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Volume 4, No. 19 SmithPublish.com

Merry Christmas!

Inside Publishers Message…………………2 What’s Happening Around Town… 4 Government/Business/Finance...…..5 Education……………………….…. .6 Sports…………………….………….7 Special Section………………….…..8 Inspiration & Church News…..…...12 Style & Beauty…..……………..…..14 Homemade Holidays……………….15 Real Estate ………...….……….…..16 The Inside Success Story………….18 Just for Fun………………..….…..20 Calendar of Events…………....…..22 How to Reach Us (888) 841-7779 Email: info@smithpublish.com Submit your upcoming events and information FREE!

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December 1 – 15, 2010 info@smithpublish.com

The 122nd Tournament of Roses Parade is on the Way! On New Year‟s Day 2011, hundreds of thousands of fans from around the world will be in Pasadena for the 122nd Tournament of Roses Parade. Many spectators will spend days camping out on the street in hopes of getting a good spot to watch the parade.

Here‟s a tip: You can reserve grandstand seating for the best parade view in the house through Pasadena‟s Sharp Seating, the official seating company of the Tournament of Roses Parade for more than 75 years.

Tickets are selling quickly for grandstand seating at what is historically known as TV Corner; the same view TV cameras capture for the parade‟s network broadcast – reserve now for the best selection. Ticket prices range from $42-$85 per seat, depending on location, plus $30 for a parking permit.

In addition, fans who want an up-close and personal look at the Rose Parade‟s legendary floats can purchase tickets to watch the final stages of float decoration at three different locations in Pasadena. Tickets are also available to view the floats after the parade. These events are extremely popular, so avoid long lines and purchase tickets in advance.

Tickets for the Tournament of Roses Parade and all other events can be purchased online at www.sharpseating.com or by calling (626) 795-4171.

Publisher’s Message Los Angeles Community News Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.

Hi South Bay Family! Christmas is FAST approaching. In November, many organizations around the South Bay gave out turkeys and the fixins’ for those without the resources.

Economic conditions have made times extremely difficult for many. We highlight some of the events. Thanks to all the groups, organizations and individuals that gave out of their supply. We salute you!

Black Friday got off with a BANG! Sales were to be found everywhere! This year Sears was even open on Thanksgiving! While Black Friday sales are over, there are a lot of deals out there and we’re partnering with local businesses to get you to Shop Local. Support your local small businesses…tell them Carson/South Bay Community News sent you!

Have you always wanted to start a business but didn’t know how, didn’t know the steps you needed to take? Maybe didn’t know what you wanted to do? Well, we’ve got some news for you! Custom Business Planning & Solutions, along with SmithPublish.com is partnering to help individuals transition from employee to entrepreneur with the program e2eNow. Read more about this exciting program and how you can take charge of your life in 2011.

We’ve included a new Special Section – this section will include inspirational conversations with extraordinary individuals.

To our readers, thanks for the support. Let us know how we’re doing and what you want to see in upcoming issues. Visit us on Facebook at Carson/South Bay Community News and join the conversation! Thanks for your support! Here We Go!

News From OUR Community!

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What’s Happening Around Town St. Elmo Village Hosting It’s 12th Annual Book Campaign Donate books or funds for Toddlers to Teens by December 7, 2010. Bring or mail to St. Elmo Village - 4830 St. Elmo Dr. L.A. CA 90019. CLICK HERE to visit website.

Children's Book Giveaway - Dec. 11, 2010 - 11: am to 1: pm

Los Angeles Urban League The Annual Membership Meeting and Luncheon informs Los Angeles Urban League members and corporate partners of current Urban League activities including a financial report, new programs and confirmation of new nominations to the Los Angeles Urban League‟s Board of Directors.

Click here to visit website WLANC Offices West L.A. Municipal Building (entrance on the West side of the building) 1645 Corinth Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90025

Getting to Know Los Angeles Neighborhood Councils West LA Neighborhood Council What ARE Neighborhood Councils? Neighborhood Councils are advisory bodies to the Los Angeles City Council that act as a liaison between the local stakeholders and city government, making city government more responsive to local needs. We have 10 committees that deal with issues ranging from Planning and Land Use Management, to Traffic and Beautification.

Meet West LA Neighborhood Council’s Outreach & Community Input Committee……

Outreach & Community Input Committee

Outreach Committee Chair Larry A. Taylor

Vice Chair Xochitl Gonzalez

David Abramson Brian Custer

Aric Gregson

Marilyn Noyles

Education Colleen Pundyk

This committee meets every 3rd Monday at 7pm. For more information, visit http://wlanc.com/index.php

Jean Shingematsui

Local Government/Business/Finance New Web Program Helps Employees Become Business Owners e2eNOW is an on-line program that helps participants select a business to start and create revenue projections and compose a complete business plan. e2eNOW.com enables employees seeking to start a business select the one that is right for them and plan for its long term success. e2eNOW, an extensive web-based program, is designed not only to help decide the type of business they should start, but also to determine if the business will produce the income they desire. Finally, using examples, templates and videos the program takes them step by step through creating a complete business plan with pro forma cash flow projections.

