June 19, 2014 by Inglewood Today News

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Your Community Connection since 1994

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 23, No. 25

June 19, 2014

Authorities Sweep Major Gang in South L.A. Fifty Arrested

ifty members of the Five Deuce Broadway Gangster Crips were arrested Tuesday in a massive sweep. Activities of the violent, drug dealing street gang is said to extend as far as Louisiana. Five Deuce has terrorized the South Broadway Corridor of Los Angeles for years, and recently moved into the Skid Row area downtown. Federal and local investigators moved in the early morning hours to break up the cartel which they say has terrorized residents for generations, and sold drugs openly near schools and playgrounds. The arrests were the culmination of a three-year investigation, and most of those arrested are believed to be part of a group of 72 defendants so far apprehended by police, and named in a 213page racketeering indictment accusing gang members of a multitude of crimes in South Los Angeles and beyond.

Eight defendants remain at large. The rest were already in custody. The three-year investigation, called Operation Gremlin Riderz, focused on a South L.A. gang that claims to have control over neighborhoods around the intersection of South Broadway and 52nd Street.

• Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

ntertainment legend Ruby Dee, who died last week at the age of 91, will be remembered for her longevity. With a 50plus year marriage and an acting career that spans 74 years, there are few entertainers who could match her track record. According to daughter, Nora Davis Day, the actress, author and activist passed away from natural causes in her New Rochelle, NY home. Dee, whose acting career began on stage in 1940, was the wife of legendary actor Ossie Davis. They were

cocaine, PCP and gallons of codeine syrup. Five Deuce ran a sophisticated ring, aided by women who rented out residences as bases of operation. The women often took care of credit card transactions and Ruby Dee rented cars to transport the married for 56 years, and drugs. (Continued on page 2) inseparable until he passed away in 2005. They met on Broadway in 1946. Early in her career, she won critical acclaim for her role as Ruth Younger in the 1960’s film adaptation of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun.” Starring as the wife of a frustrated black man with big dreams, played by Sidney Poitier, Dee’s character dealt with racial discrimination and marital struggles. On television, she was a leading cast member on soap operas during in the 1950s and ‘60s, a rare sight for a black actress. Other highlights of Dee’s (Continued on page 6)

On to the Next

On The Inside: • News

Law enforcement investigators allege the gang is responsible for committing at least four killings since 1987 and decades of shootings, stabbings, armed robberies and violent confrontations with police. Investigators seized cocaine, Ecstasy, methamphetamine, marijuana, crack

Remembering Ruby

By Thomas Bunn

very June, we celebrate the culmination of our young people making the transition from one phase of their education into the next. This year, I’m proud to have a niece and a couple of nephews who’ve gone from elementary to middle school, and from (Continued on page 3)

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Page 2

June 19, 2014

Brann Extends IUSD Contract

on Brann has signed on for at least another three years as state administrator with the Inglewood Unified School District. The deal was signed last month between Brann and state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. Taking over within a year of the district going into state receivership, and after a scandal involving the former administrator allegedly making deals with the teacher’s union without authorization, Brann has his hands full of challenges. He does, however, have a track record of turning around failing schools, and his success with Hawthorne’s Wiseburn School District is proof of that. Last year, Brann was asked to come out of retirement to help Inglewood schools. Because the state prohibits retirees from collecting their pensions when returning to the workforce, Gov. Jerry Brown authorized a one-year exemption, enabling him to collect both a paycheck and his pension. The Department of Education put in a request for another exemption, however Brann is still waiting for a response. He currently earns

$180,000 a year as state administrator. The new deal is good through June 2017. Recently, Brann laid off 44 nonteaching employees to help rescue the financially strained school district back to solvency. He says he is cleaning up the district of corrup-

Dr. Don Brann tion, bad teachers and mismanagement and said his contract extension is proof that he means business. “Trying to wait me out won’t work, because I’m committed,” said Brann. “That’s not good for those who thrived on being where they are because of people they knew—or through corruption.”

Since Brann took over IUSD about a year ago, replacing the former school superintendent and five-member school board, he has decreased the structural deficit from $18 million annually to $10 million. The deficit is projected to fall to $2 million by 2015-16. This is due in part to a new statewide education funding formula that shifts more resources to high-need districts. Currently, IUSD has spent $29 million of the $55 million loan. Teachers union President Pete Somberg gave Brann a passing grade, but wants more collaboration from the administrator. He is also concerned that Brann is rushing to get things done. “You can’t fix it overnight. He’s done a good job getting the deficit fixed, but that shouldn’t be the only thing to look at,” Somberg said. Brann admits the problems of IUSD began decades ago, and will not be an easy fix. He said it will most likely take more than three years for the failing school district to get out of receivership.

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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Authorities Sweep Major Gang in South L.A. (Continued from page 1) Cellphones were often used to alert members when police were near, and discipline was issued whenever a member spoke to the police or had his name put into a police report. L.A. Councilman and former Inglewood Councilman, Curren Price, said the gang activity is “generational,” and that the Crips have plagued not only South L.A., but surrounding areas for years. The group was originally formed in the 1970s. “This gang has been a thorn in the side of not just this community, but this area for a long time,” Price said. (Continued on page 6)

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Inglewood Today

June 19, 2014

Page 3

What Is Juneteenth?

