July 10, 2014

20 Y EA RS

Your Community Connection since 1994

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 23, No. 28

July 10, 2014

Inglewood Shown to Be Business Savvy, Friendly Article in Los Angeles Business Journal Highlights Inglewood’s Smart Business Moves

By Veronica Mackey

In Inglewood, a growing number of residents are raising deep concern about state control of local schools.

The City of Inglewood made the cover of the Los Angeles Business Journal this week (July 7, 2014)—a pivotal moment that further cements the growing consensus that the “City of Champions” is back.

By Kiara Harris California Black Media

D

avid Nusbaum’s full page-plus article titled, “Inglewood Gets Down to Business,” and separate commentary by editor Charles Crumpley on a possible NFL stadium, chronicle the city’s inevitable comeback.

Nusbaum’s piece catches outsiders up on the steady inroads made by city leaders to eliminate the doubledigit deficit, and unfunded liability that once quadrupled the annual general fund budget.

Mayor James Butts, who ran the Santa Monica Police Dept., was Deputy Police Chief in Inglewood, and oversaw the security detail at LAX, has learned a thing or two about driving down

A Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts viewing the City of Champions.

costs and attracting new revenue.

“You focus on a major entertainment anchor because high-end restaurants and retail follow,” Butts said.

“Then the business campuses relocate in your city.

That’s the next phase for

what we need to attract.”

The formula is working.

Just this year alone, 16 new businesses have opened in the city, including the newly renovated Fabulous Forum.

There are discussions with investors about transforming downtown’s Market Street.

• News • Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

re there too many lingering questions and not enough definitive answers on the effects of the state takeover of the Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD)?

Depends on who you ask.

But a growing number of residents, along with faith and community leaders, are beginning to believe so.

Under the umbrella group

The planned Hollywood Park tomorrow “mini city” project, which will house a 300-room hotel, retail, entertainment and nearly 3,000 new homes, is part of the rebirth making locals who thought they knew In- Inglewood Unified School District Office (Continued on page 8) Education Equity Coalition, some of those concerned residents were at the State Capitol on July 1 to testify

By Thomas Bunn before the Joint Legislative Creative Director/Producer, Against the Grain Films Audit Committee (JLAC).

The committee considrenowned Los Angeles Contemporary Arts ered an audit of the SuperMuseum to curate a intendent of Public Instrucs a writer, profun-filled series of tion’s action to name a state ducer, and film workshops, screenings, trustee for the Inglewood director, it brings and lectures, dedicated Unified School District me great pleasure to see to the art of moving IUSD. The audit request a workshop come to the images. The workshops eventually failed.

If it all sounds very comcommunity that educates will be held at the Inindividuals on cinematic glewood Main Library plicated, that’s because it expression. on Manchester Blvd. is—sometimes dizzyingly The City of Inglenext to Inglewood City so, for parents and others who want to see schools in wood has recently partHall.

(Continued on page 2) (Continued on page 2) nered with the world

Film Finds Inglewood

On The Inside:

Has State Takeover of IUSD Worked?

A

Inglewood Today Proudly Serving Inglewood for 20 Years

Page 2

Has State Takeover of IUSD Worked?

(Continued from page 1) their community improve. From the perspective of Margaret RichardBowers, an Inglewood activist who testified that day, there been enough details released or strong conclusions drawn on the effectiveness of state control of IUSD. First, a brief history: In 2012, an administrator was named by Supt.

Tom Torlakson to assume virtually all power in the school district, with the elected school board virtually relegated to the status of an advisory panel. This set-up came under the terms of an emergency $55 million state loan which dragged the district away from possible insolvency, but left a fog of ill feelings over the disempowering of local officials forced to surrender “all legal rights, duties and powers of the governing board.”

The move was humbling, but not entirely unexpected: it followed years of severe financial challenges and irregularities in the district serving mostly African-American and Latino families.

Still, today, some look at finances and academic outcomes and wonder if state control has been worth it? The turmoil in leadership has certainly not halted. Inglewood is now on its third administrator (or trustee, depending on who is serving) in less than two years, amidst lingering and sizable budget deficits, tough labor negotiations, allegations of unauthorized deal-making and embarrassing headlines.

In a rare show of bipartisanship in Sacramento, Democratic Assemblyman Isadore Hall III and Republican State Sen. Bob Huff both requested that the Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC)

Film Finds Inglewood (Continued from page 1) The series kicked off a couple weeks ago, and has been followed up by a week filled with powerful screenings of short and animated films.

This weekend, from noon to 3pm, LACMA will be conducting a workshop solely on the concept of composition. How do you create an expressive image on film?

Students will learn professional techniques used to create compelling shots: everything from shot design to camera movement.

The series will last until July 26th and each week is packed with a ton of fun and creative workshops that anyone can enjoy. It’s a great opportunity for families to come out and get their hands dirty and make something that they will remember for a lifetime.

In the coming weeks, participants will get to experience: Mini Docs Series—July 19th from noon to 3pm. Individuals are

Inglewood Today

approve an audit of the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s performance at IUSD. A measure to force the audit failed in committee, with several legislators not bothering to vote at all.

A representative from Superintendent of Public Instruction Torlakson’s office testified before the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, saying it would be best if the committee allowed the Fiscal Crisis Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) to proceed with an already planned review.