The reduction in jobs by major corporations over the last two years has left many highly educated, experienced people adrift in a job market with few prospects. A recent study by Wharton Business School found that many managers will have difficulty finding replacement employment, particularly if they are middle aged or older. Starting a business may be the only way many of these individuals can maintain their standard of living. e2eNOW (Employee to Entrepreneur NOW) was created by Peter and Lydia Mehit in response to the large number of requests for business plan assistance from displaced workers. The program is based on their experience drafting hundreds of business plans for bank and investor funding.

"I want to thank you for the great customer service that your company has provided me. Your product is by far the best that I have seen and has helped me tremendously. Your videos are second to none, clear and to the point. Keep up the good work and thank you." C.R. Marketing and Sales Manager, TV Globo Network. e2eNOW also has an affiliate program that compensates business coaches and others for referring their clients to the product. Please contact us regarding the details of the program.

e2eNOW.com enables employees seeking to start a business select the one that is right for them and plan for its long term success.

In association with SmithPublish.com and Carson/South Bay Community News, Custom Business Planning & Solutions will be hosting a seminar in Carson, California, introducing the e2eNow program. Invited guests include Carson Mayor Jim Dear, County Supervisor Mark Riddley-Thomas, as well Registration is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For early registration, call 800-741-8444. E2eNow representatives will be touring Southern California cities to introduce this life-changing program . To bring this event to your city, contact Peter Mehit at (800) 741-8444.

CLICK HERE for For Sale By Owner

Education Circle of learning is more than a figure of speech

By Theresa Watanabe, Courtesy The Los Angeles Times

Teachers are using a traditional technique to help students communicate with one another as a way to build bonds that will foster learning and help them stay in school.

Cultures worldwide have long used speaking and listening circles — most notably, Native Americans. But now a modernized form, developed by the nonprofit Ojai Foundation, has spread to 12,000 students via 600 trained teachers in more than 60 schools, many of them in the Los Angeles Unified School District.

Joe Provisor, who helped launch the program in the district in 2006, said research shows that strong school relationships are critical for a student's success. But those bonds are harder to forge in today's educational climate, he said, where academic pressures have crowded out time for social and emotional development.

"This is bringing humanity back to the schools," said Provisor, a teacher advisor with the district's office of curriculum, instruction and school support. "Schools are so focused now on testing and assessment — the download and regurgitation of content. Council is the practice of listening to children and to one another."

Judy Elliott, L.A. Unified's chief academic officer, called the program a "very powerful tool" to help students transcend race, gender, disabilities and other dividing lines. It also gives teachers a strategy to make the curriculum come alive, she said.

CLICK HERE for Hershey Store At Amelia Earhart, for instance, Stringer has used council for literature, asking students to say which character they most identified with in the novel " One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." Another teacher, Ron Narita, has used it for his Earth science class — asking everyone to tell a story about an earthquake, volcano or other geologic event.

"It helps them respond to curriculum in a more open way," Narita said. (READ MORE)

Sports Antwone Shepherd finds purpose at Compton Centennial Bill Plaschke courtesy The Los Angeles Times

Youngster who once attempted suicide is flourishing with the help of football teammates and coaches.

Photo - Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times

"I'm not worth nothing.''

Four years ago, the skinny kid with the muffled voice stood in front of the bathroom mirror in the tiny Compton home, holding a towel and hearing those words.

"I'm not worth nothing.''

His mother was on the streets. His father was in the shadows. He wasn't anywhere, having been passed around to four relatives in five years, chased out of his previous home by a crazed relative who yanked a garden hose inside the living room and started spraying.

He couldn't remember the last time he celebrated a birthday. He just remembers his mother once leaving to buy his cake and never coming home.

"I'm not worth nothing.''

Antwone Shepherd slowly wrapped the towel around his neck and squeezed until everything went black. ''You're the man!''

Four years later, the words are different, and the towels are flying, waving through the air, pounding on the ground, an article of death now fanning new life.

At the end of his first year of organized football, Antwone Shepherd sent the Compton Centennial High sidelines into a frenzy Friday by catching a touchdown pass and intercepting a pass in the Apaches' improbable 67-48 victory over Oak Park in the first round of the Southern Section Northwest Division playoffs.

"You're the man!'' READ MORE

Special Section

A Conversation with Naimah Fuller – Producer of Upcoming Film

A Place Called Home – The Documentary Movie CLICK HERE TO VIEW MOVIE TRAILER NAIMAH FULLER is the producer/writer/director of this incredible documentary.

