April 10, 2014

20 Y EA RS

Your Community Connection since 1994

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 23, No. 15

April 10, 2014

State of the City Reflects Benchmarks and a Unified Council

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he State of the City Address represents more than the opportunity to give performance benchmarks to the public. I will use this time to inform, but more importantly, articulate the context of how we, the council, govern the city, and articulate a vision for the future for which the citizens can hold the mayor and city council accountable.

I am proud that we have fixed our Residential Sound Insulation program.

We sound-insulated 1,020 Inglewood residences during the past year, a number more that 250% higher than any year before that, and 10 times more than the year before I took office.

But I am more proud that in fixing this problem, our council works as a team, not jockeying for credit and sending the message to LAWA and other business and governmental partners that we work together in Inglewood to get things done for the residents.

On The Inside: • News • Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

The High Cost of Salaries Gone Wild

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By Veronica Mackey

ast month, Jack Foreman, President of the Centinela Valley Union High School Teachers union, announced Jose Fernandez has to go. A recent series of articles by the Daily Breeze estimated the superintendent’s salary and benefits around $663,000 last year alone, based on public records from the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

His earning include a $200,000 a-year salary, plus a 9 percent annual raise for the last 5 years, a monthly

Inglewood City Council taking care of business.

I am proud that we will and also gives a greater dens into Inglewood as a spend more to resurface quality of life impact by partner, the City will enjoy more residential streets this improving adjacent streets. increased revenues and 400 year than in any year prior, I am proud to report that more Inglewood residents after years of neglect. But under my administration have been employed by I am more proud that the and the leadership of our this project since January council came together, put new Chief of Police Mark of 2013. aside political posturing Fronterotta, we have reThe State of the City is a and agreed that we would corded the lowest 3 con- time to develop a shared vido streets in need of repair secutive years on record for sion and expectation of the in Districts 1 and 4 this crime overall and violent future, that we as residents year, and sidewalk repairs crime specifically. Ingle- of this great city can rally in Districts 2 and 3, revers- wood residents are safer around and support. The ing this in 2015. This al- today and have much to be theme for this address is Jose Fernandez lows us efficiency in keep- proud of.

“Moving Up,” and we are ing the contractors in the Because of our efforts to on the move to becoming a expense account, and unsame geographical area, bring Madison Square Gar- destination city once again. used vacation and sick days which can be carried over and converted to cash.

Putting the numbers into perspective, CVUHSD is a little over one percent the

By Thomas Bunn size of Los Angeles Unified hey say the horizon School District. LAUSD line is the apparent Superintendent John Deasy line that separates the earns around $390,000 toearth from the sky. Often tal a year for running a disused in popular literature, the trict of more than 650,000 horizon acts as a metaphor students. Compare that to for opportunity, the future, Fernandez’s earnings with a nostalgia, and dreamers. district of less than 7,000.

Young professionals and This report takes a closyoung scholars see limitless er look at how Fernandez potential when we gaze upon could fare when he retires. the horizon. We don’t allow It’s no secret the state’s large social, financial, and or politemployee pension funds— (Continued on page 2) (Continued on page 2)

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On the Horizon

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Inglewood Today

Page 2

State of the City of Inglewood: Our Future Is Bright

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By Melissa Hebert

nglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. is preparing to address the business community on the state of the City of Inglewood and the bright future the city has. Inglewood residents have seen the Fabulous Forum return in a triumphant manner with many local businesses benefitting from its reopening.

Local business owners, immediately surrounding the Forum, invested in their business by making upgrades to attract new customers. Traffic in and around the venue has been adequately handled and residents are able to continue to enjoy the comfort of being able to park outside of their homes without interference from those visiting the Forum.

There is buzz of an NFL team taking up residence across the street from the Forum and adjacent to the Hollywood Park Tomorrow development. Inglewood’s foreclosure rate remains low with properties being purchased within weeks of going on the market.

What remains the biggest concern of both the business and residential community is the safety of those living and working in the City of Inglewood.

There have been 11 murders to date in the city, none of which oc-

On the Horizon (Continued from page 1) ical barriers to get in the way of our mental design processes. We design and build realities in our minds that amalgamate our experiences and desire to thrive. Our romanticized view of the horizon is often coined as idealism.

At a glance, what’s on the horizon for our community is a bourgeoning of development, an influx of foot traffic, movements to combat social inequalities, and the potential to discover innovative ways to enhance the quality of life, and education for community members. To get there will take more than just a team of highly educated, government practitioners, and business people. It’s going to take imagination.

Here are just 4 ways that the city can benefit from the generation of community idealists and dreamers who see boundless potential in everything.

1. Build a Youth Center. With the amount of abandoned lots in the city, I can’t imagine that every square foot is reserved for business developers. A designated facility where young minds can study, learn, create, and coalesce, will provide the ideal climate for critical mass and

curred during a robbery of a local business. The unfortunate details surrounding the crimes have not been resolved, and with realignment, every city in the South Bay is seeing spikes in crime, as a whole. However, the city has put in preventive measures to address the influx of crime, with gang injunctions, and the community can look forward to seeing additional improvements to the Inglewood Police Department in the coming months.

The city was able to save jobs in our Parks and Recreation department, while still providing services to the community residents, at an affordable rate, which continues to ensure Inglewood residents the ability to go to work and have quality child care for their children. Although the Inglewood Unified School District remains under state conservatorship, only $29 million of the $55 million allocated has been spent and many residents are choosing to bring their children back to the district as opposed to removing them, as a direct result of the high quality of teachers and principals at the local school sites.

The City of Inglewood is on the road to recovery, and the city invites you to prosper with us. the birth of innovation, culture, art, and commerce.

2. Meet with Young Trailblazers. Remember that show, “Kids Say The Darndest Things?” Well you’d be surprised at how much you can learn when you sit down with an intelligent young person and actually listen to their perspectives. Some of the young trailblazers in the community who have a bright future ahead of them are: • Black Male Youth Academy—The young brothers of BMYA just returned from a trip to Philadelphia, where they participated in the American Education Research Association’s 2014 Youth Conference.

• Perla Aguilar—Perla is a future designer and Morningside High School student who was the only high school student who entered the American Advertising Awards student competition in Los Angeles.

• Leaders of The Do School—A group of community organizers who have taken to the Internet to create social change, by challenging people to do something about the things they do not like.

• Gordy Booker—An innovative (Continued on page 8)

The High Cost of Salaries Gone Wild (Continued from page 1) the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS)—are in financial trouble.

According to UT-San Diego (“Fixing California: Report ignores state’s vast pension liabilities,” Nov. 21, 2013, http://www.utsandiego. com/news), “As of September, CalPERS had about $260 billion in assets and about $340 billion in liabilities.

Those numbers are based on CalPERS’ assumption that decades of investment returns will average 7.5 percent annual growth…In September, Nation said a more realistic assessment of CalPERS’ current unfunded liability is $170 billion— not $80 billion.”

CalSTRS is in even worse shape, UT-San Diego said, and “on track to run out of funds in 2043.”

Here is how Fernandez has managed to amass a sizable retirement fortune funded by at the expense of California taxpayers.

Fernandez was hired by Centinela Valley in 1999 after serving several years on the Inglewood City Council. He was elected as superintendent in 2008. In 2010, his annual earnings, including salary and perks totaled $286,290. By 2013, that number rose to approximately $663,365.

