm Tues. Bible Study: 8:00pm

Office: (323) 879-9154 Cell: (562) 290-2214 Mark G. Coleman/ Founder

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 2009 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 293-6448 • F: (323) 293-6605 Dr. Sylvester Washington Sunday School: 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:00am Tues. Bible Study: 11:00am Wed. Evangelism Class: 6:30pm First Sun. Holy Communion Service: 4:00pm www.pleasanthillbaptistchurch.org Praises of Zion Baptist Church (“Praise City”) 8222 So. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90003 (323) 750-1033 • F: (323) 750-6458 Dr. J. Benjamin Hardwick, Sr. Pastor Early Morning Worship: 6:45am Educational Hour: 9:15am Mid-Morning Worship: 10:45am Wed. Bible Study: Noon & 7:00pm Sunday Morning Broadcast: 5:30am Live Streaming Sundays: 12:00pm http://www.pozlive.com Price Chapel AME Church 4000 W. Slauson Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 296-2406 • pricechapel@sbcglobal.net Rev. Benjamin Hollins Sunday Worship Service: 10:00am Sunday School: 8:30am Power Lunch Bible Study (Wed): 11:00am Praise & Worship Bible Study (Wed): 6:30pm

Southern Saint Paul Church 4678 West Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 731-2703 • smbc@smbcla.org Rev. Xavier L. Thompson, Senior Pastor/Teacher Corporate Prayer: 8:30am L.I.F.E. Groups: 9:45am Morning Worship Service: 11:15am Baptism & Communion (First Sunday): 4:00pm Pastoral Bible Study (PBS)Wednesdays:7:00pm North Campus: Worship Service: 8:00am 11137 Herrick Av • Pacoima 91331 (818) 899-8031 st.paul@smbcla.org •“Loving People Making Disciples” Trinity Baptist Church 2040 West Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-0044 • F: (323) 735-0219 Rev. Alvin Tunstill, Jr Sunday Worship: 7:30 & 10:30am Sunday Church School: 9:00am Radio Broadcast KJLH FM: 9:00am Wed. Prayer & Bible Study: Noon-7:00pm www.trinitybaptistchurchofla.org Walking In The Spirit Ministries Double Tree (Sonoma Grill) 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk CA 90650 (213) 248-6343 P.O Box 1597 Norwalk CA,90651 Tim & Leshia Brooks Morning Worship: 11:00am Services Held Every 2nd & 4th Sunday and Free Breakfast Is Served Bible Study: 8:30am (Every 5th Friday)

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

Paradise Baptist Church 5100 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 231-4366 Dr. Aaron Iverson

At Uniform Service Solutions Company, We offer a wide variety of church linen and dry cleaning services. Complimentary pickup and delivery service.Flat rate for services, Never any hidden charges 24-hour turnaround. www.uniformservicesolutions.com

Victory Baptist Church 4802 South McKinley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90056 (323) 231-2424• Pastor Dr. W. Edward Jenkins Sunday School: 10:45 am Morning Worship: 9:00am Bible Study Wednesday:Noon Radio Sundays: KPRO 1570AM: 9:00pm

Weller Street Baptist Church 129 S. Gless St, Los Angeles, CA 90033 (323) 261-0949 • F: (323)264-6601 • www.wellerstreetlive.com Pastor K.W. Tulloss Sunday School: 8:00am Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00am Tues. Bible Study: 6:45pm www.wellerstreetlive.com “We have not walked this way before” Joshua 3:1-6 West Angeles Church of God In Christ 3045 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 733-8300 Bishop Charles E. Blake Sunday School: 8:00am & 10:30am Early Worship: 8:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship (North Campus): 7:00pm Wed. Mid-Week Worship: 7:00pm Sun. Radio Broadcast KJLH 102.3FM: 10am www.westa.tv

Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center In Altadena 2556 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, CA 91001 (626) 797-3585 • F: (626) 797-3233 • www.lifelinefcc.org Pastor Charles D. Dorsey Sunday School: 9:00am Early Worship (Glory Prayer): 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:30am Evening Worship (1st & 2nd Sun.): 5:00pm Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm

Peace Apostolic Church 21224 Figueroa Street, Carson, CA 90745 (310) 212-5673 Suff. Bishop Howard A. Swancy

In Carson

Citizens of Zion Missionary Baptist Church In Compton 12930 No. Lime Ave., Compton, CA 90221 (310) 638-0536 • F: (323) 636-2080 • www.citizensofzion.org Rev. Bobby Newman, Jr., Senior Pastor; Rev. B.T. Newman, Pastor (Pastor Emeritus) Sunday School: 9:00am Morning Service: 10:45am Wed. Mid-Week Bible Study: 7:00pm

