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

June 5, 2014

Burke Among Top Choices for Inglewood Voters

By Veronica Mackey

utumn Burke moved one giant step closer to a seat in the 62nd State Assembly District Tuesday night, beating her closest Democratic challenger, Gloria Gray. She will now face off with Republican Ted Grose in November. The political newbie said she is still coming down from it all, but remains focused. “I am taken aback. I’m not shocked, because we tracked the numbers pretty well, but it is still humbling,” she said in a phone

IUSD to Be Audited

Brann calls it ‘unnecessary’ By Olu Alemoru

nglewood Schools permanent state trustee Don Brann—who was appointed last July and recently extended his contract for another three years—has lashed out at what he called “an unnecessary” audit request by California Senate leader Bob Huff into the overtaken district. Huff’s request came in a May 20 three-page letter to Autumn celebrates with her Mom, Yvonne, and Father, Bill Burke. The Honorable Adam Gray, interview on Wednesday. tenacious daughter of for- Chair, Joint Legislative Burke took 41.2% of the mer L.A. County Supervisor Audit Committee. vote, over Grose’s 19.96%. Yvonne Brathwaite Burke. Gray won 16.63% accord- She is already working on ing to 100% of the precincts plans to bring more jobs to reported by the County of the state, and especially to Los Angeles. her district. California, she The 62nd Assembly Dis- said, needs to become more trict is typically Democrat- business friendly. ic. “I think what happened Burke hopes to bring her was the Republicans were 15 years of experience as a coming out against Gov. business consultant and real (Jerry) Brown, and it ended estate professional to help up helping Ted,” she said. residents in Inglewood and There are still 5 months other areas. The district, she South Bay City Mayors (Continued on page 5) Don Brann ahead to total victory for the “I respectfully request the Joint Legislative Audit Committee approve an audit of the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s (SPI, On The Inside: Tom Torlakson) implementation of SB 533 (Rod By Thomas Bunn Wright, Chapter 325, Stat• News hat can we take utes of 2012), a measure away from the appropriating funding for • Community multifaceted an emergency loan for the super-woman, that would Inglewood Unified District • Entertainment transform our lives? If you (IUSD) and granting SPI simply look at the way she ‘all legal rights, duties, and • Health showed up to work, you can powers of the governing find a plethora of gems there board’ of IUSD,” he wrote • Real Estate to pick up and start applying to Chairman Gray. immediately. Both Gray and Huff were • Business When it came to how she said to be in their respective (Continued on page 2) (Continued on page 2)

What Young People Can Learn from Maya Angelou

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Inglewood Today

Page 2

June 5, 2014

Summer Meals Reaching More Low-Income Children in California

new report finds that participation in summer nutrition programs increased in California, with 447,411 lowincome children receiving summer meals on an average day in July 2013. This was a significant increase of 11.9 percent from the previous summer. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank noted that although summer meals reached only 18 students for every 100 low-income children who received regular school year school meals in the 2012-2013 school year, it is better than the national rate. The report, Hunger Doesn’t Take A Vacation, is released annually by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC). It measures the success of summer nutrition programs at the national and state levels by comparing the number of children receiving summer meals to the number of low-income children receiving school lunch during the regular school year. The FRAC report finds that summer meal participation nationally reached nearly 3 million students on an average day in July of 2013, up 161,000 children or 5.7 percent from July 2012. This represents the first considerable increase in participation in a decade, providing welcome momentum for summer nutrition programs. Said Food Bank President/CEO, Michael Flood, “When the school year ends, millions of low-income children lose access to school meals, including about 2 million in California. Children need adequate nutrition during the summer so they stay healthy, active and return to school in the fall ready to learn.” According to the FRAC report, California experienced a double

digit participation increase because of the 2013 USDA Summer Nutrition Program initiative that reimbursed 7 million meals in 2013, which surpassed the 5 million meal goal. While participation increased nationally, there is still room for improvement. Low participation means missed meals for children and missed dollars for the state. If California were to reach 40 children with summer food for every 100 low-income children who get school lunch during the regular school year, the state would have fed an additional 529,000 lowincome children every day in July 2013, and brought in $39.7 million more in federal money to do so. It’s not too late for states and communities to make a difference this summer. State and community leaders can follow the lead of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which has launched an aggressive campaign to increase participation. California was one of five states targeted in 2013 by the USDA for increased assistance in growing the number of children eating summer meals and aims to raise awareness of the program. Said FRAC President Jim Weill, “The national increase in summer food participation is good news, but Congress will need to fix some of the underlying barriers in the 2015 Child Nutrition Reauthorization to truly repair summer nutrition programs. Congress needs to act to strengthen the programs so they are able to reach more lowincome children, and help the program more effectively address hunger and meet increased need.” The summer nutrition programs, which include the Summer Food

Service Program and the National School Lunch Program, should be filling the food gap for the thousands of low-income California children who rely on school breakfast and lunch during the school year to help keep hunger at bay. These programs provide free meals at participating summer sites at schools, parks, other public agencies and nonprofits for children under 18. New this year from USDA is “SummerFoodRocks,” a free webbased application released today that features a site locator and search tool and works on devices such as iPads, iPhones, Blackberrys and Androids. To locate a summer meal site near you, visit www. fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks Data for California come from the 2014 version of the annual report released by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), the lead advocacy organization working to end hunger in America through stronger public policies. The FRAC report, Hunger Doesn’t Take A Vacation, gives data for all states and looks at national and state trends. FRAC measures national summer participation during the month of July, when typically all children are out of school throughout the month and lose access to regular school year meals. The report is available online at www.frac.org For 41 years, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank has worked to mobilize resources in the community to alleviate hunger. With a vision that no one goes hungry in Los Angeles County, the Food Bank has distributed 1 billion pounds of food since its inception. For more information or to get involved, visit: www.lafoodbank.org

IUSD to Be Audited (Continued from page 1) constituencies Friday when Inglewood Today sought comments. However, Brann, who disclosed to a reporter that this was the first he’d heard of the audit letter, decried the move and claimed that the district has undergone “serious improvement.” “We must be the most reviewed agency in California right now,” he replied. “We’ve just had six people from John Chiang’s [California State Controller] office in here. There have [also] been [recent] reviews by FCMAT (Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team) and LACOE (Los Angeles County Office of Education). “We can barely move forward [because we’re] continually pestered by audits. I don’t know where he [Huff] is coming from. What are the chances that it [the audit

request] will get any traction coming from the Republican head of the Senate?” Regarding his tenure, he added: “When I came in there was a structural deficit of $18.3 million, which is now $10.7 million. In the projections for 2014/15 that will be reduced to $2 million and the following year it’s projected to go into the black.”

