The Bulletin

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024 SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1973

COMPTON CELEBRATES

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Compton Community honors Black History Month with inspiring displays of entrepreneurship, artistry, and heritage Compton, CA – On Saturday, February 3rd, the vibrant heart of Compton came alive as the community united to celebrate and honor Black History Month at the Dollarhide Community Center.

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HE event showcased a dynamic array of attractions, bringing together local businesses, captivating performances, and thought-provoking exhibits that illuminated the rich legacy of Black culture.

Mayor Emma Sharif reflected

on the significance of the celebration, stating, “This event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our heritage, amplifying our voices, and continuing to strive for a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”

A highlight of the event was the ‘Black Wall Street’, where 30 Blackowned businesses showcased their goods and services, offering attendees an immersive experience into the entrepreneurial spirit and economic impact of Black entrepreneurs.

Eddie Reed, a renowned Harley Davidson drag racer, remarked, “The event wasn’t just a celebration; it was a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. It showcased the diversity and vitality of Black culture in Compton, leaving a lasting impact on all who n Black, see page 8

COMPTON CITY CLERK’S CORNER Welcome to the Compton City Clerk’s Corner, a recap of weekly City Council Meetings.

RECAP OF JANUARY 23, 2024 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA CHRISTMAS PARADE AWARDS PRESENTATION High School Band 1st place: Centennial High School 2nd place: Compton High School 3rd place: Long Beach Jordan High School Open Dance Squad 1st place: El Son De Mi Tierra Folklorico 2nd place: Princess Feet Dance Academy 3rd place: Divas of Compton Open Drill & Drum Squad 1st place: Compton High School 2nd place: Dominguez High School 3rd place: Compton Early College Equestrian Units 1st place: Charros De Compton 2nd place: Compton Cowboys REGULAR AGENDA 1. NAACP REQUEST TO USE CITY FACILITY (COUNCIL CHAMBERS): 2024 CANDIDATES FORUM - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, n City Clerk’s Corner, see page 8

LA County introduces the Fair Chance ordinance PROMOTING AN INCLUSIVE WORKFORCE AND ECONOMY BY GIVING A FAIR CHANCE IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors passed a motion to introduce the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers. Adoption of the Ordinance will provide additional rights, protections and enforcement mechanisms for persons with criminal history seeking employment in the unincorporated Los Angeles County.

The County’s Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers will complement the

States’ “Ban-the Box” law, called the Fair Chance Act, enacted in 2018, which generally prohibits employers with five or more employees from asking about the conviction history of an applicant before making a job offer, and requires employers to perform an individualized assessment regarding an applicant’s conviction history before rescinding a job offer.

Through this motion and

adoption of the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, envisioned and championed by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and co-authored by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, the County of Los Angeles seeks to overcome the stigma and unfair biases associated with individuals with criminal records when employers are making hiring and employment decisions, and to ensure that individuals with criminal history are provided a

fair and equitable opportunity for employment.

“Our local economy and communities’ benefit from more residents having equitable access to opportunity - this must include our fellow residents who have served their time and are ready to work.

I am proud that the Board’s vote brings Los Angeles County closer to adopting a fair chance ordinance. n Ordinance, see page 8

NEWS

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COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

Lynwood Community Adult School graduates new nurses Over a dozen aspiring nurses lit candles, symbolizing their devotion and commitment to the care of others, and catapulted their career aspirations in the medical profession during the Lynwood Community Adult School’s (LCAS) vocational nursing graduation and pinning ceremony on February 1.

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IXTEEN students in the 2023-24 cohort graduated from the intensive 13-month vocational nursing program, which provides students with knowledge of the principles and skills necessary to succeed as nurses in a hospital setting.

As part of the program, students go through a rigorous selection process involving two testing sessions and an interview panel. Once select-

ed, students receive clinical training in healthcare facilities – including St. Francis Medical Center, Camino Healthcare, and the Watts Healthcare Center – and are prepared to take state nursing board exams, which qualify them to work in the field or continue their studies in a college-level registered nursing program.

In addition to the vocational nursing program, LCAS offers adult

students a variety of academic and career technical education programs to choose from, including courses in business, child development, engineering, various medical occupations, adult basic education, citizenship, high school diploma and more.

Registration for the third trimester is now open, with classes beginning March 11. Visit lcas.mylusd.org or call (310) 603-1485 for more information and to register today!

LACCD announces strategic agreement with A2MEND to foster educational opportunities and diversity LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), is forging a dynamic alliance with the African American Male Education Network & Development (A2MEND), a leading education-focused organization.

This partnership will provide support and increase services for students, faculty and staff through the African American Outreach Initiative (AAOI) and the LACCD Districtwide UMOJA community.

A2MEND’s educational and cultural expertise locally, statewide, nationally, and internationally will provide access to and guide strategies for Black/African American students’ success through retention, completion, graduation and enrichment opportunities. This partnership is poised

to bring about transformative changes and improved student outcomes across all nine colleges.

The one-year agreement reflects the commitment of both LACCD and A2MEND to enhance educational opportunities and results by providing in-service training for the LACCD community.

A2MEND will coordinate a District educational summit and create student club charters at each of the nine campuses to improve the quality of experiences for our Black/African American students. The A2MEND partnership will support LACCD’s dual enrollment initiative by assisting in creating a pipeline between the District and the K-12 system to increase Black/African American student access to

and success in postsecondary education.

“We are excited this collaboration will unleash synergies to support our students’ development as well as bolster our commitment to their education,” said LACCD Board President Nichelle Henderson. “This partnership aligns with our mission to empower individuals through an equitable education as they journey towards success.”

“Report after report states the crisis in plain sight occurring with Black/African American student achievement, especially for Black males,” said Chancellor Francisco C. Rodriguez. “This partnership with A2MEND is historic and necessary to once and for all reduce the equity and achievement gap for our

Black students at our nine colleges.”

“I believe that together, A2MEND and LACCD can make a real difference in the lives of LACCD students,” said Dr. Erin Vines, A2MEND Executive Director. “I am eager to see the positive changes that this collaboration will bring to each college as we develop opportunities for more enriching educational experiences.”