“J

uneteenth,” an annual celebration of the emancipation of American slaves, that takes place on June 19, began as a local celebration in Texas, but since the 1970s, a movement has been under way to make Juneteenth an official national holiday or day of observance. Origins President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all slaves in the states rebelling against the Union, became law on January 1, 1863. But it took over two years for slaves in Galveston, Texas to get the news. In fact, Many slaves in the Confederacy heard of this presidential decree by eavesdropping on slave owners, through an encounter with a Union soldier or by word of mouth. There are a few theories about the delay, by it is known that many Confederate slave owners sent their slaves to Texas so that the Union army could not free them. When General Gordon Granger entered Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, he announced that all of Texas’s slaves were free through an official proclamation (General Order No. 3). The state’s slaves numbered around 200,000, and they

On to the Next (Continued from page 1) middle school to high school. Yesterday, I found myself in the crowded hallways of El Camino College where eager Monroe Middle School parents awaited the opening of the auditorium doors that would allow us on to take our seats and prep our vocal boxes for the traditional ear drum shattering, screams that occur when families hear the name of their graduate called. In fact, this herbal tea and honey concoction I have accompanied with me this morning is actually soothing my throat from all the chanting my family and we did yesterday. Take note. Balloons and leis crafted out of students favorite candies and even money draped the necks of the proud graduates as they stood in the courtyard, awaiting their turn to take their seats and receive the first wave of insane applause. I think it’s a beautiful thing that

African Americans living in urban areas often found it hard to get off work for Juneteenth. However, from the 1970s (Black Awareness Era) until today, Juneteenth has been making a steady comeback, as older generations of African Americans teach younger ones about the holiday. As of 2010, 36 states observe Juneteenth in some way, and groups have been formed to urge the federal government to make Juneteenth a national holiday or day of observance.

Juneteenth celebration in Austin, Texas, on June 19, 1900. responded with jubilation, holding The tradition of Juneteenth spread celebrations all over Texas. to other states, but it remained strongest in Texas. In Houston, a group Juneteenth Celebrations of African Americans had a fundAfrican Americans in Texas con- raiser to build Emancipation Park, tinued to celebrate the anniversary which they used to celebrate Juneof emancipation on June 19 in subse- teenth (segregation had made many quent years. They created traditions parks off-limits to Houston’s Afrisuch as taking a break from work, can Americans). Another group built wearing ornamental and fine clothes Booker T. Washington Park in Mexas a way of repudiating the ragged ia, near Waco, for the same purpose. clothes worn under slavery and having picnics where everyone contrib- Decline and Rise of uted a dish. Some Juneteenth cel- Juneteenth ebrants held prayer services and read During the Great Depression and the proclamation that had been issued the Great Migration, the number of by Gen. Granger to Texas’s slaves. Juneteenth celebrations declined.

we celebrate our young people the way we do, and I wouldn’t change anything if tasked with the responsibility. In our community, as African Americans, the graduation ceremony is the closest thing we have to a rite of passage that marks a distinct transition from childhood to adulthood. This has a significant impact on the developmental psychology of children. In celebration of our young people, tell them how much you’re proud of them, encourage them to keep striving and keep achieving. Soon, the time will come when they will take our place as leaders, as heads of households, and as parents, and the more prepared they are to handle that responsibility, the easier the transition. Graduation is an excellent symbol that represents that transition. Congrats to the Class of 2014 graduates and parents. Enjoy your summer; you’ve earned it.

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arbecuing, sipping strawberry soda and enjoying a picnic are some of the rituals that mark Juneteenth. Here is how the holiday will be celebrated in the L.A. area this year: June 21-22 – Two-day Juneteenth Heritage Festival, back lot of the Vision Theatre, 4301 Degnan Blvd., L.A. Cowboys, Soul Train performers, food, arts and crafts, and information booths. June 21 – Guidance Church, 7225 Crenshaw Blvd., L.A., will celebrate Juneteenth from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Food, fun and entertainment. Bring your own bag can and take home a bag full of books for $1.

Inglewood Today

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June 19, 2014

Eye on the City Cleaning Up Unfunded Liability

he council adopted a resolution, giving Mayor James Butts the authority to sign all subsequent documents independent of the City Council in regard to grant applications for the 2014 Competitive Excess Funds Grant Program. The grants will help fund various Parks, Recreation and Library Services programs. “If the council authorizes me to sign, it doesn’t have to come back signed by me, and then back to the council (to approve) something they (already) authorized me to sign,” the mayor explained. Agreements were approved for Residential Sound Insulation in regard to noise testing services ($40,947); sound insulation work on 135 homes ($3,321,475 plus $166,074 contingency and $54,540

By Veronica Mackey

special expenses); and a contract for RSI Phase I, Group 24J to work on 119 homes ($2,016,000 plus $150,800 contingency and $48,076 special expenses). An agreement was also approved with the Housing Rights Center to provide fair housing counseling and housing discrimination services in the amount of $57,300. Five public hearings were set for July. On July 8, the council will consider the annual levy and collections of the In-Town Maintenance Assessment District No. 1975-1; Morningside Park Maintenance Assessment District 1974-2; Darby-Dixon Maintenance Assessment District 1987-1; and Inglewood Street Lighting Assessment District 1980-1. A hearing will be held on July 22 to consider adop-