However angry folks may be over him taking such a large salary, what he did is not illegal. The board approved his contract, but now say attorneys did not reveal the full extent of his compensation. Had it been revealed, they say, they never would have approved the salary package. And here’s the kicker: The public has to pay for the attorneys who drew up the contract, which the Daily Breeze reported is around $1.7 million a year.

Fernandez is also in line to receive a rate hike. CalPERS recently voted for increases for local municipalities and adjusted life expectancy rates and retirements ages to reflect a growing population of people who are living longer. The former Inglewood councilman and tentative superintendent is still relatively young. If he chooses to retire this year, with his time in public service and with the school district, he could be entitled to hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.

Place your DBAs, Probates, Trustee Notices, Legal Notices, Summons and more in Inglewood Today Print & Online Call: 310.670.9600

April 10, 2014

President/Publisher/ Editor Willie Brown Vice President Gloria Kennedy Assistant Editor Veronica Mackey Contributing Writers Veronica Mackey Thomas Bunn Brooke Stanley Staff Photographer Thomas Bunn PRODUCTION Manager Dené Glamuzina Quality Control Manager Gloria Kennedy Inglewood Today Weekly is a legally

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Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Page 3

So Just What Is the State of Our City?

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By Mark F. Weinberg

ynics are likely to dismiss “State of the City” addresses as little more than political fanfare carefully written and choreographed to inspire community pride, improve investor confidence, and reflect well on those entrusted to govern and manage our cities.

While it may be difficult to argue with this analysis, it is hardly reason for skepticism or disregard. Such addresses are as central to a free and open democracy as is the right to vote and exercise free speech.

For most residents, the state of the city is an obscure municipal footnote. However, when former U.S. House Speaker Tip O’Neil declared that “All politics is local,” he reminded us that what matters most are those policies and actions that affect the neighborhoods we live in and the communities in which we work and play. Though lacking the global reverberations and pomp and circumstance of the president’s annual “State of the Union” message, the Mayor’s “State of the City” address demands and deserves your rapt attention.

Pay close attention, but not necessarily to the traditional recitation of miles of pavement repaired, rate of burglary decline, playground equip-

Mark F. Weinberg ment refurbished or new business ribbon cuttings. It is not that these accomplishments are not important benchmarks. They are. But the truth is that governing is as much about process as it is about results.

Good results are the inevitable byproduct of pure and practical public service motives and efficient process. For this reason a far more telling indicator of the state of our city is how dedicated the mayor and council members are to working together to find and share common ground for the greater good. That dynamic will ultimately determine the state of the city.

If this sounds too simplistic, do you find any President’s State of the Union speech particularly reassuring and comforting when counterbalanced by a polarized and dysfunctional Congress?

For a city to thrive, its mayor and council members need not be in perpetual embrace. On the contrary, diverse opinions, differing perspectives and alternative recommendations must be evaluated to arrive at thoughtful solutions to vexing problems. The mayor and legislators, however, must be resolute in their willingness to put aside political posturing, intransient ideology and stubborn pride for the sake of serving the peoples’ best interests.

They must enlist a broader coalition of elected and appointed officials and work well with public and private agencies and other stakeholders in the region. That is the state of Inglewood now.

Of course, cooperation and collaboration alone are not sufficient.

Vibrant and prosperous cities are the product of inspirational vision, bold leadership, strong ethics-centered management, creative problem-solving and citizen engagement. They have sturdy economic underpinnings and solid social val-

ues rooted in diversity and equality.

Such cities honor and appreciate their history, seize present day opportunities and view the future as having unlimited potential. That is the state of Inglewood now.

I plan to attend Thursday’s State of the City address delivered by Mayor James T. Butts, Jr. And while the City is not without significant challenges, I already know the City is healthier and stronger, and that there is now more reason for hopefulness than in a generation.

Yes, it’s just an opinion. But 40 years working in local government and two tours serving as Inglewood City Manager qualify it as an “informed opinion.”

I know the audience will be unprecedented in its size and agency representation and that the joy, enthusiasm and optimism in the crowd will be genuine and palpable.

Unlike former eras marred by personal feuding, a broad cross section of elected leaders will be present to show their support for the mayor and the City. All Inglewood Council Members are expected to attend.

They will sit together as genuine colleagues and team members, and accept well-earned accolades and (Continued on page 11)

Want me to grow up smarter?

Start talking.

Babies who are talked to from day one are more likely to have a successful future.

(future engineer)

Talk. Read. Sing.

Your words have power.

First5California.com/parents First5_Newspaper-HP_TalkReadSing_Inglewood_r1.indd 1

Title: African American Newspaper – Half Page

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#talkreadsing 3/31/14 12:48 PM Initials

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Inglewood Today

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April 10, 2014

Eye on the City T

Parking, Sound Insulation Top Agenda Items

he good news is that the City exceeded its goal of insulating 1,000 units within the twelve-month period from March 2013 through March 2014.

Mayor James T. Butts announced the Residential Sound Insulation program insulated more residences than in any prior year ever. Until last year, the most homes sound insulated within 12 months was around 400.

“We put together a plan to be able to (insulate) 1,020 units within that 12-month period. We are very happy to reach that goal,” said Betty Griffith of the RSI Dept.

Assistant City Manager/CFO David Esparza acknowledged seven members of the audience who did their own insulation work. They received two heaping rounds of applause. “It was a superior effort on

By Veronica Mackey

their part. I couldn’t be happier or prouder of them individually and collectively,” he said.

The bad news is that 13 full and part-time parking enforcement employees will lose their jobs. But all is not lost. New parking enforcement contractors have offered to hire everyone back, provided they can pass a physical exam and background check. SERCO, Inc. will handle parking enforcement, traffic control and meter operation services throughout the City of Inglewood.

Rehired employees will qualify for an hourly salary, plus full medical benefits, including vision and dental, and 401Ks. The council voted unanimously for outsourcing this service. The decision was based on a budgetary issue which dates back to 2010. At that time, the staff was directed to

find ways to save money. “The City was facing a double-digit shortfall,” said Assistant City Manager/CIO Michael Falkow.

Citations have gone down dramatically in Inglewood, Falkow said, from about 70,000 to 42,000.

Ethel Austin asked the council to consider that some current parking enforcement employees who are close to retirement age be considered for other jobs if they cannot pass the physical.

Councilman Eloy Morales had concerns about how parking tickets will be issued and how much control the City will maintain. “I would like to see warning tickets (for some parking violations). In the past, they would put a warning ticket on the windshield. Some folks have become accustomed to blocking their driveways or parking

on the grass, which they shouldn’t be doing anyway. We have not had the opportunity to enforce it like we had been.”

Morales noted that the savings outsourcing was supposed to bring was originally calculated between $400,000 and $800,000 a year.

Now that figure is $1.4 million.