That didn’t stop Richard-Bowers—whose encyclopedic study of IUSD financial matters showed, she testified to lawmakers, that state management “cost the IUSD millions in budget savings because it protected teacher’s salaries from necessary reductions to balance the budget.”

Like Bishop Johnny Young, a member of the now-advisory school board, she questions whether the state gave Inglewood officials enough opportunity to bring district finances in line before assuming control.

The elected board had been working closely with FCMAT and believed they were on the road to difficult—but nonetheless steady— financial ground. Would local officials have actually done a better job in the majority-minority district, in which just under 47 percent of students are black or African-American and 46 percent identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino?

“We had a plan to balance the budget by rolling back salaries 15 percent and doing some other things like selling property and consolidating schools,” said Young said in a lengthy telephone interview. “We had a meeting with

encouraged to share how they see the world, and use their unique perspectives to document things they find interesting. Images can be anything from your best friend to places near your house. They will learn the nuances of capturing character, mood, and detail.

Sound Art—July 25th from 1pm to 4pm. Participants will use everyday objects to create a spontaneous soundtrack in this familyfriendly, drop-in activity. Uncover the acoustic and musical properties of household items, then collaborate with others to orchestrate a soundtrack. Objects from LACMA’s art collection will serve as a source of visual inspiration.

Instant Film—July 26th from noon to 3pm. Be the director, cinematographer, and actor in this workshop on video and filmmaking. Learn editing techniques as you work under a shared creative vision. Your work will be screened inside the lab for all to see.

Film teaches us the power of

[FCMAT] around September 2011 and [two members] said we were on the right track. They said that if the state came in, they might make even deeper cuts—up to 20 percent.

If we had been allowed to implement our plan, the state would not have been needed.”

Added Richards-Bowers in her testimony: “IUSD was not bankrupt when the [California Department of Education] took over in October 2012. An independent audit certified that about $3 million was in the bank … the Fiscal Crisis Management Assistance Team projected no need to borrow any money from the state fund until March 2013.” As for the state, “it is spending more but educating fewer students than last year,” she insisted, pointing anecdotally to families she says are fleeing the troubled district.

According to Young, there were approximately 12,500 students in IUSD when the state took over. Today: less than 11,000. “Our black and brown kids are being left in unsafe and unkept schools,” he said.

“Our enrollment is down [and] parents who can are taking their kids out of the district. In the 41 years of my involvement with IUSD, this is the worse predicament the school district has ever been in.”

The state takeover in Inglewood is not without precedent. Other districts have faced take over. Compton, Oakland and The Vallejo Unified School District have all had a state administrator. One official currently in Vallejo described her recent experience.

Dr. Richard Damelio, appointed in 2004 by former State Supt. Jack O’Connell, “put all the pieces in place for the district to be on better financial standing,” said Dr. Ramo(Continued on page 8)

imagery and reminds us that as human beings we retain 58% more information when its presented visually as opposed to auditory learning. As a teaching tool, film is an excellent promoter of critical thinking, analysis, and a list of other key skill sets. Be sure to stop by and let us know how your experience was.

Thomas Bunn is Creative Director/Producer of Against The Grain Films. For more information visit www.atgfilmz.com.

Advertise!

Call 310-670-9600

July 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

adjudicated newspaper of public cir­ culation, published weekly by Ads Up Advertising, Inc. News and press releases may be submitted for consideration by mail to 9111 La Cienega Boulevard, Suite 100, Inglewood, CA 90301 or by email to itnetworks@msn.com.

You can reach us at 310-670-9600 or by fax 310-338-9130 www.inglewoodtoday.com The artistic contents of Inglewood Today Weekly are copyrighted by Ads Up Advertising, Inc. and permission to reprint any article herein must be obtained in writing from the Publisher.

Display Advertising 310-670-9600 X107 Classified Advertising 310-670-9600 X104 Subscription Information Subscriptions are available by mail for $100.00 per year.

Home Delivery may not be available in all areas, or gated communities.

We want to hear from you!

Tell us what you think about local issues. Letters should be addressed “To the Editor” and include your name, address and phone number.

(Only your name and city will be published.)

Email: itnetworks@msn.com Online: www.inglewoodtoday.com Mail: 9111 La Cienega Blvd., Suite 100, Inglewood, CA 90301 Fax: 310.338.9130 Letters may be edited for clarity or length. Not all letters will be published. Submission of a letter to the editor constitutes permission to publish the letter in the printed version of Inglewood Today Weekly and on www.inglewoodtoday.com.

Inglewood Today

July 10, 2014

SCE Starts Infrastructure Improvement Work in Inglewood

Page 3

Wright Sentencing Delayed Again

Project to take about six weeks and will include replacement of underground cable, transformers.

T

o ensure continued reliable electric service, Southern California Edison (SCE) will invest more than $400,000 to upgrade a distribution circuit that serves parts of Inglewood. The work began last week and will continue through July 21.

SCE will replace and upgrade about two miles of underground cable and replace other underground equipment, including structures and transformers to improve reliability.

During this work, some customers may experience maintenance outages. SCE will communicate with affected customers well in advance so they can make appropriate arrangements.

Marvin Jackmon, Public Affairs region manager for Inglewood, said SCE recognizes its responsibility to keep the lights on.

“Customers will be seeing our crews out in the community working on different projects to modernize the grid and make it smarter,” he

T

said. “There may be some maintenance outages during the project so our crews can work safely, but the relatively short service interruptions will help us avoid more extended and widespread outages in the future.”