Five years in the making, the savvy producer has finally completed principle photography and is currently in the post production editing phase of the project, with a release date set for 2011. HOME - THE DOCUMENTARY MOVIE explores the mass migration of African Americans relocating to the southern regions of the U.S. in the turn of the 21st century.

This mass migration reflects the historical Great Migration that took place during the mid-twentieth century nearly seven million black folks left the south and moved to the north and the west. The project asks the poignant question: What is causing this 21st century mass migration of African Americans to leave the north, the mid-west, and the west coast to relocate to the southern regions of the country. Maya Angelou, Morgan Freeman, are among those who share their migration stories.

CSCN: It’s an honor to interview you. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us. Tell us about your upbringing. Did you grow up in a creative home?

N. Fuller: My father was a photographer, but by the time I discovered his creativity, he was on to more practical creative endeavors, like providing for our family. So regarding creativity during my upbringing years, what I observed most was how creative my family was as entrepreneurs rather than artists.

CSCN: You were raised by your great-grandmothers. What was that like?

Dr. Maya Angelou N. FULLER: Both my grandmother’s were deceased before I was born, so my great-grandmothers took their place in my life. I spent various periods of my early childhood between these two women. Being a child of divorced parents, my great-grandmothers were very involved in my life as a small child. I was showered with so much love from these two women. So it was about love, it was also about spirituality, in that I was introduced to prayer and faith and tapping in a High Power. And it was also about learning how to be in the world. How to have respect for my elders, how to sit at the table and eat properly, how to treat others with respect, and how to hold my own head up and be proud of myself. In essence, I was given a strong foundation of self-esteem by both my great-grandmothers. CLICK HERE for Budget

Just being around Mr. Parks was a great inspiration to me. He set the professional bar for me on every level. – Naimah Fuller

CSCN: What was your greatest inspiration for pursuing a career in film?

N. FULLER: My greatest inspiration for pursuing a career in film was the excitement of being on a movie set of a Warner Bros. Production or Paramount Pictures production. When I got into film there were very few African Americans working in that industry. It was the end of the Blackploitation era, and going into the 80’s was a time of change for blacks in the motion picture business. So it was very exciting to be able to walk onto a movie set and be part of that collaborative creative filmmaking process CSCN: How did you feel after your first month of film school? If you remember, what was required of you?

N. FULLER: My major in college was Commercial Photography. My interest in photography was part of my DNA, because my father, my grandfather, and my great-grandfather were all photographers. However, as fate would have it after I completed my photography courses, I immediately moved to NYC, and began working with Gordon Parks. Just being around Mr. Parks was a great inspiration to me. He set the professional bar for me on every level. Not only was he a successful photographer, he was a filmmaker, a writer, and a composer of music. So the whole filmmaking school process was not how I entered the life of a filmmaker. My entrance to filmmaking was through “old-school”, rather than film school. However I did have some formal filmmaking training for short period at the Studio Museum In Harlem. The interesting thing about the majority of people who are in the motion picture business even today, most of them never went to “film school”. The old saying “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” is how the entertainment industry operates more often than not. Similar to the music industry; I doubt if most of the rappers or and R & B and even Pop artists that we follow, ever went to music school. Name any one of them: Jay Z, Beyonce, Sting. So my training in the craft of filmmaking was not from a formal classroom experience, all though I did go back to school after I was already in the business. I would dare say, that even the people who started the film industry probably didn’t even have a high school diploma (lol). Filmmaking is more entrepreneurial than academic.

Gordon Parks (Above) Some of Mr. Parks photos below…

CSCN: What was your first real job in journalism and documentary production? Tell us about that experience.

N. FULLER: Wow! My career has by no means followed the usual course of trajectory into journalism or documentary filmmaking for that matter. By the time I began a career as a journalist, I had already worked in the motion picture business for several years in several capacities, including script supervisor, assistant director, director, producer, etc. I went from working on large movie productions to working in broadcast news at WABCTV in NYC. It was at WABC-TV that I began my career in journalism, during which I enrolled at the New School of Social Research to study journalism, and television production. WABC paid for my education, so I took advantage of it. But my first real documentary project was a film I did on my mentor Gordon Parks during his production in Texas of Leadbelly the historically famous folk and blues singer, for Paramount Pictures. That project ultimately received several awards including Best Writer and Best Producer of a Documentary Film.

