Inglewood Celebrates Season With Christmas Tree Lighting
The City of Inglewood brought holiday cheer to thousands of residents during its annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and inaugural Christmas/ Holidays’ Parade on Monday, December 2, 2024. With nearly 6,000 holiday gifts distributed to Inglewood youth ages 17 and under, this event marked the largest holiday celebration in the City’s history.
The evening kicked off with the inaugural Christmas Parade, which began at the Intuit Dome and concluded at the KIA Forum. Hundreds of families lined Prairie Avenue to witness the event up close, with featured community and celebrity participants which included the Inglewood High School Marching
How to Stay Human in an Artificial World
By Veronica Mackey
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that can reduce your workload, put money in your pocket, inspire and make you believe anything is possible. It can also cause you to make a foolish decision if you can’t tell the difference between the real and the fake. Here is some food for thought on navigating AI in real life.
Telling the Real from the Fake
Here’s how you can spot the tell-tale signs of AI-generated content:
1. Too perfect to be true
2. Slang and idioms are “off”
3. Content doesn’t feel humanly generated
4. Surface level ideas
5. Misinformation
Too Perfect
A dead giveaway is that written
content feels too perfect. The spelling and punctuation may be right, but it is
not written like real people talk. Slang and Idioms
Aside from the obvious robotic voices that we hear on Google Maps and other technologies, AI lacks the human experience of knowing slang and idioms unique to certain regional and cultural groups.
Lacks Human Touch
AI knows the words, but lacks the history and emotion behind them. Human beings write from the heart, and express themselves through a variety of ways which are often unpredictable—which is why autotext can really mess us up when trying to tell our unique stories.
Surface Level
AI is afraid to dive into controversy because it does not know how to respond appropriately. It can generate
Band, KJLH’s Andre Russell, hometown legend Mack 10, the LA Rams’ Rampage, and the LA Clippers
Dance Team. Mayor James T. Butts and the Inglewood City Council joined the procession,
Inglewood Today News
spreading holiday joy alongside
Publisher’s Message
Get What You Can While You Can
By Willie Brown
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to buy that new car or big screen TV, there’s a good reason why you probably should not wait.
The looming threat of the Trump tariff tax is upon us this holiday season. This may be your last chance to avoid a huge price hike before Trump takes office next month.
So, whether you think Trump is better for the economy or that he’ll be a complete disaster, getting what you want and need now—before Jan. 20— is a good idea. Here’s why:
Trump has pledged to put a 25% tariff on all products from Mexico and Canada, along with a 10% levy on Chinese goods as soon as he gets into office. Trump supporters see the policy as something that will
ultimately punish other countries and protect U.S. jobs. However, they are sadly mistaken.
A tariff is basically a tax on trade which is paid for by the importer (U.S.based company), at the border, not the country selling the goods. The entity receiving the goods into the U.S. will have to pay up to 25% on whatever comes in, which will ultimately be passed on to the consumer. It is this domino effect that short-sighted voters failed to see.
Tariffs will also shrink the workforce. With less money available to invest in business growth (because consumers will have less money to spend), the job market will shrink. The unemployment rate will rise.
keep living in America.
The problem with Trump’s tariffs becomes even more alarming when you consider how they are intertwined with his political agenda. Dead-set on
hurting people he doesn’t like, the Presidentelect has vowed to give exemptions to companies that made donations to Republican candidates over firms that gave to Democrats. This retaliatory way of dealing with foreign trade could only hurt the country and the economy. While the tariffs are not certain to go into effect, we cannot assume that it won’t happen. Be smart about your money and shop wisely. It will be imperative for surviving the next 4 years.
We can expect to pay more for such goods as electronics, oil, toys, textiles, furniture, cars and car parts and food in general. If you think the price of food is too high now, just
Inglewood Today
Announces Internships
Inglewood Today (https:// inglewoodtoday.com) has announced immediate internship opportunities for aspiring journalists and data/ research assistants. The 31year old media company is considering college and high school students for 3-6 month internships working hybrid 4-8 hours per week.
Journalist interns will have an opportunity to build their writing portfolios while interviewing celebrities, elected officials and other community leaders. They will also cover issues related to Inglewood and surrounding areas. Data/research assistants will work behind the scenes maintaining databases and helping to organize and launch a new blog.