Council members approved a two-year, renewable blanket purchase order for janitorial supplies in the amount of $64,397; in-kind sponsorship of the Inglewood Cultural Arts, Inc., Afro-Latin Music and Dance Festival by using the Amphitheater at Edward Vincent Park; $437,000 and an $80,000 contingency fund to upgrade lighting at Edward Vincent, Jr. Park; and an agreement with Turner Construction to allow Inglewood police (Continued on page 8)

Pick up your copy of Inglewood Today at one of these locations: 1 Stop Mini-Mart, 420 E. Florence Ave. A-Man Inc., 101 La Brea Ave. Airport Gas, 501 Hillcrest St. Allstate, 2300 W. Manchester Bl. Bayou Grill, 1400 N. La Brea Ave. Boston Cream Donuts, 2576 La Brea Ave. Bourbon Street Fish & Grill, 601 S. Prairie Ave. Briarwood, 3500 Manchester Bl. Broadway Federal Bank, 170 N. Market St. Brolly Hut Barber Shop on 109th & Crenshaw Bruno’s Pizza, 450 E. Manchester Bl. Budda Market, 3753 Slauson (Rimpau) C&J Beauty Supply, 11252 Crenshaw Bl. Carlton Square, 8700 Carlton Centinela Hospital, 555 E. Hardy St. Chili’s, 3490 W. Century Bl. Chile Verde on Crenshaw Choice Berry, 599 1/2 S. La Brea Ave. City One Stop, 110 Queen St. Cranford Scott, M.D., 211 N. Prairie Ave. CVS Pharmacy, 222 N. Market St. Darby Park, 3400 W. Arbor Vitae Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen #1, 202 E. Manchester Bl. Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen #2, 3249 W. Century Bl. Edward Vincent Park Senior Ctr., 700 Warren Lane Fabulous Burger, 1315 Centinela Ave., Family Fish Market, 1300 Centinela Ave. Fiesta Martin Mexican Grill, 1330 N. La Brea Ave. Gin’s Liquor, 11001 Crenshaw Bl. Gonzales Northgate Market, 10801 Prairie Ave. Heart & Soul Grill, 128 N. Market St. Hollywood Park Casino, 1050 S. Prairie Ave. Inglewood Airport Area, 330 E. Queen St. Inglewood Park Cemetery, 720 E. Florence Ave. Inglewood Community Police Ctr., Manchester/7th Ave. Inglewood City Hall, 1 West Manchester Bl. Inglewood Library, 101 W. Manchester Bl. Inglewood Meadows, 1 Locust St. Inglewood Park Mortuary, 3801 W. Manchester Bl. Inglewood Police Station, 1 West Manchester Bl. Inglewood Today, 949 S. La Brea Ave. Inglewood Unified School District, 401 S. Inglewood Ave. In the Kut Barber Shop on 109th & Crenshaw Jamba Juice, 5305 W. Centinela Ave. King Fish Market, 10901 Crenshaw Bl. KJLH Radio, 161 N. La Brea Ave. Ladera Physiotherapy, 409 S. La Brea Ave.

Lan’s Nails, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Lawrence Carey Barber Shop, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Liquorette Liquor Store, 1400 Centinela Ave. Louisiana Fried Chicken, 170 La Brea Lucy Laundromat across from Sizzler’s on Manchester M&M’s Soul Food on Manchester M&M’s Soul Food (new) on Crenshaw Martino’s Liquor, 706 E. Manchester Bl. Mike’s Deli, 4859 W. Slauson Ave. Moby’s Breakfast & Lunch, 3008 W. Manchester Bl. Morningside Adult Day Care, 3216 W. Manchester Bl. Nix Check Cashing, 140 E. Manchester Nix Check Cashing on Crenshaw & 110th Osage Senior Villas, 924 S. Osage Pann’s, 6710 La Tijera Bl. Pay Day Loans on Crenshaw & 110 Pep Boys, 200 E. Spruce Ave. Red Lobster, 3400 W. Century Bl. Regal Cleaners, 700 E. Manchester Bl. Regency Towers, 123 Locust St. Regent Plaza, 201 Regent St. Roger’s Park, 400 W. Beach Ave. Scottie’s Gumbo & Grill, 945 S. Prairie Ave. Sizzler’s, Manchester/Prairie Smoke 4 Less, 925 N. La Brea Spa 313 Salon, 313 La Brea Starbucks, 5301 Centinela Ave. Starbucks, 941 N. La Brea Ave. Starbucks on Century Stuff I Eat, 114 N. Market St. Super Fish Market, 11007 S Crenshaw Bl. Superior Groceries, 11202 S Crenshaw Bl. The Serving Spoon, 1403 Centinela Ave. TGIFriday’s, 6721 La Tijera Bl. True Vine Baptist Church, 1437 Centinela Ave. Union Bank, 6719 La Tijera Bl. Vons, 500 E. Manchester Bl. Walgreens on Century Westchester Villa Senior Living, 220 W. Manchester Bl. Whole Foods, 4508 Overhill (Slauson) Winchell’s Donuts, 2601 W. Manchester Bl. Winchell’s Donut Shop on Crenshaw near 108th St. Wings Stop on Century Wise Tires & Brakes, 949 S. La Brea Ave. Woody’s Barbeque, 4751 S. Market St. Yvonne B. Burke Senior Center, 4750 62nd St. (La Brea)

Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Publisher’s Message

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The Stars Are Aligning in Inglewood

he stars have aligned for Mayor Butts’ State of the City Address on April 10. It is happening on the eve of crucial positive change. It is barely spring, yet 2014 has already been a banner year for the City of Inglewood!

The City’s Residential Sound Insulation program has exceeded its goal of soundproofing 1,000 homes within 12 months. The Forum is fabulous again, thanks to a $100 million renovation, and reopened in January. Ground has been broken on the new 238-acre Hollywood Park Tomorrow site, which will house thousands of Inglewood residents and become a major retail and entertainment destination. Ground was also broken this year to make way for the new Crenshaw/LAX Metro Rail project, which includes two stations in Inglewood.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of Inglewood Today!

Twenty years ago, we rolled out the first edition of our then-magazine bearing the image of thenMayor Edward Vincent, celebrating the opening of the newly built Hollywood Park Casino. It was June 1994 and the casino was the hottest place in town.

The horse racing industry went into decline and Hollywood Park—one of Inglewood’s long standing institutions—closed its gates on December 22, 2013. But like the Forum, Hollywood Park will re-emerge better than before.

The future mega mixed-used development, which will include housing, retail, entertainment and community space, will bring thousands of jobs and cash-spending visitors to the city.

Inglewood has gone through a myriad of changes since the 1990’s. The “sleeping” city, once obscured by the bigness of its Los Angeles neighbor, is coming into its own. Now, with new leadership and heightened interest from investors, what was once snubbed by the media is suddenly at the

Page 5

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Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly center of news vans. It was here that the Dalai Lama spoke last month and Space Shuttle Endeavour passed through last year.

One thing has not changed, however. Residents who really love this city are just as eager to see it thrive now as they were in the 1990s.

Inglewood Today is proud to have played a part in shaping the positive image of stakeholders.

Our publication was created to balance the barrage of negative, distorted reporting by mainstream media. Residents complained that whenever something bad happened in Los Angeles, it was reported as happening in Inglewood.

The image of Inglewood as a hotbed for drugs, crime and poverty alienated residents and closed the door on would-be investors.

I find it interesting that when something good happens here (like the Fabulous Forum being renovated, and drawing world class entertainers) the media reports the Forum as being located in Los Angeles. All I can say is, Inglewood must be doing something right.

As Inglewood Today nears its 20-year anniversary, we invite readers to recall fond memories of living and working here over the last 20 years. What drew you to this city? What made you stay?

Send your comments to itnetworks@msn.com.