What Young People Can Learn from Maya Angelou (Continued from page 1) approached her craft, Ms. Angelou was: Early to rise, early to work. Angelou was an early bird who was known to rise at 5 a.m. As she told The Paris Review, “I leave my home at six, and try to be at work by sixthirty.” Always keep a Bible on hand. “The language of all the interpretations, the translations, of the Judaic Bible and the Christian Bible, is musical, just wonderful,” Angelou told The Paris Review in the same interview. Also on hand were a thesaurus, a dictionary ... ... And a bottle of sherry. Though she demurred on whether it sparked her creativity, Angelou admitted she might have a sip early, at 6:15 a.m., but usually partook no later than (Continued on page 6)

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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

June 5, 2014

Learn Where Your Local Water Supply Comes from at the Inglewood Public Library

he Inglewood Public Library is proud to host Ron Wildermuth of the West Basin Municipal Water District for a presentation regarding California’s water supply, Saturday, June 14, 2014, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Gladys Waddingham Lecture Hall at the Main Library, 101 West Manchester Boulevard. This water lecture provides a global, national, and local perspective on current concerns about water. Information will be of value to several disciplines from environmental to politics and public health. Class content will include answers to questions about: 1. Where our local water comes Inglewood Public Library from. 2. What are future challenges and West Basin Municipal Water water resource management and how they will be addressed? District (West Basin) is an inno- recently ocean-water desalination. 3. What California is doing to vative industry leader in water re- West Basin is focused on providing create new water supplies? cycling, conservation, education, value, cost savings and benefits to

Star Power Added to Boost Academic Performance at Warren Lane

arren Lane Elementary in Inglewood been selected to participate in a new program called Turnaround Arts. The school is among only 10 of California lowest-performing schools in the program. The program will expand into six new states in the Fall. First Lady Michelle Obama recently announced the expansion of the Turnaround Arts, which uses the arts to improve academic performance. The program infuses arts education access into struggling schools by providing musical instruments, art supplies, professional development for teachers and help from arts organizations. Launching in May 2012, Turnaround Arts began as a national initiative from the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, at eight low-achieving schools across the country. It is credited with nearly an 80 percent decline in discipline at some schools, and a rise in English and math scores. Attendance and enrollment also increased. The expanded program will reach 35 schools with $5 million in funding over the next five years from the U.S. Department of Education, the National Endowment for the Arts,

the Ford Foundation, and other companies and private foundations. Local program partners will also provide additional funding in each state. The program’s success is being given a huge boost by added star power. Jason Mraz, Forest Whitaker, Rashida Jones, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Marc Anthony, Tim Robbins, Chad Smith, Kerry Washington and Russell Simmons have all signed on to work with the schools. Highprofile architect Frank Gehry and former California Arts Council chair Malissa Feruzzi Shriver are spearheading the effort in California. Last week, Warren Lane students, parents and staff members welcomed Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer of the hit Fox show “So You Think You Can Dance.” Lythgoe, who is also a judge on the show, adopted Warren Lane through Turnaround. He came to watch and critique student dancers and provide suggestions on how to improve their acts. He also demonstrated the moon walk to a group of boys while praising the students’ song choice. Students are preparing for a school talent show, to be held on June 12. Warren Lane is located at 2602 W. 79th St.

its one million customers in 17 cities throughout its 185-square mile service area in coastal Los Angeles County, California. West Basin wholesales imported drinking water to California American Water Company, California Water Service Company, Golden State Water Company, Los Angeles County Water Works District No. 29, Water Replenishment District of Southern California, and the cities of El Segundo, Inglewood, Lomita and Manhattan Beach. Approximately 220,000 acrefeet of water is used annually in West Basin’s service area, enough to fill the Rose Bowl 850 times. This program is free and open to all. For more information about this program call (310) 412-5380 or visit library.cityofinglewood.org.

NBC4 Opens Grant Funding for Local Nonprofit Organizations

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BC4 Southern California has announced the launch of the third annual 21st Century Solutions competitive grant challenge. The program will award 3 grants totaling $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations that are embracing innovation to advance community-based programs in the areas of civic engagement, education, environment, jobs and economic empowerment, media arts and technology. The grant challenge opened on June 2, and submissions will be accepted from qualified 501(c)(3) organizations through August 8. “The 21st Century Solutions initiative shines a light on local charities addressing community needs in fresh and novel ways,” said Terri Hernandez Rosales, vice president of community affairs and communications for NBC4 Southern California. “Last year’s awardees exemplified the spirit of innovation and we can’t wait to see this year’s creative programs.” Interested 501(c)(3) organizations in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties wishing to compete in the grant challenge can find more information on eligibility requirements and a link to the application at NBCLA. com/Community. One winning organization and two runners-up will be awarded grants. The funding for 21st Century Solutions comes from the NBC

Universal Foundation to the 10 NBC Owned Television Stations as a way to create a dialog about local social entrepreneurship as well as the impact on their city. The grant program will award 30 grants totaling $1.2 million and will be implemented at stations representing Chicago, Connecticut, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area, and Washington, DC. NBC4 Southern California, (www.nbcla.com) is the West Coast flagship of the 28 NBC Owned Television Stations. It produces more than 30 hours each week of local news and information delivering it across the main broadcast channel 4, online at www.nbclosangeles. com, and through multiple social media platforms. Serving the Southern California community since 1949, NBC4’s news operation has received nearly every industry award bestowed on local news, including numerous Los Angeles Emmy and Golden Mike Awards, as well as two national Edward R. Murrow Awards and a Peabody Award. The NBC Owned Television Stations, a division of NBCUniversal, also operates COZI TV (www.cozitv.com), a national network that brings viewers some of America’s most beloved and iconic television shows and movies.