tion of the Zoning Code Amendment to modify regulations for the Live-Work units. All hearings will be held at 7pm. One hearing that the public is looking forward to will take place next Tuesday, June 24. The council will consider an appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision to deny a liquor license to Dollar Store. “We don’t need all these liquor licenses here. Those liquor licenses have to stop,” said Ethel Austin. Assistant City Manager/CIO Mike Falkow updated the public on progress in conjunction with unfunded medical liabilities which is costing the City a fortune. First, the bad news: “Up until today the bargaining units had agreed to the benefit of

a medical payment for (each) employee and their spouse for the remainder of their life, once they retired. That has caused a liability. Retirees live considerably longer. The City of Inglewood has 1,000 people in the system as retirees, receiving full medical benefits no matter how long they’ve been retired…no matter if they reached 65 and are eligible for Medicare, the City is still on the hook for that benefit. If no further employees were to get that, the City would still be on the hook for approximately $117 million dollars.” If the current deal were to stand and be extended to Inglewood employees who have not yet retired, the bill would be well in excess of $317 million, Falkow said. “That (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)

June 19, 2014

Inglewood Today

Publisher’s Message

Page 5

Word for the Wise Spring Special! Tires Repaired At No Charge Now Until July 4, 2014 With This Ad

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Just Saying... Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly for young people who listened to the advice to pursue higher education, but couldn’t find a decentpaying job. In addition to laws that make higher education more affordable, there needs to be more emphasis on training students for work that does not require degrees. Everyone is not traditional college material, but they need to have the skills to have a successful career. That’s where job training programs and vocational schools come in. It will be at least 18 months before the new program is implemented, but college-bound families should create their game plan now. Students should look at where they want to go, and come up with a financial plan that avoids debt as much as possible. Go for grants, scholarships and work study. Consider extending your college career if that will buy more time to come up with alternates to student loans. At the end of the day, what matters most is doing what you love and earning a high enough income to live a decent life. I believe this generation is more than ready for the challenge. Congratulations to graduates everywhere on your major achievement.

If you dig a pit for someone, start digging one for yourself.

Yvonne Horton

2014 Transit Pix Winners 2014 Transit Pix Winners Announced Metro and other transit operators invited riders across LA County to submit a photo showing why they love transit for entry in the >rst Transit Pix photo contest. More than 200 entries were received for public voting. Winning entries were announced on June 18, “Dump the Pump” Day, and can be viewed at facebook.com/losangelesmetro.

Purple Line Gets $1.25 Billion in Federal Funds The Federal Transit Administration awarded Metro a $1.25 billion grant to construct the >rst phase of the Purple Line Extension. This segment extends the subway from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/La Cienega, with completion projected for 2023. More information on the project is at metro.net/purplelineext.

Century Bridge Closure Coming Soon Construction to expand the bridge at Century Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard will require full road closures in late July. This work makes way for a new aerial station on the Crenshaw/LAX light rail project, scheduled to be completed in 2019. Work schedules and detour information at metro.net/crenshaw.

Lines 28, 84 Merge June 29 Metro bus lines 28 and 84 will combine to provide a one-seat ride between Eagle Rock Plaza and Century City e=ective June 29. This change is part of Metro’s twice annual service adjustments. For complete details on the service changes, look for revised timetables on metro.net or on board buses.

metro.net @metrolosangeles facebook.com/losangelesmetro

or the past couple of months, families everywhere have been celebrating their graduates, buying gifts, throwing parties, and surrounding them with good wishes. It is a very joyful time, and one that should be remembered for years to come. Commencement speakers do their best to instill words of wisdom about the future. They inspire students to go for their dream, never give up and reach beyond their perceived limits. They tell them everything, except how to get out of debt. Once the well-wishers leave and the gaiety settles, graduates will wake up to the reality that the accolades are over and it’s time to pay the bills. Student debt will become a way of life for many, as they struggle to find their first real job and establish careers. Last week, the high cost of college was brought back into the spotlight when President Obama signed the student loan forgiveness bill called Pay As You Earn (PAYE). I like the sound of that. The bill allows the student loan borrower to pay 10 percent of their monthly income to keep from falling behind in payments. This will be a huge relief to young grads who want to do the right thing, but whose income does not yet match their bills. If payments are done on time, loans will be forgiven in 20 years, 10 years if the borrower works in public service or a nonprofit. There are over 37 million Americans in debt with a total student loan debt accumulating to more than 1.2 trillion dollars, If you’ve ever had student loan debt that you could not pay, then you know the government doesn’t play. They can garnish you check and seize your bank account. All of this may seem a bit unfair, especially

Inglewood Today

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Remembering Ruby (Continued from page 1) career include the role of Mother Sister in Spike Lee’s 1989 film, “Do the Right Thing,” alongside her husband. She won an Emmy as supporting actress in a miniseries or special for the 1990’s “Decoration Day.” She was nominated for several other Emmys as well. Later in life, at age 83, she won a well-deserved Oscar for best supporting actress for her role in the 2007 film, “American Gangster,”

June 19, 2014

playing the mother of Denzel Washington’s character. Dee’s vitality and youthful appearance are owed, in part to her refusal to slow down. She told The Associated Press in 2001: “I think you mustn’t tell your body, you mustn’t tell your soul, ‘I’m going to retire.’ You may be changing your life emphasis, but there’s still things that you have in mind to do that now seems the right time to do. I really don’t believe in retiring as long as you can breathe.” Ruby and Ossie were married for 56 years. Her long standing marriage to Da- “She took her final bow last night vis brought about a collaboration at home surrounded by her children as civil rights activists. The couple and grandchildren.” marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther Day added: “We gave her our perKing, Jr. The couple celebrated their mission to set sail. She opened her 50th wedding anniversary in 1998 eyes, closed her eyes and away she with the publication of their dual au- went.” tobiography, titled “With Ossie and Ruby Dee is survived by three Ruby: In This Life Together.” children: Nora, Hasna and Guy, and “We have had her for so long and seven grandchildren. we loved her so much,” Day said.