Greater Zion Church Family 2408 North Wilmington Avenue, Compton, CA 90222 (310) 639-5535 • (Tues - Thurs 10am -4pm) Dr. Michael J. Fisher, Senior Pastor

Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:45am Evening Worship: 6:30pm Wed. Noon Day Bible Class: 12:30pm Wed. Bible Class: 7:30pm

Divine Fellowship Community Baptist Church In Compton 1110 N. Dwight Avenue,Compton, CA 90222 P:(800) 715-1240 • F: (800) 878-6882 Rev. Raphael Irving MDiv, Senior Pastor Sunday Worship: 8:30am 3rd Annual Financial Literacy Summit Saturday, October 27, 2018 Breakfast & Registration @ 9:00am Financial Workshops 10:00 - 1:00pm Email: Pastor@DivineFellowship-inc.com

Sunday Worship: 8:00am|10:45am| 5:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12pm|7:00pm FB: GreaterZion IG: GZCFamily www.gzcf.us

Love and Unity Christian Fellowship 1840 S. Wilmington Ave, P.O. Box 5449, Compton 90220 (310) 604-5900 Fax: (310) 604-5915 Dr. Ron C Hill Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:30am Sunday Evening Worship: 6:30pm Bible Studies: Wed. 7:30pm & Sat. 9am Food for Your Soul Radio & Television Ministry: beblessedwebradio: Mon - Fri. 6:30am Church Channel: Tues. 5:30pm & Fri. 2:30pm

Pastor Profile: Rikki T. Ferrell Jr. Church: Greater New Bethel Baptist Church Years at Church: 3 Hometown: Los Angeles Family: Single At just 24 you’ve stepped into the role of pastor, what are the challenges of being a very young pastor in Los Angeles. The main challenge is distraction. This is Hollywood as you know and besides that we have five different sports— two teams per sport. In other words, everybody has something to do all year long. Matter of fact, many preachers and pastors make mention of how their dream is to pastor in L.A. And if I would be honest with them, I tell them all the time, you don't want to do that. In fact, your church is located just a block or so from one of the biggest developments going on now—Inglewood’s new football stadium, and then the Clippers are looking to make their home in your backyard— how is that working out? Yes, some pretty extravagant things are happening, but I'm more so concerned about our community. In certain areas, there's a lot gentrification where they're raising the rent to remove people. We're the only church around and of course, they're interested in buying, but we're not interested in selling. We've been here for 43 years now, and I believe God has something for us still to do in the city of Inglewood. Because there is strength in numbers. And if the community will know that the church is there for them, I think we would have a closer connection and we can build on top of what we have together while we carry out the message and the mandate of our Christ.

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

When were you called to preach? When I was 14. I would have dreams about me preaching. I would see myself like I was right there, visions of me preaching. And I would ask different ministers around the church to see what they went through and what type of experience they had. But I was wrestling with it and tussling with it. I told my pastor, "I think I've been called to preach." And he says, "Pray about it and come back to me in a week." A year later, same thing. Finally, my senior year was approaching in high school and I was unsure of what I was going to do after I graduated. The Lord finally pulled me and I went up to my pastor and said, "I know I've been called to preach." What tripped me out was he said, "I've been waiting for you."

How did you come to be at Greater New Bethel? I was born and raised in that church. What's amazing is the relationship I had with my pastor, Earl Pleasant. Once I answered the call to preach, coincidently that's when he started getting sick. And I believe God used his sickness to draw us together. At first, I would just see that he needed help and I would help him. Being able to serve him was a bond builder because of his sickness. When he finally knew he was going to retire, a search committee had been formed at the church. I did not apply because I didn’t feel that I was ready. I wrestled with God about it. It wasn't till the last moment, almost the last day, that the Lord really impressed upon my heart and really compelled and convicted me to apply. One of the members recommended another minister at our church and I was also recommended with them. I literally came through the back door because while they rejected me the first time, the Lord fixed it so that I came through the back door. We had three different votes and I won all of them. Is Pastor Pleasant still active in mentoring you in this process and did that make it a little bit better for the congregation as well? Yes. Pastor Pleasant has definitely been there for mentoring and guidance. As a matter of fact, during these past three years he’s had a kidney transplant and a heart bypass, and even through his sickness he's been helping me and I've made sure that he has not wanted for anything. I've been able to serve him. Oftentimes he says, "Well, you're my pastor so I got to do this." I said, "Well, you were my pastor before I was yours." So, I’ve tried to still serve him as much as he tries to serve me. What would you say your mission is? My mission is to share Christ and the message that He has mandated us so we can save the most that we can do. Paul says, "I'm not going to save everybody, but if I can just save somebody, then my living is not in vain. My work will be done." What’s the biggest thing you’ve faced in your life and how did you overcome it? I've shared that I moved away when I was six years

