INSIDE SCOOP COMMENTARY PARENTING SPEARS’ PREGNANCY RAISES ISSUES PAGE 3 CHRISTMAS REALITIES PAGE 4 YOUNG AND VIOLENT TEENS PAGE 7

Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 Volume 7 Issue 37 Santa Monica Daily Press A FEAST FOR THE EYES SEE PAGE 9 Since 2001: A news odyssey THE MERRY CHRISTMAS ISSUE

HOLIDAY SEASON DECKING THE HALLS Local homes get all dressed up PHOTO ESSAY BY BRANDON WISE PAGE 8

Brandon Wise [email protected] Old-fashioned school mediating

BY MELODY HANATANI It was the first dispute that the eighth- Middle School, an extra-curricular activity schools, training and working with more Daily Press Staff Writer grader had resolved as a peer mediator at where students, not teachers, resolve the than 60 students between the two locations. John Adams Middle School, an awkward variety of conflicts that can arise among The program aims to eliminate the JAMS Rodney Johnson sat back in his seat, first experience considering the altercation adolescents during a volatile developmental instances of fighting between students, listening as the two junior high school stu- involved two of his good friends. time, from relationship and friendship teaching at a young age that discourse is a dents sitting before him bickered about a “I’m at work right now,” he responded at break-ups to even something as seemingly better way to resolve conflict rather than fight that had occurred earlier, a tiff sparked the time. “I’m a professional.” minor as looking at another student in the resorting to physical violence. Students are by name calling. The aspiring professional basketball play- “wrong way.” selected to serve as arbitrators rather than One of the students turned to Johnson, er is among the more than 25 students that Erica Zacharie of the Los Angeles County teachers, expanding the comfort level for the annoyed, remarking “I don’t like this side participate in the Peer Mediation and Bar Association operates the program at of you.” Conflict Resolution Program at John Adams both Lincoln and John Adams middle SEE PEER PAGE 8

GABY SCHKUD Band & Orchestra Instruments “Place your holiday orders RENT-TO-OWN today! Open 24 hours (310)586-0308 Christmas and New Years.” (310) 453-1928 The name you can depend on! 1901 Santa Monica Blvd. in Santa Monica 1433 Wilshire Blvd at 15th St. www.704-15th.com (310) 394-1131 www.santamonicamusic.com Calendar Readers Five Generations of Family Jewelers 2 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues wishes Happy Holidays to your family and all of its generations Happy Holidays

Christmas Day Open 7:30a.m. – 2p.m. (310) 829-9597 New Year’s Eve Open 7:30a.m. – 6:00p.m. New Year’s Day Open 7:30a.m. – 10:00p.m. 1920 Santa Monica Blvd. Hours: 6:30am - 10:00pm Daily (Corner of 20th & Santa Monica Blvd.)

Merry Christmas! Griffith Park Light Festival 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., L.A., times vary Walk or drive through this annual festival, which turns the north side of Griffith Park into a monument of light displays Shop where they know your name! created by Department of Water and Power employees. Local attractions like the Hollywood sign, the L.A. Zoo and Staples 331 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica Center are celebrated, along with traditional seasonal 2 Hours Free Parking (Behind Store) imagery. For more information, visit 310.451.1349 www.dwplightfestival.com. Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm www.readersjewelers.com EDDIE GUERBOIAN Ice, ice, baby GOLDSMITH DESIGNER 1324 Fifth St., 10 a.m. — 10 p.m. Bring back childhood memories — or create new ones — as you slice through the city’s new public ice rink. Admission is NOW OPEN! $10; including skate rental. Candid Claus Christian Bookstore 1300 block of Third Street Promenade, 11 a.m. — 5 p.m. Take a moment out of the Black Weekend massacre to visit with Santa Claus who will sit still for some candid moments BIG SALE!! with the kiddies. 20%-50% OFF Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2007 Jewish story hour JOEL OSTEEN JOYCE MEYER 1428 17th St., 3:15 p.m. — 4 p.m. Story time at Chabad is for children ages 3 — 7. It is recom- “BECOME A BETTER YOU" “I DARE YOU" mended that participants RSVP to this free event to ensure REG. $25.00 REG. $22.99 there are enough materials for all children. For questions or SALE $14.99 SALE $12.99 to RSVP, call (310) 393-7379 or e-mail [email protected].

(Valid December 16-30, 2007 or while supplies last) Nativo! 1301 Fifth St., to be declared 1827 B Pico Boulevard Santa Monica, 90404 (310)664-1072 Groove to dance-driven soulful and eclectic Latin beats fea- turing resident DJs Mexican Dubweiser, Sloe Poke, Mando Fever and D*Gomez at Zanzibar’s Nativo Wednesdays. Door is $5. FULL SKIN CARE Ice, ice, baby 1324 Fifth St., 10 a.m. — 10 p.m. GinaMarchese Bring back childhood memories — or create new ones — as you slice through the city’s new public ice rink. Admission is $10; including skate rental. Griffith Park Light Festival 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., L.A., times vary Walk or drive through this annual festival, which turns the 60 Minute Basic Facial north side of Griffith Park into a monument of light displays created by Department of Water and Power employees. Local attractions like the Hollywood sign, the L.A. Zoo and Staples $ .00 Center are celebrated, along with traditional seasonal 60 w/Complimentary Eyebrow Wax! imagery. For more information, visit www.dwplightfestival.com.

VALID ONLY MONDAY-WEDNESDAY For more information on any of the events listed, log on to smdp.com and click the “Events” tab for the given day’s calendar. 320 SANTA MONICA BLVD

OFF 3RD STREET PROMENADE IN BAY CITIES BEAUTY SUPPLY (310) 562-1592 Inside Scoop Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 3 Producers scramble to explain Spears’ pregnancy raises ethical issues BY JOHN ROGERS Associated Press Writer

LOS ANGELES Just a week ago, the produc- ers of Jamie Lynn Spears’ hit TV show “Zoey 101” were wondering how fans might react to a plotline that had her character thinking of leaving her fantasy-land boarding school. Now that Spears has disclosed that she’s pregnant, the network has an even bigger, real-life plot twist to wrestle with. The news came at an awkward time. The fourth season of the show has already been shot and is set to begin airing in February on Nickelodeon. Executives must now figure out how to promote a program aimed at preteen girls whose 16-year-old role-model has tumbled from her pedestal. It doesn’t help either that Spears is the younger sister of tabloid wild child Britney Spears, the one-time Disney Mousketeer who has been locked in a bitter court battle THEY SAW, THEY CONQUERED Photos by Brandon Wise [email protected] for months with ex-husband Kevin City crews weathered the rain on Tuesday morning as they cut down a series of trees slated for removal at the intersection of 27th and Pearl streets. Federline over custody of her two young children. “The whole Spears family seems to be a disaster scenario,” said media consultant Jonathan Taplin, who is not connected to the show. For now, Nickelodeon is standing behind Jamie Lynn Spears and the show. Her picture is still featured prominently on the Nick.com Web site, and the “Zoey 101” message board is still open, although there is no mention of her pregnancy or her relationship with Casey Aldridge, her baby’s teen father. “Nickelodeon hasn’t announced any schedule changes,” network spokeswoman Marianne Romano said when asked if the show’s fourth season would go ahead as planned. Nickelodeon officials declined to say whether Spears would continue to promote the show with personal appearances and taped announcements. Spears’ spokes- woman, Holly Shakoor, did not respond to phone and e-mail requests for comment. IRS PROBLEMS?