Interested candidates may apply by submitting resumes to veronica@inglewoodtoday. com. If applying for the journalist internship, candidates must also submit their best 2-3 writing samples.
Issa Rae Presents Somerville
Issa Rae’s reign continues! Somerville, her newest restaurant venture, opened November 22nd and it’s “an ode to the classic, artistic of Black South Central” in Issa’s own words. Located at 4437 W. Slauson Ave, it promises to serve as a luxurious lounge for the GROWN and SEXY crowd. Somerville came to creation by the minds of GVO (good vibes only) hospitality, L.A. Natives, Yonnie Hagos and Ajay Relan.
Somerville is definitely in line with Issa’s usual pricing (i.e. it’s for middle - upper class folks). I’m not sure that mocktails should ever cost a doubledigit. It’s basically soda and juice. The Somerville burger cost a whopping $24. A hamburger y’all. However, some of the menu items certainly peak my interest–for example, the Chicoroy and Crab Salad or Braised Australian Lamb Shank.
Issa was inspired by the Black
bourgeoisie in Los Angeles from the 40s and 50s, all the way into the 70s. The menu’s design, including the font style and colors let you know you’re entering a blast from the past. While Sommerville promises to be a place for all (literally written into their menu), Issa Rae continues to honor her commitment to Black people by selling wines that come from local vendors, Westwide Winos. The official Somerville drink menu claims that
most of the wines are “founded by good friends who grew up in the neighborhood and still call it home.”
Somerville also plans to host events, so book your reservations for your company holiday party, birthday, or anniversary.
We salute Issa’s commitment to creating beautiful spaces for Black and Brown creatives to thrive and dine in. We hope Somerville is another success for her.
Steven Tyler is Black (And Proud)
Legendary rock star and lead singer for the group Aerosmith, Steven Tyler recently learned through his daughter Liv that he is the descendant of a black man. The family tree on his mother’s side has roots to Robert Elliott, an indentured servant who fought in the War of 1812.
Tyler’s reaction in the YouTube video is priceless:
“I knew it! Thank you, God!” he said, beaming. “I always felt akin to Black people…always. When asked, if Tyler thought he might have Black ancestors, he responded, “I had no idea, but I’ve felt it my whole life.”
The bloodline runs even deeper. The two men are also linked musically. Elliott was a drummer, and so is Tyler.
Tyler’s affinity to Black culture was evident when he appeared with fellow Aerosmith member Joe Perry to collaborate with Run-DMC on “Walk This Way” in 1986. The track combined elements of rock and hiphop that broke down the barriers between the two genres and introduced Aerosmith to a new generation. The track hit #4 on the charts.
By Maya Mackey
Inglewood Today News
Issa Rae Celebrates Launch of GVO Gentlemen’s Somerville gettyimages.com | License details Creator: MICHAEL TRAN | Credit: AFP via Getty Images
Area Communities
Serving Ladera, Hawthorne, Westchester, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson
California Takes Steps to Address Rising Homelessness Among Aging Adults
The California Commission on Aging (CCoA) has published a Housing Policy Brief that offers recommendations for reducing housing insecurity and homelessness among older adults in California.
The brief summarizes a more in-depth report titled “Housing Those Hardest Hit: Addressing Older Adult Homelessness.” It also includes seven actionable recommendations to mitigate older adult homelessness in three settings: permanent housing, independent housing, and assisted living.
“Expanding housing capacity across all settings in the older adult continuum of care
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Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
Sports & Entertainment
Inglewood High Pays Homage to Kendrick
By Maya Mackey
The Inglewood High School girls basketball team went viral on X/Twitter recently for dancing to Kendrick Lamar’s recent banger, “TV Off.” Whether the lady Sentinels won, if this was a half time show or the team was just goofing around is unclear. But what is clear, is that Kendrick’s reign isn’t going to be over anytime soon.
Lamar’s recent back-to-back link ups with DJ Mustard is a deliciously petty retort to Drake’s claims that Kendrick is “always rapping like he’s tryna get the slaves free.” An egregious statement from a Black foreigner who’s made a fortune imitating Black AMERICAN culture.
A Canadian making light of the U.S.A’s history with enslaving African people will never age well. A permanent stain on his legacy. Nonetheless, Kendrick isn’t trippin off him. He’s definitely getting the last laugh with the success of Not Like Us and TV Off (as well as the entire GNX project).