In the next few years, SCE plans to invest billions of dollars to strengthen its system-wide distribution grid, which serves nearly 14 million people. The work in Inglewood is only one of many infrastructure improvement projects that will take place.

SCE will provide the latest information about outages at its website and on Twitter.

An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of nearly 14 million via 4.9 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within Central, Coastal and Southern California.

Town Hall Meeting on Public Utilities July 19

he California State Assembly, Utilities & Commerce Committee invites Inglewood residents and business owners to a town hall meeting on public utilities Saturday, July 19, 10am to noon at Memorial Park, 3901 W. El Segundo Blvd., in Hawthorne.

Sixty-Second District Assemblyman and Utilities & Commerce Committee Chair Steven Bradford will host the meeting.

The Regional Utilities Informational Town Hall Meeting is being held to empower and inform consumers about important legislation related to utilities, available consumer benefits and services, energy conservation and special programs/ incentives offered.

The public will have an opportunity to get their questions answered directly by representatives of Time Warner Cable, Southern California Edison, Los Angeles Dept. of Wa-

Steven Bradford ter and Power, Golden State Water, Verizon, AT&T, Southern California Gas Company, and Direct TV. There will be refreshments and giveaways.

For more information, contact Arturo Frazier at 310.412.6400 or email arturo.frazier@asm.ca.gov.

S

tate Senator Roderick Wright has been granted a third extension for sentencing after being convicted in March on 8 felony counts of perjury, false declaration of candidacy and fraudulent voting.

Sentencing, which was supposed to take place later this month, has now been moved to September 3. After his conviction, Wright took a voluntary leave of absence, then was suspended from the Senate, along with two other Democratic senators who are facing federal charges. Wright faces up to 8 years and four months in prison.

A jury determined earlier that Wright did not live at his home in Inglewood, within the district he represented and was registered to vote, when he filed for his reelection. Eyewitnesses reported regularly seeing the senator at his home outside his district in Baldwin Hills. According to Wright’s tenant in Inglewood, he

$900,000

3847 S. Burnside Avenue Baldwin Hills CA 90008

* 4BR 4BA, 3,087 SF home * 14+ ft. wood ceilings

* BR W/Spa tub and balcony

Visit Our Website: www.inglewoodtoday.com Subscribe to Inglewood Today

Only $1.75 a week • Call 310.670.9600 Email: willie@inglewoodtoday.com

was never seen spending a night at the property.

Wright’s defense team argues that the law requiring an elected official to live within his district is ambiguous. They say there is confusion over the meaning of the words “domicile” and “reside.”

Lawyers are making a case for a retrial. Since the conviction, a legal defense fund has been established to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars from various special interest groups.

Senate President Darrell Steinberg and Senate GOP Leader Bob Huff failed to have Wright removed. Although suspended, the senator continues to occupy his seat in the State Senate and receive his $7,500-plus monthly salary.

Meanwhile, Inglewood constituents and others within Wright’s 35th District have no voting representation in the State Senate, and no special elections have been set to put candidates on the ballot to replace him.

* Ent. room with wet bar

* Galley kitchen, B-fast nook * RV + many car parking

This is a classically elegant, one of a kind home, in an attractive and quiet neighborhood. The well-tended large front yard, with home set back on the lot, gives the feeling of an old Hollywood grand entrance. The beautiful stone walkway has excellent curbside appeal. The paved driveway runs the length of the house to the finished 2-car garage. The flow from the tile floors to the granite counters, shows the original elegance of the home was carried thru its remodel.

Includes full office too.

Marnie Palmerin 951-505-1698 MarniePalmerin@gmail.com

Inglewood Today

Page 4

July 10, 2014

Centinela Valley Votes Unanimously to Fire Fernandez

W

By Veronica Mackey

hen Jose Fernandez signed on as Superintendent of the embattled Centinela Valley Union High School District, his contract stipulated that he could not be fired with less than four out of five votes.

The board went one better on Tuesday, voting unanimously to fire him during the closed session.

A former Inglewood council member, Fernandez became the subject of public outcry and public embarrassment by the school district, after the Daily Breeze revealed his $663,000 annual compensation last year.

Since he became district superintendent in 2009, Fernandez has enjoyed a 9 percent annual increase, expense accounts, and two premium life insurance policies totaling $100,000, paid for by tax payers, in addition to his $271,000 a year base salary. Records show

with less than 7,000 students is well over what President Barack Obama makes for running the country.

The story, published in February, set off a hail storm of criminal investigations, attempts to change state laws permitting such large compensation, and was the subject of numerous op-ed pieces.

While the former superintendent may have been overly paid, he has not been charged with doing anything illegal. His 18-month buyout clause may cost the district an additional $500,000. An investigation company is looking for evidence of Jose Fernandez wrongdoing by Fernandez, which he has also taken out a loan for a would allow the board to terminate $910,000 home in Ladera Heights. him for cause and avoid further fiThe lucrative contract Fernan- nancial obligations. dez had with the district made him While everyone is on board with among the highest paid public ser- the firing, the public still wants anvants in the nation. His compen- swers. The fact remains that Fersation for running a school district nandez had to have help getting his

compensation approved in the first place. Who authorized this deal?

Risk Control Strategies, the company hired by the school board to investigate Fernandez, hopes to uncover the smoking gun that was right under the noses of board members for five years. The company employs several ex-FBI agents.