PERSONAL • BUSINESS • OFFERS

SAMUEL B. MOSES, CPA (310) 395-9922

100 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1800 Santa Monica 90401 9954831 OpinionCommentary 4 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues

PUBLISHER LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Ross Furukawa Send comments to [email protected] The Rand Stand [email protected] By Dr. Leonard Peikoff Send comments to [email protected] EDITOR Rest in peace, Bob Michael Tittinger Editor: [email protected] I just learned of the death of Bob Gabriel, owner of ASSOCIATE EDITOR Santa Monica’s Bob Gabriel Co. Insurance Agency, whose Daniel Archuleta advertisement appeared regularly in the Santa Monica [email protected] Daily Press. He passed away on Dec. 13, 2007 at the age Bah humbug, of 84. He will be sorely missed, I think, in the community STAFF WRITERS Kevin Herrera due to his outstanding good works and general goodness [email protected] as a human being. I had business dealings with him for more than 25 years, and he was always most kind to me. I Melody Hanatani was deeply saddened to learn the news, and I want to or just reality? [email protected] extend my sympathies to his staff as well as to his family, CONTRIBUTING WRITERS who will carry on despite their great loss. CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA IS AN ago and a feeble holiday connected with Bill Bauer, David Pisarra, We will miss you, Bob! exuberant display of human ingenuity, him (on Dec. 5). In 1822, an American Meredith Carroll, Kenny Mack, Julia Reeves capitalist productivity, and the enjoyment named Clement Clarke Moore wrote a Jack Neworth, Lloyd Garver, Santa Monica of life. Yet all of these are castigated as poem about a visit from St. Nick. It was Seth Barnes, Taylor van Arsdale, “materialistic.” The real meaning of the Moore who invented St. Nick’s physical Dane Robert Swanson, Why worry about skin color? holiday, we are told, is assorted nativity appearance and personality, came up with Mark Marchillo, Ken Tarr, Editor: Mike Heayn, Brian Hepp tales and altruist injunctions (e.g., love the idea that Santa travels on Christmas Eve and Mariel Howsepian Kenny Mack can see no other reasons than racism thy neighbor) that no one takes seriously. in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, comes down (“Let’s Stop Fooling ourselves on Race,” Opinion, Dec. In fact, Christmas today is a 19th cen- the chimney, stuffs toys in the kids’ stock- NEWS INTERNS 21) for the difference in the way Barry Bonds has been tury American invention. The freedom ings, then goes back to the North Pole. Gabrielle Harradine treated this year compared to Roger Clemens. So, let’s and prosperity of post Civil War America Of course, the Puritans denounced [email protected] give him some. created the happiest nation in history. The Santa as the Antichrist, because he pushed STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Reason No.1 it’s not racism: Barry Bonds has been con- result was the desire to celebrate, to revel Jesus to the background. Furthermore, Brandon Wise nected with BALCO, the steroid source, for years and has in the goods and pleasures of life on earth. Santa implicitly rejected the whole [email protected] admitted to at least taking some of their products. Roger Christmas became the leading American Christian ethics. He did not denounce the Clemens has never been publicly associated with BALCO, outlet for this feeling. rich and demand that they give everything CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS until now. The Mitchell Report listing his name last week Historically, people have always cele- to the poor. On the contrary, he gave gifts Morgan Genser Brandon Wise was the first time fans heard about it. brated the winter solstice as the time to rich and poor children alike. Nor is [email protected] Reason No. 2 it’s not racism: In the mere days since when the days begin to lengthen, indicat- Santa a champion of Christian mercy or the Mitchell Report, pitcher Curt Schilling, a future Hall of ing the earth’s return to life. Ancient unconditional love. On the contrary, he is ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Famer, white peer of Clemens, has challenged Clemens to Romans feasted and reveled during the for justice. Rob Schwenker prove he did not take steroids or else give back four of his festival of Saturnalia. Early Christians [email protected] Cy Young Awards. In the years since Bonds has been asso- condemned these Roman celebrations — ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ciated with steroid use not one of his peers, Manny, Ortiz they were waiting for the end of the world Julie Martinez or A- Rod, has asked Barry to prove himself or give back and had only scorn for earthly pleasures. AMERICA’S TRAGEDY IS [email protected] four Most Valuable Player Awards. By the fourth century the pagans were Reason No. 3 it’s not racism: When Bonds passed Mark worshipping the god of the sun on Dec. THAT ITS INTELLECTUAL Liam Blume McGwire for the all time single-season home run record 25, and the Christians came to a decision: [email protected] “White America” yawned. But when Bonds approached If you can’t stop ‘em, join ‘em. They LEADERS HAVE TRIED TO ADVERTISING ASSISTANT and passed Hank Aaron for the all time home run record, claimed (contrary to known fact) that the Cynthia Vazquez “White America” was outraged. Let’s recap: Bonds breaks date was Jesus’ birthday, and usurped the REPLACE HAPPINESS [email protected] a white guy’s record and white people don’t care. Bonds solstice holiday for their church. OPERATIONS MANAGER breaks a black guy’s record and white people are furious! Even after the Christians stole WITH GUILT, INSISTING Connie Sommerville How can that be in Kenny Mack’s racist world? Christmas, they were ambivalent about it. [email protected] Reason No. 4 it’s not racism: Baseball fans bleed team The holiday was inherently a pro-life fes- THAT THE SPIRITUAL colors, not racial ones. You won’t get a beer spilled on your tival of earthly renewal, but the Christians PRODUCTION MANAGER head for being black or white at a game. But you most def- preached renunciation, sacrifice, and con- MEANING OF CHRISTMAS Tessa Vergara initely will get drenched if you wear a Giant’s uniform to a cern for the next world, not this one. As [email protected] Dodger game or a Yankee uniform to a Red Sox game. Cotton Mather, an 18th century clergy- IS RELIGION AND PRODUCTION ASSISTANT As baseball fans we don’t care about skin color, Kenny. man, put it: “Can you in your consciences Frances Casareno Sorry you still do. think that our Holy Savior is honored by SELF-SACRIFICE FOR TINY [email protected] Eric Cooper mirth? … Shall it be said that at the birth CLASSIFIEDS SALES MANAGER Santa Monica of our Savior … we take time … to do TIM OR HIS EQUIVALENT. Annie Kotok actions that have much more of hell than [email protected] of heaven in them?” Then came the major developments of All the best customs of Christmas, CIRCULATION “ .... 19th century capitalism: Industrialization, from carols to trees to spectacular deco- Keith Wyatt urbanization, the triumph of science, all of rations, have their root in pagan ideas Osvaldo Paganini it leading to easy transportation, efficient and practices. These customs were great- [email protected] OR GET mail delivery, the widespread publishing ly amplified by American culture, as the of books and magazines, new inventions product of reason, science, business, OFF THE making life comfortable and exciting, and worldliness, and egoism, i.e., the pursuit A newspaper with issues the rise of entrepreneurs who understood of happiness. 410 Broadway, Suite B that to make a profit was to produce some- America’s tragedy is that its intellec- Santa Monica, CA 90401 thing good and sell it to a mass market. tual leaders have tried to replace happi- OFFICE (310) 458-PRESS (7737) POT!” FAX (310) 576-9913 For the first time, the giving of gifts ness with guilt, insisting that the spiritu- became a major feature of Christmas. al meaning of Christmas is religion and Visit us online at smdp.com Early Christians denounced gift-giving as self-sacrifice for Tiny Tim or his equiva- a Roman practice, and Puritans called it lent. But the spiritual must start with diabolical. But Americans were not to be recognizing reality. Life requires reason, deterred. Thanks to capitalism, there was selfishness, capitalism; that is what The Santa Monica Daily Press is published six days a week, WRITE enough wealth to make gifts possible, a Christmas should celebrate — and real- Monday through Saturday. A LETTER, AN OP-ED OR DRAW A CARTOON. great productive apparatus to advertise ly, underneath all the pretense, that is 19,000 daily circulation, 46,450 them and make them available cheaply, what it does celebrate. It is time to take daily readership. Circulation is audited Send Submissions to and verified by Circulation Verification and a country so content that men want- the Christ out of Christmas, and turn Council, 2006. Serving the City of Santa Monica, and the communities of ed to reach out to their friends and the holiday into a guiltlessly egoistic, Venice Beach, Brentwood, West LA. [email protected] or to: Members of CNPA, AFCP, CVC, 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, 90401 express their enjoyment of life. The whole pro-reason, this-worldly, commercial Associated Press, IFPA, Santa Monica country took with glee to giving gifts on celebration. Chamber of Commerce. an unprecedented scale. Published by Newlon Rouge, LLC smdp.com Santa Claus is a thoroughly American DR. LEONARD PEIKOFF, founded the Ayn © 2006 Newlon Rouge, LLC, all rights reserved. invention. There was a St. Nicholas long Rand Institute in Irvine.

