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Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 24, No. 23
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June 4, 2015
Grandstand Demolished at Former Racetrack Site
he grandstand canopy at the former Hollywood Park Racetrack imploded in the early morning of May 31 to make way for the new mixed-use community being built there. The future site will include more than 4 million square feet of retail, office, hotel, and entertainment space, along with parks and public open space. The activity was designed to cause minimal disruption for neighbors, though there were brief periods of noise and vibration. The controlled demolition was con-
T ducted in close coordination with the City of Inglewood, the Inglewood Police Department, and other authorities to ensure a safe event. Horse racing at Holly-
Photos courtesy of Hollywood Park Land Company
On The Inside: • News • Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business
L.A. Approves $15 Minimum Wage
wood Park was an Inglewood tradition which lasted almost 75 years until the race track closed in 2013. The horse racing industry began to decline in recent years. The New York Times reported: “Thoroughbred racing declined nationally in handle by 7.3% in 2008, by 9.8% in 2009, and by 8.4% in the first four months of 2010.” Slots, casinos and online betting began to replace old-fashioned horse racing due to their convenience and simplicity. Now, with the possibility of an NFL team relocating to the L.A. area, and an already approved, privately-funded
stadium planned adjacent to the Hollywood Park site, Inglewood is on its way to reclaiming its reputation as a leading sports city. If approved by NFL owners, this will be the first time in over 20 years that L.A. will have a home team. Inglewood Mayor James Butts, public and safety officials, representatives from Hollywood Park, and about 75 Rams fans gathered around 6am to watch the demolition. The group cheered after the low-level explosives brought down the concrete grandstand L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti prosperity in our city, bewithin 30 seconds. (Continued on page 2) cause the minimum wage should not be a poverty wage in Los Angeles.” Prior to the vote, Garcetti campaigned vigorously for the hike, promoting the hashtag #RaisetheWageLA. After the mayor signs the bill, wages in L.A. will begin to increase incrementally over the next 5 years. A bill that passed the state Senate Monday. which would hike the minimum wage in California to $11 per hour in 2016 and then to $13 per hour by 2017, still needs approval from the Assembly. Jose Cervantes (right) (Continued on page 12)
Inglewood High Senior Wins Prestigious Gates Millenium Scholarship
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ose Cervantes spent his senior year at Inglewood High School exploring colleges around the country before narrowing his choices to UC Berkeley, UCLA and USC. Not knowing which of the three top-tier schools to attend was a good problem to have—and his acceptance into the prestigious Gates (Continued on page 11)
he long anticipated minimum wage hike was finally approved on Wednesday by the Los Angeles City Council. Council members voted 13-1 to hike the city’s minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2020. The current minimum wage in Los Angeles is $9 an hour. Mayor Eric Garcetti, who has long been a supporter of wage increases, said in May, “I started this campaign to raise the minimum wage to create broader economic
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Inglewood Today
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June 4, 2015
Community Grandstand Demolished at Former Racetrack Site (Continued from page 1) “Like the mythical Phoenix rising from the ashes, so does the City of Inglewood. The completion of this Sports/Entertainment corridor project, which began with the 100 million dollar revitalization of the Forum will continue to completion with the anticipated opening of an 80,000 seat stadium in 2018. This mixed use development which will also include a 6,000 performing arts venue, will include over 1 million square feet of office space, 1 million square feet for retail establishments, 4 parks, a hotel, movie theatre and 2,500 residential units. The City of Inglewood is marching towards destiny.” Mayor Butts said. Ground is expected to be broken for the new stadium in December, and NFL owners could make a decision about relocating one or more teams to Los Angeles this summer.
President/Publisher/ Editor Willie Brown Vice President Gloria Kennedy Assistant Editor Veronica Mackey Contributing Writers Veronica Mackey Thomas Bunn Brooke Stanley
Meanwhile, workers should have debris from the demolition cleared away by mid-July. The demolition had been planned for about 9 months and the early morning implosion was scheduled to make it as minimally disruptive as possible. Outreach efforts to neighbors was extensive to prepare them for the noise and crews worked
to insure that hazardous materials were removed. A large number of safety and health agencies were involved to ensure the demolition was done safely and properly, while law enforcement made sure the perimeter was secure. More information about the Hollywood Park project is available at www.hollywoodparklife.com.