CSCN: Tell us about A Place Called Home: The Great Migration of The 21st Century N. FULLER: Home began as an observation of a paradigm shift that I found myself in middle of. That shift was the migration of black folks moving en mass to the south at the beginning of the 21st century, of which I was part because I had just moved from New York City to Atlanta. At first the filmmaker in me wanted to capture the whole concept of Atlanta as the new Mecca. But as I continued to explore the project of documenting people relocating to Atlanta, I soon realized that it much more than that. That’s when the journalist in me began to see the bigger picture. That in fact, what I was actually experiencing was a Great Migration, much like the Great Migration of the mid 20th century when over six million black people moved away the south, to the north and the west, in the largest mass migration of any ethnic group in the history of this nation. Those people had no idea that they were making history, and that their migration experience would re-shape the concept of “urban-life” in America. As I pursued the HOME project – I realized that history was repeating itself in a reversal of trends, as black people were relocating and moving back to the south in even larger numbers than had occurred in the previous Great Migration, and are in fact re-shaping what is becoming the New South.

Read more of this exclusive interview in the December 2010 issue of Authors & Artists Magazine. Visit www.smithpublish.com or email us at smithpublish@yahoo.com to subscribe to our digital magazines and newspapers FREE!

Inspiration & Church News

It Can Never Happen To Me Now in my prosperity I said, ―I shall never be moved.‖ —Psalm 30:6 Actor Christopher Reeve was paralyzed in a horseback riding accident in 1995. Prior to this tragedy, he had played the part of a paraplegic in a movie. In preparation, Reeve visited a rehabilitation facility. He recalled: “Every time I left that rehab center, I said, „Thank God that‟s not me.‟ ” After his accident, Reeve regretted that statement: “I was so setting myself apart from those people who were suffering without realizing that in a second that could be me.” And sadly, for him, it was.

We too may look at the troubles of others and think that it could never happen to us.

Especially if our life journey has led to a measure of success, financial security, and family harmony. In a moment of vanity and self-sufficiency, King David admitted to falling into the trap of feeling invulnerable: “Now in my prosperity I said, „I shall never be moved‟” (Ps. 30:6). But David quickly caught himself and redirected his heart away from self-sufficiency. He remembered that he had known adversity in the past and God had delivered him: “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing” (v.11).

Whether He has brought us blessing or trial, God still deserves our gratitude and trust.

I can always count on God, my heavenly Father, For He changes not; He always is the same; Yesterday, today, forever, He is faithful, And I know He loves me, praise His holy name. —Felten

Get the wisdom YOU need to have a Godly successful life at every age!

Pre-order YOUR Copy TODAY! $10.00 CLICK HERE to preorder or visit www.ThoughtsDecisionsActions.com

In good times and bad, our greatest need is God.

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Style & Beauty

Taking A Look At‌‌

Phillip Lacoi Design and Urban Fashion Tees A Collection of Consciousness Urban Fashion Tees was created in 2008 by Phillip Lacoi Design. We started with a few designs that grew into a few brands. Now Phillip Lacoi Design is a fashion house of urban tees that evokes unique style and fashion. We drew inspiration from cultural fashion trends in Brussels, Belgium, London, UK, Geneva, Switzerland, and Paris, France. These urban fashion tees are designed to visually and verbally express truths we live by, what we want to embody, and want others to know. It is about creating an experience, taking a journey, and becoming part of a much bigger story.

See more of this incredible line at www.urbanfashiontees.com

CLICK HERE for Ferragamo

CLICK HERE for MyWeddingFavors

Real Estate

Ten things to keep in mind when renting a home or apartment (ARA) - Rent vs. own? More Americans are wrestling with that question as the economy continues its slow recovery.

Even though homes are selling at record lows, many Americans are choosing to rent instead, maintaining their mobility and financial flexibility until the economy, as well as their job prospects, improve.

More than 38 million people currently rent their primary residence, which represents about one-third of total U.S. residences, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With the recent downturn in the economy and the spike in foreclosures, the demand for apartments and homes to rent has grown steadily in many parts of the country. For those new to renting or those who haven't rented a place to live since college or their early 20s, it's important to understand your legal rights, according to the legal experts at FindLaw.com, a leading online source of legal information. Knowing your rights can help you avoid being taken advantage of or, avoid problems that could arise between you and your landlord.

Every renter should become familiar with these 10 tips: Know your rights. It is illegal for a landlord to refuse your rental application for discriminatory reasons such as race, sex, color, religion, class, etc. If your application to rent an apartment is rejected, you have a right to know why.

Landlords cannot say an apartment is unavailable if it isn't or use a different set of rules for assessing different applicants.

Background checks. Landlords want responsible, trouble-free tenants. To aid them in selecting a renter, they can use background checks and credit reports to learn about a prospective tenant's credit worthiness and potential criminal record. If you're dealing with these issues, it's often a good policy to be upfront with the landlord about any problems that may be revealed during a background check to gain the trust of the landlord.