OPINIONS EXPRESSED are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Santa Monica Daily Press staff. Guest editorials from residents are encouraged, as are letters to the editor. Letters will be published on a space-available basis. It is our intention to publish all letters we receive, except those that are libelous or are unsigned. Preference will be given to those that are e-mailed to [email protected]. All letters must include the author’s name and telephone number for purposes of verification. Letters also may be mailed to our offices located at 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, 90401, or faxed to (310) 576-9913. All letters and guest editorials are subject to editing for space and content. Commentary Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 5 That Rutherford Guy John H. Whitehead Send comments to [email protected] All I want for X-Mas is an improved planet A very Merry Xmas rights they should be granted as human And a happy New Year. beings. For example, just last month, a Saudi Let’s hope it’s a good one Arabian woman was sentenced to six Without any fear. months in jail and 200 lashes, despite being -John Lennon gang-raped by seven men who had kid- RECYCLE NOW! napped her. Incredibly, the judge sentenced A recent advertising circular from one of her for being in a car with a man who was WE PAY THE BEST RATES! the major retailers in the country invited kids not her relative, a taboo in this misogynistic Aluminum Plastic Glass Bi-Metal Newspaper to put together a wish list of things they want desert kingdom. By fighting for the rights of for Christmas. There were toys galore, board women, we can make the world a better MICHIGAN CardboardWhite/Color/Computer Paper Copper & Brass games, bikes, video games, action figures — place for the generations of children who X 24TH the kinds of things I wished for as a child. will follow. Of course, this means that the DELAWARE AVE. Santa Monica Recycling Center Although I haven’t made out a Christmas list president and Congress will have to take a CLOVERFIELD (310) 453-9677 in a long time, there are still things I wish for. stand against the ill-treatment of women by 2411 Delaware Avenue • But these things cannot be bought in any our so-called allies such as Saudi Arabia. store or wrapped and placed under the tree. End world hunger. Approximately 854 mil- The idealist in me wishes for peace and lion people around the world are chronically ASK FOR an end to poverty, hunger and disease. undernourished and thoroughly incapable of However, the realist in me recognizes that obtaining sufficient sustenance. In addition, Victor wishing is not enough. We need to be nearly 16,000 children die from hunger-related doing. The following five suggestions might causes every day — a fact that translates into help you consider what needs to be added one child perishing from hunger every five sec- to your own list this Christmas. onds. While the average individual may feel $18 HAIRCUTS Increase education and schooling. overwhelmed by the extent of world hunger, w/mention of this ad (regularly $25) Education is so vital because with it comes much can be done to make a difference, both knowledge and a sense of understanding regardless of how small the efforts may be. The that is necessary in today’s world of miscom- starting point is realizing that we have to place 2918 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica Tues-Fri: 9-6pm Sat: 8-5pm munication and misunderstanding. We don’t the interests of others before ourselves. Call for an appointment 310.341.9611 Appointments not required. need an education in the three R’s but in how Donating funds and time to trustworthy to work together to solve the problems we organizations is one way to make a difference. face as a world community. A well-balanced Raising global awareness regarding the subject education for all people would not only help is critical in the battle against hunger. It is only fight issues such as poverty, AIDS and pollu- when individuals are aware of the true extent tion, it would also enable us to curb the and nature of the problem that they will be Gentle hatred and animosity that have spurred glob- adequately equipped with the knowledge and al terrorism over the past few decades. For passion it takes to make a difference. this to be a reality, America must lead the way. A world without war. The Iraq war has Eradicate the concept of “us” versus both economically and emotionally drained Dentistry “them” and focus more on the fact that we America. In fact, so far the war has cost the share many similarities as members of the American taxpayers over $472 billion. Just human race. The root of much of the recent think how many people could be fed with terrorist activity (and expansion of presiden- even a small percentage of this money. And with a Smile! tial power in the United States) is the idea that unfortunately, much of the world now views “we” (the pure and good) must wage a war of America as a warring empire. It’s time for morality against “them” (the dangerous and America to show the world a different way evil). This rhetoric has been used by various — a time for peace and understanding. 2915 Santa Monica Blvd., leaders as a propaganda tool to justify further Indeed, it is only through true understand- Sanaz Khoubnazar DMD Suite 3 violence and destruction. By eliminating this ing that we will be able to make well- General & Cosmetic Santa Monica Dentistry divisive rhetoric and ideology, we could move informed, rational decisions that ultimately p 310.829.0808 toward strengthening the global community affect the lives of human beings around the f 310.829.6778 and the ties that ultimately hold it together. world. Otherwise, we will continue to face an Improve the treatment of women. While uncertain and chaotic future. American women enjoy a status of legal equality with their male counterparts, Constitutional attorney JOHN W. WHITEHEAD women in other countries (particularly is founder of The Rutherford Institute. He can be those in the Middle East) are denied the very contacted at [email protected].

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News that mattered most Drinking fluoride ... chopping trees ... biking en masse ... building up and tearing down. The year 2007 is drawing to a close, giving us time to both look ahead with hope, as well as ponder the past. Take this time to assess the top stories in Santa Monica over the past year and how they affected our lives.

So this week’s Q-Line question asks: What were the top stories of 2007 and how did they shape life in Santa Monica?