old to Sacramento. And in Sacramento, I believe, that's when I really met the Lord. I never will forget one summer, when I would come to visit L.A., I cried because I had to go back to Sacramento. It's not the place I wanted to be. I was miserable. I was depressed. But I never will forget that I was in the kitchen and I told God that if you don't take me out of this, I'm taking myself out. And I put a knife to my throat and was going to commit suicide. And he shared with me, I heard his voice is so clear he says, "I'll take you back." What amazed me is that I had to wait and trust Him. He took me to Anchorage, Alaska first before I could go home. And then, finally, He brought me home. But I learned who he was while I was away from my familiar place. Sometimes, I'm learning that God has to take you away in order to bring you back better than the way you came, with so many new lessons you've learned. If he hadn’t done it, you wouldn't have learned them. Presently, my challenge is to really build the Kingdom for those who really just love God and are consistent and committed to the call. I always said, your service is a reflection of your salvation. It's a scary thing that our churches have gone cold, but if there's any time that we need to stay warm, it's now.

The City of Refuge 14527 S. San Pedro Street, Gardena, CA 90248 (310) 516-1433 Bishop Noel Jones

In Gardena

Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:00pm Bible Study (Wed): Noon & 7:00pm BET/Fresh Oil (Wed): 7:00am

The Liberty Church 14725 S. Gramercy Place, Gardena, CA 90249 (310) 715-8400 Pastor David W. Cross Early Worship: 8:30am Morning Worship: 9am & 11am Children’s Church: Both Services Word Power Wed.: 7-8pm www.thelibertychurch.com

Atherton Baptist Church 2627 W. 116th Street Hawthorne,CA 90250 (323) 757-3113 • www.athertonbc.org F: 323-757-8772 • athertonbaptist@sbcglobal.net Pastor Larry Weaver

In Hawthorne

Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00 am Sunday Bible Enrichment Class: 9:45am Mon.-Thurs. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12:30pm & 7:00pm

Victory Institutional Baptist Church 4712 West El Segundo Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250 (310) 263-7073 • www.vibconline.com Pastor Richard Williams, III Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00am Sunday Evening Worship: 6:00pm Wed. Mid-Week Worship: 7:00pm Bible Study Tuesday: Noon & 7:00pm

In Inglewood Bible Enrichment Fellowship International 400 E. Kelso, Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-4700 • www.bamcm.org Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford Morning Worship: 9:30am Tues. Bible Study: 7:30pm Wed. Mid-Week Prayer: 5am, Noon & 7:00pm Wednesday Pathway: 7:00pm Thurs Bible Study: 10:00am Sat Marriage & Family Prayer: 7:30am Blessed Family Covenant Church 325 North Hillcrest Blvd, Inglewood, CA, 90301 (310)-674-0303 • F: (310)-674-0303 • blessedfamilycovenant.org Rev. Wendy Howlett Sunday School: 8:30am Morning Worship: 9:30am Wed. Prayer & Bible Study: 7:00pm

Crusade Christian Faith Center 801 S. La Brea Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-8535 Bishop Virgil D. Patterson Sr. Wed. Mid-Week Service: 7:00pm Sunday School: 9:00am Sunday Worship: 10:30am

Faithful Central Bible Church 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-8000 • F: (310) 330-8035 Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D. Senior Pastor/Teacher Services at The Tabernacle: Sunday Services: 7:00am, 9:30am & 11:45am Wed. Mid-Week Service: 7:00pm The Tabernacle is located at 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave., Inglewood www.faithfulcentral.com

First Lady Files

First Church of God Center of Hope 9550 Crenshaw Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 757-1804 www.go2Hope.com Pastor Geremy L. Dixon

Erica Campbell

Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wed. Mid-Week Service: Noon Wed. Teaching Ministry: 7:00pm 1st Sunday Communion 5th Sunday Baptism

Jacob’s Ladder Community Fellowship, inc. 1152 E. Hyde Park Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90302 (866) 330-1702 • F: (310) 674-0760 Watchman/Shepherd Dr. Robert T. Douglas Sr. Sunday Fresh Start & Prayer 9:00am Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Services: 11:45am Evening Service: 7:00pm Wed. Lock & Load Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Bible Study: 7:30pm 3rd Friday Youth Night: 7:30pm www.jacobladderschurch.com Leap of Faith Community Baptist Church 3502 W. Imperial Hwy, Inglewood, CA 90303 (310) 695-9925 Rev. Artis Glass Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Bible Study: Wednesdays Noon and 6PM

New Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church 434 S. Grevillea, Inglewood CA 90301 (310) 673-6250 Office • (310) 673-2153 Rev. Dr. Phillip A. Lewis, D. D., D. Th., Senior Pastor Early Worship: 8:00am Sunday School: 9:30am Morning Worship: 11:00am Mid-Week Bible Study (Wednesday): 7:00pm Afternoon Bible Study (Thursday): 1:00pm

Sunday School: 9:30am Early Worship: 8am Morning Worship: 10:45am Bible Adventure Hour (Tues): 6pm Bible Study (Tues): 7pm Bible Study (Thurs): Noon Christ Our Redeemer AME Church In Irvine 45 Tesla, Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 955-0014 • F:(949) 955-0021 • www.corchurch.org Pastor Mark E. Whitlock, II Sunday Worship: 8:00am, 10:30am New Generation Praise Service: 10:30am Sun. Bible Univ.: 9:30am Tues. Interactive Bible Study: 7:00pm Wed. Pastor's Bible Study: Noon, 7:00pm Thurs. Bible Study: 7:00pm Fri. Singles Bible Study (1st Fri): 7:00pm

In La Puente

Sunday School: 9:30 AM Early Worship: 8:00 AM Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Spanish Service: 9:30AM Bible Study: Every Wednesday 7:00 PM www.stsbc.org Antioch Church of Long Beach 1535 Gundry Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 591-8778 • F: (562) 599-6048 Pastor Wayne Chaney Jr.

She is one half of gospel music’s biggest selling acts— Mary Mary, selling more than five million records; has two Grammy awards, more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram and is the host of a nationally syndicated radio show (Get Up! Mornings With Erica Campbell) that has played host to the likes of Michelle Obama. But on Sundays she is simply known as the first lady of the fast-growing San Fernando Valleybased California Worship Center, alongside her husband, Pastor Warryn Campbell, who is a Grammy award winning producer and distinguished vocalist in his own right. Balance remains a key challenge with her time split between home in L.A. and the radio show in Dallas and they are all too aware that celebrity is at least part of what is drawing the crowds. “You can see in their eyes— a little bit like wow did you see that,” Erica acknowledges. “But it changes once they see me dancing and praising God. Then they go ‘oh she’s not an artist today. This is the first lady of the church.’” ““We kind of take the approach of reaching the broken, wounded people who have kind of been jaded by church.” Heading into 2019, Campbell shared this post: “Starting something new can be daunting, but it comes with great reward. Prepare for #2019 and begin a new journey with just one word, YES, and a whole lot of faith!” Among the projects on Campbell’s slate for 2019 include a Mary Mary Footsteps of Jesus Israel Tour. For more information, visit www.inspirationcruises.com/marymary. Christ Second Baptist Church 1471 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-3421 • Fax: (562) 599-6175 • www.csbclb.org Rev. Welton Pleasant II, Senior Pastor Sunday School: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:40am Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wed Youth & Young Adult Ministry: 7:00pm

Family of Faith Christian Center 345 E. Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90807 (562) 595-1222 • F: (562) 595-1444 Bishop Sherman A. Gordon, E.D. Min

True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 7901 South Van Ness Ave. Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 750-7304 Rev. James A. Perkins

St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church 1720 N. Walnut Avenue, La Puente, CA 91744 (626) 918-3225 • F: (626) 918-3265 Pastor Tony Dockery

California Worship Center

In Long Beach

Worship Services: 8am, 9:30am, 11:30am Tuesday Youth Bible Study: 7:00pm WednesdayBible Study: Noon

Sunday School: 8:00 am Morning Worship: 9:00 am

Gospel Memorial Church of God In Christ 1480 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-7389 • F: 562-599-5779 • gospelmemorial@aol.com Bishop Joe L. Ealy Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:30pm Wed. Intercessory Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Pastoral teaching adults: 7:30pm Wed. Youth Ministry Boot-Camp; Youth Bible Study: 7:00pm & Choir Rehearsal: 7:30pm