Ruby with Sidney Poitier in “A Raisin in the Sun.”

Authorities Sweep Major Gang in South L.A. (Continued from page 2) Robert Clark, the assistant special agent in charge for the FBI, said the Broadway Crips is a medium-size

CITY OF INGLEWOOD

gang, but that it had “imprisoned” the citizens of the neighborhood it operates in. “Today was a process for returning power to the community,” Clark said.

Inglewood

Office of the Mayor

2009

James T. Butts, Jr. Mayor

Dear Residents, The 4th of July, the celebration of America’s Independence from the King of England, is fast approaching. While it has long been a tradition to celebrate this day with fireworks displays, a number of recurring questions are asked by Inglewood residents at this time of year. ➢ Question: Does the City allow the sale of fireworks? Are fireworks legal within the City of Inglewood? ➢ Answer: The City allows the sale and use of only “Safe and Sane Fireworks”, i.e. those fireworks that are non-explosive. These fireworks are sold at authorized stands within the City, and all vendors go through a screening process before being issued a permit to sell by the Permits and License Commission. Firework stands are authorized to conduct sales from June 29th through July 4th from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ➢ What can I do when explosive fireworks are detonated in my neighborhood? ➢ Detonation of explosive fireworks is a violation of Section 12505 of the Health & Safety Code of the State of California (Dangerous Fireworks). This section prohibits discharge of firecrackers, Roman candles and various other types of incendiary devices. Further, noisy detonations can be considered a violation of section 415 of the Penal Code (Disturbing the Peace). The Police Department is authorized to enforce and mediate violations of this statute. Should you believe that illegal fireworks are being discharged, call IPD Communications at (310) 412-8771. As an informational note, there are 3 nearby cities that host fireworks displays this 4th of July; ➢ Marina del Rey: Fireworks are launched from a floating barge located in the waters of the main channel between Fisherman’s Village and the Breakwater. Popular viewing locations include: Fisherman’s Village (13737 Fiji Way), Burton Chace Park (13650 Mindanao Way) and Mother’s Beach (4135 Admiralty Way). Starts at 9 p.m. For information, call 310-305-9545 or visit marinadelrey.com. ➢ Santa Monica: The celebration – the only one of its kind in Santa Monica – is the Saturday prior to July 4th and provides an early start to Independence Day activities. Gates open at 5 p.m., fireworks go off at dusk, around 9 p.m. Entry to the event is free but donations are welcome. Parking is normally $5. Alcoholic beverages, glass containers, barbecues, fireworks and chairs with pointed legs are prohibited. ➢ Redondo Beach: See a wide variety of fireworks synced to patriotic music broadcast. Events throughout the day include paddle board races, live music, children’s parade and more. Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach. Visit redondofireworks.com. Finally, let’s remember to be kind and considerate to our neighbors and supervise our children on the 4th, so that we can all enjoy the holiday. Happy 4th of July. Sincerely,

James T. Butts, Jr. Mayor Paid for by James Butts for Mayor • Campaign ID# 1325645

Inglewood Today

June 19, 2014

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Health&Fitness T•O•D•A•Y

4 Best Physical Activities for Seniors

By Stephanie Arnold

s you age, you have probably started to notice that your body is slowing down a bit. Certainly, those hard-living days in your 20s and 30s are a thing of the past, and you can no longer stay out all night at the bars and then treat yourself to a humongous pile of greasy fries - and chances are, being older and wiser, you have little desire to do so anyway. Still, it seems that back then you could chain smoke all weekend, finish off more than a few bottles of wine with friends at dinner and then hit the gym come Monday, making up for the lousy way you treated your body with a good 45-minute run

on the treadmill, followed by some bench presses. Your body was more forgiving then; it was like a rubber band, stretched out over and over but always retracting back to its normal shape. Things are different now, though, aren’t they? If you tried to lose weight after 30, you probably noticed how much more difficult it was than if you were 22, so stubborn was your body. And now, as you are firmly ensconced in your senior years, keeping yourself in good shape is even tougher. But that certainly doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! You will simply (Continued on page 11)

Early Morning Risers: 4 Ways to Power Up Your Day

hen it comes to starting the day early, finding energy fast is vital. Whether you’re up early for work, hitting the gym, getting your kids ready for school or just dealing with a pesky internal clock, it’s important to make the most of your mornings. Try these tips for finding your inner early bird:

believe breakfast is important, 53 percent skip it because they don’t have enough time, want to get extra sleep or don’t like preparing it. These time-starved individuals need a quick and easy option, such as a Hormel Compleats breakfast (www.hormel.com). Ready in just 60 seconds, the shelf-stable line offers the great taste of familiar, hearty breakfast staples, like Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal and Bacon Breakfast Scramble. Select varieties contain 17-20 grams of protein per serving.