Call (310) 285-8106 before Friday at 5 p.m. and we’ll print your answers in the weekend edition of the Daily Press. Please limit responses to a minute or less. State 6 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues Iraqi Assyrians cling to history BY JULIANA BARBASSA near the end of World War I. Associated Press Writer They were joined by families who escaped Iran when an Islamic revolution overthrew MODESTO Isaac Samow’s ancestors have the monarchy in 1979, then by new arrivals occupied Mesopotamia for millennia, sur- escaping the first Gulf War, when Samow viving innumerable conquests and mas- came here with his family. A similar Assyrian sacres. community also thrives in Chicago. The headstones in the cemetery of his But with their numbers now dangerous- SURF CONDITIONS WATER TEMP: 56° hometown near Mosul, Iraq, document cen- ly low in the region where Iran, Iraq and turies of his family’s history there, and the Turkey meet, Assyrians here fear the cur- SWELL FORECAST ( 3-4 FT ) ancient ruins that dot the arid plain near the rent wave of migration could mark their Today we should see NW swell increase further with bigger size on Wednesday the 26th. Tigris and Euphrates rivers tell of his peo- end. Community leaders in the United Tuesday also has some SW due from that system ple’s role in building humanity’s first cities. States are working to support Assyrians that spun up south of Easter Island last week. Most west facing breaks are looking at surf run- Yet another war is now threatening the back home. ning waist to chest with standouts seeing chest survival of Assyrian culture and language — The Assyrian American Civic Club of to shoulder high set waves at times. South fac- a derivation of the tongue spoken by Jesus Turlock is housed in a fortress-like hall dec- ing breaks are looking at waist to chest high waves from 180-190 degrees. — in its native land. orated with winged bulls that have human Among the first converts to Christianity, heads — a traditional Assyrian protective LONG RANGE SYNOPSIS thousands of Assyrians have fled since the figure known as a lamassus. An old map on NW INCREASES DURING THE SECOND HALF OF THE WEEK... U.S. invasion. Samow’s relatives are scattered the wall shows population centers that no through Canada, Australia, Denmark, New longer exist. TIDE FORECAST FOR TODAY IN SANTA MONICA Zealand, Greece, Holland, England, Sweden “Once, most villages in that area were and Germany. Assyrian,” said the club’s president, Fred Others are refugees in Syria, Jordan, and Betmaleck, who is Iranian-Assyrian. “Now inside Iraq, not knowing whether they can there are very few left.” return to cities and towns carved into Sunni The club works to keep Assyrian culture or Shiite enclaves. In such a climate, minori- alive by hosting a radio station that plays ties like Assyrians Christians face an uncer- Assyrian music and carries community tain future. news, and holds festivals, such as the “My children speak my language, but Assyrian New Year’s celebration known as what about my grandchildren?” Samow said Kha-b-Nissan, in the spring. from his home in Modesto. “If there are no Members also raised money through Assyrians left in Mesopotamia, how will our dances and raffles to help Assyrians who culture live?” remain in Iraq. Successive waves of Assyrians have landed “We try to help them stay there as much here in California’s Central Valley, beginning as possible, because when you leave, you with those who fled a massacre by Turks never go back,” said Betmaleck. Dems to investigate EPA decision on emissions law BY ERICA WERNER familiar with the decision. Johnson’s advis- Associated Press Writer ers told him that granting California the waiver would put the agency in a much more WASHINGTON The Bush administration’s defensible legal position should automakers rejection of state efforts to tighten rules on take EPA to court. greenhouse gas emissions touched off a flur- The officials, speaking on condition of ry of counterattacks Thursday. Democrats in anonymity because they were not author- Congress launched an investigation. ized to discuss the matter, confirmed a Governors led by California’s Arnold report in The Washington Post that a Power Schwarzenegger vowed to sue, and environ- Point presentation prepared for Johnson mental groups demanded to see the govern- included the prediction, “EPA likely to lose ment’s rationale for its decision. suit,” if taken to court for denying the waiv- Those were the opening moves in what is er. shaping up to be a fierce legal and political Critics also pointed to a sentence in a let- battle over the Environmental Protection ter Johnson sent Schwarzenegger on Agency’s decision to block California and at Wednesday: “I have decided that EPA will be least 16 other states from regulating green- denying the waiver and have instructed my house gases that come from new cars and staff to draft appropriate documents setting trucks. forth the rationale for this denial.” Environmental lawyers and congressional Environmental lawyers said such after- aides were focusing on whether EPA the-fact reasoning was unusual and predict- Administrator Stephen L. Johnson denied ed it would not stand in court. “Here they’ve California’s waiver request without relying decided to deny without figuring out what on the legal and technical documentation the proper reason for denial should be,” said they said should accompany such a decision. Dan Galpern, an attorney with the Western His statement that his position was based on Environmental Law Center in Oregon who a legal analysis of the Clean Air Act appeared is representing a coalition of environmental at odds with the way other government offi- groups in the case. cials characterized the process. EPA spokeswoman Jennifer Wood said it Johnson’s decision overruled a consensus wasn’t unusual for the EPA chief to make a among EPA’s legal and technical staff that decision on a Clean Air Act waiver request denying the waiver was unlikely to stand up and then ask staff to draft technical docu- in court, according to government officials mentation to back it up. Parenting Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 7 Young and violent teens drug user with a history of depression. He There’s only big deals.” violent behavior, says Lisa Pescara- Watching for 10 was a ward of the state after spending time Kovach, professor of educational psychol- in a treatment facility for threatening to DRUG/ALCOHOL ABUSE ogy at the University of Toledo and author kill his stepmother. He was a high school If your child becomes a substance of “School Shootings and Suicides: Why signs of trouble dropout who had recently lost his job at a abuser, that might not be his only prob- We Must Stop the Bullies.” fast-food restaurant and broken up with lem. BY MEGAN K. SCOTT his girlfriend. ASSAULT Associated Press Writer The church gunman had apparently UNSAFE ACCESS TO FIREARMS Be concerned if your child harms ani- sent hate mail to the mission center and “If your child has made a specific mals or assaults other people, particularly One young man had a history of posted online threats in between his two weapon-related threat and has unsafe a small child or authority figure, says depression and drug abuse. Another was deadly shooting sprees about killing access to a weapon, that is known to be a Seifert. “The more assaults a young person said to closely follow the Columbine case Christians. Police said they believed very dangerous combination,” says Dan has committed in the past, the more pre- and reject help from counselors. And a Tuesday’s shooting at a school bus stop Gross, co-founder and CEO of PAX, a dictive that is that they are going to fight at school appears to have provoked a was linked to a fight at a high school ear- nonprofit gun violence prevention organ- assault someone in the future.” If a child third. lier in the day. ization. “The key ingredient is always the has no remorse for hurting someone, Three shooting rampages in a one- While there is no single profile of a weapon. That’s what elevates an idle that’s a warning sign. week span have refocused attention on shooter, the warning signs of violence threat to one that poses much more seri- troubled youth: a 19-year-old man generally appear in childhood, says ous risk.” FAMILY HISTORY OF CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR opened fire at a Nebraska mall, killing Seifert. It can be difficult for parents to Criminals are generally unable to teach eight people and himself; a 24-year-old determine what goes beyond normal child EXPOSURE TO VIOLENCE children right from wrong, says Seifert. man killed four people at a megachurch behavior, but experts say to look for a Your child might be exposed to vio- An incarcerated parent can be a risk factor and a missionary training school in combination of the following over a peri- lence in the home or community. if that parent is sending the message that Colorado and then killed himself; and od of time. “Domestic violence is really a strong risk criminal behavior is OK, she says. now police are searching for gunmen who If the child is violent or suicidal, seek factor,” says Seifert. “That becomes the wounded six students at a school bus stop help immediately, says Seifert. Otherwise, children’s model for problem solving.” DEPRESSION in Nevada, following a fight about a girl. seek help if the problems interfere with If your child is isolating himself, puts “There is this copycat phenomenon the child’s home or school life for more SETTING FIRES himself down, and talks about feeling hope- with highly publicized homicides, multiple than a month and the parent is unable to If your child sets or attempts to set fire less, like the world is out to get him, these shootings and other suicides,”says Kathryn resolve the issue. to his home, someone else’s home, or his are all signs that he is depressed. Males are Seifert, a forensics psychologist and author school, that’s cause for concern about more likely to act out their depression in a of “How Children Become Violent.” She POOR COPING MECHANISMS future acts, says Seifert. “There are theo- violent way than females, says Ross. says people who are already troubled or A troubled child may be unable to cope ries that fire-setting is an indication that a considering violence might say, “’Well see with frustration, disappointment, or child has been sexually abused,” she says. BED-WETTING somebody does it and gets a lot of publici- stress, manifesting into anger or severe “Certainly sexual abuse is a risk factor for This is a minor risk factor if your ty. I’m going to do the same thing."’ depression, says Margaret Ross, President being violent, but not that by itself.” child is over the age of 5 or 6 and wets But Seifert says she believes the com- and Founder of the Kamaron Institute. the bed, says Seifert, because bed-wet- mon denominator is that these men had “The reaction is larger than the situation VIOLENT ROLE MODELS ting has been associated with early troubled pasts. and it’s regularly larger than the situa- Pay attention if your child idolizes childhood abuse, neglect and exposure The mall shooter was reported to be a tion,” she says. “There are no small deals. other shooters, or has a fascination with to domestic violence. Eagles coach, wife, break silence about sons

BY BOB LENTZ they decided to give the interview in hopes similar situations. “We’ve dealt with Garrett’s situation for a Associated Press Writer of helping others. “It was an opportunity to do this while long time, and we’ve done it through Super In excerpts of the interview posted on the the players were still in town and let them Bowls and championships,” Andy Reid told PHILADELPHIA Eagles coach Andy Reid and magazine’s Web site Friday, Reid disclosed he have an opportunity to, likewise, to read the magazine. “And it’s new to a lot of peo- his wife have dealt with their sons’ drug and his wife have been dealing with their about it so there would be no gray areas as ple, but it’s not new to us.” addictions for years, through “Super Bowls sons’ struggles since 2002. they left town.” Tammy Reid said, “We raised these boys. and championships,” and the coach plans to Reid declined to discuss the interview Reid encouraged everyone to read the We taught them to pray, taught them to ride remain with the team as long as he can do during his news conference Friday, referring interview, saying “it’s all explained in that.” their bikes — you see this potential in him, the job and the owner will have him. to the statement he made a day earlier. Both Garrett and Britt Reid have battled and you’re just not going to give up.” The Reids broke their silence about their “It was a way to share our story with oth- drug addiction and been sentenced to jail In the interview, Andy Reid said that sons’ problems and vowed their support in ers,” Reid said. “We’ve had tremendous sup- terms stemming from Britt’s road-rage case he wants to remain with the team “as an exclusive interview with Philadelphia port through this whole event. It was a way and Garrett’s heroin-fueled, high-speed long as I can do my job to the best of my Magazine for its January edition. They said to reach out to those who are going through crash in January. ability.” Local 8 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues Students learn to use words, not fists