This agreement is an affirmative step toward eliminating systemic biases and institutional racism. As noted in the District’s Framework for Racial Equity and Social Justice, LACCD must act affirmatively in rooting out racism and internalizing anti-racist policies and practices. Both organizations are enthusiastic

about the potential impact of these initiatives on the community and look forward to the successful implementation of the partnership.

About A2MEND - African American Male Education Network and Development (A2MEND) organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit led by African American male educators who utilize their scholarly and professional expertise to foster institutional change within California’s community college system to increase success of African American male students. Since establishing the organization in 2006, A²MEND has served as the premiere nonprofit solely focused on addressing the lack of educational success for African American male students in community colleges.

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

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COMMUNITY

California Black Caucus Introduces Reparations Package Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media Members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) announced plans to introduce a package of bills this year designed to address the recommendations the California reparations task force made last year in its final report.

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ERTAIN advocacy groups and individuals say the legislative package the lawmakers announced on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 does not go far enough. They criticize the absence of direct cash payments, an element they campaigned for as a centerpiece to any compensation due to the descendants of people who endured slavery in the Deep South and more than a century of social, economic and pollical injustices after abolition.

Chris Lodgson, a member of the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC), released a statement after CLBC members made the announcement during a press briefing with reporters held on Jan.31.

“As we’ve communicated to elected officials directly for some time, we believe any Reparations package must be targeted explicitly and exclusively to California’s 2 million Black American descendants of persons enslaved in the U.S. (American Freedmen),” Lodgson said in a letter obtained by California Black Media.

“In addition, a true reparations package must include timely, tangible benefits (i.e direct monetary payments).

Our team will continue to review the proposals announced (Jan. 31 and Feb. 1) and any related bill/resolution language as they become available. But the time for strong, bold Reparations is now, not later.”

Members of CLBC first presented 14 reparations bills

on Jan. 31 while on a Zoom call with Black media outlets from across the state. CLBC chairperson Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) outlined the goals of the package and stated its intention to right the wrongs of historical injustices that African Americans endured in the state of California.

Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), the vice chair of CLBC, presented additional pieces legislation to implement reparations at the State Capitol on the first day of Black History Month, Feb. 1.

Wilson said the Caucus’s package is a “first step” in a multi-year effort to implement the legislative recommendations in the report.

Wilson was joined on the briefing by Assemblymembers Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), and Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) – all members of the CLBC. “While many only associate direct cash payments with reparations the true meaning of the word, to repair, involves much more. As laid out in the report, we need a comprehensive approach to dismantling the legacy of slavery and systemic racism,” Wilson said in a statement. “This year’s legislative package tackles a wide range of issues; from criminal justice reforms to property rights to education, civil rights

and food justice.”

Bradford first introduced legislation Senate Bill (SB) 490 in August 2023. The bill would create a new state agency called the California American Freedman Affairs Agency (CAFAA).

The CAFAA would be responsible for managing the infrastructure required to manage reparations as determined by the Legislature and Governor.

“Our coalition’s unwavering commitment has been to pursue lineage-based reparations, encompassing direct monetary payments/compensation, state recognition of descendants as a protected class, and the establishment of the CA American Freedman Affairs Agency through SB490 (Bradford)” Lodgson stated.

The report documented numerous cases of social injustices against Black Californians that occurred either by custom or by law across the state. For example, last year the city of Palm Springs issued an apology for destroying the homes of Black people on short notice under imminent domain laws in an area of the city known as Section 14.

However, the affected families that lost their homes were never compensated for them.

The descendants of the Section 14 property owners filed a claim against Palm Springs seeking $2 billion

for alleged harms due to the removal of their forebears, according to the family members’ attorney, Areva Martin.

Before issuing the apology, Palm Springs officials, investigated the removal process of the houses, and they voted to provide compensation in the form of reparations.

Martin said the city has not taken any action yet.

The CLBC bill packages were released three weeks after Gov. Gavin Newsom presented a $291 billion spending plan to the California Legislature on Jan. 10. Newsom expects the state to have a $37.9 billion deficit, a figure much lower than the nearly $68 billion deficit projected by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst Office (LAO) in December.

Bradford said the state budget will affect potential reparations policies.

“Without a doubt, the budget will impact what we do but we’ve often said in California the budget is a reflection of our priorities and a reflection of our values,” Bradford said during his news conference.

“If we say we value reparations and want to heal the harms of slavery in this country and in this state, we have to make this a priority.”

Last year, on June 28, the nine-member panel, officially called the Task Force to Study and Develop Reparations Pro-

posals for African Americans, submitted a 1075-page, comprehensive reparations plan that includes more than 115 recommendations and a survey.

Khansa Jones-Muhammad, better known as “Friday Jones,” a reparations advocate, educator, and Vice President of the Los Angeles Reparations Advisory Commission (RAC), sent a message to the CLBC to share her thoughts about the reparations package.

The RAC is a seven-member task force comprised of activists, academicians, attorneys, racial justice advocates, and more. It is supported by Los Angeles’ Civil + Human Rights and Equity Department’s Office of Racial Equity.

RAC’s main function it to advise the city on the formation of a reparations pilot program for Californians who are descendants of enslaved Black Americans in the Los Angeles area.

“I just emailed @CABlackCaucus to let them know we deserve better #Reparations bill package with targeted, timely, tangible, monetary resources for Black American descendants of U.S. chattel slavery,” Jones-Muhammad posted Feb. 1.

Wilson and Bradford said that additional legislation concerning legislation would be considered in the future.

“The Caucus is looking to make strides in the second half of this legislative session as we build towards righting the wrongs of California’s past in future sessions,” Wilson stated.

Reparations Khansa “Friday Jones” Jones-Muhammad, the vice president of the Los Angeles Reparations Advisory Commission speaks during the public comment period during a California Reparations Task Force meeting in Sacramento in March 2023.

Jones-Muhammad recently stated that the CLBC’s reparations package does not address direct cash payments.

CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

HEALTH

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COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: SUPER BOWL

(c) monkeybusinessimages / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Everyday Habits to Help Protect Against Illness This Season

ACROSS 1. Desert bloomers 6. Request for tailor 9. Paul Bunyan’s companion 13. Delivered by plane 14. Boiling emotion 15. Match play result?

16. Like the North vs. the South war 17. Bag, à Paris 18. Nymph of lakes and springs 19. *Team that never made it to Super Bowl 21. *Last year’s Super Bowl winner 23. *Safety value 24. Disfigure 25. *Birthplace of NFL 28. Roofed colonnade 30. Dr. Seuss’ Yertle 35. Auctioneer’s final word 37. Sea eagles 39. Popular winter boot brand 40. Largest ethnic group in Rwanda 41. User’s destination 43. Like Twiggy’s skirt 44. Former anesthetic 46. Not all 47. Death notice 48. Like r in American English 50. Luau souvenirs 52. Opposite of WSW 53. Vatican’s head 55. Cattle prod 57. *AFC’s top seed 60. *Host state of this year’s Super Bowl 63. Like allergy spray 64. Second person of be 66. Pleasant odor 68. Fervent 69. Grazing ground 70. “When pigs fly!”

71. Modeling material 72. *NFL Honors’ announcement 73. Trento’s Council of ____ DOWN 1. Chlorofluorocarbon, abbr.

2. Alight, past tense 3. Boat mooring spot, e.g.

4. Short for betwixt 5. Wife’s parents 6. Serpentarium noise 7. Time period

8. Hajj destination 9. Hillside, in Scotland 10. “Dream on!” (2 words) 11. Constricting snakes 12. *____ zone 15. Bad blood 20. Post-it user 22. Not miss 24. Street opening 25. *Half-time show entertainer 26. Compass point 27. In spite of the fact, arch.

29. Loads from lodes 31. *CBS announcer and former QB 32. Native American group 33. Famous Bolshevik 34. *Like the Super Bowl players 36. Sonny & Cher, e.g.

38. Ditto 42. Neutral shade 45. With mature appearance 49. Bamboozle 51. Learned one 54. Religious song 56. Defier 57. Not top-shelf 58. On the ocean 59. Deviate 60. Type of tide 61. Peace symbol 62. End of grace 63. *49ers’ conference 65. Short for one time around 67. Short for Arthur

THIS WEEKS SOLUTION

(StatePoint) With only 8% of children and 21% of adults reporting receipt of the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine, less than half the population reporting receipt of a flu vaccine and just 20% of adults 60 and over reporting receipt of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, it’s no surprise that rates of respiratory illnesses are at elevated levels this season.

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R E S P I R AT O RY illness is all too common, particularly during colder months when people spend more time indoors and germs can spread more easily,” says Dr. Albert Rizzo, chief medical officer, American Lung Association.

“Fortunately, there are many strategies for staying healthy.”

The American Lung Association is sharing everyday habits you can adopt to help avoid infection, along with information about available tools to help prevent severe illness: • Wash your hands.

Regularly wash your hands with soap and water. If soap and water isn’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Cover your cough and sneeze. Stop the spread of infection by using a tissue to

cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze.

You can use your elbow if a tissue is not available.

• Keep your distance.

Close contact with a person who is sick increases exposure to respiratory droplets containing a virus. Maintain your distance whenever possible.

• Stay home. In addition to staying home when you are sick, try your best to keep your distance from household members to help prevent them from getting sick.

• Clean and disinfect.

When someone is sick at home, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces is especially important to help prevent the spread of illness.

• Consider wearing a mask. Wearing a mask helps provide protection against circulating viruses, and can help protect people at higher risk of serious illness.

Effectiveness does vary depending on the virus and mask quality.

• Get up to date. Talk to your doctor to see if you and your family members are up to date on vaccinations. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older. RSV vaccination is recommended for adults 60 years of age and older after having a discussion with their healthcare provider.

Maternal RSV vaccination is recommended as an option

to help prevent babies from developing severe RSV illness and is given during weeks 32-36 of pregnancy during September through January.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older.

• Learn more about monoclonal antibodies. If you have an infant or are an expectant parent, ask your healthcare provider about a monoclonal antibody injection to help provide protection against severe RSV illness. This preventative antibody is recommended for infants under 8 months of age and babies between 8-19 months at increased risk of severe RSV. • Get tested, if needed. If you do get sick, testing can help your healthcare provider determine which virus you have, and inform next steps such as treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing right away if you get sick, especially if you are at increased risk for severe illness.

• Seek treatment. Antiviral medications available for flu and COVID-19 may lower your risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death if started early and within the recommended treatment window.

For more resources, visit, lung.org/viruses.

To feel your best this season, adopt healthy habits.

And if you do fall ill, take steps to get the right treatment.

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

EDUCATION

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Randy Jackson, Maejor, and CUSD’s Dr. Brawley discuss drive to serve A stimulating panel discussion called Drive to Serve featured CUSD Superintendent Dr. Darin Brawley; music executive, TV personality, and award-winning producer Randy Jackson; Grammynominated singer, songwriter, and powerhouse producer Maejor; and CUSD Senior Director of Business Partnerships and Schools Michelle Edgar discussing living a life of service, transforming education across cities to impact change, and leaving a legacy.

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BRAWLEY kicked off the discussion at the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica, talking about the tremendous turnaround in the Compton Unified School District over the last 10 years, raising graduation rates to 90%, raising test scores above the levels of the surrounding districts, and creating dynamic partnerships with a vast array of major corporations such as Apple, Verizon, Northrop Grumman, and others. “I challenge you to find

a school district that does more partnerships than Compton Unified,” he told the audience.

He said the overall focus at the district has been putting the kids first and focusing on their needs. And while there’s been tremendous success, he said there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“What’s lacking is the internship and apprenticeship opportunities for the students in our community. They need more opportunities from big companies and businesses. The

(Left to right): Maejor, Dr. Brawley, Mayor Phil Brock, Randy Jackson, and Michelle Edgar. kids who need it most aren’t getting those internships opportunities.”