• Don’t snooze. “When you hit the snooze button repeatedly, you’re fragmenting what little extra sleep you’re getting, so it is of poor quality,” says Robert S. Rosenberg, medical director • Consider the power of protein. of the Sleep Disorders Centers According to Health.com, eggs of Prescott Valley and Flagstaff, —and even bacon—can be efArizona. Instead, try moving your fective breakfast options to proalarm farther from your bed, so vide your body with the energy it you have to stand up to turn it off. needs to power through the day. This is why two of the Compleats • Have a quick and hearty breakvarieties feature eggs, which are fast ready to go. Studies consispacked with protein. tently show the benefits of break- “Eggs are a great source of nutrifast for promoting productivity ents,” said Mitch Kanter, Ph.D., during the day. However, accordexecutive director of the Egg Nuing to a January 2014 study contrition Center. “Just one egg conducted by global polling firm, tains 13 essential vitamins and Penn Schoen Berland, although minerals, high-quality protein (Continued on page 11) nearly 85 percent of Americans

FREE DONATION DROP OFF and DOCUMENT SHREDDING EVENT Saturday, June 28, 2014 Donation Drop Off - 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

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Document Shredding - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM ONLY!

On Grevillea Ave. off Manchester Blvd. (in front of Inglewood High School)

Bring all of your gently used clothing, shoes, household appliances, computers, cell phones, televisions and any other electronic devices that you’d like to get rid of.

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Inglewood Today

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Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) would bankrupt the City of Inglewood and would take us to insolvency within a handful of years.” The better news is that the City has successfully negotiated with most employee unions, which will save Inglewood millions of dollars. Several concessions were made to employee associations representing Inglewood executives, management, police, and civilian police management, including a retirement savings plan with matching city funds. To satisfy recent changes in state pension fund requirements, the council approved a salary ordinance amendment. The amendment will allow pay increases for employees. The City will then use the increases to pay into the state pension fund on their behalf. Inglewood Parks and Recreation Commissioner Willie Agee wants the unions “brought under control.” I see unions putting people on councils and it’s not good for the country,” he said.

City Manager Artie Fields announced that a new mural will be unveiled this Saturday, June 21 from 2-4pm in Darby Park, 3400 Arbor Vitae St. The Darby Park Action Mural, paid for by a grant, was created by youth ages 13-21. City Clerk Yvonne Horton reminded everyone about the Connecting Women to Power business conference this Friday, June 20 from 8:30am to 5pm at Cal State University, Dominguez Hills. For details, call (888) 847-9652. City Treasurer Wanda Brown praised the council and staff for working to find a solution to the looming debt created in part by lifetime medical benefits. “A lot of cities are in that ‘leaky boat.’ Stockton did away with all of their medical for retirees because they had to file bankruptcy,” she said. Brown also reminded everyone about plans to hold a series of workshops on financial literacy. Stay tuned for details. Michel Benbow wants something done about illegal vendors who create excessive noise and

pose a possible threat to children in the community. “These (food) truck vendors come around with loud noises, high above the decibel level (allowed). Some vendors are ringing bells and blowing whistles and getting attention of people walking down the street. They are trying to get people to the street to sell them one thing or another. They don’t have a license to be on the street, attracting people (including kids) to their vehicles. I want to call code enforcement out on this one. I have seen at least 3 on my block.” A resident complained about an eyesore directly across the street from the Forum at Manchester and Prairie: “The parking lot looks so dirty, and I am so surprised we are letting it stay here. The weeds are this long from the concrete,” she said. “We have been in contact with the new owner of the property. I agree with you and I see it every day on my way to work,” the mayor said. A woman was not happy about what she perceived as a snub by

Support Crenshaw’s local businesses! You can still enjoy the many dining, shopping and entertainment choices along Crenshaw Boulevard as construction of the new Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project gets under way. Stay up to date with the latest project information: 213.922.2736

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June 19, 2014

the mayor and council members of a long time Inglewood resident. The mother of regular council meeting attendee Leroy Fisher recently passed away. She was concerned that no one showed up at the funeral. “Take a little time to take care of us, here. He is a member of this community,” she said. “The reason we were not there, is because we were not notified. I know if I had known, I would have been there as well as other members of the council. You should have asked and we would have told you. We have to know and most of the time, people let us know,” Mayor Butts said. Councilman George Dotson thanked the public for coming out to the last town hall meeting. He encouraged everyone to share the information gathered at the meetings with their neighbors. Councilman Ralph Franklin announced that Hollywood Park Tomorrow will have the first in a series of community information meetings on Thursday, June 19 at 7pm, at the Hollywood Park Casino, 3883 W. Century Blvd. Morales said in response to a comment made earlier about streets in Inglewood being fixed because it is an election year, “At the end of the day, work is getting done. It’s good news.” “Instead of saying, ‘finally we are getting the streets done.’ and being grateful, someone feels there’s a conspiracy. We’re doing this because of an election. There are elections every year; everything we do is going to coincide with an election,” Councilmember Alex Padilla said. “Mrs. Horton, aren’t there elections every two years? We would have to pick and choose when we fix the streets and work around the elections. We are doing things when we can afford to do them,” Butts added. Morales announced the recent preschool graduation at Lockhaven Community Center. The ceremony was almost cut due to budget constraints, but parents pulled together and helped save the graduation. A woman wanted to know what the time boundaries are for fireworks. How long can fireworks been fired after July 4th? How late can they be ignited? “We all hear fireworks when (it’s inappropriate). It’s a terrible part of the 4th of July. When people use illegal fireworks, Safe and Sane takes the hit for it, and the nonprofits that benefit from them, which is why we do it. If you see illegal fireworks, call (310) 4128771,” Morales said. Mayor Butts referred to the article about firework safety which ran last week in Inglewood Today. “We are trying to raise the consciousness of the community and let people know what is legal or not,” he said.

