October 13, 2016 

Associated Press 

Thomas Ford, the actor who played Martin Lawrence’s character’s best friend Tommy Strawn on the hit ’90s sitcom “Martin,” has died in Atlanta. He was 52.

 

Family spokeswoman Joy Pervis says Ford died Wednesday. The actor played the level-headed pal of Lawrence on “Martin" for the show's entire five-year run.

 

One running joke was his not having a job, prompting the catchphrase: “You don't got no job, Tommy!”

 

Ford had other TV parts, notably as Lt. Malcolm Barker on Fox’s “New York Undercover” and as Mel Parker on UPN’s “The Parkers” as well as playing the Pope of Comedy on TV One’s “Who’s Got Jokes” with Bill Bellamy.

 

 

 

 

 

October 13, 2016 

Aries  

March 21 – April 19 

Your social life sparkles and this may be the reason that you feel like mixing and mingling more regularly. Monday and Tuesday are excellent for any occasion, whether it involves business, friends and family, or romance. Someone's imaginative idea could impress you and you might want to take it further. Your social life could clash with your responsibilities midweek, but you should be able to resolve this, as the weekend's Full Moon encourages you to clear the air.

  

Taurus 

May 21 - Jun 20 

While a part of you may be concerned with the here and now and making your life as efficient, harmonious, and balanced as it can be, another side of you is thinking of the future. The main focus, though, is on taking stock of your well-being, work/life balance, and overall happiness. The future will be blessed by the seeds you plant today. By doing all you can to get your present situation working for you, you will soon reap rewards.

  

Gemini 

May 21 - Jun 20 

While you may be enjoying yourself, you might wonder if you're not wasting your time when you could be doing something more useful, like working through your to-do list or tending to business. You may find that when you give yourself a chance to recharge, new ideas seem to come to you that help you tackle key issues more easily. If you push yourself too hard, you'll find that you have to rest for longer periods over the weekend. Pace yourself!

  

Cancer 

Jun 21 - Jul 22 

The current focus encourages you to nurture yourself and do home-based things, so the coming weeks and months could prove very enjoyable. Monday and Tuesday mark a high point and are very upbeat, but this week you may need to handle some differences of opinion. Taking the right stance with someone who's averse to your plans is important. Giving in isn't an option, but a heart-to-heart talk and open mind could help you find a compromise without things getting too emotional.

  

Leo 

Jul 23 - Aug 22 

You seem to be on a roll, with one golden opportunity coming your way that you'll want to grab. Be sure to check the terms and conditions, as a Mars/Neptune connection hints that all may not be as it seems. Regarding romance, this could be an interesting week as emotions build, and they could come to a head this weekend. With Uranus in the mix, it might be tempting to make an impulsive move. Avoid this, as you may regret it later.

  

Virgo 

Aug 23 - Sep 22 

To spend or not to spend? While you may feel flush at the start of the week, it might be best not to splurge but to save. The reason is that unstable influences suggest an unexpected bill or unknown expense may show up. By the weekend you may need to spend more than you planned, which could be an issue if you've already blown your budget. Careful money management can be very rewarding if you stick with it.

 

Libra 

Sep 23 - Oct 22 

There are times when all you want is to be left to your own devices. However, this desire to do your own thing could be thwarted by family members who feel they should have a say in your affairs. The days ahead may need careful handling whether you're dealing with a partner or relative. There is the potential for a clash this weekend, but it can be minimized if you manage any situations sensitively, and you're a pro at that.

 

Scorpio 

Oct 23 - Nov 21 

Your head and heart may be in conflict, making it hard to resolve a key situation. Should you take a compassionate approach and try to placate those involved or fight for your side? Any anxiety caused by this matter may be worse than just doing your best to resolve it. Offer to discuss it, but only do so if you feel you can be detached. If you're too emotional, it might be better to wait until things calm down.

 

Sagittarius 

Nov 22 - Dec 21 

A social situation at the start of the week can be a lot of fun and may give you a boost as well as help you make supportive new friends. Still, there are times when you feel that your values are as different from those of your social group as chalk and cheese. You might also feel misunderstood. Don't do anything impulsive, though. If you can keep an open mind, you may end up liking each other even more.