Cesar Perez, president of the classified union representing nonteaching employees, told the board, according to the Daily Breeze: “Anybody who knew about this and allowed the superintendent to do what he did needs to be put on the chopping block. It would send a message, not only to the state but the whole country that this cannot be happening. It is an abuse of power and that cannot be tolerated anymore.”

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

July 10, 2014

Publisher’s Message

Page 5

Word for the Wise Summer Special!

Tires Repaired At No Charge Now Until September 4, 2014 With This Ad

Our Time in the Sun

A

s Inglewood Today celebrates its 20th anniversary, our efforts have come full circle, evidenced by the prestigious coverage of the city in the Los Angeles Business Journal (July 2014).

There are rare moments when all the positive intentions, hopes and wishes—things you want to believe but lack the evidence of—actually become reality.

There are times when you realize that life really is good, dreams really do come true, and that nothing is too good to happen or last.

The article (which I encourage everyone to read) is another testament to what many stakeholders have been saying recently and what Corporate America is beginning to realize—Inglewood is worth investing in.

To actually witness this city emerge from near obscurity to the limelight is amazing. As publisher of the official newspaper in Inglewood, I am elated that it is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

To have LABJ’s editorial thumbs up is a huge deal. The long-standing publication has essentially been named the best business journal in the country for the past 5 out of 6 years!

A journal of this caliber clearly runs circles around the Morningside Park Chronicle, that political hit piece, hell bent on tearing down Inglewood and its leadership.

Long before MPC popped up, Inglewood Today was working with businesses, government and residents to positively change the image of this city. It has been our mission to build up the image of those deserving individuals who live and work here instead of tearing them down.

If you were here in the 80s and early 90s, then you know Inglewood was synonymous with poverty, high crime, drugs—you name it. When anything bad happened here, it was all over the news. Even when something happened in L.A., if it was bad, Inglewood got blamed for that too. Positive news was ignored.

Bad press negatively impacted home values and discouraged investment. An ever bickering

949 So. LaBrea Ave. Inglewood, 90301

(800) Wise4Tires Call (800) 947-3484

Just Saying...

Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly city council only made matters worse, as certain members chose political grandstanding and high drama over doing the City’s business.

The story of Inglewood is the story of rebirth and redemption.

Its success is made more meaningful because of what it has gone through—the evaporation of major business, loss of the Lakers and Kings, highly publicized police beatings, and most recently the state takeover of Inglewood public schools. But these incidents are not what this city is all about.

Now the tables are turning.

There has been the revitalization of businesses along Century Blvd., the reopening of the Fabulous Forum, the lowest recorded crime rate since 1978, and now future developments are on the way which represent over $2 billion. Investors are being attracted to the city, and the arts community is growing. This does not happen in a city on its way down.

So, congratulations to Inglewood, and everyone who has had a hand in this turnaround. You deserve your day in the sun, and the notoriety of good publicity.

Success needs no explanation, and failure permits no alibis.

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

Those who get wisdom do themselves a favor, and those who love learning will succeed.

Yvonne Horton

Inglewood Today

Page 6

July 10, 2014

Inglewood Is the City of Champions

T

By 2UrbanGirls

he City of Inglewood is also known as the “City of Champions.” Many basketball greats can call Inglewood home, including Tremaine Fowlkes, Byron

The City Stars

Scott and Reggie Theus, to name a few. I grew up around the corner from Paul Pierce and Lisa Leslie.

It was during a Morningside High School basketball game where Lisa scored 100 points, by herself, against Mira Costa that sent the quite embarrassed team heading out the gym at halftime.

I attended Crozier Middle School with Mario Bennett and while at Inglewood High School, rapper Mack 10 and Harold Miner graced the hallways.

Harold was called “Baby Jordan” and went on to play for the Miami Heat.

AOL recently produced a video (http://tinyurl.com/ (Continued on page 10)

Inglewood Hall of Fame at Rogers Park (Urban Girl Media)

VOTE TODAY • Visit www.inglewoodtoday.com

Would you like to see NFL Football in Inglewood?

Inglewood Today

July 10, 2014

Page 7

Health&Fitness T•O•D•A•Y

W

The Indoor Allergen That Might Surprise You

hile many welcome the arrival of warmer temperatures with open arms, people with seasonal allergies and asthma may be bracing themselves with boxes of tissues and asthma medications this season.

According to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, about 45 percent of people over the age of six and 36 percent of children under the age of six have tested positive for at least one allergen.

Outdoor allergens are prevalent again, but families staying inside on a hot day also have indoor allergens to think about. One of the most forgotten indoor allergy triggers is cockroaches.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), 63 percent of American homes contain allergens from cockroaches. This includes droppings, saliva and decomposing bodies, and children can be especially sensitive.

In addition, cockroaches are known to spread a number of serious diseas-

es including Salmonella and E. coli. efficiency particulate) filter can The National Pest Management clean up crumbs and help remove Association (NPMA) has the folallergens from carpeting and furlowing tips for homeowners to help niture. reduce allergens in the home so • Store Food Properly. Keep food families can breathe more easily and stored in sealed containers, parstay healthy. ticularly in the kitchen.