Grant AME Church of Long Beach 1129 Alamitos Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 • (562) 437-1567 grantamelb@aol.com • www.grantamelb.org Rev. Michael W. Eagle, Sr. Sun. Worship Experience: 10:45am 3rd Sun. Healing & Annointing: 10:45am Wed. Bible Study: Noon & 6pm Mothers of Murdered Youth & Children Were all receive a little attention, affection and love. New Philadelphia A.M.E. Church 6380 S. Orange Avenue, Long Beach, Ca 90805 (562)422-9300•F: (562) 422-9400 Pastor Darryl E. Walker, Senior Pastor Worship: 9:00am —1st & 5th Sunday Sunday School/New Member Classes: 8:00am 2nd thru 4th Sunday Worship:7:30 am &10:00am•Sunday School New Member Classes: 9:00am Sunday worship services streamed live on the web Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday Eve 7:00pm Mid-Week Bible Study: Thursday 12:00 noon www.nuphilly.org

From the Pulpit of: Mt. Sinai Church

Don’t Even Think About It! Galatians 6:9

Have you ever given up too soon? Have fear and uncertainty double teamed you and beat down your dreams, hopes and ambitions? Ever longed for a time machine that permitted you to go back into time affording you the privilege to fight on longer. The relationship you let go too soon. The premature resignation from a job? The medical treatment you stopped. These are just few examples of the pain of giving up too soon. The message today is don’t stop. Go on! Run on! Pray on! Fight on! Sing on! I Corinthians 15:58 puts it this way, “Therefore, my beloved Christians, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” This sermon is for those who at times contemplate giving up on doing right. For such people, I come bearing good news. Serving God pays off. The churches at Galatia also felt like giving up. False teachers had confused them concerning the saving message of the gospel of Jesus as the Christ. This upset the Apostle and led him to put pen to parchment to defend the gospel’s message. The Book of Galatians is the most thorough defense of the gospel in the New Testament outside of Romans. It is both emotional and personal. Paul does not want God’s people to let ungodly folks distract them from ministry. Don’t give up, instead look up. You can keep going when God is your inspiration. The tension of the sermon is embodied in this question, is God able to strengthen you when all your strength is gone? Yes! Our God can sustain the weary Christian. Galatians 6:9—“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up”— outlines three phrases that communicate don’t give up, instead look up. The first is the command not to grow weary. The second is the compensation of gathering a harvest. The third and final phrase is in Galatians 6:9c that is the condition of not giving up. This conditional clause demands we learn from Paul’s contingency to the reward of reaping in due season. I must stress that serving God means serving people and loving people through godly service is tough, demanding, complicated and at times extremely stressful. This alone can make us lose heart and feel like giving up. Paul understood this and wrote Galatians 6:9 to essentially say, don’t even think about it! The challenge of the command is the phrase “And let us not grow weary.” It is hard not to grow weary. Correction! It is impossible not to grow weary. You cannot be engaged in ministry while dealing with Satan, self, plus a sinful society and not grow weary. So why does Paul say, “let us not grow weary?” This command is for direction, not perfection. The great Apostle Paul, himself, grew weary. He closes II Timothy reminiscing on the betrayal and hurt he experienced in ministry that caused him to grow weary. The difference is through it all Paul pressed on. Thus, the emphasis of this command then is to not let weariness overtake you. It is an invitation to fight

Pastor George Hurtt

In Bethlehem Church 1550 North Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91103 (626) 794-5211 • F: (626) 794-6592 Pastor Christopher A. Bourne

Pasadena

Sunday School: 9:00am Sunday Worship: 10:00am Tuesday Bible Study: 7:00pm Mid-day Worship Thursday: Noon www.bethelemchurchpasadena.org

Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church 980 Rio Grande Street, Pasadena, CA 91104 *Mailing Address: 1416 N. Mentor Ave. Pasadena, 91104 (626) 794-4875 • F: (626) 794-7815 Pastor W. Harrison Trotter Sunday School: 8:30am Sunday Worship: 10:00am Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer (Fourth Wed.): 7:00pm Christians Uniting To Make A Difference -Eph. 4:13 Arise Christian Center In Westchester 6949 La Tijera Blvd. Suite C,Westchester, CA,90045 (310)568-8445•F: (310) 568-8430 • Arisechristiancenter.com Pastor Ron Taylor Morning Worship: 9:00am & 11:15am Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Tuesday : 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Sunday: 8am - 8:45am Thursday:11:30am-12:30pm

Don’t give up, instead look up. You can keep going when God is your inspiration. The tension of the sermon is embodied in this question, is God able to strengthen you when all your strength is gone?