What should be included in the lease or rental agreement? A lease can be wordy, but make sure that it has these important aspects: length of tenancy (month-to-month, one year or another period of time), amount of rent and deposits the tenant must pay, the number of people who can live on the rental property, who pays for utilities, whether the tenant may have pets, whether the tenant may sublet the property, and the landlord's access to the rental property.

Keep a written copy. While most states honor a verbal agreement, they are more likely to cause a dispute.

Findlaw.com recommends getting your lease agreement in writing and using it as a reference for any complications that happen during your time as a tenant. If a landlord offers any additional benefits for renting, make sure those are spelled out in the rental agreement.

Call the landlord with a maintenance problem. Usually the landlord is responsible for all maintenance issues. Document the problem by writing down the date it started and taking pictures if necessary. In some agreements, landlords need to respond to the maintenance issue, so refer to your lease for specifics. If they don't respond, typical options include withholding a portion of rent until the problem is fixed, paying for the repair yourself and deducting the amount from your rent, or abandoning the property altogether without liability. Check the laws in your state.

Noisy neighbor. One of the biggest hassles of renting is dealing with a noisy neighbor. If your neighbor is disturbing you, notify your landlord.

In most leases, tenants agree to be respectful of those around them. It's also a good idea to use your landlord as a third-party enforcer to preserve the relationship between you and your noisy neighbor.

Safety first. In many states, landlords must provide minimum safety equipment such as peepholes, deadbolts, window locks and safety glass.

If your landlord promises certain safety features, make sure he or she follows through on those promises. Ask other neighbors about the security and safety of the area before renting an apartment.

Get renter's insurance. Renter's insurance is relatively cheap and will protect you where your landlord's insurance won't. If you suffer losses due to theft or damage or are sued by someone who alleges they were injured in your rental because of your negligence, renter's insurance can cover you and save you from a large financial loss.

Preserve your security deposit. Security deposits are one of the most disputed items between landlord and tenants, so make sure that your lease clearly spells out the exact manner in which your deposit will be used or withheld. When you first move in, do an extensive walk-through to record existing damage and keep a copy of whatever report you give to the landlord.

Handling an eviction. It's hard to decide how to handle an eviction. If you can prove that the landlord was wrong, then it may be worth it to fight against the eviction notice and protect your rights as a tenant. Sometimes, it's not worth the fight even if you win. Remember that in some cases you will still have to continue to deal with the same landlord. Also remember if you lose a lawsuit, you'll be evicted and have to pay a hefty fine.

To learn more about tenants' rights, go to FindLaw.com.

The Inside Success Story

Building a Familyfocused Brand Seven years ago, Jason and Kim Graham-Nye were about to have their first child when they came across an intriguing factoid in the morning paper. They discovered that though only 5 percent of the population uses diapers, they are the third largest landfill contributor.

The only real alternative to disposable diapers was cloth diapers, and since those are water-intensive, they were a no-go in the couple’s arid Australia home. Soon they began to see the dearth of biodegradable diapers as a business opportunity and they picked up and moved to Portland, Oregon.

Why did the two of you relocate to Portland, Oregon? Why not found the company in Australia?

Jason: Portland seemed the perfect place to recruit a team and build the brand we dreamed of. Portland is a catalyst in the green economy and full of really smart, and creative people. It’s also one of the best places to raise a family, so it just made sense.

So what are the statistics on disposable diapers?

Jason: There is only one thing to do with a disposable diaper once it’s been soiled: throw it out. That means 50 million diapers go into landfills every day in the U.S. That’s a staggering 3.5 million tons of poop and plastic going into the ground each year. Due to the high-grade polypropylene used to make the outer covering and various layers, the materials [in diapers] remain intact in landfills for many years – reports estimate up to 500 years. gDiapers are the only 100 percent certified biodegradable diapers on the market, and the most eco-friendly diapers available. They’re also more natural and gentle for babies, because they contain no plastic, no chlorine, no perfumes….and no guilt.

What’s the rationale behind encouraging employees to bring their kids to work? And why provide daycare to the larger community?

Kim: If there's one thing we understand, as parents ourselves, it’s that kids’ needs don't fit within the constraints of a typical nine to five workday.

We strongly believe that work and family can go together better. That there shouldn’t be such a firm line between work and “life.” We’ve found that by creating a flexible work-life balance and offering on-site childcare, we’ve been able to attract and retain really valuable employees. That retention is really important in a fast-paced, fast-growing environment.

gDiapers are the only 100 percent certified biodegradable diapers on the market, and the most eco-friendly diapers available. They’re also more natural and gentle for babies, because they contain no plastic, no chlorine, no perfumes…and no guilt.

(Continued from previous page) Our commitment to this balance goes beyond just our employees with kids and includes benefits to all employees including generous paid time off, flexible work schedules and job-sharing, in addition to the on-site childcare.

You’ve had employees say that the interview to work for gDiapers was the most difficult one of their lives. How do you conduct interviews?