Inglewood Today

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June 5, 2014

Eye on the City Parks and Public Safety Top Council Discussion

public hearing to consider an appeal of the Planning Commission’s denial of a special use permit for Family Dollar Store, 1000 S. La Brea Ave., to sell liquor, will continue on June 10, 2014 at 7pm. The council voted to deny claims by Myisha Gatewood for property damage; by Etta Lee for personal injury and Jonathan Samayoa for personal injury and property damage. Long awaited improvements to Inglewood parks are coming to fruition. Siminsky Park got the green light for chain link fencing. The cost is $39,900. Edward Vincent Park will have artificial turf installed. That cost is $896,870. The public embraced these improvements wholeheartedly. Inglewood Parks and Recreation Commission-

By Veronica Mackey

er Willie Agee said that now children won’t have to play on a dirt field. Bill Weidner wanted to know why the project took so long to be approved. Stuart Bailey said the City of Inglewood had to go through a lengthy process to get the funds authorized. Mayor James Butts added, “The Vincent Park project costs close to a million dollars…There have been a lot of hoops we’ve had to go through to get this on track.“ The City will purchase asphaltic cement from Sully-Miller Contracting Company (DBA Blue Diamond Materials) in the amount of $120,000. An asphalt zipper machine will also be purchased from the Hunston-Galveston Area Council in the amount of $104,490 A wheelchair bound woman showed up to advocate for more

wheelchair accessible street corners in Inglewood. She complained that there are not enough curb cuts in the city to accommodate the disabled, and said she had come close to being run over in the street. The woman previously gave a list of corners that need to be reconstructed to the Public Works Dept. and wants to know what the City is going to do about it “For physical reasons, we have to coordinate it with (street) projects that are already being done. If there is a particular danger, we’ll move that up the list,” Butts said. The woman cited the intersection of La Brea near Hillcrest as one that is particularly dangerous and does not have a curb cut. “I have to back up and drive into the street and I almost got run over by an oncoming car,” she said.

The Los Angeles County Fire Department will be giving CPR demonstrations to the public, Thursday, June 5 at Costco on Century and Yukon. Learn CPR and you can potentially save a life. The demonstrations will take place from 10am to 2pm. City Manager Artie Fields said the clock tower on Manchester Blvd. is working again. The tower on Century Blvd. will be completed in conjunction with the Century Improvement Project. A job fair will be held Thursday, June 5 from 8 to 5pm for outsourced parking enforcement employees. City Clerk Yvonne Horton invited the community to her annual event, “Connecting Women to Power,” on June 20th at Cal State University, Dominguez Hills, from 8am to 5pm. (Continued on page 10)

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

June 5, 2014

Publisher’s Message

Page 5

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Two Victories Won

Burke Among Top Choices for Inglewood Voters (Continued from page 1) said, will have a senior population of over 40 percent in the next 5 years. There will be challenges in real estate and home health care, two areas of her expertise. Until then, she will continue door-to-door canvassing, meeting with businesses and local leaders, keeping a pulse on what the community needs. Except for some negative campaigning by candidate Simona Farisse (who won 12.5%), the race was relatively clean. The

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Just Saying... Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly per taking potshots at her reputation through Farisse. Randall and Teka Fleming, editor and publisher of the Chronicle built Farisse up as some sort of savior, even though she only moved into the district to run, and never connected with people. Yet, they say she’d be good for the people of Inglewood. Really? As reported last week, the Flemings not only ran unashamedly biased stories on Farisse, they apparently worked for her campaign, they were seen loading their car with her campaign signs. Farisse may have bought the Flemings for $3,000, but she could not buy this election. Gray still managed to secure a respectable place in the race. Her name recognition and experience proved more valuable than Farisse’s dollars. The people showed more honor for Gloria Gray than the rich carpetbagger who thought her money was enough to pull the wool over people’s eyes. The victory from Tuesday night is a victory for everyone in Inglewood—the confirmation that Inglewood is a community that cannot be bought. We should all sleep a little better tonight.

Gray camp accused Farisse of spreading lies in her campaign literature, tying Gray to the financial trouble of the Inglewood School District (although Gray had left 10 years earlier) and other misinformation. Farisse lived in Santa Barbara until late last year, when she bought a $1.3 million home in Westchester to qualify for the seat. Burke managed to stay clear of the controversy, heeding advice from political veterans: “The advice that I was given was to make this abut the commu(Continued on page 12)

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ongratulations to Autumn Burke for winning Tuesday’s primary election. It certainly was a breath of fresh air to see a young person so focused and dedicated to her run for the State Assembly (62nd District), and such a nice person too. Autumn ran a highly professional, intelligent campaign, and brought fresh new energy and ideas to the table. Although it is far from over, she is getting a lot of buzz and most feel she will take it all in November. There can only be one winner, of course. But I would be remiss if I did not mention my friend, West Basin Municipal Water District Director Gloria Gray. Besides being a local heavyweight in the community, she is also one of Inglewood Today’s favorite people. She has been a steady and fearless leader for more than 20 years at the Los Angeles County Department of Health and Human Services, as a member of the Inglewood School Board, and through her service at WBMWD. She came in third place Tuesday night, but what I hope people will understand is this: Despite buying a last-minute house in Westchester (to qualify to run for the State Assembly) at the tune of $1.3 million, dumping another $400,000 or so into her campaign, literally buying the Morningside Chronicle to sing her political praises, and trying to smear Gray’s name and reputation, carpetbagger candidate Simona Farisse, still came in behind Gray. Compare her sizable funding to Gray’s modest $15,000 and you’ll see money doesn’t necessarily win elections, people do. This is a classic David and Goliath story. Not only did Gray have to fight against lies and big money, she had to contend with a political newspa-