Visit Our Website: www.inglewoodtoday.com Subscribe to Inglewood Today Only $1.75 a week • Call 310.670.9600 Email: willie@inglewoodtoday.com

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Yvonne Horton

You Go, Inglewood!

By Anne Cheek La Rose

all me a Pollyanna, call me an down to make way for the shuttle. optimist, but for the past two Another giant leap for us was the years, I have felt that Ingle- fabulous Forum opening in January. wood is on the move; moving toward I attended an Eagles concert to see becoming a better city and becoming the space wonderfully alive again. I the city we all want her to be. It’s no reveled in the Forum traffic because secret that residents are fiercely loyal I remember it well from years past. to our city. Each of us loves this town It may look like a traffic jam, but it a great deal. We are proud to say we is really the look of success—and live here, even amongst the jeers from Inglewood is back on the map. some quarters.

The Dali Lama choosIf I had to mark a point ing Inglewood was a where it became visible blessing. He brought a that Inglewood was on message of peace and the move, I’d say it was the message that society the two days the shutis now in the hands of tle Endeavour moved young folks. His powthrough town. What exerful point was that our citement! Large groups generation is of the last of people crowding the century, but the young streets at all hours to get folk are of this century a look at Endeavour. I and must step up. went to Westchester in Anne Cheek La Rose The Arts Commission the morning, but was in Inglewood hit its stride last year with the creation that evening to see her. Still not satis- of I-GAP: Inglewood Growing Artists fied with drinking in this monumental Projects. Three grants were awarded. occasion, I was at the Forum the next We have seen one to completion, anday. I gawked and cheered and had other is currently running, and the tear-filled eyes. I followed her prog- third will start later this year. The ress via TV and even drove by the Arts Commission also produced the California Science Center to see her comprehensive “Inglewood Guide to in her new home.

Public Art, Architecture & Historic What a gift Endeavour was to this Sites” brochure. If you haven’t seen town. Without her, we would still it, pick one up at the Library or Parks be struggling with trees that erode and Recreation Department, 5th floor, streets and sidewalks. Remember, City Hall.

(Continued on page 10) we got two trees for everyone cut

Inglewood Today

Page 6

April 10, 2014

Race and Beyond: What Anita Hill’s Struggle Still Teaches Women About Equality

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By Patricia E. Gaston

ow can something that happened nearly 23 years ago feel as if it just happened yesterday? I felt that way while watching the newly released documentary, “Anita” (http://anitahill-film.com), which tells the story of Anita Hill, the law professor who accused thenSupreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment during his Senate confirmation hearings.

Back in October 1991, I watched the hearings on television from my suburban Dallas living room, talking with colleagues on the phone and becoming increasingly aghast as the questioning dragged on. As a journalist, I was supposed to leave my biases and feelings at the door, but I couldn’t help feeling insulted and assaulted as a woman along with Hill.

The same visceral feelings that I felt more than two decades ago welled up in me as I sat in the theater last weekend, reliving the entire episode as it unspooled on film.

Some details remain etched in

Anita Hill my brain: Anita Hill testifying for hours, answering questions over and over on conversations she had with Thomas about penis size, pubic hair, and a porn star known as Long Dong Silver; Thomas calling the C-SPAN spectacle a high-tech lynching; and ultimately, Thomas’ confirmation to the Supreme Court where he sits in silence today.

Time has a way of washing over details, but I left the theater not debating

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whether I believed Anita, but questioning whether things have changed for women, whether my daughter and my nieces and their friends will get equal pay for equal work, and whether they will remain safe from sexual harassment and assault.

These issues are not new. In fact, when I delved into them while an editor at The Dallas Morning News in the 1980s and 1990s, these issues were talked about, but usually only in whispers. As the co-editor of a 15-part Pulitzer Prize-winning

Recently, in the Washington, D.C., area, Khalil Tatum allegedly killed his wife, Andrea Tatum. She would have been just another statistic relegated to the back pages of the newspaper were it not for the fact that Tatum, a janitor at a homeless shelter, was also implicated in the disappearance of 8-year-old Relisha Rudd (http://www.washingtonpost.com/ local/crime/).

The pay equity fight is an important facet of the gender equality issue. It continues at a fever pitch, as

Anita Hill testifying in court. project on violence against women, the HBO documentary “Paycheck to my team and I examined the univer- Paycheck” (http://shriverreprt.org) sality of violence toward women. details through the life of Katrina GilAfter the series ran, I often fielded bert of Tennessee—one of 42 million calls and opened letters from read- American women living in poverty or ers who were glad that we were tak- on the brink of it. More than 34 states ing the lid off taboo subjects such are debating raising the minimum as sexual harassment, rape, female wage to $10.10 per hour; seven states genital mutilation, and infanticide. and the District of Columbia have alWomen deserve and should live in ready raised their minimum wages. a world free from violence.

A hike in the minimum wage will These days, harassment, sexual have a profound effect (http://thinkviolence, and pay equity are no progress.org/economy/2013) on the longer seen as women’s issues but well-being and economic security of as issues that affect all of us. Time women, who account for nearly twohas a way of putting things into thirds of minimum-wage workers. perspective, and it has not stood President Barack Obama is exstill for me or Anita Hill. pected to announce two actions The documentary not only (http://www.latimes.naton/politiclooked at the 1991 Senate Judiciary snow/) today (April 8, 2014)—an Committee hearings and the fallout executive order barring federal from Hill’s testimony, but it also contractors from retaliating against gave her a chance to present her employees who disclose their wagside of the story and showed her es and a presidential memorandum teaching a new generation about that compels contractors to keep harassment and gender issues. better records that track wages by There is much work to do to con- sex and race—both aimed at protinue Hill’s quest for gender equality. moting equal pay for women.

We have a Violence Against Women While working at Miriam’s KitchAct (http://www.whitehouse.gov), en (http://www.miriamskitchen. but it struggled for reauthorization org) and on The Way Home (http:// for nearly a year before it was finally www.thewayhomedc.org) campaign approved in 2013. And we still see to end chronic homelessness in the women who are killed or injured at District of Columbia by 2017, I have (Continued on page 11) the hands of someone they know.

VOTE TODAY • Visit www.inglewoodtoday.com

Would you like to see NFL Football in Inglewood?

Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Page 7

Health&Fitness T•O•D•A•Y

Celebrate STD Awareness Month by Getting Tested

By Doug Arnold

C

reated by Congressional resolution in 2009, STD Awareness Month serves as a campaign to bring awareness to the continued fight against STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, which, in some areas, are still on the rise. Not only are some STDs on the rise, but they are on the rise among young people. Those in the age group 15-24 account for nearly half of all newly reported cases of STDs. And really, there is no reason for this continued increase in STD infection. Safe sex practices are widely known and STD testing is easier than ever. If you are reading this and are sexually active, do yourself--and others--a favor by making a commitment to practice safe sex and get tested for STDs. Condoms provide the best protection against STD infection and are widely available at a reasonable cost. Yes, they might be just outside the budget of an average working teen, but that teen does not need to give up much to buy a condom.

One latte alone will pay for 2-3 condoms. One fast food meal will pay for a box of six.

Testing may be a little more difficult, but is imperative not only for the health of the infected person who, after testing positive, will be able to receive much-needed treatment,

but for the community as a whole.

An infected person will hopefully seek treatment (and there are cures for some STDs like chlamydia and syphilis) and be more self-conscious about practicing safe sex.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends annual testing for all sexually active individuals or those who have recently, or are considering, a new sexual partner. Where to get tested is an issue for some.