FROM PEER PAGE 1 For Nick Kennerly, a seventh-grader at THE STUDENTS KNOW WHAT THE SOCIAL Lincoln Middle School, there’s no point in parties involved in the dispute, and leaving picking sides, saying that “if you don’t help the teachers more time to focus on actual STRUCTURE IS, THEY KNOW THE GOSSIP them, the conflict won’t be solved.” instruction and student learning. Apart from cutting down on the cases of “The students know what the social AND WHO IS FRIENDS WITH WHOM.” fighting at the middle schools, the program structure is, they know the gossip and who is also helps students develop leadership skills friends with whom,” Zacharie said. Erica Zacharie, Coordinator of Peer Mediation and Conflict Resolution Program and builds on self-esteem. Many of the students The handful of students selected every that have been with the program for a few years year go through a rigorous 30-hour, three- difficult considering they know the interest- third-party, such as a teacher, are submitted have noted seeing an improvement in the way day training weekend in February with the ed parties. in a drop-off box. in which they manage their own problems. LA County Bar Association, learning the ins “We’re taught to communicate than take “We’re there to help them solve the prob- Such has been the case for Paige and outs of dispute resolution, the different both sides,” said Franky Garcés de la Torre, lem, not solve the problem for them,” said Greoenwild, a Lincoln eighth-grader who types of conflicts that could arise, such as an eighth-grader at JAMS. Carlos Illamas, a JAMS eighth-grader who joined the program last year. ethnically driven altercations. Much like The peer mediators, many of whom have joined the program two years ago. “I now try to put myself in their position,” professional mediation training, the stu- been in the program for more than a year, For the students, the most challenging Greoenwild said. “You learn that you might dents draft settlement agreements and most preside over at least one dispute every aspect of mediating is to stay neutral, even if be messing up too because nobody’s perfect.” importantly, learn the importance of staying month. Mediation request forms, filled out they might know the problem up close and neutral, which in these students’ case can be by a student involved in the dispute or a personally because it involves their friends. [email protected]

‘TIS THE SEASON Houses in Santa Monica really know how to pull out all the stops for the holidays. Decorations range from lights and Santas to candy canes and angels. Some homes even decorated palm trees surrounding their properties. Oh, how California.

Photos by Brandon Wise [email protected] Local Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 9 A Christmas visual feast One resident really went all out to show her holiday spirit

BY MELODY HANATANI Daily Press Staff Writer

WILMONT There are Christmas decorations like simple colorful bulbs and cardboard snowmen cutouts, and then there are Christmas decorations. For the past 10 years, a veritable winter wonderland has emerged in front of a townhouse on Washington Avenue belonging to Shannon Vukalcic, the long- time Santa Monican behind an elaborate holiday decoration set-up that catches passersby offguard, amazed at its unusual extravagance. The Christmas ornamentation sits on the lawn in front of Vukalcic’s house off Lincoln Boulevard and consists of individ- ual statues and props, combined to form a wintery holiday scene. In one corner, Santa Claus sits in a propeller airplane, cheerfully dropping off gifts from high up above. Next to St. Nick, a polar bear per- forms a concert as some groupie penguins dance to the holiday music. A giant Ferris wheel entertains a couple of Santas, snow- men and penguins. The Christmas scene changes each year, Brandon Wise [email protected] with this year’s decorations headed for GOING THE EXTRA MILE: Santa presides over the extravagant front lawn decor of Shannon Vukalcic's house in Wil-Mont. Vukalcic’s mother’s house in West Hills for display next year. Following that, they’re front. The following year, she befriended a Christmas. A similar elaborate scene is set up “I enjoy doing it, but it’s also a gift to my moved into a storage unit in the San professional storefront window dresser who in front of Vukalcic’s home every Halloween neighborhood,” she said. Fernando Valley, where bits and pieces will sold used props and decorations from old and Easter. eventually be donated or reused in future windows. Those ornaments made their way Planning for the decorations begin early [email protected] festive scenes. to become a part of Vukalcic’s Christmas and Vukalcic already has the following year’s The elaborate settings have been a Wil- decorations. Christmas decorations in mind, a scene that WHAT DO YOU THINK? Mont favorite for years, attracting a loyal fol- The obsession grew as Vukalcic found will include trains. The Santa Monican esti- ■ Send letters to [email protected] lowing of neighbors and even homeless peo- unique ways to dress up her townhouse; one ple who have come to expect the familiar year, setting up seven reindeer — all painted sight of the Christmas decorations. In the lavender — with a sign reading,“please don’t few instances when the Christmas decora- feed the lavendeer.” Another year, the rein- tions weren’t up within a few weeks after deer were painted in different colors and Thanksgiving Day, some neighbors have wore boas and wigs, dressed for a New Year’s knocked on Vukalcic’s door, inquiring about night out on the town. when they could expect to see their favorite “I just like to do things differently,”she said. visual holiday feast. The resulting increase of the Vukalcic’s Some families have been spotted taking electricity bill varies with the amount of dec- their Christmas card pictures in front of the orating every year, but the December bill house, others, appreciative of the labor that easily doubles. goes into the set-up, have left presents and “One year, someone knocked on my door thank you notes for Vukalcic. and said ‘Do you realize how much electric- The decoration obsession began a decade ity you’re using?’” said Vukalcic, who works mates that she will have to begin building ago when Vukalcic decided to dress up her in clinical drugs studies. theP setUBLIC about three D monthsISPOSAL ahead of timeS inITE IN SANTA MONICA lawn by placing a few wired reindeer out The decorations don’t stop with her storage unit Southernin the Valley. California Transfer Company Go Green. MICHIGAN 24TH DELAWARE AVE. NEW YEAR'S EVE CLOVERFIELD

Hire locals. It cuts down FRANK on commuting, traffic 10 WEST and smog. MAGIC PARTY Full Evening Show 310-828-6444 Complimentary Buffet Champagne 1908 Frank St. Favors Hats Surprises in Santa Monica Find them Monday December 31, 2007 SCDisposal.com in the Santa Monica Daily Press classifieds. Attention Call today to learn about Contractors and Construction Sites: our local hiring packages. www.magicopolis.com We are a close and convenient Santa Monica permitted and authorized mixed C&D transfer station. 1418 Fourth Street - Santa Monica 310-458-7737 Approved C&D Recycler * Roll off service available 310 451 2241 Comics & Stuff 10 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues

Janric Classic Sudoku Girls and Sports By Justin Borus and Andrew Feinstein Fill in the blank cells using numbers 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row, column, and 3x3 block. Use logic and process of elimination to solve the puzzle. The difficulty level ranges from Bronze (easiest) to Silver to Gold (hardest).