Inglewood Today

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June 5, 2014

Monetizing Expert Seeks to Help Inglewood Nonprofits

By Veronica Mackey

assion! It’s what you feel at the core of your being when your desire overtakes your fears. Inglewood resident Latania Michelle knows a thing or two about the feeling you get when you realize you must live your dream—or else! As a nonprofit developer and business strategist, she has helped scores of passionate people overcome the one thing that always seems to stand in their way—a lack of proper funding. An entrepreneurial “midwife” of sorts, she has held many a hand, helping others give birth to their visions. Latania is the founder of Latania Michelle International and Wealthy Woman Network. She previously held executive positions at Inglewood nonprofits, Stop The ViolenceIncrease The Peace Foundation and Lend A Helping Hand, in addition to World Vision and Goodwill Industries. Latania is launching a new phase of her business with a one-day workshop in the Los Angeles area on June 20. “Show Me The Funding”

will train people on how to secure funding through crowd funding, corporate sponsorships and grant writing. The growing interest and use of the crowd funding platform is leveling the playing field for everyone from authors, inventors, startups, nonprofits and ministries. “You can get people to invest in your business or project and literally become a serious player almost overnight. You don’t have to be at the mercy of bank loans anymore, you don’t have to go thousands of dollars into debt,” Latania said. “At the workshop, you’ll learn how to identify strategic partners that are readily available, to get funds you need to achieve your dreams. Success is never achieved alone. I am providing tools to help you find small businesses and corporations that can

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keep your community afloat. “I found it is important for ministries and nonprofits to have a sustainability plan. There are several methods and strategies to help them monetize their message so they can share their cause and get the money they need.” Those interested in attending the workshop can get a free preview at her webinar, on Thursday, June 12th. Special guest, Inglewood Today’s Veronica Mackey will discuss how to position yourself in the media to attract funding for your business or project. To sign up for the webinar, go to http:// Latania Michelle webinarjam.net/webinar/ become your partners and sponsors. go/7836/8c7bcc97f5. For more inYou’ll learn how to connect with formation on the workshop, visit your community through crowd www.showmethefunding.com. funding—both online and offline.” To find out how you can earn The bottom line, she says, is find- money on ticket sales for this event, ing ways to live your dreams and email konnectory@gmail.com.

What Young People Can Learn from Maya Angelou (Continued from page 2) 11 a.m., when she was deep in her work. Stay quiet. Not unlike many great thinkers, Angelou needed to hear herself think when she was writing. “You have to get to a very quiet place inside yourself,” she advised on Oprah.com. “And that doesn’t mean that you can’t have noise outside. I know some people who put jazz on, loudly, to write.” Always work in hotel rooms. At about 5:30 in the morning, she would go there to write, despite owning a rather large house. She kept a room in every town she lived in, too. As she told The Paris Review: “To write, I lie across the bed, so that this elbow is absolutely encrusted at the end, just so rough with callouses.” If we were to distill this process to an even more refined essence, what would we come up with? For starters, she listened! She was sensitive enough to hear the voice in her head, and adhere to its command. As young people, especially Gen Y’ers, we have a very difficult time sitting still, let alone listening. As young men of color, our perception of masculinity creates disgust for emotion, so it’s rather difficult. However, in the end, we’re all ad-

hering to the voice within, one is advocating for the path of most fulfillment, the other is fearful of it. Some great ways young people can learn listening skills are: Sports—Athletic programs for youth teach fundamental disciplines that require focus, patience, and presence of mind. Martial Arts- Just like sports, martial arts place strong emphasis on mastery of the mind and body. What else could we learn from Ms. Angelou? Create a system for yourself. She developed a work habit that rendered her the best results. Be yourself!—I’m sure she didn’t wake up one day and say “I want to write in hotels for the rest of my life. I’m sure she discovered that she felt most at ease in the hotel environment, she listened to that feeling, and catered to it, and always got the same satisfaction from it. That’s called being yourself. Developing your own style, your own process of execution. Today, with everything focused so heavily on the latest trends, and here-today, gone-tomorrow gimmicks, young people are reluctant to develop their own voices and styles for the convenience of something that’s ready-made. My dad always said, have a rea(Continued on page 7)

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Inglewood Today

June 5, 2014

Page 7

Health&Fitness T•O•D•A•Y

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 diseases including Salmonella and E. coli. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has the following tips for homeowners to help reduce allergens in the home so families can breathe more easily and stay healthy. • Vacuum Regularly. Running the vacuum at least once a week using a unit with a HEPA (highefficiency particulate) filter can clean up crumbs and help remove allergens from carpeting and furniture. • Store Food Properly. Keep food

• Stay 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. • Work with a Pro. If you suspect 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

What Young People Can Learn from Maya Angelou (Continued from page 6) son to get up in the morning. Have something you stand for. Ms. Angelou stood for a force outside herself. She stood for virtue and prosperity for all people, especially those who were disadvantaged. In 1000 years, Maya Angelou

will be revered as a goddess among men, and stories will exalt her for the principles she represented, and the woman of dignity she was. In 1,000 years, she will still be here as if she just left yesterday. What will people say about you in 1,000 years? Let us know by emailing me at Thomas@inglewood todaynews.com.