Randy Jackson agreed with the sentiment that kids need more mentors in their lives.

He said he loved teaching and nurturing kids. “Sometimes, as a kid, you need someone who believes in you.”

Multi-platinum music pro-

ducer Maejor talked about his journey in life and how things changed drastically when he was diagnosed with cancer. He discussed the power of music and how he’s learned that certain frequencies have healing powers.

In addition, he discussed the power of art and how important it is for kids to experience art.

“Art is a great way to expand the mind.”

Michelle Edgar moderated the discussion, welcomed Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock to the stage for a few words, and thanked the crowd of nearly 100 for attending the event, taking an interest in supporting education, and supporting the Compton Unified School District.

Compton Election 2024

CANDIDATE STATEMENT

VERNELL R. MCDANIEL Occupation: COMPTON CITY CLERK

Continued devotion to the people’s City Clerk emanates from my enthusiasm to serve others in performing the duties of a public servant.

For 21 years, I served the City of Compton as its Chief Deputy City Clerk.

In January, 2023, the Compton Community and City Councilmembers in solidarity, appointed me City Clerk. To date, this decision has proven to be the right choice for the City of Compton.

I HAVE IMPLEMENTED: • A business model labeled as ‘Looking Forward’ that serves to progress lasting solutions to challenges and problems, versus placing a hurried reactionary quick fix.

• As City Clerk I consistently employ ethical standards and integrity that adhere to the Elections Code, Ralph M. Brown Act, City Charter, Compton Municipal Code, Political Reform Act and Public Records Act, when governing the office of the City Clerk.

• I work with local organizations that embody positivity for our community including, but not limited to The National Association for Equal Justice In America, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Local 2325 American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) .

The Compton Community is extremely worthy of a City Clerk that serves efficiently and ethically.

With ardent honor to serve the Compton Community I ask for your vote to retain me as your experienced and qualified Compton City Clerk.

PERSPECTIVE

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COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

Making Decisions Is The Hardest Part Of My Life Dr. James L. Snyder If it were not for decisions, my life would be perfect. After all these years, I still wrestle with decision-making. I admit that I often don’t make good decision.

I

HATE choosing one thing over another when both things are good. That’s a bad part of life if you ask me. Why can’t everything be easy?

For example, The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage in the morning will ask me what I want for supper. I have not even had lunch yet, and now I am backed into a corner and have to make a decision about supper.

I always wrestle with decisions, and by now, I should have perfected my decision-making skills. Just when I think I have, some decision comes before me that I have difficulty dealing with.

The other day, for example, The Gracious Mistress of the Parsonage was baking pies for some family get-together. I could smell them all the way back to my office.

She came to my office, looked in, and asked, “Would you like a piece of pie?”

That’s not even in the decision category. So I answered,

“Of course I do.”

“Okay,” she said, “which pie would you like? You can only have one piece.”

I asked her about the pies she was baking, and she said, “I have Apple pie, lemon meringue pie, peach pie, coconut cream pie, and chocolate pie.

You can only have one piece, so which one?”

Pondering on that decision-making process, I looked at her and said, “I’m not sure which one I want; what would you recommend?”

As she was ready to leave my office, I stopped her and said, “I’ll take any pie you

choose for me and bring it here.” Then I smiled.

I waited. And waited. And waited. She never came back with any pie for me. I had no idea what was wrong.

Finally, my nerves got the best of me, and I walked into the kitchen to find out what was happening.

There she was, sitting down at the table, eating a nice piece of pie. I looked at her.

She looked back and smiled.

Then I asked her, “So, where’s my pie?”

She looked at me, laughed, and said, “Since you could not make up your mind when I

asked you, I just thought you didn’t want any pie.” Then she laughed some more.

I did not think that was funny, I walked over to the pies and carefully looked at them. Each one had its own aroma and I loved each one.

Looking at them, I was trying to figure out which pie I would choose to eat.

Making decisions is very hard to do, at least for me especially when it comes to choosing my pie. No matter which pie I choose, I would love it, but then I would wonder about the pies I did not choose.

Life has its ups and downs.

When I have to make a decision about anything, a Bible verse comes to mind.

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

When I trust my understanding, I always fail in some degree. When I accept the fact that I don’t know everything, I then turn my trust to the Lord.

Dr. James L. Snyder can be reached by e-mail at jamessnyder51@gmail.com.

The Child Tax Credit: Moving Forward On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan tax package that included elements of the historic 2021 Child Tax Credit (CTC) expansion.

The new Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act doesn’t include all of the improvements that were part of that expansion, but it is still an important step that will benefit approximately 16 million young people— including more than one in three Black and Brown children under 17.

The CTC was created in

1997 to help families meet everyday expenses raising children, and since then, it has eased economic pressure on many parents and caregivers and helped families afford groceries, clothes, school supplies, and other basics needed for children’s well-being. It was expanded in 2021 as part of the American Rescue Plan, reaching 35 million families— and approximately 90 percent of all children in the United States—who benefited from its immediate relief. Monthly payments—the hallmark of the 2021 expansion—ensured

even greater economic security and flexibility for families, and the expansion helped child and youth poverty in the United States fall to the lowest rate on record. But Congress allowed the expansion to expire in 2022, and that rate skyrocketed back up to pre-pandemic levels.

When the expanded CTC was in place, research showed buying food was the most common use for the payments across all income levels, and the payments increased families’ ability to eat more fruit, protein, and

balanced meals—but families with children reported a 25 percent increase in not having enough to eat after the expansion expired. A Children’s Defense Fund coalition parent advisory board member who works in social services described the CTC’s impact this way: “[For some families] it meant they could pay their utility bill, get a new pair of shoes for their children, and have enough food for their family. For my family it meant making it to the end of the month without having to [put] gas, groceries, or other

needed items on a credit card.

It meant I could avoid the constant circle of high interest payments to get our basic needs met.”