Second Baptist Church In Monrovia 925 S. Shamrock Avenue • P.O. Box 479, Monrovia, CA 91017 •(626) 358-2136 •F: (626) 303-2477 Bishop W.M. Larue Dillard, Phd. Sunday Worship: 7:45am, 10:45am, 4:45pm Ministry Worship to Children/Youth Sunday: 9:45am - 10:45am Prayer/Academy of Biblical Studies (Wed): 10:45am - 6:45pm www.second-baptistchurch.com

First AME Church Santa Monica In Santa Monica 1823 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404 • (310) 450-0331 F: (310) 450-4680 Rev. Reuben W. Ford, Pastor Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Bible Study/Prayer Meditation: Thursday 6pm “The Church In The Heart Of The Community with The Community at Heart” Email:famecsm@verizon.net Facebook: First AME Church Santa Monica Calvary Baptist Church 4911 W. 59th Street,Los Angeles, CA,90056 (323)298-1605•F: (310) 568-8430 • calvarybaptistla.org Rev. Dr. Virgil V. Jones Sunday Prayer: 8:30am Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study: 12:00pm & 7:00pm We are the Church on the Hill where the Light Shines Bright!

The good news is we will reap.I want to stress here Paul’s usage of the first-person plural throughout this verse. The reward is a universal Christian reward. Simply put, it is heaven. The future tense usage also highlights this point: we must wait on God to reap our heavenly reward. It is a call to preserve. Our reward is to remain faithful until the end and then spend eternity with God in heaven. Let me be clear, as you get ready to cross over into another year. Make spiritual, social and secular goals. However, don’t work to make money, don’t go to school to get good grades, don’t love your spouse for intimacy, don’t date to find a mate. Work to make a positive impact on the company God has placed you in. Go to school to learn as much as you can. Love your spouse to honor the commitment you made before many witnesses and most importantly God. Date to learn your social strengths and weaknesses so God can prepare you for a lifelong godly partner. God is the priority. This is how Paul could write from a Roman jail, But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. The third and final phrase is an important implication. It reads, “if we do not give up.” The key word is “if.” In life, mostly everything comes with a condition. The conditional is meant to inspire, not dishearten. No matter how hard it gets to sow, don’t give up! Psalm 126:5 remains us, “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!” I’m just trying to tell you, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

through it— an invitation to struggle with God. I’m not worried about those struggling with weariness. I worry about those who’ve stopped struggling. It is a beautiful struggle to deal with the pain of spiritual growth—like the athlete who strains to train for the pursuit of the medal, ring, contract, or other forms of compensation. What does it mean then to grow weary? It means to feel weakened— to be lacking mentally, physically, emotionally or spiritually. But I want to add one more thing: your strength level is irrelevant when your depending on the One that has all strength. This is why Proverbs 3:5 tells us “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Paul says in II Corinthians 4:16-18, “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” Let me be clear, this means you can get beat up, beat down, let down, sick, financially depleted, emotionally drained and mentally overwhelmed. It is okay as long as you are not trusting in you. Look to the hills from which comes your help. Know that your help comes from the Lord. Money Matters continued from page 10 Then there is the call in this phrase: “And let us not and Denver will be taxed at 9.9 percent, 4.5 percent and 4.6 grow weary of doing good.” We are called to do good. The percent, respectively. Complicating matters for James—and a lot of wealthy Christian experience does not stop at conversion. While not saved by works, we are called to do good work—to bear Californians—is the loss of a highly prized tax deduction spiritual fruit even when feeling weary. Paul labels this as that’s thought to have played a role in flipping seven of 14fruit of the Spirit. The fruit is love and modified by joy, GOP-held congressional districts to Democrats. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, passed by a Republican-conpeace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentletrolled Congress and signed by President Donald Trump, ness and self-control. Let me be straightforward! No spiritual fruit symbolizes put a $10,000 annual cap on the deduction for state and no true root in Jesus Christ. This is illustrated Mark 11. local taxes (SALT). By comparison, the Pew Charitable Jesus and the disciples passed a fig tree. Christ was hun- Trust found Californians claimed an average of $18,438 in gered and wanted something from the fig tree to eat, but it SALT deductions. Anti-tax advocates see such rules as incentives for the was bare. Thus, our Lord cursed the tree and it withered on the spot. This amazed His disciples. When Jesus comes wealthy to move to states with lower taxes. Tax preparers say it’s hard to be so definitive. California’s warm weather looking for fruit, you better have fruit. The next phrase is in Galatians 6:9 is the compensation and quality of life makes it an attractive place to live. It’s of gathering a harvest. The scripture says, “And let us not also an attractive place to do business as the home of grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap.” Hollywood and Silicon Valley. On Dec. 21, state demographers announced more people This demands God’s timing and reward. Due season emphasizes the notion of sowing. There is no came to California than left, bringing the total population due season for those that do not sow. This is why Paul to 39.8 million. “For however business unfriendly that California is, its warns in Galatians 6:7, 8, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For appeal on so many other levels overrides those negatives,” the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap Seltzer said. corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from CALmatters.org is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics. the Spirit reap eternal life.”