Difficulty SILVER

The Meaning of Lila By John Forgetta & L.A. Rose

© 2006 Janric Enterprises Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc. GETTING STARTED There are many strategies to solving Sudoku. One way to begin is to examine each 3x3 grid and figure out which numbers are missing. Then, based on the other numbers in the row and column of each blank cell, find which of the missing numbers will work. Eliminating numbers will eventually lead you to the answer. The Other Coast By Adrian Raeside

SOLUTIONS TO YESTERDAY’S PUZZLE

Garfield By Jim Davis

Your ad could run here! Your ad could run here! Call us today at (310) 458-7737 Call us today at (310) 458-7737

Dog eat Doug By Brian Anderson Comics & Stuff Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 11

NEWS OF THE WEIRD BY CHUCK SHEPARD

■ Jane Balogh, 66, was informed in September that she will not be prosecuted for defrauding elections officials in Seattle, despite having illegally registered her dog, Duncan M. MacDonald, to vote. Balogh, protesting how easy officials have made it for people to vote illegally, put her home phone account in Duncan's name, which is all the proof required for registration, then signed him THE MAN DELIVERS Michael Tittinger [email protected] up, and when an absentee ballot Bill Dawson is the winner of the most recent Mystery Winner contest, being the first to identify arrived, she went public about her scheme. However, despite that this shot was captured at the Post Office building at Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue. the public confession, Duncan Look for a new Mystery Photo in Monday’s edition. continued to be sent official absentee ballots for the two subsequent election cycles. ■ In September, police in Hertfordshire, England, stood fast under criticism for their program of placing posters around the area reading, "Don't Commit Crime." Said a police spokeswoman, "If stating the obvious helps to reduce crime or Strange Brew By John Deering has any impact at all, we will do it." (The police also installed signs at gas stations: "All Fuel Must Be Paid For.") ■ Just when Internet newspa- per sites appear to be gaining ground as replacements for printed editions, a 70-year-old woman identified only as Maggie told the Edmonton (Alberta) Sun in September that her paper edi- tion of the Sun is a crucial part of her daily diet, literally. She eats it, in strips, and has, she said, for the past seven years because it tastes good. "I can't explain it," she said, and it was only when she recently experi- enced a blockage of her esopha- gus, and doctors found a ball of paper, that she revealed her obsession. Doctors cited by the Sun said that except for the blockage danger, newspaper eating is not unhealthful. TODAY IN HISTORY William the 1066 Conqueror was crowned king of England. Gen. George 1776 Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, N.J. Jazz singer and band- Speed Bump By Dave Coverly 1907 leader Cab Calloway was born in Rochester, N.Y. Hirohito became 1926 emperor of Japan, succeeding his father, Emperor Yoshihito. (Hirohito was formally enthroned almost two years later.) During World War II, 1941 Japan announced the surrender of the British-Canadian garrison at Hong Kong. Comedian W.C. Fields 1946 died in Pasadena, Calif., at age 66. Comedian Sir Charles 1977 Chaplin died in Switzerland at age 88. Ousted Romanian 1989 President Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife, Elena, were executed following a popu- lar uprising. Soviet President 1991 Mikhail S. Gorbachev went on television to announce his resignation as the eighth and final leader of a communist superpower that had already gone out of existence. Comedian Jerry 1997 Seinfeld announced plans to fold his highly success- ful NBC sitcom “Seinfeld” at the end of that season. Your ad could run here! WORD UP! maudlin \MAWD-lin\, adjective: Call us today at (310) 458-7737 Tearfully or excessively senti- mental. People in the News 12 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues MOVIEGUIDE Sacha Baron Cohen says AERO THEATRE 1328 Montana Avenue he’s retiring alter egos (310) 260.1528 Borat is dead

Check theatre for showtimes SACHA BARON COHEN and I came to love them, so hard, and the problem with Borat Sagdiyev — an anti- introduced the character tells The Daily Telegraph admitting I am never going success, although it’s fan- Semitic buffoon in search on “Da Ali G Show,” which that he’s retiring the clue- to play them again is quite tastic, is that every new of Pamela Anderson — to was carried in the U.S. on AMC LOEWS BROADWAY 4 less Kazakh journalist, as a sad thing,” the 36-year- person who sees the Borat the masses last year with HBO. 1441 3rd Street well as his alter ego, aspir- old actor-comedian says in movie is one less person I his smash comedy, “Borat: Baron Cohen can be (310) 458-1506 ing rapper Ali G. the British newspaper’s `get’ with Borat again, so Cultural Learnings of seen as a singing barber in “When I was being Ali G Friday edition. it’s a kind of self-defeating America for Make Benefit Tim Burton’s “Sweeney Atonement (R) and Borat I was in character “It is like saying good- form, really.” Glorious Nation of Todd.” 12:45, 3:10, 5:50, 8:25, 10:50 sometimes 14 hours a day bye to a loved one. It is Baron Cohen brought Kazakhstan.” He first ASSOCIATED PRESS Atonement (R) 1:25, 4:20, 7:25, 10:20 ADAMS HAS DOUBTS The Great Debaters (PG-13) 1:05, 4:00, 7:00, 9:55 For all the buzz AMY P.S. I Love You (PG-13) ADAMS has earned Willie Nelson donates $40K 1:40, 4:40, 7:40, 10:40 with her performance as a princess in Disney’s “Enchanted,” AMC 7 SANTA MONICA she still has doubts to town that knew him when 1310 3rd Street about her career (310) 289-4262 path. WILLIE NELSON hasn’t and recorded the single “Am I doing it forgotten the town that “No Place for Me” and sold Charlie Wilson's War (R) right?” she said. “I knew him before he was it to some of his listeners. 10:05am, 12:30, 3:00, 5:40, don’t think all success famous. Nelson soon moved 8:15, 10:45 and failure is judged by The 74-year-old country back to his native Texas Enchanted (PG) a career. I’m not mar- singer has donated and then on to Nashville, 11:00am, 1:40, 4:30, 7:10 ried. I don’t have chil- $40,000 to Vancouver, the Tenn., and fame. The Golden Compass (PG-13) dren. Sometimes I wish southwestern Washington Vancouver received the 10:40am, 1:20, 4:15, 7:00, I read more books than city where he sold some of $40,000 check three 9:45 scripts. Did I choose his first records a half-cen- weeks ago. On Wednesday, The Kite Runner (PG-13) the right road?” tury ago. the city gave $15,000 to 10:55am, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00, Adams, 33, told Nelson performed at the Humane Society of 10:55 Newsweek in its edition The Amphitheater near Washington and $15,000 to National Treasure: Book of that hits newsstands Vancouver on June 30. He the Boys and Girls Club. Secrets (PG) Monday that she’s even promised to share some of Colleen Kawahara, 10:45am, 1:45, 4:45, 7:45, having trouble sleeping. the proceeds with the city Vancouver special projects 9:55, 10:50 “I drew a picture of and area charities. coordinator, said the Sweeney Todd: The Demon myself in the third In the late 1950s, remaining $10,000 would Barber of Fleet Street (R) grade of what I would Nelson worked as a disc be used for efforts to 10:15am, 1:05, 4:05, 7:30, be when I grew up.” jockey for Vancouver sta- improve city government. 10:25 AP tion KVAN. He financed AP The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep (PG) 10:00am, 12:40, 3:20, 5:55, 8:30, 11:05 JACQUELINE BIGAR’S STARS The stars show the kind of day you’ll have: ★★★★★ Dynamic ★★★★ Positive ★★★ Average ★★ So-So ★ Difficult Enjoy the glow, Aquarius LAEMMLE’S MONICA FOURPLEX 1332 2nd Street Happy Birthday! ARIES (March 21-April 19) LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) (310) 394-9741 Let others strut their stuff ★★★★ Family and your immediate loved ones dominate, as they ★★★★★ You might want to touch base with quite a few people this year, even if a side of should. Indulge a loved one with attention and caring when oth- but have limited energy and time. Listen to your inner voice. Do Juno (PG-13) you would like to steal the ers are distracted. You have the skill to squeeze everyone in. your best. Remember a special friend later in the day. He or she 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00 limelight more often. You You will do just that. Tonight: Express your feelings freely. might be alone. Tonight: Zero in on that special person. No Country for Old Men (R) have nothing to prove, as 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:55 you will discover. If you TAURUS (April 20-May 20) SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Persepolis (PG-13) are single, be more open ★★★★ You might be a touch too busy to stop and share with ★★★★ Make a point of staying tuned into the spiritual meaning 12:45, 3:00, 5:25, 7:50, 10:15 to that person who could everyone, but you do a great job at squeezing in others. Your of this holiday; you could be so overwhelmed otherwise. Others The Savages (R) be a touch different. Your attention means more than you know. Center on what is impor- look to you for direction and meaning. Give them just that. 1:40, 4:25, 7:10, 9:55 popularity will soar. If you tant and make strong choices. Tonight: In the whirlwind of life. Tonight: Up late visiting. are attached, give your sweetie plenty of one-on- GEMINI (May 21-June 20) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) MANN'S CRITERION one time. He or she will ★★★ Watch a tendency to lose the true meaning of this holiday ★★★★★ Defer and understand. Share your time with others, THEATRE need it, as you keep seiz- with the swirl of action and gifts. Slow down and take time to but independently. Think in terms of adding that special caring 1313 3rd Street ing the limelight. LEO simmer or center. Reach out for others and make that extra with others. If you’re feeling upset, save it. You can clear the air (310) 395-1599 reads you cold. effort. Tonight: Speak, share and smile. later on. Tonight: Touch base with those at a distance.