• Vacuum Regularly. Running • I nspect Groceries and Deliverthe vacuum at least once a week ies. Sometimes, cockroaches and using a unit with a HEPA (highother pests can be brought in with

deliveries or groceries from the store. Carefully inspect items as you put them away, and promptly remove cardboard boxes once unpacked. eep a Spotless Kitchen. Clean • K dishes and wipe down counter tops, appliances and other surfaces daily to remove crumbs and spills that can attract pests.

• Take Out the Trash. Dispose of garbage regularly, and be sure curbside containers or dumpsters are properly sealed.

• S tay on Top of Home Repairs.

Seal cracks and holes around the exterior of the home, paying special attention to entry points for utilities and pipes. Also, check for leaks under appliances and sinks to avoid moisture buildup. ork with a Pro. If you suspect • W an infestation, contact a qualified pest professional to properly identify your pest problem and recommend a course of treatment.

Find a pro in your area at www. pestworld.org.

Source: NewsUSA

Doctors Urge Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening for Men Over 65

R

ay Territ, 75, was playing golf when his feet started feeling abnormally heavy.

After his legs started to hurt, Territ made an appointment with his Kaiser Permanente family physician, Lisa Tran, M.D., in Southern California.

When Dr. Tran reviewed Territ’s medical history in Kaiser Permanente HealthConnect, one of the world’s largest private electronic health records, she quickly identified that he was missing a screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Dr. Tran advised Territ to get tested, and he agreed.

His decision saved his life.

The ultrasound showed that Territ had an abdominal aortic aneurysm twice the size of those that normally require surgery. The technician immediately sent the results to Kaiser Permanente heart surgeon Majid Tayyarah, M.D. That same day, Dr. Tayyarah stood in front of Territ and explained the urgent need for surgery, and the deadly consequence, if the aneurysm were to rupture.

risk and get a referral from your doctor.

“Dr. Tayyarah said, ‘I’ll take care of you,’” recalled Territ. “When he said that, I felt good. And we went into the operation room, had the operation, no problems.”

Territ is fully recovered and back on the golf course. “Dr. Tran and Dr. Tayyarah -- they’re my heroes.”

to death. Most aortic aneurysms don’t cause symptoms. Sometimes a doctor finds them during exams or tests done for other reasons. People who have symptoms notice pain in the abdomen, chest, or back.

Who Should Be Screened?

Those at highest risk are men over the age 65 who smoked tobacWhat Is Abdominal Aortic co and men or women over 60 who Aneurysm? have a family history of abdominal An abdominal aortic aneurysm aortic aneurysms. Both Medicare is a balloon-like bulge in the aorta, Part B and Medicare Advantage which -- if ruptured -- can cause se- cover a one-time abdominal aortic rious bleeding that can quickly lead aneurysm screening, if you are at

The Role of Electronic Health Records Kaiser Permanente’s HealthConnect now features a number of proactive screening reminders, including one for abdominal aortic aneurysm, which was being added at the time Dr. Tran diagnosed Territ’s condition. Today, electronic alerts automatically appear at each doctor’s appointment for members who fit the criteria. A Kaiser Permanente study, published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery, found that these electronic screening alerts reduced the number of unscreened at-risk men by more than 50 percent.

For more information about abdominal aortic aneurysm, visit kp.org. To see a video about Ray Territ’s story, visit kp.org/carestories. For questions or advice about a specific condition, talk with your physician.

Source: NewsUSA

Page 8

Inglewood Today

July 10, 2014

Has State Takeover of IUSD Worked?

(Continued from page 2) na Bishop, Superintendent of the Vallejo Unified School District. “He made sure the board stayed involved. He trained them so that when I came on board in 2011, they were ready to take their power back. I think he was unique.

I suggested that he train others who take on this role.”

She added: “However, some things suffered along the way. The main focus of an administrator/trustee is to get the loan paid back, not academics. We had a 50 percent dropout rate and six different superintendents in a 10year period of time.”

However solutions come in Inglewood, they cannot arrive quickly enough for Rocio Velazquez. A single mother who has lived in the city for 18 years, she sees little to be optimistic about in the schools that her three children— ages 17, 15 and 8—are bound to attend.

“It’s really bad right now. Everything is getting worse, not better,” she said. “Before at least someone would talk to us, but now no one will talk to us. I would move away if I had the money, but I don’t even have a car right now.

Some have already moved. It’s worse than Mexico. I feel very angry, but what can I do? I want something better for the children—not just my own, but in my community.

It’s mostly African-American and Latino, and they don’t really care about us.”

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

Inglewood Shown to Be Business Savvy, Friendly (Continued from page 1) glewood take a second look.

All this, plus the prospect of a new NFL stadium, is changing public perception. Crumpley comments: “Inglewood hasn’t exactly been a prime destination for young hipsters, moneyed Westsiders or even counterculture types, so who’d want to go there on Sunday to see a football game? But Inglewood is making a turnaround.”

This publicity boost will go a long way to lure investors from other areas, which Mayor Butts noted in an email: “This article will give national and international exposure to the progress of Inglewood and generate (even) greater interest in investment in our city.

“We could not have gained this recognition without the hard work and sacrifice that all of you have put into the transformation of a city on the brink of bankruptcy to national

recognition as the next big thing.”

Top notch among business publications, the Journal has acquired more than 15 journalism awards this year alone, and has been named the top business journal in the country for the past 5 out of 6 years.

Articles like this one can help to establish Inglewood as a model city for other struggling municipalities.