InGoodTaste

Shrimp & Grits

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hunger pangs

LAUSD continued from page 25 • Back pay for 2017-2018 • Additional pay for teachers who take courses in areas that support students • No changes to health benefits for current employees • $30 million of additional funding to reduce class size and hire more counselors, nurses and librarians Last month UTLA organized a huge rally, where about 50,000 teachers, parents, students and supporters marched through the streets of downtown Los Angeles calling for better pay and lower class sizes. With the first teachers strike in nearly 30 years looming, LASUD Board President Monica Garcia is urging the two sides to come to an agreement. “We do not want to see a strike in Los Angeles that hurts our children and families, and we know we are stronger when we work together. There is a path forward and the time is now.” If both sides fail to reach an agreement, teachers, librarians, nurses and other workers in the nation's will likely take to the picket line. “On behalf of all those who sacrifice so much so that

their children can learn to read and write, think and believe, and be safe at school, I implore UTLA leadership to name the time and place to re-engage in solution building,” said García in the statement. "I'm a proud product of public education myself,” said Beutner who is a former banking executive. “I'm doing this work to make sure each student in school has a chance to get a great education.” David A. Love continued from page 7 racism and not their economic distress. Other studies have shown Trump was able to tap into an appeal to authoritarianism, racism and sexism, and a fear of cultural displacement, of whites losing their privileged social status, in a country that will soon become a minority-white nation. That is not to say economic anxiety plays no role in American life, just that it was the wrong narrative to employ when discussing white Trump voters. That racial resentment would trump economic concerns was in play in the most recent Mississippi Senate race. A Republican-controlled state, yet the blackest state in the union in terms of African-Americans as a percentage of the

LET’S CONNECT

population (37.8 percent), Mississippi finds itself among the worst in the country in health, education and other social indicators. The state just elected Cindy Hyde-Smith in a runoff against her Black Democratic challenger Mike Espy. Hyde-Smith made white supremacist jokes about wanting to attend public hangings — Mississippi was the lynching capital of the nation — and promoted voter suppression of liberal college students. Rev. William Barber observed that Hyde-Smith’s policies will perpetuate poverty among people regardless of race. “Do they want a senator who makes these comments about racism, who jokes about public hanging, but also who promotes policies that will strangle the poor, that will hurt the poor?” Williams said on “Democracy Now!” “She’s against labor. She’s against labor rights. She’s against immigrants. She wants to push policies that will hurt poor people, mostly poor white people— white women and children and working people.” President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was a son of the South, said: “If you can convince the lowest white man he’s better than the best colored man, he won’t notice you’re picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he’ll empty his pockets for you.”

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

SavingGrace

L.A. Focus/ January 2019

tay ready and impassioned,” is the advice Angela Bassett gave to a young woman who asked her what it takes to become a successful in entertainment. It is wisdom Bassett has surely applied in her 30+ year career. With recurring roles in the hit series, “American Horror Story,” for the past five seasons, a powerful portrayal of matriarch Queen Ramonda in the 2018 box-office phenomenon, “Black Panther,” and now the lead in the hit show, FOX’s “9-1-1”-- she’s been on a roll, pun intended-- having made a name for herself as one of Hollywood's premier dramatic forces. “A little boy asked me once, ‘Miss Bassett, why do you always just play strong woman types?’ Like it was a problem. I said, ‘You're right honey , I shouldn’t paint myself into a corner’. “I think Hollywood has the idea that there are things I won’t do,” says Bassett, acknowledging that Hollywood most often equates her in strong black woman roles. "That's the image that I like to put out there, and those are the parts I'm attracted to. But not iron-fist kind of strong, just self-assured. I'm nice too. “I’m not going to do nudity, not going to degrade myself and, yes, I believe in playing and portraying strong of women because there is so much negativity in the world with regards to black women and our culture that I don’t want to be part of it. "This is a career about images. It's celluloid; they last forever,” says Bassett. “I'm a black woman from America. My people were slaves in America, and even though we're free on paper and in law, I'm not going to allow you to enslave me on film, in celluloid, for all to see. So it becomes a bigger thing than me just becoming a movie star, and me just being on TV.” Along with acting, the 60-year-old Bassett has also moved into directing, having taken the reins on an episode of “American Horror Story”, as well as a 2015 TV biopic of Whitney Houston. Bassett, who defines feminism as, “being able to do what you want to do and [being] respected paid fairly for it,” is in the driver’s seat as far as her career is concerned. Now in the wake of the #MeToo era, she revels in the ability to be in control of her own destiny. “My self-esteem in terms of acting is pretty satisfying,” says the veteran actress. “Now, I might have some other issue: ‘Uh, my butt too big, uh my hair too nappy, uh, my lips too big, uh, my mama too po’, you know? But in terms of [acting], I’m feeling fine. No man can come step to me with some bull like, ‘I control your destiny.’” But this sense of security has been hard earned on a journey that began as an 11th-grader on class trip to Washington, D.C. in 1974. It was during this trip when she saw actor James Earl Jones perform in a Kennedy Center production of the play “Of Mice and Men”, that she began to consider acting as a career choice. She subsequently won a scholarship to Yale, where she would study for the next seven years earning a Masters of Fine Arts Degree from the Yale school of Drama in 1983. At the Yale school of Drama she came away with not only a diploma but a life long friend-- having met her future husband-- actor, producer, and love of her life, Courtney B. Vance. The pair married in 1997 and have