Alvin and the Chipmunks (PG) CANCER (June 21-July 22) CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) 11:10am, 12:10, 1:50, 2:50, ★★★★ Your energy helps many. You certainly are the sign that ★★★★★ Others continue to maintain their high profile. You might 5:10, 7:30, 9:50 most appreciates holidays and family. You share and lift others’ have no choice but to sit back. Make special time for a loved one. The Bucket List (PG-13) j spirits. Investigate someone’s need to be possessive or have his Express your depth and caring. Help someone who might feel 11:30am, 12:30, 2:00, 3:00, or her way. Tonight: Go for what you want. uncomfortable. Tonight: Time with your very favorite person. 4:30, 5:30, 7:00, 8:00, 9:30, 10:30 LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) I Am Legend (PG-13) ★★ Though mildly out of sorts, you can decide to make the best ★★★★ Chip in and help someone with a problem. Examine what 12:00, 2:40, 4:20, 5:20, 6:50, of the moment. Understand what is happening within your needs to happen more carefully. Listen to a child who might be 7:50, 9:20, 10:20 Born Today immediate circle. Share special feelings. You revive post-hap- overwhelmed with excitement. Help others relax. Step in and Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Singer Jimmy Buffet penings and beam. Tonight: All smiles. help out. Tonight: Enjoy the remaining glow. Story (R) DLP-Digital (1946) Projection Actor Humphrey Bogart VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) 11:50am, 2:30, 5:00, 7:40, (1899) ★★★★ Use the early hours of the holiday to express your depth ★★★★★ Be more kidlike and get into the holiday. Don’t let your 10:10 and caring. You beam, and so do others, simply because they mind or judgment interfere with the mirth and joy that surround Jacqueline Bigar is on the Internet at are around you. Take some personal or quiet time toward the this day. Others appreciate your depth and feelings. Do share. http://www.jacquelinebigar.com (c) 2006 by King Features Syndicate Inc. end of the day. Tonight: Give a personal thank-you. Tonight: If you’re tired, slow down. More information email [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 13 14 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 A newspaper with issues YOUR AD COULD RUN TOMORROW!* Some restrictions may apply. Prepay your ad today! (310) 458-7737 *Please call our Classified Sales Manager to reserve your ad space. Specific ad placement not gauranteed on classified ads. Ad must meet deadline requirements. See complete conditions below.

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COUNTER HELP needed. Cafe near 3rd Call us today at (310) 458-7737 START THE NEW YEAR St. Promenade 215 Broadway. Must be (310)967-4471 www.jkwproperties.com WESTWOOD $895+ THE RIGHT WAY BCHL/1Ba, Upper Remodel, micro, Ref, Hire locals. It cuts down experienced. Immediate openings. Apply WAIT STAFF LOSE WEIGHT AND SHAPE UP afternoons in person. (310) 396-9898. HOWARD MANAGEMENT GROUP Hdwd Tile, Strt Pk $895/Mo on commuting, traffic CALL: (310)-394-1051 Part time and full time positions avail- (310) 869-7901 Studio/ 1BD/BA Carpet, Pool spa, Gated www.herbal-nutrition.net/givatnesher able. Competitive wages and benefits. Grt loc $975//MO and smog. CUSTOMER SERVICE FULL TIME- $30K Must have clear criminal background per year, starting $25K. Telephone serv- Studios from $1,200. One bedrooms 2bd/2Ba Carpet, Fan, F/P, D/W, Gym , and be drug free. Please apply at 2107 from $1,500. Two bedrooms from Pool, Cat ok $1650/Mo ices company in WLA with free secure Ocean Ave. SM, 90405. Employment parking. Experience preferred but will $2,000. Additional locations in West We have others From $650.00 train quality applicant. Good language L.A. 310-276-0881 Find them CO-OPPORTUNITY NOW HIRING! skills and reliability a must. Call For Sale www.apartmenthunterz.com in the 310-281-8888 for recorded details. PLEASE Visit our website Produce, Grocery, Community Deli for complete and Cashiers SPA/HOT TUB 2007 Model. Neck Jets. Santa Monica Daily Press Therapy seat. Warranty. Never used. listings at: Commercial Lease Go to www.coopportunity.com for GIVE OF YOURSELF volunteers wanted www.howardmanagement.com classifieds. more info or stop by the store at 1525 at the discovery shop. Help us contrib- Can deliver. Worth $5950, sell for Broadway for an application. ute to the American cancer society by $1950 (310) 479-3054 IDEAL FOR computer creative workers, spending 4 hours per week assisting in MAR VISTA 12450 unit 207 and 222 graphic designers, web developers, Call today to learn about our resale shop in Santa Monica. Con- $5.50 A DAY LINER ADS! CALL TODAY Culver Blvd. $1125. Stove, fridge, video post professionals. our local hiring packages. COMPANION/CAREGIVER tact Terry or Shaunna at (310)458-4490 blinds, carpet, utilities included, no Conveniently located on the westside, LOOKING for a Career not just a job? Charity pets, intercom entry, gated parking, A place where your clients are welcome. 310-458-7737 Live-In / Live-out - Full/Part-time. HIRING UNARMED security officers in (888)414-7778 www.jkwproperties.com "The face of your business." Must drive. We offer benefits the Santa Monica area, starting pay is THE CURE FOR CANCER MAY BE IN A great place to meet your clients Complete online application at $8.50 up to $10.00 an hour. YOUR CLOSET. Donate your designer MARINA DEL Rey $1000+ Workstation space with wi-fi for laptops www.sheridancare.com or call Must have a valid guard permit and clothing to The American Cancer Society Studio/1Ba, Carpet, Fan, F/P, D/W, Gym Rent by the month, week, day and hour 310 204-1187 pass pre-employment background and Discovery Shop 920 Wilshire Blvd. Pool, $1250/Mo (310)895 1098 ASK FOR JEFF 1BD/BA Carpet, Fan, F/P, D/W, Gym, YOUR AD drug screen. If interested please call Santa Monica 310- 458-4490. DENTAL ASSISTANT (310)791-5015 or apply Pool, Cat ok $1350 /MO SANTA MONICA 2941 Main Street. COULD RUN HERE! Modern, low-stress, SM office. No @ 3771 W. 242nd Street #106, Tor- Instruction 2bd/2Ba Carpet, Fan, F/P, D/W, Gym, Creative office space HMO or Medi-Cal. Chairside experi- rance, CA 90505. EOE. Pool, Cat ok $11850/Mo $750-$1000/month. ence and x-ray license required. 3-4 We have others From $650.00 Parking available. days per week. 60% back office/40% TUTORING & TEST PREP 310-276-0881 CALL US MDR 13322 Washington 500-1900 sq. front office. Flexible hours. Your ad could run here! Math, chemistry, physics, & biology. www.apartmenthunterz.com Call us today at (310) 458-7737 ft. office space for lease. (310)451-1446 Prof. educator, credentialed w/mas- PAR Commercial ters & 15 yrs exp. Home-school help SANTA MONICA $800+ TODAY AT PACIFIC YELLOW Cab is hiring taxi (310)395-2663.xt.112 MUSIC CLUB BOOKING CAMPAIGN possible. Isabella 310-399-2785, Studio Lower, Bright, Carpet, ref, stove, drivers in SM. Clss C license required. [email protected]. (310) 458-7737 SALESPERSON. (310)998-8305 XT 88 Will train. Please call (310)770-4004 kit, No Smoke $800/MO $5.50 A DAY LINER ADS! CALL TODAY