 

Capricorn 

Dec 22 - Jan 19

You may get a chance at a special opportunity that could come down to your cooperative attitude. There is the potential for misunderstanding, too, so be sure you have everything written down in black and white. And try to keep emotions out of any decisions you make, particularly regarding your future, family, and loved ones. If those who care about you think you're overstretching yourself, don't be surprised if they say so. This can be your chance to reassure them.

  

Aquarius 

Jan 20 - Feb 18 

An encounter at the start of the week could leave you feeling positive about the future, but a part of you may have reservations about leaving your comfort zone. Don't suppress this. Talk it over with a good friend. You may find that your fears are groundless. Later, clashes are possible when discussing a plan or arranging a trip. With the weekend's Full Moon and edgy Uranus aspects, the wrong word could rock the boat. However, the right words can make everything OK.

  

Pisces 

Feb 19 - Mar 20 

A business move could prove very lucrative early this week, or you could receive a small windfall that makes you smile. Just try not to overspend, as you may have to part with more money than you thought, especially over the weekend. If you get any extra cash, your best bet would be to squirrel it away, as you may need it to pay off an unexpected bill or other expense. On another note, your love life could be sensational! 

October 13, 2016 

By Zon D’Amour 

Contributing Writer

October 7, 2016 is a day that many music enthusiasts won’t soon forget as the city of Los Angeles has deemed it “Clarence Avant Day”. During his recent Hollywood Walk Of Fame induction ceremony, Avant was celebrated for the sixty years of trailblazing work he’s done behind the scenes as a music executive.

 

It was noted that Avant’s ceremony may have had the most celebrities that were also walk of fame honorees in attendance including: NBA legend Magic Johnson, legendary producers Berry Gordy, Quincy Jones, LA Reid, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Babyface, as well as singer and actor Jamie Foxx were all eager to pay homage to Avant for his tutelage throughout their careers.

 

Renown as the “Godfather of Black Music” Avant, 85, began his career as a music manager in the 50s for the likes of R&B singer Little Willie John, jazz singer Sarah Vaughan, as well as rock and roll pioneer Tom Wilson. In the 60s, his knack for spotting talent led to the founding of Venture Records Inc. backed by MGM Records, the label would become the first joint venture between an African American-owned music company and a major record label.

 

It was during this time that Avant first met producer Quincy Jones. “I had to [write my speech] because I know too much about him and I didn’t want to bust him” began Jones’ humorous remarks to Avant. “I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at many of these walks over the years but I can say without hesitation or reservation that today’s ceremony brings a profound since of joy to my heart because we’re recognizing the contributions of my oldest, closest, friend in the world, my brother Clarence Avant.” Jones went on to share how he was in awe of Avant’s ability to negotiate and broker six figure business deals which were oftentimes unprecedented amounts for many artists and executives of their day. “We’ve been brothers and friends ever since then.”

 

With an astounding fifty year friendship Jones told the captive audience, “[Clarence] has always been the silent architect. He just gets things done and he’s not beating his chest bragging about it or looking for credit, he just gets it done and that’s what I’ve loved about him for all of these years. Clarence, there will never be enough words to express how much you mean to me, you’ve always told me the damn truth in every aspect of my life. I’m sincerely honored and humbled to share this beautiful day with you” added Jones.

 

Echoing similar sentiments of gratitude for Avant was Grammy Award winning artist Bill Withers who during the Walk Of Fame Ceremony, thanked the executive for being one of the first people to believe in his talents. “Not far from here was Sussex Records, where I had my first meeting with Clarence and signed my first recording contract. With his energy and very colorful language, Clarence seemed to know people of all manner and mannerisms. We called him the guru which evolved into godfather.” Under Avant’s imprint Withers released his best-known hits, “Ain’t No Sunshine”, “Lean On Me” and “Grandma’s Hands”.

 

In the 70s Avant made an indelible mark on the radio industry when Avant Garde Broadcasting, Inc., became the first African-American owned FM radio station in metropolitan Los Angeles.

 

In the 1980s Avant’s mentorship of producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis resulted in the duo launching the careers of Cherelle, Alexander O’Neal and the S.O.S Band. Thus, it was befitting that Avant’s Walk Of Fame star was placed next to his “sons”. “There would be no Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis without Clarence Avant. His star going next to ours couldn’t be [in] a better place. Welcome to the neighborhood” said Jam during the ceremony. “To the brightest star among the stars…welcome, Pops” added Lewis.