Tips for Healthy, Pain-Free Feet

stored in sealed containers, particularly in the kitchen. • Inspect Groceries and Deliveries. Sometimes, cockroaches and other 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. • Keep a Spotless Kitchen. Clean 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.

t’s easy to take our feet for granted, but consider this: There are 26 bones and 33 joints in the human foot, and those small bones must take us where we need to go every day. By the time Americans reach the age of 50, they’ve logged 75,000 miles on their feet—that’s three times around the planet. Common foot problems Years of wear and tear on your feet—aging, weight gain and wearing shoes that don’t fit—can cause foot problems such as corns and calluses, bunions, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis of the feet and gout. Sometimes foot problems are the first signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes or circulatory disorders. Feet must last a lifetime, so it’s important to practice good foot care. Wear comfortable shoes that fit well One of the best things you can do to protect your feet is wear comfortable shoes that have good arch support and fit well. As you age, your shoe size may change, so make sure you have the right size. The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day. Ditch those flat sandals or “flip-flops” During warm weather, many people tend to wear flat sandals or

flip-flops. Podiatrists warn against wearing them because they can damage your feet. “Flip-flops should not be used on a daily basis as they offer very little support and leave the feet unprotected,” said Dr. Silvia Arroyo, a podiatric surgeon at the Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Park Medical Center in Southern California. “Being a flat-soled shoe, they offer no support to the natural arch of the foot and can result in not only foot pain, but knee, back and hip pain as well.” Dr. Arroyo added that flip-flops are often associated with falls, ankle injuries and broken bones from tripping. “Individuals with certain medical conditions—especially those with diabetes— should not use them. Any blister or cut can turn into an infection and may be hazardous to your health,” said Dr. Arroyo. Sandal use is only recommended when going to the pool or the beach, or while taking a shower in a public place. Wearing flat sandals or shoes is not recommended for long walks. For more information about foot care, visit share.kp.org/footcare. For questions or advice about a specific condition, talk to your physician. Source: NewsUSA

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Inglewood Today

June 5, 2014

Today Ten On-the-Job Mistakes That May Be Sabotaging Your Career (Part 1) If you’re getting your work done and not breaking any company rules, you’re golden, right? Not necessarily, says Wall Street veteran Ben Carpenter. Here, he shares a handful of bad habits that—unbeknownst to you— might be tarnishing your reputation and holding you back.

et again, you’ve been passed over for a promotion. As you throw a pity party for one in your drab cubicle, you can’t help but wonder why. After all, you get your job done satisfactorily—at least, you haven’t received any complaints. You don’t take any more workday breaks or days off than your neighbors in Cubicle-ville. You smile at the boss, are pleasant to colleagues, and, for the most part, don’t have any conflicts with your coworkers. So why does it feel like you’re going to be running in this hamster wheel for many more years to come? Why can’t you seem to get your career moving forward? Ben Carpenter says you may not be violating company policy or dropping any balls, but most likely you are making mistakes—either subtle missteps or sins of omission or both. “The business world has a lot of unwritten rules and expectations— and the fact that they aren’t formalized doesn’t mean they don’t matter,” says Carpenter, author of the new book The Bigs: The Secrets Nobody Tells Students and Young Professionals About How to Find a Great Job, Do a Great Job, Start a Business, and Live a Happy Life (Wiley, April 2014, ISBN: 9781-118-91702-2, $25.00). “If your career hasn’t picked up the momentum you’d like it to, it’s time to take a careful look at what you’re doing—or what you aren’t doing.” Having done it all, from opening his own bar to working his way through the Wall Street ranks to be-

coming the CEO of a major international financial services company, Carpenter has seen others commit a wide array of career-sabotaging mistakes, and has even experienced a few temporary personal setbacks due to ill-advised actions. In The Bigs, Carpenter shares many of these colorful yet cautionary tales as he lays out a blueprint that employees of any age and level of experience can use to get—and do—a great job. Here, he pinpoints ten specific on-the-job mistakes that may be hurting your career: Getting distracted from the job at hand. In The Bigs, Carpenter recounts working a demanding fulltime day job while simultaneously managing the bar he’d recently bought. Though he was burning the candle at both ends, Carpenter didn’t think it was negatively affecting his day job until his manager told him in no uncertain terms that he needed to “get some *bleep* sleep” unless his career was no longer important to him. “Being too tired to do your job well is just one type of distraction that’s detrimental to your career,” Carpenter comments. “Constantly checking your Facebook page, taking personal calls at work, and spending too much time at the water cooler are others. People will notice your distraction, even if you think they won’t. Don’t let outside responsibilities or activities—whether personal or professional—get in the way of doing your best work at your full-time job.” Being too patient. Especially in this less-than-hospitable economy,

you may feel fortunate to be employed, period. The last thing you want to do is call (possibly negative) attention to yourself by pushing for a promotion, more professional development, higher-level clients, etc. I’ll just be patient, you tell yourself. Eventually, The Powers That Be will notice all the good work I do, and they’ll grant my request. According to Carpenter, though, you might be making a big mistake. “In my book, I caution readers against being too patient—yes, even in this economy,” he says. “If you aren’t proactive, it’s easy to get stuck in a job that won’t allow you to fulfill your professional and personal potential. Don’t agree to just ‘go along for the ride” when your own goals and success are at stake. Even now, there are plenty of companies and jobs out there. If your current employer can’t or won’t give you the opportunities you need to advance, start looking for a job that’s a better fit.” Faking it when you don’t understand something. No one wants to look ignorant or incapable. But a professional setting is not a smart place for a fake-it-until-you-make-it strategy. If you lack the skills to accomplish some piece of your job, such as creating spreadsheets or reports, ask questions. Speak up and find out how and where to learn the needed skill. Don’t wait until your lack of knowledge becomes a major problem. (Make no mistake: People will notice.) “Early in my career, a client bullied me into saying ‘yes’ to a request I didn’t understand—and it cost my employer $25,000,” recalls Carpen-

ter. “While covering up your own ignorance might not come with such a steep price tag, it’s still something you should avoid at all costs. Your integrity, credibility, and reputation—and possibly your job!—are all at stake. It’s always better to swallow your pride and say, ‘I’m sorry, but I don’t understand. I need you to explain.’” Not being responsive. As long as you check off all the major boxes on your to-do list each day, it’s okay to let a few emails slide, or to go home before listening to those last few voicemails…right? Wrong! The individuals who didn’t receive a response will remember what they perceive as dismissiveness, or even a lack of respect. Over time, this can do major damage to your reputation and cause you to be passed over for the most important career-building tasks. “Always respond to your boss, coworkers, and clients as soon as possible, even if you have to stay at your desk a few extra minutes at the end of the day,” instructs Carpenter. “Certainly never let 24 hours pass before responding to an email or returning a phone call. Even if you’re still looking into the issue, let the other person know that you got their message, you’re working on it, and you’ll keep them posted. “Soon, you’ll become known as someone who is rock-solid and reliable…and maybe even the go-to person in your department or field,” he adds. Learn other job mistakes and how to avoid them in part two of this article next week.