“One big lesson I’ve learned in my career is cities that depend on indigenous property and sales taxes just get by in the best of times (and)

struggle during recessions,” Butts said.

Established in 1979, the Los Angeles Business Journal is a weekly tabloid, which provides awardwinning comprehensive coverage of local business news. According to the Journal’s website, it has a weekly print circulation of 24,000 and over 40,000 unique monthly website visitors. It is published every Monday.

July 10, 2014

Inglewood Today

Page 9

Today Pinching Penny Stocks May Be the Wise Way to Invest

W

ith stock market gains moving at a snail’s pace over the past decade, some experts have their sights set on the not-so-new darling of the trading world—penny stocks.

Generally described by the Securities Exchange Commission as stocks that trade for less than $5, penny stock trading is not for the faint of heart and can be a risky proposition. There is potential, however, for a higher return on your investment—in layman’s terms, you could get a better bang for your buck.

As risky as it may be, the very reason that investors are flocking to the penny stock market is its potential higher growth. Look at it this way: Because penny stocks are prone to rapid changes, those who invest might just luck out with a stock that will jump from 10 cents to $10.

In a world, where IBM stock is trading above $180 a share, that same investor could afford about 1,000 shares of a stock such as The Movie Studio, Inc. (MVES), a fast-paced, diversified, full-service movie studio (www.TheMovie Studio.net), at .8 cent or Global Fashion Technology Group, Inc., formally Premiere Opportunities Group (OTCQB: PPBL) (www.

PremiereOpportunities.com), a high-end fashion marketing and distribution company, with a stock price of just .7 cent—making these risks potentially worth the reward.

“The reality is that if you do your homework, you can successfully

R

trade penny stocks with very little money,” says Mitchell Schultz, international investor relations manager for Premiere Opportunities.

“In this way, investors could make a lot more money trading in the pennies, than with bigger stocks.”

Jonas Elmerraji, a penny stock specialist at Agora Financial in Baltimore, agrees.

“Penny stocks are exciting because of the opportunities in-

volved,” Elmerraji told the Pittsburgh Post Gazette in an interview.

“So, their growth potential is much greater than a blue chip stock.

That’s the real draw.”

How do you discern between a potentially high-growth company that could yield a potential windfall and, well, one that won’t? Experts suggest investors look at a company’s underlying business before committing any money—com-

panies that have real, sustainable operations. In addition, investors should look at a company’s financial statements to discover whether the company files on time, who its auditing firm is and whether the company looks financially healthy.

Before investing in any stock, check with your financial advisor, accountant and attorney, and perform your own research.

Source: NewsUSA

Ways Small Businesses Can Save Money on Their Taxes

unning a small business can be tough, and keeping the money you earn in your pocket can be a challenge, especially at tax time. Check out these tips to help ensure you don’t give more money to the government than you must: 1. Deduct everything you can.

The IRS has a variety of ways it helps small businesses, but many owners don’t take full advantage of all of the deductions they can claim.

For example, if there’s a place in your home that you use exclusively for business, you can deduct some of your housing costs. For your 2013 return, you can claim $5 per sq. ft. of your office up to 300 sq. ft.

Mileage is another overlooked expense. You can deduct the miles you drive for business, such as driv-

ing to see a client or pick up supplies. Every trip counts, even the short ones, so it pays to keep track of your business mileage. Small businesses can deduct 56 cents for each mile travelled.

Other deductions small businesses are eligible for include travel expenses like tolls and parking, 50 percent of meals with clients, as well as supplies and furniture for your office.

2. Use the right business structure. Small businesses can be structured in various ways, and choosing the right structure for your particular business can affect how much or how little you pay in taxes. Most small businesses choose to operate as a sole proprietor, Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation. A tax specialist can advise

you which structure is best for you, but as a general rule of thumb, if your business generates more than $50,000 in profit, you can save taxes by incorporating.

3. Don’t get penalized. Many small business owners end up pay-

ing more to the government because they file late, resulting in the IRS charging interest, late fees and penalty fees. Missing deadlines is often the result of not being organized, which is all too common for owners focused on generating sales and servicing clients, rather than maintaining their books.

To keep organized, many owners are taking advantage of technology and turning to cloud-based systems like FreshBooks (www. freshbooks.com), which makes it easy to stay on top of accounting tasks like invoicing and expense tracking. Such systems also allow the owner to send their accountant all the reports and information they need with one click.

Source: NewsUSA

Inglewood Today

Page 10

July 10, 2014

LEG A L NOT I CES PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Mayor and Council Members of the City of Inglewood have scheduled a public hearing to receive input on the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Annual Action Plan. The Annual Action Plan includes funding recommendations for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and HOME Investment Partnership Act (HOME) Program. All interested persons may appear before the City Council and be heard on this matter.

Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2014 Time: 7:00 P.M. Place: Inglewood City Hall City Council Chambers, 9th Floor One Manchester Boulevard

Inglewood, California 90301

SUMMARY OF THE FY 2014-2015 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN The Annual Action Plan for the City of Inglewood serves as the grant application to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its federally funded grant programs. All funds will be used to benefit very-low, low- and moderate-income persons in the City of Inglewood. The City of Inglewood wishes to encourage comments from very-low, low- and moderate-income persons, particularly from those persons living in neighborhoods where the funds are proposed to be used. The City will take appropriate actions to encourage the participation of all its residents, including persons who are non-English speaking, who have limited mobility due to disability, or who are visually or hearing impaired. The following summary highlights the available funding levels for each of the funding categories:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014 165330 The following Person is doing business as:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014180233 The following Person is doing business as:

Na - Kid 8721 5th Avenue Inglewood, CA 90305

JT Brands 110 Pine Avenue, Suite 218 Long Beach, CA 90802

Registered owner: Dorielle Ashante Hammonds, 8721 5th Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90305

Registered Owner: Geoffrey Thompson, 110 Pine Avenue, Suite 218, L.B., CA 90802

This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on June 18, 2014.