 

Many of the executives in attendance mentioned that the one of the most invaluable lessons that Avant taught them was the importance of knowing their worth.

 

Producer and record executive LA Reid also credits Avant with helping he and Babyface launch their company, LaFace Records. “Clarence has been a great inspiration throughout my career. He’s always given me great advice, most notably, ‘get paid’. Clarence always said, “Get the check. Number one, it’s about the money, number two, it’s about the money and number three it’s about the money. If it wasn’t for Clarence, myself and Kenny [Babyface Edmonds] wouldn’t have been so well connected in Los Angeles.” Reid also added, “I’m really proud, this couldn’t have happened to a more deserving person. This is probably the most heartfelt ceremony that I’ve ever attended.”

 

Moving into the new millennium, Avant’s business savvy also had a lasting impression on music manager Chaka Zulu whose clientele includes Grammy-Award winning rappers T.I. and Ludacris. “I could have been anywhere but I had to be here” said Zulu. “[Avant’s] done so many things in this business that have allowed me to flourish and be apart of this industry. You have to pay homage to a man that paved the way.” In an era where many managers and producers crave the spotlight, Zulu shared the importance of Avant’s seclusive yet omnipotence nature. “It’s an understatement to say what the importance of the people behind the scenes are. They’re the ones who wake up before the artists, go to sleep after the artists, they’re the ones who look over the contracts; they’re always on watch so that the artist is able to be creative and focused on what they do. It’s a tireless, selfless job to do what Clarence has done for this long and at the level. I salute him and thank him.”

 

During the ceremony, Grammy and Oscar Award winning artist Jamie Foxx described the humbling experience of first meeting Avant with his no-nonsense demeanor. “It was like meeting the principal. But I got a chance to meet an absolute legend who embraced me like a family member. The footprints you’ve left in the sand will never be washed away. We love you.”

 

Avant’s influence transcends his work in the music industry; he’s also been a consistent figure in the realm of philanthropy, community empowerment and politics. Over the years, Avant has generously given to various civic organizations including the: NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Apollo Theatre Foundation, Los Angeles World Affairs Council, Inner City Broadcasting Corporation and served as chairman of the board for the Brotherhood Crusade foundation.

 

“This honor has been long overdue,” said Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., Executive Publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper and the L.A. Watts Times Newspaper and close friend of Avant. “Clarence has been phenomenal force in the music industry for over 50 years. I am honored to call him my friend and be here to celebrate this momentous occasion with his wife Jacquie and his children Nicole and Alex”

 

As the husband and father of two children, Avant’s son Alex shared that his father’s benevolence is what has been instilled within him. “The most important word that he’s shared with me is “responsibility”. Being responsible particularly for people of color is very important. One of the advantages of being behind the scenes is that he can motivate, collaborate and inspire more people. When you think of the legacy of Clarence Avant, think of his contribution not only as a music executive but also as a friend. He’s a real friend to everyone; his dying loyalty is admirable. He follows through on everything he says particularly with a career spanning close to sixty years is rare these days.”

 

Avant’s influence in the political sphere dates back to the 70s when he helped to raise nearly a million dollars for Jesse Jackson’s Operation Push Expo. He donated nearly $30 thousand to the campaign for L.A.’s first African American mayor, Tom Bradley. In the 90s, Avant’s home was the site of a prestigious fundraiser for President Bill Clinton and in 2007 he supported campaign efforts for President Obama.

 

Acknowledging the anomaly of Avant’s prolific career, director and producer Reginald Hudlin shared, “The legacy of Clarence Avant is a man who understood politics, culture and business and could weave all three seamlessly--that’s an extraordinary achievement. He raised a generation of executives both black and white. He shaped music, he shaped politics, his philanthropy is incredible--he’s a legend. It’s terrifying to think of a world without him. I’m so happy to be here to celebrate his incredible life achievements.”

 

Even on his day, Avant shunned the spotlight, jokingly placing the Walk Of Fame plaque in front of his face as not to be captured by photographers. Always in business mode, Avant kept his remarks short and sweet because, “they’re not paying me so there is no speech.”

 

With titles ranging from activist, executive, TV, film and music producer, publisher, philanthropists and more when asked if there was any title in particular that he wanted to be known for, Avant said, “Just remember my name, the rest you’ll figure out.”

 

With so many people attributing their personal and professional successes to Clarence Avant, neither his name nor his legacy is something the world won’t soon forget.