Inglewood Today

June 19, 2014

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Today O

Complete Value of Life Insurance and Working With a Financial Professional

ver the last several years, planning for retirement has been anything but simple. Market uncertainty, lower real estate prices and for some, job loss or stagnant salaries, have made saving and investing for a sound financial future more challenging than ever. That’s where a financial professional comes into play. A financial professional can help you save, invest and grow your money, while protecting what matters to you -- your family, a business or standard of living. But, how do you find a financial professional that’s a good fit for you? 1. Start by considering his or her philosophy and approach to retirement planning. In today’s tenuous financial environment, a professional who believes permanent life insurance plays a critical role in a financial plan should be a strong consideration. Permanent life insurance provides a guaranteed safety net, should the unthinkable happen. A death benefit can give you peace of mind that your family or business is properly protected. Plus, the cash accumulation potential of permanent life insurance can be used to launch a second career, pay for a grandchild’s education or supplement retirement revenue streams. Permanent life insurance also allows other elements of a financial plan, such as annuities, investments or disability insurance, to do their job.* 2. Make sure the financial professional has the proper education and training. Here are the top credentials to look for:

• How will you communicate with me about my finances? To learn more about working with a financial professional to take full advantage of the complete value of life insurance, visit www.PennMutual.com.

Accessing cash-values may result in surrender fees and charges, may require additional premium payments to maintain coverage and will reduce the death benefit and policy values. Any examples are hypothetical, intended for illustrative purposes only, and highlight a single possible out* All guarantees are based on the come. Individual results will vary. claims paying ability of the issuer. Source: NewsUSA • Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) – an insurance designation often held by those who specialize in life insurance and estate planning and given by The American College, a nonprofit dedicated to educating individuals in financial services. • Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – a designation given and governed by the Certified Finacial Planner Board of Standards. • Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) – a designation on par with the CFP, also given by The American College. 3. Make certain you have a good comfort level with the financial professional, and how they communicate with clients. You can do this by scheduling an in-person meeting, preferably at their office, to ask the following questions: • What is your approach to retirement planning? • How often will I have the opportunity to meet in person to make sure my plan can adjust as my life evolves? • What is the average length of your relationships with clients? • Will you offer options and help me compare risks, costs and benefits?

Thinking About Retirement and Social Security? It Pays to Wait

aiting to take Social Security retirement benefits can increase your monthly benefit as much as 76 percent, according to a new toolkit, “When to Take Social Security: It Pays to Wait,” released by the nonpartisan National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI). The toolkit includes a threeminute video, a one-page fact sheet and a 16-page brief to educate workers nearing retirement about the advantages of delaying their Social Security benefits beyond age 62, if they can. Key messages for older workers include: (1) If you need Social Security to make ends meet, take it —you’ve earned it. (2) But if you can wait, even a year or two, your monthly benefit will be higher— for the rest of your life. (3) If you are married, you have two lives to plan for. If you are the higher earner, waiting to take Social Security means a higher survivor benefit

for your spouse if she or he outlives you. “One of the most important financial decisions we make is when to start receiving Social Security retirement benefits,” said William Arnone, Chair of NASI’s Board of Directors and retired partner at Ernst & Young, LLP. “The gains from waiting are much greater than they used to be.” A worker who can wait until 70 will get a benefit that is 76 percent higher than if she had taken Social Security at 62. “Because Social Security lasts for life and keeps up with the cost of living, it may be the biggest asset a worker has,” said Virginia Reno, NASI’s Vice President for Income Security Policy. If you think of Social Security as a key retirement asset, you may want to increase it by delaying when you start benefits, if you can. Learn more at www.NASI. org/WhenToTakeSocialSecurity Source: NewsUSA

Inglewood Today

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June 19, 2014

LEG A L NOT I CES Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014136478 The following Person is doing business as:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014122934 The following Person is doing business as:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014137320 The following Person is doing business as:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014154751 The following Person is doing business as:

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2014151012 The following Person is doing business as:

The Cannabis Cheesecake Company 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008

Wright Fitness 811 E. 119th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90059

Malibu Cheesecake Company 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008

Greenlab Organics 110 Pine Ave., Suite 218, Long Beach, CA 90802

Gee’s Cheesecakes 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008

Registered owner: Gerald K. Clark. 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on May 20. 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.) Gerald K. Clark, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on May 20, 2014

Registered owner: Damian Wright, 811 E. 119th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90059 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on May 6, 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.) Damian Wright, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on May 6, 2014

Registered owner: Gerald K. Clark, 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on May 20, 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.) Gerald K. Clark, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on May 20, 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 May 29; June 5, 12, 19, 2014 ITO0422301032 Inglewood Today

PROBATE NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Ralph Foster CASE NO. BP151439 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both, of RALPH FOSTER A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by DORIS FOSTER in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that DORIS FOSTER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on May 28, 2014 at 8:30 AM in Dept: 9 located at 111 N. Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR of contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1)four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2)60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statues and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. In Pro Per Petitioner Doris Foster 1947 W. 85th Street LOS ANGELES, CA 90047 June 5, 12,19,2014 INGLEWOOD TODAY CN: 101

