December 14, 2017
LAWT News Service
Jordan Peele’s seismic thriller “Get Out” captured the most wins from the members of the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA). Released early in 2017, the film earned Best Film, Best Directing, Best Acting and Best Screenplay recognition from the world’s largest group of professional Black film critics.
In addition to acting newcomer Daniel Kaluuya, AAFCA also recognized Frances McDormand for her tough-as-nails performance as a grieving mom in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri”. Laurence Fishburne and Tiffany Haddish won Best Supporting nods for their performances in “Last Flag Flying” and “Girls Trip”, while actor Lakeith Stanfield (who also appears in “Get Out”) earned Breakout Star for his lead role in “Crown Heights”, which also won the group’s Best Independent Award.
“The films released in 2017 captured a plethora of lifestyles, experiences and emotions that allowed our members to engage with a different range of storylines from previous years,” says AAFCA co-founder and president, Gil Robertson. "The success of “Girls Trip”, the first R-rated film starring an all Black female cast to surpass $100 million, and “Get Out”, Jordan Peele’s directorial debut which surpassed $250 million worldwide, prove just how viable Black films are across the board. Also, “Gook”, with its Asian-centered storyline, and “Coco”, the animated film spotlighting Dia de los Muertos, the revered Mexican tradition, provided our membership with an opportunity to recognize storylines that are relevant to communities that have not previously been included on our list. Overall, it was a great year for cinema that reflects the diverse and complicated world that we live in.”
“AAFCA’s Top 10 lists in Film and TV represent the organization’s commitment to an expanded analysis of both mediums,” stated AAFCA co-founder Shawn Edwards. “While content targeting Black audiences dominates both charts, AAFCA is pleased to acknowledge and recognize content that represents the global community. This wave of new content thrives in an environment where multiple voices are welcomed and championed. Inclusion is a win for everybody.”
As previously announced the 2018 AAFCA Awards Program will include two ceremonies – a Special Achievement Luncheon Sponsored by Morgan Stanley on February 3, 2018 at the California Yacht Club and the AAFCA Awards sponsored by Nissan on February 7, 2018 at the Taglyan Complex in Hollywood. For more information, please visit www.AAFCA.com.
December 14, 2017
Aries
March 21 – April 19
Your focus continues to be on exploring new opportunities and making fresh discoveries. As chatty Mercury conjoins the sun, this can also be a chance to examine an offer that comes your way again. By looking at it with fresh eyes, you may find reasons to want to explore it further. There might also be some unexpected encounters coming your way that are like a breath of fresh air. Finally, the new moon on December 17 encourages you to step out confidently.
Taurus
May 21 - Jun 20
The deeper issues of life could continue to be on your mind and encourage conversations with those who can act as trusted advisers or confidants. There may be changes that you’re eager to see happen, yet as lively Mercury continues its retrograde phase, you might need to take stock, especially when it ties with the sun on Tuesday. And while your social life shows great promise, you might be drawn to reflect and act on issues that will take your life forward.
Gemini
May 21 - Jun 20
With your sector of relating continuing in focus, the coming week could see you networking and perhaps reviewing ideas, projects, or even decisions. When energizing Mercury, now retrograde, aligns with lovely Venus, you might need to unpick a promise or contract that requires adjustment due to recent events. On Saturday, it might be just as well to expect the unexpected, as an invitation could lead to a sizzling encounter. The new moon on Sunday can encourage you to explore this further.
Cancer
Jun 21 - Jul 22
Issues associated with your job and wellness matters continue to dominate. And with Mercury spinning backward until December 22, it pays to be watchful, especially if dealing with important documents. Jupiter is happily ensconced in your leisure sector for the coming months, so all kinds of activities get a boost. Long-term relationships and new romance can see the flame of love glowing brightly, helped along by feisty Mars. The weekend’s new moon could encourage you to reject bad habits and adopt healthier ones.
Leo
Jul 23 - Aug 22
The love bug may continue to keep you enthralled with the planetary setup highlighting dating opportunities. You might feel a need to make a decision on Friday, as lively Mercury meets with lovely Venus. If so, consider leaving things as they are for now, as your outlook could change over coming weeks. With both flamboyant Jupiter and dynamic Mars in your home zone, you might be ready for a holiday get-together. The new moon on Sunday suggests a new creative project could beckon.
Virgo
Aug 23-Sep 22
While the holiday mood sparkles, there continues to be activity at home that may involve important discussions. You might need to reconsider a decision that involves other family members. With tactful Venus involved, you could find that others respond favorably to any changes. This can also be a time of reunions. It feels good to reconnect with those who you haven’t seen in while. A lively connection between the sun and electric Uranus can see you benefiting from an unexpected gift.
Libra
Sep 23 - Oct 22
Be sure to give yourself plenty of time if you have deadlines to meet. The reason is that it’s best not to leave everything until the last minute as long as talkative Mercury is still retrograde. There’s good news on Friday, though, as Mercury conjoins Venus, which could see you connecting with a person who reminds you of someone from your past. Because of this, you may get on exceptionally well. Sunday’s new moon could coincide with a golden opportunity. Will you grab it?