Jason: Fair Dinkum is an Australian expression that means being genuine and real with everyone you encounter. That’s our philosophy toward our business, our people and the planet. Our interview process really focuses on that.

It’s not intended to be difficult per se, but rather insightful as to how potential employees work with other people, how they view the world, what their personal aspirations are, etc. We’re looking for people who share our commitment to the environment, who are flexible enough to work in a fast-paced environment, and who we can have great discourse with. We like to say, “check your ego at the door.”

How do you ensure that you have a good work-life balance not just for your employees but for yourselves?

Kim: We do all sorts of things. We’re taking advantage of our own flex-friendly approach and are working from 5:30 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m. This allows us to pick our kids up from school and enjoy some down time with them in the evenings. It also allows us some quiet time at the office to do some strategic thinking before the whole team comes in.

You aim to make your company flex-friendly but how do you adapt your management style to a team that’s rarely gathered together in the same place at the same time?

Kim: We do still have a critical mass most days, especially between 9-3.

We do huddle each day at 9:30 to share our top three priorities for the day, which is a great mechanism to gauge perspectives, priorities and any need for laser meetings. We also use Skype…a lot. There’s just something much more productive when you can see the other individual’s facial expressions.

It’s really amazing what a difference that makes.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about gDiapers, how you treat your employees, or the daycare program?

Kim: Our customers are amazing. We wouldn’t be having this conversation if it weren’t for them. And with the explosion of social media, we feel like we really know them. Kind of like how you used to know your grocer, your baker, your butcher when towns were smaller. Social media allowed us to have that kind of personal relationship with the people who are buying our products and we get to incorporate that feedback into our decision-making. In a world that in many ways seems increasingly disconnected, we find that our world is really becoming smaller and more intimate. It’s amazing. For more information on gDiapers, visit www.gDiapers.com.

Just for Fun

Movie Actors

Think About It...

Jude Law Judy Davis Julianna Marguilles Juliette Lewis Kate Beckinsale Kate Nelligan Kathleen Turner Katrin Cartldge Keith David Kenneth Branagh Kevin Conway Kevin J. O’Connor

Judge Reinhold Julia Roberts Julie Hagerty Justin Theroux Kate Capshaw Kate Winslet Kathy Bates Keanu Reeves Kelly Lynch Kenneth Mars Kevin Costner

Judi Dench Julia Stiles Juliet Stevenson Karen Allen Kate Hudson Kathleen Quinlan Katie Holmes Keith Carradine Kelly Preston Kevin Bacon Kevin Dunn

Life is a gift. It offers us the privilege, opportunity and responsibility to give something back by becoming more. – Anthony Robins

Calendar of Events Andrea Bocelli Friday, December 10, 2010 – 8pm Staples Center For tickets, CLICK HERE Incomparable vocal icon Andrea Bocelli brings a spectacular holiday-themed show to Staples Center on December 10th. The performance will celebrate much of the repertoire the classical crossover singer has made world-famous over his incredible career as well as music from his latest release My Christmas, giving his fans a stirring evening of world famous arias with a truly heartwarming welcome to the holidays.

World Series of Boxing Sun., Dec. 12, 2010 7:00 pm Club Nokia 800 West Olympic Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90015 – For Tickets CLICK HERE The L.A. Matadors are the Los Angeles team in the World Series of Boxing.

The World Series of Boxing was formed by the International Olympic Committee-recognized world governing body for boxing, the International Boxing Association (AIBA). The WSB unites Olympic and World Championship medalists under one umbrella to form the world's first global sports league with 12 teams competing in 3 continents (Asia, Europe, and North America). WSB boxers retain their Olympic eligibility. The WSB develops boxing's next superstars and bridges amateur and professional boxing.

JOHN R. WOODEN CLASSIC Saturday, Dec 18, 2010 - 11:45 AM Honda Center For tickets – CLICK HERE

The John R. Wooden Classic event will be held this year on Saturday, December 18th at Honda Center in Anaheim with UCLA making its 15th appearance in the seventeen year history of the one-day doubleheader. The rest of the four-team field boasts likely Top 20 ranked BYU, 2010 sweet sixteen participant St. Mary’s and Big West favorite Long Beach State.

Disney on Ice Tues., Dec. 21 - 26, 2010 – 7:30pm Honda Center - For tickets, CLICK HERE “Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! gives families a reason to celebrate no matter what time of year it is,” says Producer Kenneth Feld. “This uplifting and unforgettable spectacle showcases different celebrations around the globe, and and families will walk away remembering to celebrate the everyday joys and successes in their lives.” families will walk away remembering to celebrate the everyday joys and successes in their lives.”

Los Angeles Community News Business & Service Directory Submit your listing for $200 per year : Listing in 24 digital editions, linked to website of your choice, listing included in www.smithpublish.com business directory, blog/comment about your business once per month. Submit your listing TODAY!