Inglewood Today

June 5, 2014

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Latinos Want Strong Presidential Action to Combat Climate Change, Poll Shows

n overwhelming majority of Latinos in the United States want strong presidential action to curb the threat of climate change, according to new poll conducted for the Natural Resources Defense Council by Latino Decisions. “Here’s an important message for our political leaders, and it cuts across party lines: Latinos intensely support taking action on climate change and fighting air pollution,” said Adrianna Quintero, senior attorney for NRDC and Founder of Voces Verdes. “Latinos in the U.S. recognize the threat that climate change poses to the well being of our families and the future of our community in this country and abroad, and want our leaders to solve it. “That’s why, today, Latinos are speaking up loud and clear: it’s time to cut the carbon pollution that is driving climate chaos and threatening our children’s future.” Indeed, the new survey showed that support for climate action among Latinos is broad and deep. In comparable surveys on Latino priorities, only immigration reform scored higher levels of intensity. According to the poll: • Nationally, nine in 10 Latinos

want the government to take action against the dangers of global warming and climate change. o Of those, 68 percent of Republican Latinos say that it is important—including 46 percent of Republicans who say it’s very or extremely important— for our government to tackle global warming and climate change. • Nationally, eight in 10 Latinos want President Obama to curb the carbon pollution that causes climate change. o Of those, 54 percent of Republicans, 88 percent of Democrats and 86 percent of Independents support presidential action. • Nationally, 86 percent of Latinos support setting limits on carbon pollution power plants discharge into the air to fight climate change. o Of those, 71 percent of Democrats, 44 percent of Republicans and 63 percent of Independents strongly support setting limits on carbon pollution from power plants. • By gender, 88 percent of male respondents say that it is important for our government to tackle global warming and climate change and 92 percent of female

respondents agree with this view. • Broken out by income, 91 percent of those making less than $20,000 a year say that it is important for our government to tackle global warming and climate change, and 86 percent of those with incomes over $80,000 hold this view. The survey conducted for NRDC by Latino Decisions, a leader in Latino political opinion research, interviewed 805 Latinos in the U.S. from November 25 to December 4, 2013. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.5 percent. Previous polling has shown Latinos strongly back taking action against climate change. The Latino Decisions poll explored how intense that support is and why. “Of the issues we’ve polled, the only other national issue Latinos feel more intensely about is immigration reform,” said Matt Barreto, co-founder of Latino Decisions and associate professor of political science at the University of Washington. “Action on climate change is a very high priority for Latinos—regardless of age, income, party affiliation or where they live. “This is a clear message for public officials who want support from Latinos: protecting the environment is a top priority. If you want their

support, taking action on climate change is an important place to start.” Javier Palomarez, president and CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said, “USHCC recognizes that clean energy and green jobs are the best alternatives for current and future businesses to thrive. That’s why it’s important for all of us to collaborate to protect our environment from harmful climate change. Majorities of people, including Latinos, agree that action is needed. Let’s act now, for a thriving economic future, and a planet we can be proud to pass on to our children.” Actor and activist Edward James Olmos said, “I agree with the 89 percent of Latinos who feel that we have an obligation to shield Mother Earth from climate change. For Latinos, protecting our families and ensuring a better future for our communities is critically important. Join me in this effort to speak out and demand strong action from the government to limit climate change.” For more information on the campaign, visit www.nrdc.org or follow on Twitter @NRDC.

Want me to grow up smarter? Start talking. Babies who are talked to from day one are more likely to have a successful future.

(future engineer)

Talk. Read. Sing. Your words have power. First5California.com/parents First5_Newspaper-HP_TalkReadSing_Inglewood_r1.indd 1

Title: African American Newspaper – Half Page

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Inglewood Today

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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:

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

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

June 5, 2014

Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) The event is free. To register, call 888-847-9652. Men are encouraged to attend. Bailey has an idea that might make revenue for the City: “When Hollywood Park Tomorrow is demolished, all those trees will have to be moved. Can we consider selling these trees to other cities, or other counties? It could be a revenue stream for the City. It’s not much, but every penny counts. You could have people pick the trees up, keep the root from going in shock so the root doesn’t die. Keep the soil moist. Ask Mr. Fields to have his staff research it.” The council and some in the audience were pleased with last week’s veteran’s memorial celebration on the South Lawn of City Hall. Damon Johnson announced that the June 16th meeting for the oversight committee of the Inglewood Senior Center has been cancelled. Councilman George Dotson used his closing remarks to remind everyone to vote and to deny that he had any-

CITY OF INGLEWOOD

PROBATE

SPECIFICATIONS FOR “WATER TREATMENT PLANT WEIR CONTROL AND GATE STRUCTURE REPLACEMENT”