This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on July 3, 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.)

Dorielle Ashante Hammonds, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on June 18, 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.)

Geoffrey Thompson, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on July 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.

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 June 26; July 3, 10, 17, 2014 ITO0422301036 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 July 10, 17, 24, 31, 2014 ITO0422301037

Commercial Space for Rent 1) Commercial Space for Rent – 400 sqf. $900, located at a very busy intersection, side by side to liquor store, remodeled 2) Commercial Space for Rent – 470 sqf. for $1000, located at a very busy intersection, side by side liquor store, fully remodeled 3) Commercial Space for Rent – a full functioning kitchen, 3 rooms,1 full bathroom; this space may be used for variety of purposes, such as UPS store, Fed Ex, restaurants, auto services. First month will be free of charge; this space may be remodeled to the specifications of the tenant. This commercial space is ONLY store surrounded by residential homes, thereby attracting nearby residents.1,500 sqf.

Contact Debbie 310-651-0776

Copies of the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Annual Action Plan will be available for public review on July 14, 2013 in the City Clerk’s Office, the Inglewood Public Library and the City of Inglewood web site www.cityofinglewood. org. If you wish to receive a copy of the Plan, need a special accommodation due to a disability, or have any questions, please contact the Community Development Department CDBG Division at (310) 412-8844, or send a FAX request to (310) 330-5756. You can also contact the CDBG Division via mail at the following address: City of Inglewood, Attn: CDBG Division – 7th Floor, One Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301. All requests for accommodation must be received no less than 48 hours prior to the date of the hearing. In the event that the City Council meeting of July 22, 2014 is not held, or is concluded prior to this public hearing agenda item being considered, this public hearing will be automatically continued to the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

Inglewood Is the City of Champions (Continued from page 6) q437yqf) to show where Harold Miner is now.

Former Morningside High School basketball standout, Jimmie Burton, is the head coach of youth AAU team, The City Stars, whose 7th grade team represented Inglewood in the AAU Nationals in Memphis, TN, over the 4th of July holiday. The team finished 2nd in the country to Chris Paul’s CP3 squad.

Even Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. gave the stars a shout-out on his Twitter page.

Inglewood has truly produced some great athletic talent and we look forward

to celebrating the next generation.

Most, if not all, of the aforementioned got their starts in City of Inglewood Parks & Recreation programs along with playing for their respective Inglewood Unified School District schools.

If you are looking for a program for your child, Inglewood is one of the best choices in LA County.

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

Inglewood Today

July 10, 2014

Page 11

Dates in July & August July 12, 2014

Free Water Recycling Tour The public is invited to tour the Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility, 1935 S. Hughes Way, in El Segundo, 90245. The tour will take place from 9:30-11am.

Visit West Basin’s state-of-theart water recycling facility and see wastewater purified into drinking water quality. This eye-opening experience will cause you to appreciate water more than ever before. Water conservation is critical, especially during the current drought.

Reservations are required.

Emailinfo@westbasin.org or call (310) 660-6243 to register. All participants must be at least 7 years of age. Flat, closed-toe shoes are mandatory for the tour. Free parking is available. Visit www.west basin.org for more information.

July 14, 2014

The Promise Program Signing The public is invited to a special signing ceremony to initiate the new South Bay Promise Program, at 3:30pm at California State University, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E. Victoria St., Carson, 90747. The event will be in the University Library, South Wing, 5th floor.

The program was developed by leaders from Inglewood Unified School District, Centinela Valley Union High School District, El Camino Community College District, California State University, Dominguez Hills, and the South Bay Workforce Investment Board.

The Promise program will help students prepare for post-secondary education, through after-school enrichment and work-based learning activities on high school campuses, provided by SBWIB.

Youth Wanted Paid and Volunteer Positions

O

By Anne Cheek La Rose

ne day only, Saturday July 19, noon to 4pm, youth 13 to 21 years old are invited to apply to be part of the Darby Art Action Project. The mural, “Parks Make Life Better” is complete, and now it’s time to create new signage for the park.

Muralist Michelle Glass will lead this workshop inside the MLK Community Center at Darby to design and produce new art signage titled, “The Flower Chain.”

The park is located at 3400

W. Arbor Vitae Street, west of Crenshaw.

Minimum requirements must be met for both paid positions and community service hours. Call (310) 412-8750 or E-mail darbyartactionproject@gmail.com for more information. This project is funded by Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District, Second Supervisorial District Excess Funds, and the City of Inglewood Public Art Fund.

This is a great way to leave your mark on our city.

August 9, 2014

Discover District 2 Councilman Alex Padilla will host the first ever “Discover District 2” event, from 10am to 4pm at True Vine Baptist Church, 1437 Centinela Avenue, Inglewood 90302. The event will bring local residents and businesses together and raise funds for Inglewood students—specifically JROTC, music and art students.