A family doctor would be the best option, especially for those who are insured and have a good relationship with their doctor. Family doctors know you and your health history and will be able to prescribe a course of treatment if you test positive. However, some are hesitant to seek testing from their doctor for STD testing, especially if they want to keep their sexual activity a secret from a parent, or a spouse.

Clinics such as Planned Parenthood or city-run clinics provide another option. While inexpensive, they are typically not conveniently located for most youth, especially suburban youth. Other clinics can be found in the phone book or online.

Another option for STD testing is a confidential testing service.

Some of these services arrange for testing at a local lab and others will (Continued on page 10)

2 0 Y EA R S

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GET 20% OFF ON ALL ADS

For information Call INGLEWOOD TODAY at 310.670.9600 SALES Email: Willie@inglewoodtoday.com (Offer expires on May 29, 2014)

Resistance Training

R

By Harley Elliott

esistance exercise is probably the most underutilized tools in diet programs. Nevertheless, weight lifting ought to be a component of everyone’s exercise routine, whether they desire to shed pounds or not. Resistance training could possibly be the “secret ingredient” to guide you reach your weight loss objectives.

“Simply put, I don’t want to bulk up.”

You won’t build muscle unless you wish to (and spend lots of time doing it). Bulking up or developing a good deal of muscle mass usually takes quite a few hours of hard work and determination, together with the purpose to build muscles.

The greatest things about resistance training consist of: • Revving up your metabolism, making weight loss much easier • Improving your strength, making your body more chiseled and beautiful • Elevating your energy • I mproving your intellectual functionality • Reduce aging.

• Revitalizing your overall performance in other physical exercises.

• Decreasing your risk of weak bones.

Some learn that adding resistance training may accelerate weight loss success and allow them to conquer leveling off in their weight loss quest.

“Muscle weighs much more than excess fat and I’m attempting to lose weight, not gain!”

True, muscle does indeed weigh more than body fat. Even so, your muscle mass is a vital determinant of your basal metabolic rate, or the quantity of calories you lose sleeping. As a result, strength training can easily improve your metabolic rate and be the magic formula in your successful weight loss efforts.

“Aerobic exercise melts away more calories by the hour, so I have to burn as many calories as I can during the time I have available.”

Strength training accelerates your basal metabolic rate, so even though typically aerobic fitness What’s Resistance Training? exercise does burn more calories Resistance training can be any DURING the workout, weight exercise that creates the muscle training will continue to burn caltissue to contract against a force. ories AFTER you train.

Common forms of resistance training tend to be circuit train“I don’t understand how to do ing, water aerobics, utilizing an weight training.” exercise band or hand weights, Mastering the correct technique and also Pilates and certain types is very important to executing of yoga. safe, effective resistance training.

If resistance is incredibly effec- Be sure and check with an experitive, exactly why are people not enced trainer to guide you on how doing it? to integrate resistance training General factors behind not un- into your regimen. The Achieve(Continued on page 9) dertaking weight lifting include:

Page 8

Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Today 2014’s “Business Owner Cover-Ups” to Avoid at All Costs (Part 1)

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By Peter Williamson

o business owner I know is eager to admit things are rocky. One thing about a depressed economy is that it puts everyone in the same boat, or in this case, on the same roller coaster, though some of us are right up front, watching the next drop or twist coming, while others are in the back of that roller coaster in that “waiting” space of fear, wondering what surprise twist will come next.

Wherever you are on that roller coaster, chances are you battle with: • Trying to cover all functions in your business. You’re the leader, right? The one in charge. But often business owners like yourself have honorable intentions, yet fall into the trap of taking on too much responsibility, landing them in the trapful thinking that they are the only ones that can handle everything (Yes, I made up the word trapful, but I bet you know what I’m saying). See that dark tunnel up ahead? Get ready, because you’re about to duck into it and there are probably some very sharp turns awaiting you!

• Doing the same thing over and over. Ah, yes. You suspect that you are spending way too much time checking emails, attending meetings, trouble-shooting this, that and the other, day in and day out,

wondering why nothing significant gets done, or why it feels like you are pulling on the leash of a very reluctant elephant that doesn’t wish to move. Change is sometimes difficult. We, as humans, get comfortable even with things that aren’t working, so making a decision to change feels risky.

• Agonizing over hiring or training employees (or the opposite, enjoying it so much that other important matters get pushed aside!). It happens to all of us. Something in our business is annoying, so we put it off as long as we can, or the opposite, something is so fun and rewarding that we focus the majority of our time and energy on it, foregoing other areas that need our attention, and that will help us grow our businesses.

• Conflicts with a co-founder who doesn’t see things your way.

That “vision” you both were so excited about when you joint-ventured to start the company isn’t so 20/20 anymore. What you thought was a joint vision suddenly feels a little wall-eyed. Or maybe one of you is wearing horse blinders!

• Penny pinched to save, rather than investing in the business (or spent too much so there’s nothing left to invest). Wasn’t it Ben

Franklin who said a penny saved is a penny earned? Well, for business owners, a penny properly invested is a dollar earned. Focus now has to be on raising the value of your average sale, boosting your margins, and frankly, turning your business into a money-making machine.

• Stress has you thinking shortterm, rather than long-term goals. The good news here is that if you’re thinking goals at all, you’re moving in the right direction, but living just short-term goals is like living paycheck to paycheck.

The good news is that that rollercoaster ride you’re on does have a stopping point, and you can determine when that point is. Why not make it now?

Here’s how: 1. Doing everything is noble, but exhausting. When I see business owners on this particular hamster-wheel approach, I work with them on learning how to delegate.

The key to delegation isn’t just the practice of trust and letting go, it’s the process of hiring your “A” team, training them, incentivizing, and testing and measuring results.

With those systems in place, you are free to do what you are meant to do: Work on the business, not in it.

2. Repetitive habits are a result

of failure to prioritize. One of the first things I look at when working with business owners is how they prioritize their day, week, month, quarter, year. Some people are adverse to schedules, calendars and setting goals, but if that’s you, you need to really ask yourself if you’re cut out to be a business owner.

There are simply too many things to track and handle to think that you can do it all by winging it.

3. Employee challenges are not uncommon. I’ve seen companies that hire too many, hire too few, but most commonly, hire the wrong people for the job. One business owner prided himself on doing all the work so he didn’t have to hire someone, but when I asked him what he felt his time was worth, and we did the math, he was shocked at how much he was actually spending in his efforts to save. When I work with business owners, they learn how to assess potential employees to see who would be the best fit for the position, and systems are put into place for the employees and the business owners to track that success (or lack thereof).

Part 2 of “Business Owner CoverUps” to Avoid at All Costs will continue next week.

On the Horizon (Continued from page 2) Inglewood designer who understands how to blend trendy fashion and commerce.

3. Utilize Social Media. In 2008, Barack Obama captured the hearts and minds of Americans not just because he was smart, black, and charming, but because he did something no other president could do, and that was capture the young voter.

The campaign did that by reaching the people where the people were, the Internet! Using Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and now Instagram, this administration is undoubtedly the coolest and most creative administration in American History. If the president of the United States is having Google hangouts with writers, entrepreneurs, and innovators, our elected officials could at the very least attempt to have more than a couple hundred friends on Facebook.

