What:
The Joe Louis Humanitarian Award Luncheon

Who:
Chief of Police Bernard C. Parks, World Class Fighters who include Paul Gonzalez, Joey Barnum, Enrique Balanos and Armando Ramos; Dub Harris, President of World Boxing Hall of Fame; and Joe Olmos, Retired Chief Inspector, California State Athletic Association.

When:
Wednesday, February 20, 2002
11:30 a.m.

Where:
The Los Angeles Athletic Club, 431 W. 7^th Street, 3^rd Floor Restaurant

Los Angeles: On Wednesday, February 20, 2002, the World Boxing Hall of Fame Association, will bestow the prestigious Joe Louis Humanitarian Award upon the Los Angeles Police Department’s Chief of Police, Bernard C. Parks.

Originally established in 1940, the World Boxing Hall of Fame recognizes the importance of the correlation between sports and our society. Individuals selected to the Hall of Fame are known and chosen because of their commitment to youth programs, fitness, and for their invaluable contributions to public service for the sole purpose to benefit mankind.

The Joe Louis Humanitarian Award was originated in 1981, following the death of former World Heavyweight Champion Joe Louis. This award recognition is given to those individuals who have exemplified themselves in community affairs for the good of humanity. In the past, there have been 25 recipients of this honor including such renowned individuals as Muhammad Ali, Ken Norton, Don King and Bobby Chacon.

Additionally, six months ago, the World Boxing Hall of Fame bestowed this award upon another former boxer, the Honorable Nelson Mandela. National Football great, Jim Brown, presented the award to Mr. Mandela.

For more information about this luncheon and award, contact the Los Angeles Police Department, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.

This Media Advisory was prepared by Public Information Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.