CALL TODAY FOR SPECIAL MONTHLY RATES! CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CONDITIONS: REGULAR RATE: $5.50 a day. Ads over 15 words add 20¢ per word per day. Ad must run a minimum of twelve consecutive days. PREMIUMS: First two words caps no charge. Bold words, italics, centered lines, etc. cost extra. There is no more convincing medium than a DAILY local newspaper. Please call for rates. TYPOS: Check your ad the first day of publication. Sorry, we do not issue credit after an ad has run more than once. DEADLINES: 3:00 p.m. prior the day of publication except for Monday’s paper when the deadline is Friday at 2:30 p.m. PAYMENT: All pri- vate party ads must be pre-paid. We accept checks, credit cards, and of course cash. CORRESPONDENCE: To place your ad call our offices Prepay your ad today! 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, (310) 458-7737; send a check or money order with ad copy to The Santa Monica Daily Press, (310) P.O. Box 1380, Santa Monica, CA 90406 or stop in at our office located at 1427 Third Street Promenade, Ste. 202. OTHER RATES: For 458-7737 information about the professional services directory or classified display ads, please call our office at (310) 458-7737. HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00am - 5:00pm LOCATION 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Visit us online at smdp.com TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 15 Shop our easy-to-use directory for services of every kind. Post your services by calling today! (310) Prepay your ad today! 458-7737

Please call our Classified Sales Manager to reserve your ad space. Specific ad placement not gauranteed on classified ads. Ad must meet deadline requirements. All classified liner ads are placed on our website for FREE! Check out www.smdp.com for more info.

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RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL Free Estimates PAC Choose any or all of our affordable services: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR SPECIALISTS IN ALL Exterior and Interior Companionship Grocery Shopping DAMAGE REPAIR Meal Preparation Transportation Free estimates, great referrals Over 10 yrs experience WEST Housekeeping Laundry & Errands FULL SERVICE HANDYMAN References Available FROM A TO Z MORTGAGE Our friendly caregivers are fully screened, bonded, and insured Work Guaranteed 2212 Lincoln Blvd in Santa Monica Call Brian @ (310)301-4869 (310) 927-5120 1-888-FOR-LOAN or (323)244-1993 (310) 915-7907 Steve's Painting LIC# 888736 Cell: (213) 663-3064 comprehensivehomecare.biz “HOME SWEET HOME” 310 392-9223 (213) 765-0252 INTERNATIONAL DOG TRAINING AND VERY AGGRESSIVE SERVICES ...... Behavioral Handyman Moving Management...... Individualized RATES Service Programs. (310)869-1649 WEST SIDE Therapy TIME FOR A 30 HANDYMAN STILL All SMOKING? YEAR FIXED? Repairs- Carpentry- Painting- RATES AS LOW AS 6% Plastering- Electrical Life is short — Why make it shorter 30 YEAR FIXED 6% Termite & Dry $5.50 A DAY LINER ADS! CALL TODAY Rot Repair John J. McGrail, C.Ht. APR 6.116% Not a Movers with Style, Inc. 10 YEAR/1 ARM 6.25% Licensed Contractor Certified APR 6.85% Call the House Healer CAL T-190313 CA 338038 % Hypnotherapist 7 YEAR/1 ARM 6 Notices Licensed & Insured APR 6.905% (310) 409-3244 NOTICE OF HEARING 5 YEAR/1 ARM 6%** Notice is given that on December 26, 2007 at On-Time & Dependable (310) 235-2883 APR 7.25% 8:30 a.m. or as soon after that time as the matter www.hypnotherapylosangeles.com may be heard, petitioner will move for an order Last Minute Moves 3 YEAR/1 ARM 5.75%** adjudicating the Santa Monica Daily Press as a Your ad could run here! APR 7.275% newspaper of general circulation for the City of Call us today at (310) 458-7737 Great Rates Santa Monica, County of Los Angeles. 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Santa Monica Daily Press is published for • Foundation/Concrete * As of August 29, 2007 the dissemination of local or telegraphic news (323) 873-5382 • DryWall, Paint, Elec. ** Denotes an interest only loan and intelligence of a general character in the City • Lighting Landscape • Hardscape Furniture Your ad could run here! of Santa Monica, California. The business ad- • Architectural Design dress is 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, Call us today at (310) 458-7737 Cleaning • Plans & Permits CA 90401. -Green & Sustainable 3. Santa Monica Daily Press has a bona fide -Free Consultation subscription list of paying subscribers, and sub- AFFORDABLE HOUSE -Unlicensed stantial paid distribution. 4. For more than three years preceding the CLEANING $40 10% off 1st Job filing of the petition, the petitioning newspaper by day, honest reliable, own transpor- 27 Years exp. has been established under the name of Santa tation, references, L.I./L.O. nanny Call (310) 430-2806 Monica Daily Press, and has been so established housekeepers. Low fees, been in busi- Locals and published, that is, issued and sold or distrib- ness since 1988, open 7 days. Call, uted regularly each weekday in the City of Santa Monica. ask for Adeline (818)705-0295 or fax 5. During each of the three-year period pre- (818)705-0297 ADVERTISE! CALL US (310) 458-7737 ceding the filing of this petition, the newspaper don’t has maintained a minimum coverage of local news and intelligence of a general character of not less than twenty-five percent of its total SIGN UP TO GET FREE inches; it has a principal office of publication lo- cated in the City of Santa Monica, County of Los AMBER ALERTS k have to Angeles. ON YOUR CELL PHONE. uic HOME DATED: December 13, 2007 Q Lisa Grace-Kellogg wirelessamberalerts.org Attorney for Petitioner REPAIRS ROB Santa Monica Daily Press get on 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 25 Dec 2007 SCHULTZ Fixtures & furniture Plumbing & Electrical the 405. BROKER DBAS A child is calling for help. LICENSED CALIFORNIA BROKER #01218743 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES STATEMENT FILE SERVING THE WESTSIDE So they will be in a better NO. 20072574226 FIRST FILING. The following Senior Discount person(s) is (are) doing business as EMPIRE BY Gen. Contracting mood when they get to DESIGN, 3755 MENTONE #8, P O BOX 741963, L.A. CA. 90004, 90034. The full name of regis- (310)985-2928 work. trant(s) is/are : LEVAR BROWN, 3755 MENTONE #8, L.A. CA. 90034 This Business is being con- A/C ducted by, an individual. Signed: The registrant commenced to transact business under the ficti- CONSTRUCTION tious business name or names listed on Find them (Date)11/19/2007. /s/: LEVAR BROWN General Construction This statement was filed with the County Clerk of LOS ANGELES County on 11/19/2007. NOTICE: Commercial & Residential YOUR AD in the ADVERTISE! CALL US (310) 458-7737 THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EX- PIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED Remodel & Add ons COULD RUN HERE! Santa Monica Daily Press IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW Honest. Reliable. classifieds. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FREE ESTIMATES Massage FILED PRIOR TO THAT DATE. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in — Sabbath Observed— CALL US BLISSFUL RELAXATION! Heal your body, this state of a fictitious business name state- Call today to learn about ment in violation of the rights of another under mind, spirit. Therapeutic bodywork/en- federal, state, or common law (see Section our local hiring packages. ergy healing. Strictly non-sexual. Intro- 14411et seq.,Business and Professions Code). TODAY AT ductory specials $68.00. Lynda, L.M.T. SANTA MONICA DAILY PRESS to publish 310.278.5380 310-458-7737 12/18/2007, 12/25/2007, 1/1/2008, 1/8/2008 (310) 749-0621 Lic# 804884 Fully Insured (310) 458-7737

HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00am - 5:00pm LOCATION 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, CA 90401 16 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2007 ADVERTISEMENT