Now this new bill will make it easier for millions of children and young people to again get many of the things they need to thrive. Urge your Senators to pass the bipartisan tax package, and let your Members of Congress know they must now keep going towards a permanent, fully refundable, monthly CTC to keep families moving forward.

Let’s stay on the right road!

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

SPORTS

Chiefs and 49ers in Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII The Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers showed up for NFL’s Opening Night Kickoff event for Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photos by Dennis J. Freeman

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NEWS

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COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

Black continued from page 1

attended.”

The tribute to Harley Drew, a Black custom Harley Davidson builder, and bike designer, alongside Eddie Reed, further underscored the event’s homage to motorcycle culture. Attendees had the opportunity to explore an impressive display of motorcycles, highlighting

their mark on the community.

Compton City Councilmember Andre Spicer expressed gratitude to all involved, stating, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the vendors, businesses, organizations, and volunteers whose dedication and support made this event a resounding success. Your contributions have truly

enriched our community and underscored the importance of collaboration in celebrating Black History Month.”

Enthusiasts of Black art, literature, and intellectualism were captivated by exhibits curated by the Compton Library and local authors, paying homage to the heights of Black excellence. The

SEIU (Service Employees International Union) highlighted the invaluable contributions of Black laborers to the workforce, adding depth to the event’s narrative.

Entertainment was provided by the KJLH Street Team, offering dynamic performances that included a prayer by Pastor Rafer

Owens, a flag ceremony by the Girls Scouts, routines

by NAACP dancers, and a poetry performance by Faith Inspirational Church.

This event provided attendees with a unique opportunity to embrace the cultural heritage of Compton and pay homage to the enduring legacy of Black Americans.

“Our fellow community members deserve a fair chance to thrive in an accessible, equitable, and inclusive County.”

The motion also includes a directive that will hold the County of Los Angeles, as the largest employer in the County, to the same standards as what is being asked of private businesses under the Ordinance. “The County of Los Angeles is a proud Fair Chance employer and has been so for several years. The Department of Human Resources has created and implemented policies designed to address fair and equitable employment opportunities for individuals impacted by the justice system. In the County, a conviction is not a barrier to employment. In fact, we have talented and productive employees who have previously been incarcerated.

This is a viable source of talent. We look forward to further refining our policies to align with this ordinance,” said Lisa M. Garrett, Director

of Personnel.

The Department of Consumer and Business Affairs’ (DCBA) Office of Labor Equity will be the leading enforcement agency for the Ordinance and will work directly with the Department of Economic Opportunity to educate businesses and individuals in the unincorporated areas of LA County. “This progressive ordinance paves the way for many more qualified, productive workers to contribute to and thrive in our community as they build a brighter future for themselves and their families,” said Rafael Carbajal, Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. “We look forward to working with LA County business operators to educate them about how to remain in compliance with the Fair Chance Ordinance.”

“Fair chance hiring creates diverse and inclusive workspaces, which have been proven to boost businesses

bottom line and our local economies – it is a win-win situation for all” says, Kelly LoBianco, Director of the Department of Economic Opportunity.

“Our department is committed to working with employers to implement fair chance hiring practices and connect them to a skilled workforce while preparing individuals impacted by the justice system at our America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC), Office of Small Business and through various workforce and economic development programs and services.”

The Department of Economic Opportunity has been at the forefront of promoting and increasing awareness of the state’s Fair Chance Act since 2019 by educating businesses about the benefits of hiring individuals that have been impacted by the justice system as well as informing jobseekers with lived experience about their rights under the law.

A year ago, DEO

launched its most recent iteration of the Fair Chance Hiring Campaign, after a pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with the LA County Department of Human Resources (DHR), the Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department (JCOD) and (AJCCs), and key collaborators, Root & Rebound, LeadersUp and Taskforce, DEO worked tirelessly to decrease barriers to employment for individuals impacted by the justice system by highlighting proven benefits of hiring fair chance and breaking down misconceptions of the reentry population.

As a fair chance employer and individual with lived experience, Carmen Garcia, Executive Director at Root & Rebound, says, “Don’t let that criminal record be the reason you deny someone an opportunity. Because you’re missing out on very, very hard workers. People who are very loyal to the mission, the work, to their colleagues.”

AIR CONDITIONING, INC. AND ISSUE A PURCHASE ORDER FOR THE REPL ACEMENT OF ELEVEN (11) HVAC UNITS LOCATED AT 700 NORTH BULLIS R O A D ($149,717.50) ITEM REMOVED

ORDER WITH UNIFIRST CORPORATION TO PROVIDE UNIFORMS FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS STREET MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS ($20,000) A P P R O V E D RESOLUTION 25,968

AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A THREE (3) YEAR AGREEMENT WITH AND ESTABLISH A PURCHASE ORDER FOR GENERAL PUMP COMPANY FOR PROVISION OF WATER WELL AND BOOSTER PUMP TECHNICAL AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES ($540,471.43) A P P R O V E D RESOLUTION 25,969

COUNCIL MEETING, FEBRUARY 6, 2024 5:30PM For additional information regarding items on the January 23, 2024 City Council Meeting Agenda Recap, please contact the City Clerk’s Office by calling: (310) 605-5530 Monday – Thursday 7am – 6pm or email: contactcityclerk@comp­toncity.org.

Visit our website at http:// www.comptoncity.org

Ordinance continued from page 1

Once officially in effect, this ordinance will help ensure the County is leading by example as the largest employer in the region and will strengthen protections and create tools for stronger enforcement of fair chance hiring practices in our unincorporated communities,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.

The Ordinance will apply to any private employer that employs five or more employees performing at least two hours of work each week within the unincorporated areas of the County. If an employer is deemed in violation of the Ordinance, penalties may be collected by the County.

“When one in three Americans has a criminal record and approximately 60,000 Californians are likely to return home from prison or jail, our local economy cannot afford to leave this subset of our population unemployed,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, First District.