There are a number of other ways the city can tap into its right brain processes that will broaden its vision and, in turn, enhance its appeal to developers and community members.

As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned

that it’s important when servicing others, to remember that you have to meet them where they are, and not assume you know what’s best for them. It’s important to create genuine connections with your clients through engagement, fact finding, and dialogue. What you often find is that it’s not about the end result, it’s about the relationship and experience that’s built in the process, which over time becomes your company culture. In regards to our community, engaging in these 3 simple acts can open alternative viewpoints on services, strategies, and policies, that accomplish the City’s ultimate goal—enhancing the quality of life of its citizens. Our young people play a tremendous role in the culture of our community, and too often we are overlooked.

However, the necessary steps are being taken to catapult the city to prominence, and it’s also the responsibility of young people to make their presence known. Don’t be afraid to reach out to community leaders to introduce yourself, ask them questions, and tell them about what you are doing or interested in doing. If

this is to be your community someday, take your number now, before someone else does, because the horizon soon becomes the shore.

Office for replacing Bank of America with Global Custody and Agency to handle the City’s custody services. The change, she said, will save Inglewood $3,500 a month.

City Manager Artie Fields announced that construction permits are up in the city by about 79% over the past year—another sign of progress. He also invited the community to Inglewood’s Earth Day celebration, April 19 at Inglewood City Hall South Lawn, from 10am to 3pm.

The free event features live performances by Kenny Lattimore, Sledge Grits Band and Phillip Lauth.

All council members made a big push for community participation in the upcoming Relay for Life event to raise awareness and funds to stamp out cancer. Each of the four districts is forming Relay for Life teams to participate in the 24-hour nonstop marathon at Crozier Middle School, June 7-8.

Councilman George Dotson announced that his office is organizing Team Dotson. “If you can’t get behind Relay for Life, I think there’s something wrong with you,” he (Continued on page 11)

Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) to conduct various personnel training exercises at the Hollywood Park Race Track property.

Appointments were made to the South Bay Workforce Investment Board. New board members include Donovan Green (Seat No. 1) and Nick Spampanato (Seat No. 11) for the City of Inglewood. Joe Macias will serve the Local Union 250 Steam, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Pipefitters, and Apprentices of the United Association for an existing term ending on June 30, 2017; and the City of Gardena’s nominee, Araceli Lonergan, will serve an existing term ending on June 30, 2016 as Chief Executive Officer of Gardena Memorial Hospital.

The City authorized the filing of grant applications for various capital improvement projects.

City Treasurer Wanda Brown commended the City Manager’s

Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Page 9

Community Notices LADWP: Save Money with Efficiency Upgrades for Your Business (free) The Los Angeles Department of Water & Power (LADWP) offers efficiency upgrades for your business through its Small Business Direct Install Program. For qualifying businesses interested in improving their operations, these water and energy-efficient upgrades are provided at no cost.

For qualification and instructions on how to apply, visit www.ladwp. com/sbdi or call 877.714.1254.

A video tutorial is available to explain and assist you with the application process at www.business. ca.gov/Programs/CaliforniaCompetes.

Career Training Opportunities

Community Career Development Metro Bus Operator Bridge Program (free) You are invited to attend a training program to prepare for an interview and job placement with Metro. Previous bus driving experience is not required. Program participants must be unemployed and at least 21 years old, with a valid driver license and a satisfactory driving record to apply.

For a complete list of requirements, email Gquintana@CommunityCareer.org or call 213.3659829.

The Los Angeles Urban League: Construction Careers Information Center (CCIC) Union construction workers will be required to complete all phases of work for the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project and other upcoming Metro projects. The CCIC offers individuals seeking careers in the construction industry a full range of Governor’s Office of self-service information and career Construction Notices Business & Economic related services.

Development: Apply for Tax For information on how to en- Crenshaw/Lax Transit Credits (Deadline) ter into a construction career, Project: Tree Removal and The Governor’s Office of Busi- please visit www.laul.org or call Replacement ness & Economic Development 323.299.9660 ext.2220.

Prior to major construction of (“GO-Biz”) is California’s single the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Projpoint of contact for economic development and job creation efforts.

The California Competes program provides $180 million in tax-credits to businesses of all sizes over the next 2 years. Local businesses are encouraged to apply. The value of the tax-credit depends, in part, upon the extent of unemployment where your business is located. Don’t wait, the registration deadline is April 14, 2014!

ect, substantial pre-construction activities are required, including the removal and replacement or relocation of trees along the project route. This work will be performed in phases, to ensure that trees are only removed when construction begins in a particular area. After an approval by the L.A. Board of Public Works, the first area where this activity will need to take place is along Crenshaw Blvd, from Exposition Blvd to 48th Street.

Connect with Metro for the latest information on construction activities in your neighborhood: Email: crenshawcorridor@metro.net Website: www.metro.net/crenshaw Hotline: 213.922.2736 Facebook: www.facebook.com/crenshawrail Twitter: www.twitter.com/crenshawrail

Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project

Resistance Training (Continued from page 7) Life weight loss program provides easy to understand instructions with online video demonstrations, provided by physical fitness experts on how to safely and securely add resistance workouts to your workout regimen.

“I don’t feel comfortable in a fitness center.”

You can do an effective resistance program at home with no specialized equipment. Inexpensive equipment such as adjustable dumbbells and resistance bands can further broaden the range of workouts you can execute. All of the Achieve-Life resistance exercises can be achieved at home with no or minimal equipment.

Look for a way of getting weight lifting into your exercise routine.

You will be stronger, feel and look much better and it may very well be a “secret ingredient” your weight loss initiatives have been lacking!

Achieve-Life weight loss program is designed by board certified doctors to be the most efficient system for healthy, long lasting weight loss. For more information, visit http://www.achieve-life.com.

metro.net/projects

Spring 2014 Project Update As construction progresses on the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project, Metro and Walsh-Shea Corridor Constructors (WSCC) are committed to providing the most up-to-date information on construction activities being performed along the 8.5-mile project route.

Running from the Expo Line to the Green Line, the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project has eight stations and will serve the Crenshaw District, Inglewood, Westchester and the surrounding LAX area with stations at Crenshaw/Exposition, Crenshaw/Martin Luther King Bl, Crenshaw/ Vernon (Leimert Park), Crenshaw/Slauson, Florence/West, Florence/ La Brea, Florence/Hindry and Aviation/Century.

Current Construction Construction on the underground stations is anticipated to begin in late April with pile installation at Crenshaw Bl/Exposition Bl and Crenshaw Bl/Martin Luther King Bl. Concurrently, demolition work is slated to begin on the Florence construction yard located at Florence Av/LaBrea Av. As the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project is a design-build project, project design continues while construction begins.

Properties located at the future Expo construction yard have been cleared, and work on a 16-foot sound wall surrounding the yard has begun. Along the route, geographical boring (obtaining soil samples) and potholing (checking for underground utilities), as well as railroad track removal along Florence Av and utility relocation continue.

Community Updates Metro held a January 2014 groundbreaking ceremony to kick o= the start of construction. More recently, the project held its >rst community construction update meeting, an Open House at its new Airport Project O;ce at 9323 Bellanca Av. The event saw hundreds in attendance.

Metro now provides daily project updates via Facebook (facebook.com/crenshawrail), Twitter (@crenshawrail) and emails.