ACCOUNTANT Deen & Company CPAs -- Accounting Mr. Charles A. Deen 3113 Reid Ave. Culver City, CA 90232 Phone: (310)559-1875 David E. Lazarus C.P.A. -- Accounting Mr. David E. Lazarus 10801 National Blvd. Suite 350 Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)474-5108 Web site: WWW.DLAZARUSCPA.COM Cristobal & Company -- Accounting Ms. Violeta D. Cristobal CPA 11620 Wilshre Blvd. Suite 850 Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)477-1066 Web site: www.cristobalcpa.com Gem Financial Group -- Accounting Ms. Ana Karime Duenas 4102 East Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90066 Phone: (310)591-4542 Web site: www.GemFinancialGroup.com Weiss Accountancy -- Accounting Mr. Steve Post 16217 Kittridge St. Van Nuys, CA 91406 Phone: (818)997-7712 Web site: www.weissac.com

AUTOMOTIVE Crown Coachworks Auto Body & Paint -- Automotive/Body Repair & Paint Mr. Eyal Dunkel 2122 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)575-0700 Web site: www.crowncoachworks.com Piper's Body Shop -- Automotive/Body Repair & Paint Mr. Hugh Piper, Owner 3568 Overland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90034 Phone: (310)836-1740 Westside Transmission & Automotive Inc. -- Automotive/Transmissions Mr. Jack DeBasc, Owner 2050 Cotner Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)473-2235 Web site: www.transmission.com

BEAUTY Beauty Bus Foundation -- Non-Profit Ms. Jaclyn Rosenson 11301 Olympic Blvd. Suite 303 Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)287-1272 Web site: www.BeautyBus.org

EDUCATION Poseidon School Inc. -- School/Special Education Ms. Joanne D. Saliba 11811 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)477-1268

Naked Cosmetics -Beauty/Makeup/Semi-Permanent Mr. Jimmy Walker 15030 Ventura Blvd. Suite 19-788 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 Phone: (310)684-3838

Mary Pickford Institute for Film Education -- Non-Profit Mr. Keith Lawrence 8885 Venice Blvd. #203 Los Angeles, CA 90034 Phone: (310)287-3700 Web site: www.MaryPickford.com

Makeup & Go! -- Beauty Consultant/Makeup Artist Ms. Lori Sale 13038 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)451-6253 Web site: www.makeupandgo.net

Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes -Education Ms. Tracy-Lyn Forney 1554 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #201 Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)481-2293 Web site: www.lindamoodbell.com

Noushin Hair Design/Novo Salon -Beauty Salon Ms. Noushin R. Kamkar 605 Colorado Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone: (310)562-0354

Pepperdine University/ Graduate School of Education & Psychology -School Ms. Margaret Weber 6100 Center Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone: (310)568-5615

LaDuree Hair Salon LLC -- Beauty Salon Mr. Rayn Paul Gonzalez 2277 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)474-5860 Web site: www.LaDureeHairSalon.com Christopher Hill Salon -- Beauty Salon Mr. Tim Byk 142 S. Barrington Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)476-4466 Web site: www.ChristopherHillSalon.com Edge Salon -- Beauty Salon Ms. Tia Ledoski 1900 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)481-2007 SUPERCUTS (Westwood) -- Beauty Salon Manager 1650 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310)470-1558

STAR ECO STATION -- Educational Program Ms. Katiana Bozzi 10101 W. Jefferson Blvd.

Culver City, CA 90232 Phone: (310)842-8040 Web site: www.ecostation.org

GIFTS Bountiful Baskets by Jean -- Gift Baskets Ms. Jean Fujita 2043 ColoradoAve. Suite 3 Santa Monica, CA 90404 Phone: (310)582-1200 Web site: www.bountifulbasketsbyjean.com

RESTAURANTS Natalee Thai Cuisine -- Restaurant Mr. Victor Watana, Owner 10101 Venice Blvd.

Culver City, CA 90230 Phone: (310)202-7003 The Pitfire Pizza Company -- Restaurant Ms. Sam Mor 2018 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)481-9860 Web site: www.PitfirePizza.com

Baja Fresh / G & D Management -Restaurant Management Ms. Michelle Patten 11600 Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)478-0270 Fax: (310)473-9234 Web site: www.bajafresh.com Maria's Italian Kitchen -- Restaurant Ms. Madelyn Alfano, President/Owner 10761 Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)476-6112 Bossa Nova -- Restaurant Mr. Aurelios Martins 10982 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)441-0404 Web site: www.bossanovafood.com Champagne French Bakery Cafe -Restaurant Mr. Naim Marbouh 11709 National Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)231-9700 Web site: www.champagnebakery.com Maria's Italian Kitchen -- Restaurant Ms. Madelyn Alfano, President/Owner 11723 Barrington Ct. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)476-6112 California Pizza Kitchen -- Restaurant Ms. Trish Ellis 1001 Broxton Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310)209-9197 Web site: www.cpk.com Chang's Restaurant -- Restaurant Mr. Albert Changs 11726 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)207-2295 Il Forno Caldo -- Restaurant Mr. Sohail Fatoorechi 9705 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90210 Phone: (310)777-0040