Angela Bassett I’m not going to do nudity, not going to degrade myself and, yes, I believe in playing and portraying strong of women because there is so much negativity in the world with regards to black women and our culture that I don’t want to be part of it.. twelve-year-old twins together, Bronwyn and Slater. Two years after graduation she caught her first break, appearing in her first TV film, “Doubletake”. For the next six years she would survive off guest appearances and featured roles in TV films. A turning point came in 1991 when she was cast in John Singleton’s now classic film, “Boyz N The Hood”-- but it was over the next two years with roles in the biopic “Malcolm X” and “What’s Love got To Do With It?” that she would hit her stride. Bassett has gone on to make a career out of playing some of history’s most empowered black women, including Rosa Parks in “The Rosa Parks Story”, and Coretta Scott King in “Betty & Coretta”-- the influence of which she could attribute to having the impact of strong black woman in her life. Most notably, her mother Betty who passed away in 2014, will always be Bassett’s guiding light-- who stressed two things while raising Bassett in St. Petersburg, Florida-- education, and God. “I was reared in church,” Bassett recounts. “My great-grandfather was a preacher and it was a huge part of my upbringing. It was something my mother didn’t play about. You went to church no questions asked I appreciate that. My relationship with God has meant the world to me. It guided me on everything I do-- in the choices I make, how I want to be seen and how I carry myself. It’s from my rearing in church and my beliefs-- what would God say about this, or that?” “And my mom instilled so much,” she says recalling an incident where at the age of nine, she brought home a “C” on her report card. “I knew she wasn’t going to be happy. I thought average ain’t bad. I don’t have any ‘F’s. And she said, ‘I don’t have no average children. Now, this stops-no phone calls to your little girlfriends, boyfriends, no calling… cheerleading. No allowance. All of it is cut off. I

don’t have average children.’” “My mother was amazing in that she gave me such confidence in myself and instilled so many values from the men I pick to how I see myself as a woman. I remember my mother had a boyfriend who fondled my sister and me-- it scared the crap out of me. “Fortunately,” she continued, “it didn’t get past fondling. That was detrimental enough. But my mother believed me and banished that person from her life. That strengthened me. She got rid of him and let us know it would never happen to us again.” Over the years, her mom was a rock for her young family-- providing support as she balanced her career and raising her twin children. “Sometimes there’s that pull of not enough time and not enough hours in the day to get everything done, my mom and Courtney were always there to take the pressure off.” And these days, the only pressure felt by the awardwinning actress who said no to the role in 2000’s “Monster’s Ball” due to the script’s sexual content, which ended up winning Halle Berry an Oscar-- is the pressure she puts on herself to be the best she can be. “I would love to own one (an Oscar),” says Bassett, who earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for “Best Actress” for her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Got To do With It? “But I guess I do believe in destiny-- that if it’s going to be then it will happen. Now, in the end I may have said no to some things I should’ve said yes to, but at the time I had good reason. But I’m happy, and there's nothing else I’d rather be.” Through everything, it’s her relationship with her husband Courtney Vance, who she was friends with for many years before marrying, that keeps her grounded. Says Bassett, “I fell in love with him because he was a man of God and that was first and foremost. It was important to me that we have that foundation in common, because I think we’d be able to weather any storm that come along.” As to her saving grace? “God is my saving grace, “ said Bassett. “He is the center of my joy. If I were on a desert-island, I would need my Bible, my babies and my husband.”