Several project factsheets pertaining to trees, work permits and environmental standards have been distributed. Metro will also continue to meet with community stakeholders to provide project updates.

Other activities include partnering with community organizations to coordinate events promoting careers in construction. This has included appearances at Career Day at Crenshaw and Inglewood High Schools and mentoring two Morningside High School students for the day at Metro headquarters.

Further, outreach to local artists has begun regarding the process of submitting art for Metro stations. The project team has also expanded with the addition of new members to WSCC and Metro. Moreover, the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project and WSCC have contracted with several local vendors to provide a myriad of services to the project.

WSCC is a joint venture between Walsh Construction and J.F. Shea Company. Together, they have collaborated on many rail projects in the United States, including systems in Dallas, Phoenix, Charlotte and Chicago.

In addition to its October Business Opportunities Summit, WSCC has made an immediate impact in the Crenshaw/LAX community by hosting two food drives and a toy drive for the 2013 holiday season.

213.922.2736 crenshawcorridor@metro.net metro.net/crenshaw @crenshawrail facebook.com/crenshawrail

14-1774ps ©2014 lacmta

Small Businesses Opportunities

Inglewood Today

Page 10

LEG A L NOT I CES REQUEST FOR BIDS Installation of Carpet Tiles and Floor Treatment of Various City Departments RFB-0071 BIDS DUE: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2014 AT 11:30 A.M. AT THE OFFICE OF CITY CLERK LOCATED ON THE 1ST FLOOR OF INGLEWOOD CITY HALL One Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90301 Contact Person During Bid Period: Jorge Ochoa, Purchasing Division (310) 412-5266

REQUEST FOR BIDS CITY OF INGLEWOOD INVITATION TO SUBMIT BID

(Specifications and Conditions Governing Award) The City of Inglewood invites and will receive bids duly filed as provided herein for the furnishing of qualified “INSTALLATION OF CARPET TILES AND FLOOR TREATMENT” as specified in this document.

Each bid shall be submitted and completed in all particulars and must be enclosed in a sealed envelope addressed to the City of Inglewood, Purchasing and Contract Services Division, Inglewood City Hall 8th Floor, with the designation of the project “INSTALLATION OF CARPET TILES AND FLOOR TREATMENT” appearing thereon.

The City Council reserves the right to waive any irregularities in any bids, and to take bids under advisement for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days from and after the date bids are opened and announced.

The following conditions and terms apply: 1) The City Council reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

2) Attached are detailed specifications and conditions for bid submission.

3) You must execute your contract within ten (10) days after the City mails it. If the contract is not executed within ten (10) days, the City reserves the unilateral right to cancel it.

4) If any provisions of the contract are violated, the City, after suitable notice, may cancel the contract and make arrangements to have the products and or services supplied by others. Any extra cost to the City will be paid by the vendor.

5) Bids may be obtained from the Purchasing Division located on the 8th floor of City Hall, or call (310) 412-5266.

6) All bids must be for specific amounts. Any attempt to qualify prices with an ‘escalation clause’ or any other method of making a price variable, is unacceptable. Bid shall be valid for ninety (90) calendar days from receipt of bid.

7) The City reserves the right to add or subtract quantities and/or services based on the unit prices/unit lump sums so indicated as its budgetary needs may require.

Artie Fields, City Manager City of Inglewood, California Dated at Inglewood, California

Celebrate STD Awareness Month

by Getting Tested (Continued from page 7) send you an in-home test kit. Some of these in-home test kits provide immediate results, like a pregnancy test, while others, especially those that test for HIV, require you to send a

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014056030 The following Person is doing business as: DYS Camp 4303 ½ Garthwaite Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90008 Registered owners: Judon Harris, 4303 ½ Garthwaite Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008 Jharon Ward, 1915 35th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90008 Mildred Warren, 4303 ½ Garthwaite Ave., Los Angeles,CA 90008 This business is conducted by individuals. The registrants commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on March 3, 2014.

I (we) declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.

(A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.)

Judon Harris, Jharon Ward, Mildred Warren, Owners This statement was filed with the County Clerk on March 3, 2014 NOTICE-In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration.

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014079503 The following Person is doing business as: Complete Imaging Solutions 10725 Condon Avenue Inglewood, CA 90304 Registered owner: Guillermo Arturo Angeles, Inglewood, CA 90304 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on March 25, 2014.

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.

(A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.)

Guillermo Arturo Angeles, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on March 25, 2014 NOTICE-In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State or common law (See Section 14411 et.seq., Business and Professions Code.)

Original April 3, 10, 17, 24, 2014 ITO0422301025 Inglewood Today

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State or common law (See Section 14411 et.seq., Business and Professions Code.)

Original April 10, 17, 24; May 1, 2014 ITO0422301026 Inglewood Today

You go, Inglewood!

(Continued from page 5) MSG and Clark Construction are engaging with the community by renovating the Inglewood Playhouse in Vincent Park. It is a lovely little space and has languished for several years.

Soon we will have a small space for local spoken word

and theatrical productions.

Finally, there are two grassroots revitalization projects in their early stages--one on Manchester between Crenshaw and Van Ness and the other is North La Brea, from Fairview to 64th Street.

Inglewood is coming alive—one can feel it!

sample to a lab for testing.

You simply call a number after a prescribed waiting period for your results.

Either way, it is important that you get tested, and get tested today. April, STD

Awareness Month, is the perfect time to make that happen.

There are many ways to get an STD, and if you get one, find a nearby location for STD testing.

April 10, 2014

Free Shredding Event This Weekend

D

id you know improperly discarded paperwork is one of the leading causes of identity theft? In celebration of Earth Month and Financial Literacy Month, Water & Power Community Credit Union is hosting a free paper shredding event for residents at its Westchester branch on April 26, with a goal of collecting 10,000 pounds of paper to be recycled from its four branches.

The shredding will take place at the credit union, 8800 S. Sepulveda Blvd. (at La Tijera), Westchester, CA 90045, from 10am-1pm. Free shredding will be available at other branch locations.

The public is invited to bring their sensitive paperwork, for safe and secure shredding, which will be recycled. Games and giveaways like eco-friendly tote bags and water bottles will be included in this fun mid-day event.

Financial advisors will also be on hand. In honor of Financial Literacy Month, participants will learn about the credit union’s free resources that can help its members create efficient budgets for a more secure future.

According to a recent FTC report, identity theft was the top nationwide consumer complaint in 2013. Shredding sensitive and confidential documents is an easy way for consumers to protect themselves.

Now is the perfect time to reduce clutter. What better way to jump start spring cleaning and get a fresh start for fiscal year 2014?

Attendees can bring up to five boxes or bags of paperwork, including bank statements, receipts, tax records and financial statements, for easy, safe and secure shredding.

WPCCU branch staff can provide more information about the Simple1 Loan, the credit union’s debt consolidation tool that helps simplify multiple outstanding loans into one low interest rate loan. For more info please visit www.wpcu.org/simple1.

Founded in 1936, Water and Power Community Credit Union is a full-service financial cooperative celebrating 75 years of service in the Los Angeles area. For more information, visit www.wpcu.org or call 1-800-300-9728. WPCCU is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

Inglewood Today

April 10, 2014

Page 11

Dates in April April 10, 2014

State of the City 2014 Inglewood Mayor James Butts will present his annual State of the City Address at the Fabulous Forum. The luncheon will be held from 11:30am to 1:30pm. This event is a fundraiser for the Inglewood/Airport Area Chamber of Commerce. Luncheon tickets are $75; and $700 for a table of 10.