Junior's Restaurant -- Restaurant Mr. David Saul 2379 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)475-5771 Yogurtland -- Restaurant Mr. Todd K. Vaccaro 11706 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)207-8778 Web site: www.yogurt-land.com Chan Dara Siamese Kitchen -Restaurant Mr. Patrick Kumtong 11940 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)479-4461 Web site: www.chandara.com Chin Chin -- Restaurant "Mr. Peter Gradillia, General Manager" 11740 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)826-2525 Web site: www.chinchin.com Guido's Restaurant -- Restaurant Mr. Bryan Castanos 11980 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)820-6649 Web site: www.GuidosLA.com Jaipur -- Restaurant Mr. Beli Ram Saini 10916 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)470-4994 Fax: (310)470-8004 Web site: www.jaipurcuisineofindia.com

Fish Grill -- Restaurant "Mr. Aharon Klein, Owner" 12013 Wilshire Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)479-1800 Freshii -- Restaurant Mr. Dan Gallucci 11740 San Vicente Blvd. #101 Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)826-5833 Web site: www.freshii.com VIP Harbor Seafood -- Restaurant Mr. Oak Watana, Owner 11701 Wilshire Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)979-3377 Web site: www.VIPHarborSeafood.com Factor's Famous Deli -- Restaurant Ms. Susan Markowitz, Owner 9420 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90035-1210 Phone: (310)278-9175 Peet's Coffee & Tea -- Restaurant Mr. James Yurasek 11750 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)979-7892 Web site: www.peets.com Paddington's Tea Room -Restaurant/Tea Room/Cafe Ms. Julianne Tozer 355 S. Robertson Blvd.

Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Phone: (310)652-0624 Web site: www.paddingtontearoom.com

La Provence Patisserie & Cafe -Restaurant Mr. Farshid Hakim, Owner 11677 San Vicente Blvd. - Top Floor Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)442-1144 Web site: www.laprovencecafe.com

Zankou Chicken -- Restaurant Mr. Dikran Iskenderian 1716 S. Sepulveda Blvd. #101 Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)444-0550 Web site: www.ZankouChicken.com

Chili's Grill & Bar -- Restaurant Mr. Tony Becker 1056 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310)481-2228 Web site: www.chilis.com

California Pizza Kitchen -- Restaurant Mr. Brandon Nelson 11677 San Vicente Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90049 Phone: (310)826-3573 Web site: www.cpk.com

Sizzler -- Restaurant Mr. Rosendo Ramirez 831 E. Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90301 Phone: (310)672-5301 Web site: www.sizzlerusa.com

Specialty's Cafe & Bakery -- Restaurant Ms. Shahina Surtee, Sales Manager 11150 Santa Monica Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)953-5415 Web site: www.specialtys.com

Ruzbehyon Inc. DBA Delphi Greek Cuisine -- Restaurant Mr. Roozbeh Farahanipour 1383 Westwood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310)478-2900 Web site: www.delphirestaurant.com

SERVICES HK Wealth Management Inc. -- Financial Services Mr. Alan T. Knobloch 10880 Wilshire Blvd. #122 Los Angeles, CA 90024 Phone: (310)482-2352 Web site: www.hkwmanagement.com State Farm Insurance -- Insurance Services-General Ms. Liz Alchimio 300 Corporate Pointe Ste. 450 Culver City, CA 90230 Phone: (310)568-5860 Medical Billing Management Inc. -- Medical Billing Service Mr. Sanjay Sippy 11500 W. Olympic Blvd. #575 Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310)696-5400 Web site: www.mbminc.us Sawtelle Self Storage -- Storage-Self Service Ms. Ruby Melendez, Facility Manager 2240 Sawtelle Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)235-1015 Web site: www.sawtelleselfstorage.com Carolyn Wispe Burns -- Bookkeeping Services Ms. Carolyn Burns 10950 Rhoda Way Culver City, CA 90230 Phone: (310)838-3847 Advanced Planning Concepts -- Financial Services Ms. Barbara Walker 5757 W. Century Blvd. - 7th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone: (626)440-8383 Nick Johnson Corporation -- Health Services Ms. Lili Manzari 2387 Malcolm Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90064 Phone: (310)985-3585 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC -- Financial Services Mr. Len Anderson 9665 Wilshire Blvd. #700 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Phone: (310)205-4760

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