Registered owner: Geoffrey Thompson, 110 Pine Ave., Suite 218, Long Beach, CA 90802 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on June 6, 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 June 6, 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 June 12, 19, 26; July 3, 2014 ITO0422301035 Inglewood Today

Registered owner: Gerald Clark, 4176 Sutro Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90008 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on June 4, 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.) Gerald Clark, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on June 4, 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 June 12, 19, 26; July 3, 2014 ITO0422301034 Inglewood Today

Iconic Donut in Inglewood Brought Luck to the Kings

he championship L.A. Kings did not stop in Inglewood during their victory parade through the South Bay on Wednesday. But, an iconic Inglewood fixture threw its full support behind the team nonetheless. Anyone traveling south on La Cienega at Manchester, or exiting the 405 Freeway south, can’t help but notice how the huge donut on top of Randy’s Donuts was recently transformed into a gigantic hockey puck. The impressive sign, bearing the hockey team’s logo, reads, “Randy’s Donuts, Go Kings Go!” The Kings parade made its way through the South Bay beach cities of Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach. Kings captain Dustin Brown held the Stanley Cup above his head from a police SWAT vehicle. Kings goalie Jonathan Quick threw cans of beer to cheering fans at the rally.

Hermosa Beach is home to Brown, Drew Doughty, Jarret Stoll and Jeff Carter. Justin Williams, the NHL’s postseason MVP, goalie Jonathan Quick, Anze Kopitar and Trevor Lewis live in Manhattan Beach. Randy’s Donuts has been an Inglewood institution since 1953. On May 23, the night before the Kings took a 2-1 series lead over the Blackhawks, the giant iconic donut that sits on the roof of the shop was transformed, This is the second victory for the Kings in three years. On May 27, the Kings hosted a special fan giveaway at Randy’s Donuts, giving out free glazed donuts. Luc Robitaille, Kings President, Business Operations, said “The donut and the LA Kings are both extremely recognizable in our community. We believe it is a great match and our fans will have fun with it during this exciting time.” Larry Weintraub, co-owner of Randy’s DoThe first parade was held in downtown Los nuts, said during the playoffs, that he hoped the Angeles on Monday, but the South Bay held sign would stay a puck “throughout the playoffs, its own because many of the players live in the culminating with another Stanley Cup victory beach cities. for the LA Kings.” His wish came true.

Inglewood Today

June 19, 2014

Page 11

Dates in June 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 register, contact Chandra Hudson, (310) 330-8300, chudson @bamcm.org.

June 19 & 20, 2014

Show me the Funding! Have limited resources and lack of funding held you back from moving forward, toward your dreams of becoming a successful business owner or ministry leader?

sion, 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, June 21, 2014 founded in 1937, holds weekly meetCBN 46th Anniversary & ings every Monday at 6:00 p.m. at Scholarship Luncheon SHARE! 6666 Green Valley Circle, The Council of Black Nurses, Los north of Centinela Ave., (2nd buildAngeles, Inc. will host its annual ing on the right). Call 310-322-6411 scholarship luncheon at the Proud Bird for more information, or visit www. Restaurant, 11022 Aviation Blvd., Los lowselfhelpsystems.org. A donation Angeles, CA 90045. The event be- is requested but not required. gins with a networking social hour at 11am, followed by the luncheon, dancing and entertainment from noon June 20, 2014 until 4pm. Ophelia Long, RN, BSN, Connecting Women to Power the past NBNA President is the keyJoin Inglewood City Clerk Yvonne note speaker. The luncheon is $50 Horton at the “Connecting Women per person. For more information, call to Power,” event at Cal State Univer- Pinkie Nichols at (310) 337-1077. sity, Dominguez Hills, from 8am to 5pm. The add-day conference will Ongoing feature guest speakers and break-out Counseling for Anxiety, sessions to inspire, challenge and Depression Get free help for anxiety, depresempower women personally and Have you been looking for ways to expand your reach, but aren’t sure what to do? Join monetizing expert Latania Smith for this one-day workshop on crowd funding, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing. Position yourself for successful funding and partnerships. The workshop will be held from 10am-4pm in Los Angeles. The cost is $99 and includes lunch. Free webinars will be held Thursday, June 12 and 19 at at 3pm PST. Register at http://webinarjam.net/ webinar/go/7836/8c7bcc97f5. For more information, visit www. showmethefunding.com.

Advertise! www.inglewood today.com

Early Morning Risers: 4 Ways to Power Up Your Day (Continued from page 7) and antioxidants.” • Shift your bedtime. If by nature you are a night owl who routinely sleeps later but wants to start your day sooner, start gradually

4 Best Physical Activities for Seniors (Continued from page 7) have to find physical activities that are low-impact for your changed body—and which you genuinely enjoy—so that you will keep doing them. Here are four of the best exercises for seniors. 1. Walking. A brisk walk is just as effective at managing weight and health as running, and it’s easy and convenient. All you need are some sturdy walking shoes and some comfortable athletic apparel (think sweats and a t-shirt), and you’re set. Since you aren’t hitting the ground with the same force as a runner, you are sparing your joints the stress, but at a fast enough pace you can work up quite a sweat. Outside or on a treadmill, with friends or with your faithful pooch, walking is great exercise for people of any age, but it is especially effective for the elderly. 2. Swimming and pool sports. Talk about low impact: the water in a pool basically wraps your limbs in a cloud, while providing natural resistance training to increase strength. Finding a pool shouldn’t be too difficult; your assisted living facility may offer one, there could be a gym with a pool, or there might be a local Y in your neighborhood where you can

professionally. Topics include work/ life balance and starting a business on a shoestring budget. Men attend this event every year, and are more than welcome. The event is free. To register, call 888-847-9652.