General admission without lunch is $20.

For more information, call the Inglewood/Airport Chamber of Commerce at (310) 677-1121.

April 10, 2014

Crenshaw/LAX Transit Meeting Join your neighbors and community leaders for the Community Leadership Council (CLC) Quarterly Meeting to hear the latest on the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project. This meeting is open to the public.

Held 6pm to 8pm, West Angeles Church, 3045 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016, For more information and to RSVP, please email crenshawclc@metro.net.

April 15, 2014

Financial Management Workshop The Wilshire Metro WorkSource Center is hosting a workshop for veterans, reservists and National Guard Service members and their families. Attendees will learn about credit and FICO scores, budgeting, money management,

loans and identity theft.

The workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at 3550 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 500, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (near Normandie Metro Station). Metered parking available, $5 flat rate parking at St. Basil Church (Corner of Wilshire/ Kingsley).

Seating is limited. Reserve by calling Fernando Godinez at 213.365.9829, ext. 125 or email VetInfoWilshire@communitycareer.org Facilitated by Roy Jasso, Vice President Wells Fargo Community Relations. For more information, visit www.CommunityCareer.org.

April 22, 2014

Crenshaw/Lax Transit Project: April Construction Update Join Metro staff for the April Construction Update community meeting for the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project. These meetings are held every other month (bi-monthly) and are open to the public.

Held 6pm to 7:30pm, Angeles Mesa Elementary School, Auditorium, 2611 W. 52nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90043. For more information, please email crenshawcorridor@metro.net or call (213) 922-2736.

May 16-17, 2014

Los Angeles Black Business Expo Local businesses are invited to exhibit products and services at the upcoming 22nd annual Los

Race and Beyond: What Anita Hill’s Struggle Still Teaches Women About Equality (Continued from page 6) seen the way that poverty has taken hold and crippled opportunities for women in some of the worlds richest cities. I have to believe that my $25 monthly donation and my volunteer work are making a difference. But much more is needed.

Indeed, no less an authority than Anita Hill said it best. The beauty of time is that we can see both how far we have come and how far we need to go toward gender equality.

“So, we’re at a really critical time,” Hill told the Los Angeles Times in a

recent interview. “I think we started a process in 1991, and I think 22½ years later we have enough perspective and enough wisdom to make sure we hold ourselves accountable to a new generation.”

Note: This article appeared in the “Race and Beyond” column of the Washington Post (April 8, 2014).The opinions expressed here are those of the author and not of The Washington Post or any other organization with which she is affiliated. Patricia E. Gaston is a member of the 2014 class of the Leadership Institute (http://www. americanprogress.org) at the Center for American Progress and a contract editor at The Washington Post.

So Just What Is the State of Our City?

(Continued from page 3) thanks from the Mayor for a job well done. That is the state of Inglewood now.

Because this professional conduct and rapport, absent from the City for far too long, is now an extension of weekly city council meetings in Inglewood, I know the state of the City is very good even before the Mayor begins his salutations. Still

I’m going to hang around for the recital of accomplishments because in the last two or three years they have been nothing short of remarkable. Indeed, transformative. I am anxious to hear this Mayor’s goals for the future because he and this Council have established a record of delivering on promises made, and because Inglewood is poised for greatness. And that is a reflection of the state of the City now.

Angeles Black Business Expo.

Exciting exhibits will be on display, including the Tastin’ Black Culture Food Court, Fashion & Art Zone, Health & Fitness Pavilion, Kids’ World and much more.

Held from 12pm to 8pm, West Angeles Cathedral (in “The Hangar”),3600 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016. Vendor registration is open! For registration and sponsorship information, visit www.BlackBusinessExpo.com or call 323.810-4752.

Thru June 19, 2014

Making Parenting a Pleasure Attention all parents, caregivers, grandparents, and teachers! The Enrichment Counseling Center is offering a series of 13 free parenting workshops. Resolve to have a better relationship with the children in your life. Workshops are court certified, open to everyone, and will focus on all age groups from infants to teens. Each participant who completes the course will receive a certificate of completion.

Workshops will be held from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Kingdom Community Center, 319 East Kelso Street, Inglewood, CA 90301. To reg-

ister, contact Chandra Hudson, 310330-8300, chudson @bamcm.org.

Eye on the City (Continued from page 8) said. The First District councilman will hold two townhall meetings— one on April 26 at 10am, at First Church of God, 9550 Crenshaw Blvd., and another one on May 10 at 10am, at Maranantha Church, 1123 E. Redondo Blvd.

Padilla invited the community to stay connected by visiting his website, http://www.concilmanalex paddilla.com/ and getting on the list for his newsletter. “Take a look. I want you to offer your insight as it relates to the newsletter, and also to the website,” he said. One resident encouraged all the other council members to create a newsletter like Padilla.

Mayor Butts thanked the RSI staff for an outstanding job, and wondered why more residents didn’t do the same. “We were hearing, year in and year out (about the need for sound insulation) and then, when we secure tens of millions. of dollars, when we finally do it, no one says anything about it. They mocked me when I said we’re going to do a thousand homes. We’re going to get things done in this city.”

Lennox Library Grand Opening

Hidden in Plain Sight

O L

ennox and Inglewood residents now have a new, improved community resource.

The grand opening of the newly renovated Lennox Library, located at 4359 Lennox Blvd., will take place this Friday, April 11 at 3:30pm.

The library will double as a Constituent Service Center for L.A. County’s Second District Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.

Originally built in 1949, the 4,600-square-feet Lennox Library was the oldest and most outdated library within the County’s Public Library System. The new library is now 10,000-square feet, more than double its original size, and includes a children’s section, a teen study room, an adult reading area, nine new public access computers

and a community meeting room with seating for 75 people.

The Community Service Center will include meeting rooms, a Second District field office as well as offices for the Departments of Regional Planning, Consumer Affairs and Community and Senior Services.

This renovation is the latest project in Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas’s longstanding effort to fuel community engagement by providing attractive and useful public spaces for constituents.

Other service centers are in Exposition Park and Florence Firestone.

For more information, go to http:// ridley-thomas.lacounty.gov/index. php/lennox-library-opening/.

By Anne Cheek La Rose

ne sees it each time enterOn Saturday, April 5, the City ing the Civic Center com- and the Arts Commission hosted a plex from La Brea, yet few reception for the artist at the Main recognize it as part of Inglewood’s Branch of our Library. The exhibit Public Art collection. It is the tall, includes photographs and explanaslender, dark spire that stands in the tions of how Tony Delap, working center of the City Hall Fountain. It with the architect, decided on this is titled “Skedans.” design and placement. The exhibit This artwork is the creation of can be viewed now through April Tony Delap, a major Southern Cali- 26, during Library hours. fornia artist. Partially funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, it was installed in 1978. Tony’s inspiration for the work was the totem poles of the Haida Indians of the Northwest Pacific Coast.

Though it is not clearly visible, the artist also created the stepped pedestal on which “Skedans” sits.

Neither “Skedans” nor the fountain has had any maintenance in years. Inglewood is not unusual, as it is not uncommon for cities to have no conservation or restoration plan for Public Art. It is important to know that the maintenance of the artwork and the fountain are two “Skedans” in City Hall Fountain separate issues.