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40 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | NOVEMBER 2021 Tavis Smiley was born on Sept. 13, 1964 in Gulfport, Miss. but he grew up in Bunker Hill, Ind. He became interested in politics at age 13 after attending a fundraiser for U.S. Senator Birch Bayh at Maconaquah High School. In 1982, Smiley attended Indiana University and received a bachelor's degree in Law and Public Policy. Upon graduation, he served as an aide to Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley until 1990. In 1991, Smiley became a political commentator on the Tom Joyner Morning Show and started hosting BET talk in 1996. From 2002- 04 Smiley hosted The Tavis Smiley Show on National Public Radio (NPR) and Tavis Smiley on (PBS). He has written over 15 books; among his bestsellers are Hard Left, Doing What's Right, How to Make Black America Better, and Keeping the Faith. The prolific radio and television host, journalist, and author has now purchased KBLA 1580 AM radio station, located in Santa Monica, Calif. for a reported $7.15 million. Its new name is "KBLA Talk 1580" and is billed as "Unapologetically Progressive." This is California's first Black-owned talk-radio station and is covering the gamut of political, economic, social, and cultural issues, giving people of color and progressives a voice in the city of Los Angeles. It broadcasts live across Southern California on 1580 AM and around the world on the TuneIn podcast. The roster of radio shows includes Dominic DiPrima "First Things First" featuring news commentary. The Tavis Smiley show features celebrities, authors, and artists. Danny Morrison, who is community centered and opinionated hosts, "But That's Just Me." One of the "Original Kings of Comedy," DL Hughley, mixes reality and humor. Don Amiche focuses on news, politics, pop culture, and life. "Let's Get Intimate with Dr. Jeshana Johnson" is a show about healing relationships, and Black Lives Matter has its first radio show as well. It is a wonderful roster of talent airing 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The radio station also has an app you can download on your phone and tablet. For more information, the website is www.KBLA1580.com. Upcoming AACC Event(s): This year's Christmas Party will be Saturday, Dec. 11. The theme is A 70s House Party. Get your tickets today! The next AACC meeting will be on Monday, Nov. 1 at 6 pm in The Lodge Game Room. For more information call Betty Ann James at (951) 572-5538 or email infotoaacc@gmail.com. ~ Regina Thomas African American Cultural Club Black Lives Matter has its first radio talk show on KBLA 1580AM Tavis Smiley, new owner of KBLA Radio Station in Los Angeles