Scorpio
Oct 23 - Nov 21
The focus on your personal financial zone continues. The sun here combines with chatty retrograde Mercury and encourages you to take stock of your situation and see what you can do to improve it. Mercury continues to spin backward until December 22, so go easy when purchasing big-ticket items. If you have no option but to buy them, keep receipts and paperwork. The good news is that with upbeat Jupiter continuing in your sign, some spectacular opportunities could come your way.
Sagittarius
Nov 22 - Dec 21
This is a great time to attend to personal goals and interests. Don’t rush any decisions, though, as with Mercury continuing its retrograde phase, changes may need to be made anyway. You might do better to research your options in the meantime. You may also want to look into an idea that you rejected but that now seems very appealing. Indeed, as the sun and diplomatic Venus combine with communicative Mercury, discussing this with others can help you decide whether to go ahead or not.
Capricorn
Dec 22 - Jan 19
You may still have a desire to take time out to reflect and recharge. If this is the case, you’re on track, because a continued focus on your spiritual sector encourages this. And with Mercury spinning backward, this can also be the perfect time to resolve issues that may have dragged on for some time. A new moon on Sunday could encourage you to take up a practice such as meditation that can help you relax deeply and encourage peace of mind.
Aquarius
Jan 20 - Feb 18
Your social sector continues to look upbeat, encouraging you to make a few changes and consider moving in new circles. And with Mercury retrograde, you might also find that old friends come back into the fold, bringing a chance to carry on where you left off. However, with a very potent focus on your career zone involving expansive Jupiter and dynamic Mars, things are certainly looking up in this area. Meanwhile, Sunday’s new moon encourages you to move in new social circles.
Pisces
Feb 19 - Mar 20
There’s a lot of activity in your goal sector that can indicate a time of goal setting, whether it’s related to your career or a personal ambition. With Mercury presently retrograde, hold off signing contracts or committing to major deals if possible. If you can’t, you could find that changes occur that alter the original terms and conditions considerably. There are times, though, when this can work in your favor. Sunday’s new moon could inspire you to take the first step toward a personal ambition.
December 14, 2017
City News Service
A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame honoring football- player-turned-professional wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne Johnson was unveiled Wednesday, one week before the release of his latest film.
Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, which is distributing “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle,” joined Johnson in speaking at the 11:30 a.m. ceremony in front of the Hollywood & Highland complex.
The star is the 2,624th since the completion of the Walk of Fame in 1961 with the first 1,558 stars.
The ceremony was livestreamed on walkoffame.com.
Johnson’s recent films include “Baywatch,” “The Fate of The Furious,” “Central Intelligence” and “San Andreas.”
His other film credits include three other installments of the “Fast and Furious” franchise, “Fast Five,” “Fast and Furious 6” and “Furious 7”; “Hercules”; “Snitch”; “G.I. Joe: Retaliation”; “Empire State”; “Pain & Gain”; “Race to Witch Mountain”; “Get Smart”; “The Game Plan”; and “Be Cool.”
Future films include “Jungle Cruise,” based on the Disneyland ride, and a “Fast and Furious” spinoff based on his character.
Johnson also stars in the HBO comedy “Ballers.”
Johnson was born May 2, 1972, in the east San Francisco Bay Area community of Hayward and raised in Hawaii and Pennsylvania.
Johnson played defensive tackle at the University of Miami. His football career ended with a stint on the practice roster of the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League in 1995.
Johnson became a professional wrestler in 1996, following his father, Rocky Johnson, and grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. He would become an eight-time World Wrestling Federation/World Wrestling Entertainment champion.
December 07, 2017
By Lapacazo Sandoval
Contributing Writer
Dear Los Angeles, I want to share information about a great, holiday opportunity that’s being provided by actress/entrepreneur/producer and soon to be an author, Vivica A. Fox and wellness and fitness coach, Coach Azja (@LoveAzja).
During an interview with Miss Fox to discuss her new, holiday film “A Christmas Cruise” (which she also co-produced) that will appear on the ION Network, Saturday, December 16, 9/8p (CT), we talked about the riches and blessings that have colored her life and career.
“Giving back and helping others is very much a part of my childhood,” said Ms. Fox. “That and the church. Growing up, we lived across from the church and my mother, well, let’s just say that being of service is a big part of my childhood. And you know what, I am glad for it.”
Just last weekend, while spending quality time with life coach Azja, the two women decided to provide two, single-parent families with a $1,500.00 care package of gifts and brunch, with both of them, to kick-start the holiday season.
To nominate your family or bring much-needed attention to a single parent family that you know could use such a holiday treat, simply write a letter and email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by December 14, 2017. The two lucky single-parent families chosen will be announced on December 15th.
To follow Ms. Fox or life coach Ajza, here is the twitter handles:
@MsVivicaFox, @LoveAzja
Hey LA your Christmas Cheer Angels want 2 bless 2 single parent families w a FAB package of $1500 in gifts & brunch w @MsVivicaFox & @LoveAzja Email us ASAP at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. nominate yourself or someone u know who needs a blessing! Winners announced Dec 15th.