The Inglewood High Girls’ Basketball Team balling out to “TV Off” cearly shows that Kendrick can and does make club/dance bangers, despite Drake’s claims.
Outside of the actual songs getting play all over social media channels, other companies are starting to join in on the fun of this perpetual rap beef. Heinz put up a billboard last week, definitively drawing a line in the sand that they are Team Kendrick. Check out the girls paying homage to Lamar at https://www.youtube.com/ shorts/pVB-treIfHw.
2024 in Review: 7 Questions for Outgoing Black Caucus Vice Chair Sen. Steven Bradford
By Edward Henderson | California Black Media
When Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) was sworn into the California Legislature in 2009 as an Assemblymember, he brought with him a long and faceted record of accomplishments in both the private and public sectors.
From his experiences as a Fortune 500 corporate executive at IBM and Southern California Edison to earning his chops as the first Black
his many accomplishments, disappointments, and lessons learned over the course of the last year.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
Looking back at 2024, what stands out to you as your most important achievement and why?
The fact that we got substantive legislation on reparations through both houses with very little opposition, despite the fact that one of those bills was vetoed and two,
housing - $30 million for that.
We secured $40 million for Allensworth, the historic Blackmajority city, now state park, that was founded by Colonel Allensworth. The funding helped to restore that park two years ago. My record overall has been one of service and responding where is the most need.
What frustrated you the most over the last year?
The veto of my bill, SB 1050, and
continue to do what’s right for all Californians -- but also have a lane for those folks who have been most disenfranchised here in the state and across this country.
What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decisionmaking next year?
Always be prepared for the double cross. I was told that almost 30 years ago by my mentor, the late Mervyn Dymally, former State Senator, former Assemblyman, Lieutenant
Gardena City Councilmember, Bradford excelled in various roles before being elected State Senator in 2016.
In the State Senate, Bradford secured millions of dollars to support projects, programs, and institutions in his district, including Compton Community College and Watts Rising, a collaborative that advocates for affordable housing. Bradford, who is termed out next year, is also a champion of workforce development and environmental initiatives.
Earlier this year, he announced that he is running for Lieutenant Governor.
Bradford, who served as Vice Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) until this month, says he continues to pursue and enact policies geared toward equity and fairness.
California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Bradford recently. He reflected on his current goals,
were not brought up on the floor for a vote.
I still think that’s a major success. We were also able to secure $12 million in the budget, especially during a deficit year, to fund reparations initiatives. So, those things in and of themselves, were highlights – even if we did not get all the final
How did your leadership contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians?
I think my career overall has been about moving the agenda for not only African Americans, but those who’ve been most disenfranchised, not only by the State, but also by this country. I think my record speaks for itself when you look at the Ebony Alert law, the Bruce’s Beach settlement, or NIL legislation, that not only directly impacted people of color, specifically African Americans, but also helped all people with the challenges they face here. Also, a first-time low-income funding for internet and public
the fact that 1403 and 1331, two other reparations bills, didn’t even have a vote on the Assembly Floor, despite the fact that those bills made it through both houses with little or no opposition.
The fact that 1403 and 1331 didn’t see the light of day the last week of session, that was really disappointing. Especially when the entire Black Caucus supported 1403. And again, the bill had not been amended from the time it was introduced to the time it got all the way to the Assembly. So, I’m really sorry that, until the last couple of days, they chose not to bring this bill up.
What inspired you the most over the last year?
The fact that we’re resilient. You have to keep hope.
I don’t let one setback define the movement. We’re going to continue to fight, whether I’m in the legislature or not. And whether it’s a Black Caucus party or not, I think our colleagues are going to
Governor, Congressman. He says always expect the double cross because it will happen. We saw it this year. But again, you got to stay positive and soldier through. So that’s what we’re going to continue to do.
In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?
Unity. We are, in many ways, moving forward but in a very fragmented way.
As the African proverb states, “If you want to go fast, you go by yourself. But if you want to go far, go together.”
However, we don’t have the unity that we should have.
What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025?
To keep being a voice for positive change. Being supportive of impactful legislation that’s going to help all Californians, but especially those folks who have been most disenfranchised in this state.
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special guest Ms. California USA and Santa Claus, delivered in style by the Inglewood Police Department Sleigh and the Inglewood I-Line Trolley.