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

BID NO. CB-14-21 Public Works Department One West Manchester Boulevard Inglewood, California 90301 (310) 412-5333 Bid Proposal Due on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 no later than 11:00 AM to Inglewood City Clerk Office. MAY 2013 INVITATION TO SUBMIT BID (Specifications and Conditions Governing Bid Award) Project Subject to Bid: “WATER TREATMENT PLANT WEIR CONTROL AND GATE STRUCTURE REPLACEMENT” The City of Inglewood invites and will receive bids duly filed as provided herein for the furnishing of labor and materials and/or completing the above-designated project. A mandatory job walk for interested bidders will be conducted on Thursday, June 26, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Public Works Department, on the Third Floor of Inglewood City Hall, One Manchester Boulevard, CA, 90301. Contact Thomas C. Lee, at (310) 412-5333 should you require further information. Each bid to be considered must be delivered to and received by the City Clerk no later than 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at the Office of the City Clerk, Inglewood City Hall, One Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301. Each bid shall be submitted and completed in all particulars using the form entitled, “Bidder’s Proposal and Statement” attached hereto and must be enclosed, together with the requisite bid security in a sealed envelope addressed to the City Clerk with the designation of the project “WATER TREATMENT PLANT WEIR CONTROL AND GATE STRUCTURE REPLACEMENT” appearing thereon. Each bid shall state the unit price of each item if called for on the Bidder’s Proposal and Statement form. In the event alternative bids are called for in said form, each alternative bid shall be completed. Bids will be opened in public in the City Clerk’s Office and will then and there be announced to all persons present. Specifications and other bid documents for the above items are on file in the Public Works Department, and may be obtained upon request. Each bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of cash, a cashier’s or certified check made payable to the City of Inglewood, or a bid bond, for an amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the aggregate of the bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will, within the time specified, enter into an agreement as provided in the bid document and furnish bonds when required in the Special Provisions; one for faithful performance in the amount of the contract sum, and another for contractor’s labor and materials in the amount of the contract sum. The City Council reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any irregularities in any bid, and to take bids under advisement for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days from and after the date bids are opened and announced. Attention is directed to the provisions of Sections 1777.5 and 1777.6 of the California Labor Code concerning the employment of apprentices by the Contractor or any subcontractor under them. The Contractor or any subcontractor shall comply with the requirements of said sections regarding the employment of apprentices. Information relative to apprenticeship standards and administration of the apprenticeship program may be obtained from the Director of Industrial Relations, San Francisco, California, or the Division of Apprenticeship Standards and its branch offices. Notice is hereby given that the City Council has ascertained the prevailing rates of per diem wages in the locality in which the work is to be done for each craft or type of workman or mechanic needed to execute the contract in accordance with the provisions of Section 1770, et. seq. of the Labor Code; said prevailing rates are on file in the Office of the City Clerk and are incorporated herein by reference. Copies shall be made available to any interested party on request. Attention is directed to the provisions of Public Contract Code Section 10164 concerning Contractor’s licensing laws. This contract requires at least a valid California Contractor License Class “A” at the time of bid. In addition, a City of Inglewood business license will also be required. The successful bidder must obtain and maintain current until completion of the project an Inglewood City Business License. This notice is given by order of the City Manager of the City of Inglewood, California, and is dated this 5th day of June, 2014. Artie Fields, City Manager City of Inglewood, California

thing to do with changing polling places in District One. “It was done by the county; it is a county wide election,” he said. Dotson will hold his monthly town hall meeting Saturday, June 14 from 10am to noon, at the Veteran’s Center, 330 Centinela Ave. Councilman Ralph Franklin is shopping for shopping center tenants. His recent attendance at a shopping center convention indicates retailers have a strong interest in opening stores in Inglewood. “I didn’t hear, ‘Oh, it’s just Inglewood.’ (They said) ‘I heard about Inglewood. I want to talk to you more about coming to the west coast.’” It’s been a year since Dotson and Councilman Alex Padilla were elected to the Inglewood City Council. Padilla thanked voters for putting their confidence in him and Dotson. He also made a couple of announcements: “The (Inglewood) Police Department is hiring more people. If there’s anyone out there interested in a career in law enforcement, contact them and fill out an application. Also, there will be the 39th annual Centinela Adobe Complex celebration on Sunday (June 8), at 7634 Midfield Avenue in Westchester. It’s an historical site where Inglewood got its start. There’ll be tours of the facility. Come out and attend this event to raise funds,” Padilla said. Councilman Eloy Morales reminded residents to support the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event, this Friday to Saturday, June 7-8, from 9am to 9am. The 24-hour marathon is held annually to raise money for cancer research. It will take place on the field of Crozier Middle School, 120 W. Regent Street, right behind Inglewood City Hall. “The Relay for Life is this weekend. Even if you just want to stop in and say hello, come on out. It has grown to become quite a community event,” Morales said. Mayor Butts reiterated two points in his closing statement. The first is in regard to Gil Matheiu, who frequently says Inglewood owes the state’s now-defunct redevelopment agency hundreds of millions of dollars. The mayor does not agree. “The obligations of the agency are the obligations of the agency. You have told us this for years and there comes the time this (Continued on page 11)

June 5, 2014

Inglewood Today

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Dates in June Thru June 19, 2014

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.

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) June 6-7, 2014 Relay for Life 330-8300, chudson @bamcm.org. This year, the City of Inglewood June 12, 19 & 20, 2014 will again join in the fight against Show me the Funding! cancer by participating in the AmerHave limited resources and lack ican Cancer Society’s Relay for of funding held you back from Life event. The24-hour event will moving forward, toward your take place June 7th-8th, from 9amdreams of becoming a successful 9am, at Crozier Middle School, 120 business owner or ministry leader? W. Regent Street. During the Relay

The Council of Black Nurses, Los Angeles, Inc. will host its annual scholarship luncheon at the Proud Bird Restaurant, 11022 Aviation Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. The event begins 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 Bingo Games Operation 3801 hosts Bingo evsessions to inspire, challenge and empower women personally and ery Sunday afternoon from 1:30 p.m. professionally. Topics include work/ to 6:00 p.m. We are a drug and alcolife balance and starting a business hol free environment. We are a nonon a shoestring budget. Men attend profit looking for your support. Cost this event every year, and are more is $1 per game. Anyone mentioning than welcome. The event is free. To BlackNLA will get 5 free games. Located at the Bingo Hall, 3801 S. Westregister, call 888-847-9652. ern Ave., Los Angeles, CA. For more June 21, 2014 information, contact Jimmy Jam, 323CBN 46th Anniversary & 777-2422, jimmyjam@vel.net. Scholarship Luncheon for Life Event team members take turns walking around the track, and are sponsored to raise money for each lap. Teams are forming now. To join a team in your district or become a sponsor, call 310-346-8968 or visit http://tinyurl.com/l8vsmaq.