moving your bedtime earlier. The most productive early birds aren’t sleep deprived. As Benjamin Franklin aptly noted, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” Source: NewsUSA

join for a discounted rate. Consider classes which are aimed at getting seniors moving, like water aerobics. 3. Bicycling. To really avoid joint jolting, how about an activity where your feet almost never even hit the ground? Riding bikes (the pedal kind, not the Harley kind) is the exercise of choice for many seniors because it is so kind to your knees, while providing tons of cardio to strengthen all your muscles - including, most importantly, your health. Make sure you invest in a quality helmet, as well as knee and elbow pads should an accident occur. 4. Yoga. The amount of flexibility we lose as we age is staggering; even in your 30s and 40s the flexibility your body had during its teenage years declines at a rapid rate. Yoga is a wonderful exercise that strengthens muscles and improves that all-important flexibility which gives your body elasticity. What’s more, yoga is renowned not only for improving the body, but for giving yogis peace and clarity of mind. Stephanie Arnold is a contributing writer and yoga instructor who learned about the activity from her grandmother, who is now in the care of the experts at SpiritHomeHealthcare.org for her health needs.

Advertise! Call 310-670-9600

“Parks Make Life Better” – the Mural By Anne Cheek La Rose

ocated in Darby Park on the exterior wall of the handball court, the mural is a colorful reminder of the many things available to do at our city parks. Additionally, the outdoor court in front of the mural will be freshly painted and the lighting for the handball court area will be enhanced for safety and visibility. This Inglewood youth-led project was composed of the Core Team—youth who were paid— and other youth that volunteered and received community service hours. The project was under the guidance of legendary LA muralist, Wayne Healy, a co-founder of East Los Streetscapers in 1975, and public art muralist, Michelle Glass. These two mentors took the youth through the complete process of creating public art. They studied park activities, develop painting and drawing skills, and collaborated on how to make the Parks Department motto, “Parks Make Life Better,” into a design. The youth were given first-hand knowledge of the civic process by presenting preliminary designs to the Inglewood Arts Commission and City Council for approval. There was a mural on the site that was painted in 1990. Sadly, it was all but obliterated by graffiti. First, the team prepared the wall by scraping off over-paint and

Working on the mural: on the scaffolding, Wayne Healy; below the scaffolding, Omar Baldwin, seated. the remnants of the old mural then Baldwin, Maria Gonzalez, Irene the problem of graffiti in parks the cinderblocks were sealed with Ndubuizu, Alaina Sanders, Xavier across the County through artisspecial paints. Now it was time to Sanders, and Bria Tyehimba. tic means. The City of Inglewood begin to paint the new mural. The I went to the site recently and competed for and won the grant. mural took three months to cre- met Wayne, his partner in East Los, The Darby Art Action project is ate on a weekly working sched- David Botello, and Omar and Bria. also supported in part by the Ingleule of 3-hour slots every Monday, I asked the youth why they wanted wood Public Art Fund from the Wednesday, and Friday. to be part of this mural. Omar said accumulated percent for art fees The Core Team members, all he lives in this District, loves art, from private developers dedicated Inglewood residents were: Omar and wants to leave his mark on our to public art projects, conservacity. He also noted that this is the tion, and public education about third mural in which he has taken public art. The Inglewood Arts part. Bria also lives in the District. Commission oversees the fund, She too, likes art and was looking making recommendations to the for something to do. They both are City Council for authorization for enjoying being part of this project. project expenditures. Darby Art Action, the project’s “Parks Make Life Better,” the name, is funded through a grant newest addition to our city’s Pubfrom the Los Angeles County of- lic Art collection, will be presented fice of Mark Ridley-Thomas, Su- to the community this Saturday, 21 pervisor for the Second District. June, from 2-4 pm in Darby Park, The mural in progress. The grant was created to address 3400 Arbor Vitae.

Luther Vandross Honored on Hollywood Walk of Fame: A Star Gets His ‘Star’

usic mogul Clive Davis, matter,” Vandross said in a 1982 inLuther Vandross’ niece, terview, “but they were not the ones Seveda Williams, celeb- to arouse my musical libido. It was rities and fans turned out recently those nights with the earphones listo honor the man with tening to Aretha (Frankthe golden voice. Lulin) sing ‘Ain’t No Way’ ther Vandross received and listening to Dionne with his own posthuWarwick sing ‘People’ mous star on the Holand listening to Diana lywood Walk of Fame. Ross sing ‘Reflections.’ The life and career It was those nights that of Luther Vandross, just knocked me down. who died of diabetes I emulated these peocomplications in 2005 ple. And as a result of Luther Vandross at age 54, is now enhaving a lot of female shrined forever in concrete as well singers as my idols, my sensitivity as on vinyl. level is much different than a lot of Known for his incredible love other guys singing.” ballads, Vandross once said listenHis instincts were spot on. The ing to female artists made him a R&B legend. who could literally more sensitive singer: sing the phone book and make it “I love Stevie Wonder and I love sound good, won eight Grammy Teddy Pendergrass and I love Donny Awards and sold more than 25 milHathaway and Tony Bennett for that lion records.