Mayor James T. Butts reflected on the historic nature of the event, stating,
6,000 toys for kids and over 5,000 gift cards distributed, this will be a truly memorable Christmas for so many families in Inglewood.”
Following the parade, the celebration continued at the KIA Forum with
“For the first time in Inglewood’s history, we had a Christmas parade down Prairie Avenue, and we’ve never seen this many people gather for a holiday celebration. With nearly
Continued from page 1: How to Stay...
good ideas, but not groundbreaking ones—at least for now.
Misinformation
This is probably the worst quality of all because it has the potential to do the most damage. Case in point is a recent video on YouTube about Malia Obama being stopped and racially profiled by police. It was presented in narrative form, rather than a news item, and recorded as two separate videos, with male and female voices. The alleged story could only be found on YouTube, which made it impossible to verify.
Generally speaking, all A1-generated content should be reviewed, edited and enhanced by human creators. Case in point is the embarrassing viral post of Donald Trump praying inside a church (first red flag!), praying with one too many fingers. If the images you see are way over the top, if the people seem too flawless and attractive to be real, they
the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa’s Village Community Gift Giving event. Families enjoyed activities including face painting, a snow zone, and photos with Santa
probably aren’t.
Fake News
During Trump’s first presidency, “fake news” became a term to describe mainstream media, and basically any media outlet that did not report what Trump wanted to hear. When CNN refuted his claim that President Obama had a larger crowd at his inauguration, showing photos of both events side by side, Trump accused the news channel of trickery. Ironically, Vice President Kamala Harris was frequently accused of using AI to make crowds appear larger at her rallies.
Now, AI has become a way to discredit people often with little or no proof of wrongdoing. As Ellen Judson, Senior Investigator at Global Witness, writes, “Don’t like the claims someone is making? It’s far easier to claim that the evidence they have is AI-generated than to actually have to create evidence yourself.”
while indulging in hot cocoa, fresh tamales, loaded fries and holiday treats. Santa’s Village was alive with One W Manchester Boulevard • Inglewood, CA • 90301 • Phone (310) 412-5301 • Fax (310) 412-8788 • www. cityofinglewood. org the holiday spirit, as thousands of children received gifts and participated in festive activities at various Christmas themed workshop stations.
City leadership expressed their excitement about the event. Councilman Alex Padilla shared; “This is a time to enjoy all the good things happening in our city. Merry Christmas and let’s not forget the reason for the season!”
Councilwoman Dionne Faulk added, “It’s been an amazing evening seeing so many families and children here tonight, enjoying the fun and fabulous activities we have in Inglewood.”
Inglewood icon, Mack 10 echoed similar sentiments, adding, “As
Whether you’re watching a YouTube video of an AI-generated Rihanna singing a gospel song, listening a voice-enhanced Denzel Washington giving relationship advice, or admiring the breathtaking beauty of birds (with jeweled beaks, no less!) on Facebook, AI is for the most part auspicious entertainment.
But what happens when the technology is used for something more sinister?
Protecting the Public
According to an article in Bloomberglaw.com (Oct. 10, 2024) titled “AI Needs regulatory Guardrails in the US to Ensure Safe Use” by Laura Kemp, “There is no federal law addressing AI safety issues. President Joe Biden’s executive order on AI safety serves as a policy directive, guiding federal agencies to develop AI safety standards and conduct testing. However, the order isn’t a law
someone born and raised here, it’s incredible to see how far Inglewood has come. Its been a real pleasure to be out here for this Christmas parade tonight.”
The event showcased not just the City’s growth but also its commitment to creating meaningful community experiences. Councilman Eloy Morales highlighted the significance of this celebration: “Inglewood is changing, but what remains constant is the beautiful families that are here and our celebrations.”
KJLH’s Andre Russell was amazed by the amount of love and support the parade received, stating, “I saw so many enthusiastic fans along the road waving and yelling and having a good time. So glad to be a part of what’s going on here with Inglewood, so Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”
The City of Inglewood extends its gratitude to its outstanding community partners, including the KIA Forum and Intuit Dome, for making this holiday celebration an overwhelming success.
The 2024 Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Parade embodied the spirit of community, joy, and progress that defines Inglewood, making it a holiday season to remember always.
and doesn’t have direct legal binding force.”