‘Severely Decomposed’ Body Found in Car at Inglewood Shopping Center

Inglewood police are seen in the parking lot of a shopping center on Saturday, May 31, 2014, after a body was discovered inside a vehicle. Photo Credit: KTLA

decomposing body found at an Inglewood shopping center on Century Blvd. near Crenshaw on Saturday. Police and coroner’s officials were investigating after the body was discovered inside a vehicle in the parking lot. Inglewood police received a call regarding a foul odor and a suspicious vehicle parked near a Home Depot and an El Super grocery store in the 3300 block of West Century Boulevard at about 4:30 p.m. Officers who responded found a “severely decomposed” body

inside, said a watch commander with the police department. When the officers arrived, they found the decomposed body of a male victim inside a blue Honda sedan, the Police Department said. The deceased person appeared to have been shot. Coroner’s officials were en route to the scene. It was unclear how long the vehicle or the body may have been there, police said. An official at the scene said they could have been there for a month, according to a KTLA reporter.

Eye on the City (Continued from page 10) is just exhaustive,” Butts said. He also congratulated police officers who recently graduated from college and those recognized for

their heroic acts last week by the South Bay Chamber of Commerce. “I want to congratulate the officers who received awards. I am so proud of this police dept., and that we could give them a one-percent

raise this year…because your safety is worth that.” The meeting was closed in honor of Velma Lee Moore, 97, mother of Congresswoman Maxine Waters, who recently passed away.

Advertise! 310-670-9600

Burke with Steven Bradford

Councilman Herb Wesson

Burke with Councilman Ridley-Thomas

Election Results Burke Among Top Choices for Inglewood Voters (Continued from page 5) nity, not about myself and the other candidates. I never did a negative mailer.” There were plenty of mailers jamming mailboxes in the last 2 weeks leading to Election Day. But there were few surprises, if any, in the races that pertained to Inglewood. U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters defeated her opponent in the 43rd Congressional District. Karen Bass, whose 37th District includes the nearby Crenshaw/Leimert Park area was also victorious. Jim McDonnell won the L.A. Coun-

Voter Nominated

Party

ty Sheriff’s race; Jeffrey Prang won Autumn Burke Pref: DEM for L.A. County Assessor; Hilda Solis Pref: REP for L.A. County Supervisor, District Ted J. Grose 1; and Sheila Kuehl for L.A. County Gloria Gray Pref: DEM Supervisor, District 2. Jerome Horton Simona A. Farrise Pref: DEM easily won re-election to the 3rd Seat Pref: DEM Paul Kouri of the Board of Equalization. Pref: DEM Tom Torlakson held on to his seat Mike Stevens as the state’s Superintendent of Pub- Emidio Soltysik Pref: NP lic Instruction. Long time educator Pref: DEM George McKenna won the crowded Adam M. Plimpton race for a seat on the Los Angeles Unified School District Board. Registration All incumbents prevailed in the Precincts Reporting state’s highest offices: Gov. Jerry Total Precincts Brown, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Kamala Har- % Precincts Reportiong ris beat out their opponents.

Votes

Percent

11,919 5,773 4,812 3,616 850 760 725 475

41.20 19.96 16.63 12.50 2.94 2.63 2.51 1.64

244,226 258 258 100

Inglewood Launches HERO Program for Energy and Water Efficiency HERO allows property owners to make homes more energy- and water-efficient with tax deductible financing paid through property taxes; Inglewood joins more than 150 California cities launching HERO this year.

he HERO Program, which is the nation’s leading residential Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, is now available to homeowners in the City of Inglewood. HERO provides property owners with an affordable and safe way to invest in energyand water-efficiency improvements by enabling them to pay for these improvements over time through their property tax bill. “HERO will help local homeowners to save energy and water, and enable them to make immediate improvements to their properties,” said Liza Gray, HERO Community Development Manager. “Based on our experience in other communities, we also expect HERO to create local jobs by increasing demand for construction services.” The HERO

Program has helped to create more than 2,100 jobs in California since its launch in December 2011. More than 900,000 energy- and water-saving products are available to property owners through the HERO Program. Among the most popular upgrades are whole-home heating and cooling (HVAC), solar power panel installations, energysaving windows, doors and roofing and insulation. Property owners repay the assessment over 5, 10, 15 or 20 years. Interest is tax deductible and homeowners see immediate savings on utility bills. “HERO has been a strong economic engine in neighboring communities and we expect the same to be true in Inglewood,” said Jacki Bacharach, Executive Director of the South Bay Cities Council of

Governments. “In addition to creating jobs in the construction industry, HERO will help lower energy and water bills for participating homeowners, and help reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions throughout the region.” HERO has been financing residential projects in California since 2011. It is the largest PACE program in California, financing 95% of all residential PACE projects in the state with a total of $200 million financed to date. HERO is one of several PACE programs active in California communities. Communities where multiple PACE financing companies are active often see the highest levels of property owner participation. Cities and counties must only pass a resolution in order to make PACE programs like HERO available to lo-

cal property owners. Taking part in the HERO Program is 100% voluntary for both jurisdictions and property owners. The program is cost neutral to participating local governments. All registered contractors are provided with a comprehensive training program to ensure they provide excellent service and accurate information to customers. The HERO program has received the Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award in California, the Urban Land Institute Best of the Best, and the Southern California Association of Governments President’s Award for Excellence. To learn more about HERO and to apply, homeowners can visit www.HEROProgram.com or call 855-HERO-411 (855-437-6411).