City Clerk’s Corner continued from page 1

2024 10AM-12PM ITEM REMOVED NEW BUSINESS 2.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COMPTON AMENDING THE GENERAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT 2023-2024 FISCAL YEAR BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE $149,717.50 FROM THE INSURANCE RECOVERY FUND AND ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH PRIORITY HEATING AND

3. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COMPTON AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ESTABLISH A PURCHASE

4. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COMPTON

NEXT REGULAR CITY

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF ROLAND D. JACKSON aka ROLAND JACKSON Case No. 24STPB00450 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of ROLAND D. JACKSON aka ROLAND JACKSON A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Brianna Owairu in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Brianna Owairu be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

LEGAL NOTICES

ISTER ESTATE OF Mozell Phillips CASE NO. 23STPB13230 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: Mozell Phillips A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Jennie Lane Randle in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Jennie Lane Randle be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority . (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on Feb. 15, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 11 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on 03/08/24 at 08:30 a.m. in Dept. 4 located at 111 N. HILL ST. LOS ANGELES CA 90012 STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: JAMES L LEESTMA ESQ SBN 207311 LAW OFFICE OF JAMES LAMBERT LEESTMA 7301 TOPANGA CYN BL STE 202 CANOGA PARK CA 91303 CN103556 JACKSON Jan 24,31, Feb 7, 2024 SchId:93225 AdId:31359 CustId:65 -----------NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMIN-

appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner: Richard A. Lewis, Esq., SBN#137384 Law Offices of Richard A. Lewis 6355 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Suite 515 Woodland Hills, CA 91367, Telephone: (818) 704-0585 1/24, 1/31, 2/7/24 CNS-3775443# THE COMPTON BULLETIN SchId:93238 AdId:31363 CustId:61 ------------

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S. No.: 2023-05617 A.P.N.: 4027-008009 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 12/13/2021. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK/CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by 2424h(b), (payable at the time of sale in lawful money of the United States), will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: PREMIER CONSTRUCTION AND INVESTMENTS INC, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION ORGANIZED AND EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF CALIFORNIA Duly Appointed Trustee: Entra Default Solutions, LLC 1355 Willow Way, Suite 115, Concord, California 94520 Phone: (925)272-4993 Deed of Trust Recorded 12/16/2021 as Instrument No. 20211872398 in book , page of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, to be sold: Date of Sale: 2/16/2024 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: By the fountain located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $683,941.79, Street Address or other common designation of real property: 9406 S 5TH AVENUE INGLEWOOD, CA 90305 A.P.N.: 4027-008-009 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. We are attempting to collect a debt and any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction.

You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien.

If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times

by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code.

The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 800683-2468 option 1 or visit this Internet Web site www.servicelinkASAP.com, using the file number assigned to this case 2023-05617. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site.

The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 800-683-2468 option 1, or visit this internet website www.servicelinkASAP. com, using the file number assigned to this case 2023-05617 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. Date: 1/19/2024 Entra Default Solutions, LLC Marisa Vidrine, Foreclosure Specialist A-4807520 01/23/2024, 01/30/2024, 02/06/2024 SchId:93283 AdId:31378 CustId:64 -----------NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ALONZO TOLES CASE NO. 24STPB00625 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the lost WILL or estate, or both of ALONZO TOLES. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CYNTHIA Y. EDWARDS in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CYNTHIA Y. EDWARDS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s lost WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The lost WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

9 THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/20/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 2D located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner ARIANA A. BURRIS - SBN 267371 SARAH E. BREWSAUGH - SBN 267359 BURRIS LAW APC 488 SOUTH GLASSELL ST. ORANGE CA 92866 Telephone (714) 941-8122 BSC 224562 1/31, 2/7, 2/14/24 CNS-3776223# THE COMPTON BULLETIN SchId:93304 AdId:31385 CustId:61 -----------NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: CEDRIC DERMAINE JONES CASE NO. 24STPB00686 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of CEDRIC DERMAINE JONES. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by LATARSIA TAJUANA JONES in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that LATARSIA TAJUANA JONES be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Inde-

10 pendent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 03/05/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 44 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner AMY L. MCEVOY - SBN 227386 AND KAREN R. HOLT - SBN 188815, SHEPPARD MULLIN RICHTER & HAMPTON LLP 333 SOUTH HOPE ST., 43RD FLOOR LOS ANGELES CA 90071-1422 Telephone (213) 620-1780 1/31, 2/7, 2/14/24 CNS-3776568# THE COMPTON BULLETIN SchId:93324 AdId:31394 CustId:61 -----------NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S. No. 23-20301-SPCA Title No. 230347713-CAVOI A.P.N. 6141010-020 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 07/13/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, (cashier’s check(s) must be made payable to National Default Servicing Corporation), drawn on a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state; will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed

LEGAL NOTICES to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made in an “as is” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: Ignacio Tovar and Leticia Vela, husband and wife as joint tenants Duly Appointed Trustee: National Default Servicing Corporation Recorded 08/07/2007 as Instrument No. 20071854790 (or Book, Page) of the Official Records of Los Angeles County, California.

Date of Sale: 03/06/2024 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: By the fountain located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $435,942.68 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 1211 South Dwight Avenue, Compton, CA 90220 A.P.N.: 6141-010-020 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The requirements of California Civil Code Section 2923.5(b)/2923.55(c) were fulfilled when the Notice of Default was recorded. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction.

You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien.

If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property,

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

you may call 714-730-2727 or visit this internet website www.ndscorp. com/sales, using the file number assigned to this case 23-20301-SPCA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT*: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” you may be able to purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 888-264-4010, or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 23-20301-SPCA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale.

Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. *Pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code, the potential rights described herein shall apply only to public auctions taking place on or after January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2025, unless later extended. Date: 01/25/2024 National Default Servicing Corporation c/o Tiffany and Bosco, P.A., its agent, 1455 Frazee Road, Suite 820 San Diego, CA 92108 Toll Free Phone: 888-264-4010 Sales Line 714-7302727; Sales Website: www.ndscorp. com Connie Hernandez, Trustee Sales Representative A-4807988 01/31/2024, 02/07/2024, 02/14/2024

less they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

SchId:93417 AdId:31427 CustId:64 ------------

CITY OF COMPTON REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR SEWER SYSTEM CLEANING AND VIDEO INSPECTION SERVICES

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF HARRIET DAVIS Case No. 23STPB13959 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of HARRIET DAVIS A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Dwayne Edward Davis in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Dwayne Edward Davis be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons un-

A HEARING on the petition will be held on March 1, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 67 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: JUSTIN M GORDON ESQ SBN 287328 GORDONLAW APC 12100 WILSHIRE BLVD STE 800 LOS ANGELES CA 90025 CN102988 DAVIS Jan 31, Feb 7,14, 2024 SchId:93460 AdId:31442 CustId:65 ------------

AND ONCALL SERVICES The City of Compton solicits Request for Proposals (RFP) from experienced contractors and firms to provide expertise and professional services in performing sewer system cleaning and video inspection services and oncall services.

Parties interested in obtaining a copy of the RFP may do so inperson at the address indicated below or download a copy from the City’s website at comptoncity.org/departments/cityclerk/rfpsandbids.

Proposals must be received on or before Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. at the following location: City of Compton City Clerk’s Office 205 S Willowbrook Avenue Compton, CA 90220

City Hall business hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except holidays. Postmarks or facsimiles will not be considered. It is at the City’s discretion to extend the deadline.

Submitted proposals will be reviewed and evaluated. The proposal which best meets the needs of the City will be selected. The City reserves the right to reject any or all of the proposals submitted.

To obtain additional information or technical inquiries related to this RFP, you may contact the Public Works Street Maintenance Department, Damion Timmons, Street Superintendent at 310-605-5691 or dtimmons@ comptoncity.org.

Vernell Mc Daniel City of Compton City Clerk PUBLISH: 1/31/2024 2/7/2024 SchId:93492 AdId:31454 CustId:70 -----------NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. : 00000007857147 Title Order No.: DEF-499530 FHA/ VA/PMI No.: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 03/29/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER and WEISS, LLP, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 04/03/2006 as Instrument No. 06 0702477 of official records in the office of the County Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, State of CALIFORNIA. EXECUTED BY: JOHNNY OFISA AND LINA OFISA, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS,WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK/ CASH EQUIVALENT or other form of payment authorized by California Civil Code 2924h(b), (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States). DATE OF SALE: 03/12/2024 TIME OF SALE: 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: BY THE FOUNTAIN LOCATED AT 400 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, POMONA, CA 91766. STREET ADDRESS and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 603 WEST INDIGO ST, COMPTON, CALIFORNIA 90220 APN#: 6161025-027 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $390,379.95. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024 Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself.

Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 833-561-0243 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this Internet Web site WWW.SALES. BDFGROUP.COM for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case 00000007857147. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site.

The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder”, you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 833-561-0243, or visit this internet website WWW.SALES.BDFGROUP. COM using the file number assigned to this case 00000007857147 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. FOR TRUSTEE SALE

LEGAL NOTICES

INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: 833-561-0243 WWW.SALES.BDFGROUP.COM BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER and WEISS, LLP IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. BARRETT DAFFIN FRAPPIER TREDER and WEISS, LLP as Trustee 3990 E. Concours Street, Suite 350 Ontario, CA 91764 (866) 795-1852 Dated: 01/31/2024 A-4808300 02/06/2024, 02/13/2024, 02/20/2024 SchId:93521 AdId:31465 CustId:64 -----------NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF ELIZABETH A. WILKES Case No. 24STPB01125 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of ELIZABETH A. WILKES A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Morris B. Wilkes in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Morris B. Wilkes be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on March 1, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 9 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section

1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: HEATHER MILLER ESQ SBN 286422 LAW OFFICE OF HEATHER MILLER 222 N PACIFIC COAST HWY STE 2000 EL SEGUNDO CA 90245 CN103910 WILKES Feb 7,14,21, 2024 SchId:93524 AdId:31466 CustId:65 -----------NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE (Division 6 of the Commercial Code) Escrow No. 003160-CK (1) Notice is hereby given to creditors of the within named Seller(s) that a bulk sale is about to be made on personal property hereinafter described.

(2) The name and business addresses of the seller are: BC&R HOLDINGS LLC, 1512 W. WILLOW ST, LONG BEACH, CA 90810 (3) The location in California of the chief executive office of the Seller is: SAME (4) The names and business address of the Buyer(s) are: ERIC FRED ESTRADA, 13978 RAMHURST DR., LA MIRADA, CA 90638 (5) The location and general description of the assets to be sold are: FURNITURE, FIXTURES, EQUIPMENT, GOODWILL, TRADENAME, LEASEHOLD INTEREST AND IMPROVEMENTS, COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE, INVENTORY OF STOCK IN TRADE of that certain business located at: 1512 W. WILLOW ST, LONG BEACH, CA 90810 (6) The business name used by the seller(s) at said location is: COINOP LAUNDRY (7) The anticipated date of the bulk sale is FEBRUARY 23, 2024 at the office of: HANA ESCROW COMPANY, INC., 3580, WILSHIRE BLVD., SUITE 1170 LOS ANGELES, CA 90010 (8) Claims may be filed with Same as “7” above (9) The last date for filing claims is: FEBRUARY 22, 2024.

(10) This Bulk Sale is subject to Section 6106.2 of the Uniform Commercial Code.

(11) As listed by the Seller, all other business names and addresses used by the Seller within three years before the date such list was sent or delivered to the Buyer are: NONE. Dated: JANUARY 30, 2024 TRANSFEREES: ERIC FRED ESTRADA ORD-2119835 LONG BEACH CALIFORNIAN 2/6/24 SchId:93570 AdId:31479 CustId:628 -----------NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: LIONEL PETER GIRIBALDI CASE NO. 24STPB00911 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons

who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of LIONEL PETER GIRIBALDI. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by NICHOLAS DAVIS in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that NICHOLAS DAVIS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/23/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 67 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

In Pro Per Petitioner NICHOLAS DAVIS 3815 1/2 VERDUGO RD. LOS ANGELES CA 90065 2/7, 2/14, 2/21/24 CNS-3780918# THE COMPTON BULLETIN SchId:93586 AdId:31484 CustId:61 -----------REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Investment Management and/or Advisory Services February 7, 2024 The City of Compton City Treasurer’s Office is soliciting proposals from investment advisory firms for portfolio management services. Investment

11 practices and procedures must comply with state law and the City’s written investment policy. The investment advisory firm will be expected to perform to the Prudent Expert Standard.