California is among a handful of states that have enacted AI regulations, but they don’t go far enough to cover long-term protections, “especially now that California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed California’s AI safety bill,” Kempe wrote.
Kempe suggests regulatory agencies could start by:
1. Setting federal minimum standards that align with global AI regulations that make compliance easier for companies.
2. Designing and implementing emergency shutdown procedures for handling critical AI malfunctions.
3. Documenting internal processes in a transparent and explainable manner to prepare for potential third-party audits.
The potential for AI to either enhance our lives or pose significant risks depends on how it is regulated.
is critical as our state confronts the pressing issues of housing insecurity and homelessness among older adults,” stated CCoA Executive Director Karol Swartzlander.
“The need is urgent, and the time to act is now,” she emphasized.
The CCoA serves as the principal advocating body for older Californians, and it administers programs that support and celebrate Californians as they age. In addition, the CCoA advises the Governor and Legislature, along with state, federal, and local agencies on programs and services that affect older adults in the state.
From 2017 to 2022, the number of adults aged 55-64 who accessed homelessness services across California increased by over 90%, while the number of adults over 65 in the state, overall, increased by over 166% – exceeding any other age group, according to the report.
According to CCoa, the commission blends housing solutions within a comprehensive continuum of care, presenting policymakers with targeted strategies that accommodate the diverse housing and supportive service needs of older adults.
Efforts to address homelessness is now one of CCoA’s top priorities, says Swartzlander.
“The need is urgent, and the time to act is now,” she added.
In 1990, 11% of the homeless population was over the age of 50 while in 2023 older adults represented nearly half of the state’s
homeless population. Among this population, 41% first experienced homelessness after the age of 50.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s annual Point-inTime Count, 38,028 adults aged 55 and older experienced homelessness in California in 2023. Furthermore, the report stated that 41% first experienced homelessness after the age of 50.
Former Assemblymember Cheryl Brown (D-San Bernardino), who just completed a six-year term as chairperson of the CCoA, said there must be policies in place to “remedy the problem” of older adults becoming homeless in the state.
The lack of accessible and available housing, health-related behaviors, medical problems, social isolation, and limited resources are some of the root causes of homelessness and poverty among aging Californians. Speaking on own her behalf -- not representing CCoA -- Brown said more alternatives for affordable housing and services would provide a muchneeded safety net for older adults in the state.
“We need to go back to square one and come up with some policies that would help older adults have options,” Brown said. “It’s a tragedy that these people have paid into the system (taxes, social security), and did it the right way, and they still need these services.”
In the policy brief, the CCoA presents seven recommendations to mitigate aging adult homelessness. They are exploring a statewide subsidy for older adults at-risk of homelessness; developing a state homeshare program; expanding ministerial approval for smaller assisted living facilities; reforming housing laws; expanding assisted living waivers; and funding community care suggestions.
For the last five years, homelessness among African Americans nationally and in California has seen a continued uptick. Black Californians are disproportionately likely to experience homelessness, according to the California Budget and Policy Center (Budget Center).
Black Californians roughly consist of 5% of the state’s population. However, they comprised over 1 in 4 unhoused people who made contact with a homelessness service provider during the 2021-22 fiscal year, according to the Budget Center’s “Who Is Experiencing Homelessness In California?” report.
“Long-standing racist policies and practices have also concentrated marginalized communities in undervalued occupations, increasing their economic insecurity which is a primary driver of experiencing homelessness,” the March 2023 Budget Center report stated. “We see this today as people of color are
largely pushed into lower-paying occupations, the first to lose their jobs during economic downturns, and experience the highest rates of unemployment.”
According to the 2020 Profile of African Americans Age 65 or Older, the African American population age 65 and older was 4,979,133 in 2019 and is projected to grow to 12.1 million by 2060.
Overall, numerous factors contribute to the increase in older adult homelessness. Scattered employment, low-wage employment, and time serving as a family caregiver, result in low wages throughout significant working years.
“As state and federal policymakers consider choices that will affect California’s unhoused and vulnerable communities, it is important to understand the unique housing, economic, and health conditions older unhoused adults face,” the Budget Center reported.
“By doing so, policymakers can act on proven policies and interventions that can help solve homelessness among older adults.”
Editorial Note: California Black Media will follow up this article with more investigations into the lived experiences of older adults impacted by the of homelessness and housing insecurity crisis in the state.