The event will be filled with fun and exciting activities such as live kid performances and activities, raffles, food, a car show and much more.

To make a donation, setup a booth, participate in the car show or volunteer, please contact Councilman Padilla’s office at 310-4128601 or email apadilla@cityof inglewood.org.

Ongoing

Counseling for Anxiety, Depression Get free help for anxiety, depression, stress and anger. Recovery International provides tools and practice in changing thinking habits so individuals can gain personal control over distressing emotions and improve life-coping skills.

This worldwide non-profit organization, founded in 1937, holds weekly meetings every Monday at 6:00 p.m. at SHARE! 6666 Green Valley Circle, north of Centinela Ave., (2nd building on the right).

Call 310-322-6411 for more information, or visit www.lowselfhelpsystems.org. A donation is requested but not required.

T

he Duck Truck is back in Inglewood! Their first time around was from February 12 to March 3 at Warren Lane Elementary School. For three weeks 5th and 6th graders participated in a daily site-specific dance workshop.

After warm-up exercises designed to produce flexibility, strength, and endurance, the students worked in groups using choreography to develop a story that could be told through motion.

“J-Wizzle,” a 6th grader, says what he enjoyed most about the experience was the warm-ups. He liked to move around and have fun with his friends. “There are so many other things I could be do-

The DUCK TRUCK Is Back!

By Anne Cheek La Rose

Warren Lane Kids Performing ing, but one of my favorite things is dancing, telling a story when I’m dancing. That’s amazing,” he said.

The Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre was one of the first three I-GAP (Inglewood Growing Artist’s Projects) projects chosen in the Arts Commission’s inaugural year. Now, they are returning to Warren Lane Elementary for a summer session with the students.

The Duck Truck Residency Program is a curriculum-based initiative for schools, afterschool programs, and community centers led

by Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre core company teaching artists.

Crafted for young “non-dancers,” the program activates participants’

minds and bodies by teaching them to reevaluate the world as they currently view it through imaginative choices and creation.

The Dance Company was founded in 1985, and in 2013, Artistic Director Heidi Duckler directly challenged how site-specific dance connects to location by putting a performance on wheels. Her first mobile work, “At the Oasis”, utilized a vintage 1961 Oasis travel trailer as the performance site to address the question of malleability in sitespecific dance. The vehicle, dubbed “The Duck Truck,” was initiated as a set piece and performance space, but the trailer’s identity has expanded to a dance classroom on wheels.

This summer, the students at Warren Lane are working on “At the Oasis.” They will be putting the final touches on their work this Thursday, and will do an informal performance for their parents, fellow students, and the staff on Monday, July 14, from 11-11:30am. The public is invited to attend the performance.

Warren Lane Elementary is located at 9330 S. 8th Avenue, just south of Arbor Vitae.

Programs like this are important for our children. Dance, as well as all the arts, is critical to producing well-rounded adults. Without knowledge of the arts, we are not reaching our full potential and enjoying all that life has to offer.

SCE Announces Rate Changes The key factor impacting rates this summer is an increase in the cost to buy electricity needed to serve SCE customers.

A

s summer approaches, Southern California Edison (SCE) wants to share information about upcoming changes to customers’ electricity bills this season.

The key factor impacting rates this summer is an increase in the cost to buy electricity needed to serve customers.

Utilities are required to forecast what they will spend buying energy and then set rates accordingly. If they spend less than they forecast, the money is used to offset other increased costs. If SCE has to spend more, then it needs to recover the difference.

This year, costs were higher than SCE forecast, so the utility needs to collect the additional money to cover the costs of the electricity sources.

For residential customers, another rate change impacting their summer bills will be rate reform. The California Public Utilities Commission is taking a look at its rate structure for residential customers and plans to create a new one that is more equitable. The commission voted on June 12 for modest

By Lauren Bartlett

SCE field crew conducts maintenance on a distribution pole. changes to the rate structure. Those SCE offers programs to help changes will take effect over the customers who may be having summer. The average bill increase trouble paying their electric bills. for residential customers is 8 per- The CARE (the California Altercent. nate Rates for Energy) and FERA “We want to be sure customers (Family Electric Rate Assistance) know about the changes and about programs were developed to proonline budget tools that give them vide our income-qualified custommore control over their energy ers with much-needed relief. Eligiuse,” said Russ Worden, a director bility is based on annual household in SCE’s Regulatory Operations income combined with the number unit. of people in a household.

Online budget tools also recomInformation is available on mend tips for managing energy us- SCE’s website, www.sce.com, in age in their homes. multiple languages and by calling

customer service at 800-645-8555.

The phone centers are staffed with people who speak multiple languages, so customers can speak to people in the language they’re most comfortable speaking in.

Other bill changes are expected in 2015.

The California Public Utilities Commission is considering a new rate structure for residential customers. SCE is proposing a twotiered rate structure that keeps protections for low-income customers and a fixed charge that would cover about one-third of fixed costs. A commission decision is expected in spring 2015.

Another rates issue that will impact customers in 2015 is SCE’s General Rate Case. The commission sets rates for day-to-day operations in this process, which is open to the public.

The commission has not yet provided a date for when a decision will be made. If the commission approves SCE’s full request, customer bills would increase an average of about 1.5 percent in 2015, 2.2 percent in 2016 and 2.4 percent in 2017.