Respondents to this Request For Proposal must submit completed proposals in a sealed envelope, clearly marked with “Bid for Investment Advisory Services” and the name of the bidder. One (1) original and three (3) copies of the proposal must be received by 5:00 pm on February 29th, 2024. Business hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., MondayThursday, except, holidays. Postmarks will not be accepted. It is at the City’s discretion to extend the deadline. All proposal must be submitted to: City of Compton City Clerk’s Office 205 South Willowbrook Avenue Compton, CA 90220 Proposals become part of the official City files of the City of Compton and will not be returned to the bidders.

Inquiries concerning this Request for Proposal should be addressed via email to: smerritt@comptoncity.org Parties interested in obtaining Request for Proposal (RFP) criteria should check the City’s website at www.comptoncity.org.

Sonia Merritt Deputy City Treasurer 205 South Willowbrook Avenue Compton, California 90220 310 605-5515 The City of Compton reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or any portion without exception of explanation.

Vernell McDaniel City Clerk SchId:93607 AdId:31491 CustId:70 -----------City of Compton MUNICIPAL WATER DEPARTMENT 205 South Willowbrook Avenue, Compton, California 90220 Phone (310) 605-5595 Request for Proposals for Consultant for SB 1383 Regulations, Implementation, and Recordkeeping The City of Compton Municipal Water Department is seeking bids for consultants to help with the implementation and compliance of SB 1383 for the next (2) Two Fiscal Years, 2023– 2024 and 2024–2025.

To be considered responsive to the RFP requirements, consultants must submit a proposal indicating their knowledge and experience related to the services being sought. If you have any questions, please contact Jose Garfias, Interim Water Department General Manager by phone at 310605-5555 or by email at jgarfias@ comptoncity.org.

In order for your proposal to be considered, submit four (4) copies marked “RFP - Consultant for SB 1383 Regulations, Implementation, and Recordkeeping” with one (1) fee proposal in a separate sealed envelope to: City of Compton City Clerk’s Office Vernell McDaniel 205 S. Willowbrook Avenue Compton, CA 90220 Submission Deadline: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

SchId:93608 AdId:31492 CustId:70

ENTERTAINMENT

12

By Bob Garver

“ARGYLLE”

COMPTON BULLETIN WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2024

As much as I enjoyed the fun, exciting trailers for “Argylle” that made excellent use of the film’s eclectic cast, there was one element that told me the movie was in serious trouble. Amongst shots of the cat belonging to spy novelist Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard), onscreen text insisted that, “Once you know the secret, don’t let the cat out of the bag.” In other words, there’s a big twist in this movie.

I

T’S not worrying that this spy movie has a big twist, given the genre it would be weird if it didn’t. It’s worrying that the movie needs to advertise itself like that, putting so much emphasis on the twist that it can’t possibly live up to the hype. Aside from the fact that announcing the twist ahead of time kills the element of surprise, the film is also basically saying that what you see in early stages is untrustworthy, since the twist is going to turn everything on its head eventually. Sure enough, the twist is laughable and killed the investment I had in the movie up to that point. I won’t go into spoilers, but nothing made me regret my questioning of the advertising tactics.

Elly Conway writes spy novels about Agent Argylle (Henry Cavill).

Other characters include his sidekick (John Cena), his techie (Ariana DeBose), and his nemesis (Dua Lipa).

The trailers made no secret that these characters are all fictional(ish), but they did exaggerate how much the four actors are in the movie.

Elly soon finds out, via real spy Aiden (Sam Rockwell),

that what she has written corresponds to actual events in the world of international espianoge. She has written about things that have actually happened, and may be able to write about things that are going to happen.

Some powerful people want

to know what Elly’s going to write next, including Aiden’s boss (Samuel L. Jackson) and evil agency-runner Ritter (Bryan Cranston). Even Elly’s mother (Catherine O’Hara) is dying to know, but that’s probably just gentle motherly goading, or is it?

Either way, this is a lousy time for Elly to develop a sudden case of writer’s block.

The confusing nature of the movie’s reality makes for a confused tone, which makes for confused actors and confused performances.

Cranston, in particular,

doesn’t seem to know when to play things straight or over the top, so he settles for an off-putting middle ground. Howard, to her credit, is giving a proper blockbuster performance, it’s just a shame this movie is doing so poorly that it will never achieve blockbuster status.

I liked some of the action scenes. The hot opener, set within the world of Argylle, is quite crisp. Two late-inthe-movie shootouts, one with bright colors, one covered in black, indicate that this movie isn’t entirely ruined by its script. But those sequences are maybe 19 combined minutes in a movie with a 139-minute runtime. The other two hours are devoted to a convoluted story that made me squirm with impatience. Not to get to a big reveal, mind you, just for the movie to be over.

There’s a better movie out right now where the protagonist is an author and the action occasionally blends their writing with reality. “American Fiction” is enjoying a nice little bump at the box office thanks to its recent Best Picture Oscar nomination. That movie follows a Black writer (Jeffrey Wright) who, in the margins between drama in his personal life, sarcastically submits a racially-degrading manuscript that turns into a surprise bestseller. The jokes about well-meaningbut-insensitive white people get stale eventually, but it’s still a much smarter and more engaging movie than “Argylle.”

“Argylle”: C“American Fiction”: B“Argylle” is rated PG-13 for strong violence and action and some strong language. Its running time is 139 minutes.

Contact Bob Garver at rrg251@nyu.edu.