Crenshaw Blvd. Closure Leimert Park Station Construction Rescheduled to Begin June 7th, 2015 Crenshaw Blvd. – between Vernon Ave. and 43rd St./ Homeland Dr. In order to minimize the impact to residents and businesses, Metro’s contractor, Walsh Shea Corridor Constructors is reducing the scheduled closure time from 14 days to 12 days. Crenshaw Blvd. will be fully closed for approximately 12 consecutive days for excavation and decking work on the underground Leimert Park Station. Eastbound and westbound lanes on Vernon Ave. and 43rdSt./Homeland Dr. will remain open during this closure; 43rd Pl., between Crenshaw Blvd. and Degnan Blvd., will be closed during the 12-day closure and an additional 2 days thereafter in order to support construction.
shaw Blvd. will be restricted at King Blvd., however access will Plan ahead to avoid delays be allowed back onto Crenshaw Please plan ahead if you are travel- Blvd. on Stocker St., 43rd/Homeing in this area, as it a major thor- land Dr., and Vernon Ave. Addioughfare to West Angeles Church tionally, 43rd Pl., between Crenof God in Christ and the Baldwin shaw Blvd. and Degnan Blvd., Hills Crenshaw Plaza, as well as will be closed during the closure many other establishments along to support construction. the corridor. Detour routes have been approved by the City of Los Support Local Business! Angeles. Traffic control measures Eat, Shop, Play Crenshaw. Take and signage will be implemented the Pledge at www.metro.net/ throughout the closure. crenshaw What To Expect
Southbound Detour: Left at MLK Blvd. Right at Western Ave. Right at Vernon Ave. Left at Crenshaw Blvd.
Northbound Detour: Right at Vernon Ave. Essentials Left at Western Ave. The official start date is pending; Left at MLK Blvd. however, the closure may begin Right at Crenshaw Blvd. as early as 9pm, Sunday June 7th, 2015. The closure of Crenshaw Noteworthy Blvd. will be continuous and is Note: All Businesses are open duranticipated to last 12 consecutive ing construction. days. Southbound traffic along Cren-
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Support Services for Businesses Metro Crenshaw/LAX Transit Project Business Solution Center (BSC) www.metrobsc.net/crenshaw Metro’s Business Interruption Fund (BIF) METRO (BIF) Caltrans - Live Traffic For live traffic conditions around conSt.ruction sites please visit http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/
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Inglewood Today
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June 4, 2015
Eye on the City
Inglewood Charter School Approved for Funding By Veronica Mackey
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uesday night’s council meeting focused primarily on the decision to approve financing of a new facility for the Children of Promise Preparatory Academy. Before voting to authorize the issuance of tax-exempt revenue bonds by the California Statewide Communities Development Authority, Inglewood council members heard from the public as well as the charter school’s founder and CEO, Dr. Carlton Lincoln and principal, Trina Thompson. About a dozen 5th graders from the Children of Promise Preparatory Academy showed up to represent the school, as the public discussed pros and cons of charter schools vs. public schools. One resident said Inglewood used to have good public schools and that charter schools are “nothing more than businesses.” Long time resident Willie Agee said, “If these children are the product of charter schools, I want to see
already approved by Inglewood Unified. Parents are the tax-paying parents in the community. We were just renewed for another 5 years,” she said. “I want to assuage any fears that the people of Inglewood would have. This 5th grade class just returned from a 10-day study class in Washington D.C. and Virginia… representing this great city of Inglewood. When they asked who we are, we say we are representing Inglewood,” Lincoln said. Aldene Sligh said, “Charter schools can live together with Fifth graders from the Children of Promise Preparatory Academy public schools, but public schools in Inglewood represented their school at the June 2 city council have been negated. Our city has meeting. Council members approved the issuance of a tax-exempt to do much more to elevate public revenue bond to finance a new facility. Shown here with principal schools so that all children can be Trina Thompson (left) and CEO/Founder Carlton Lincoln (right). elevated.” “We have got to fix things. We more of it. I don’t’ care what kind and forget about what the naysayers have two choices—to educate them of school you call it. It could be say.” to get good jobs and careers …or Willie Agee School, that’s fine with Thompson remarked that the they are going to be the mob bustme. Let’s get whoever can educate school’s purpose was to educate, ing us upside our heads and taking (Continued on page 5) these kids in the City of Inglewood not operate as a business. “We are
Pick up your copy of Inglewood Today at one of these locations: 1 Stop Mini-Mart, 420 E. Florence Ave. AAA, 1234 N. Centinela Ave. A-Man Inc., 101 La Brea Ave. Airport Gas, 501 Hillcrest St. Allstate, 2300 W. Manchester Bl. Anthony’s Autobody and Painting, 259 N. LaBrea Ave. Bayou Grill, 1400 N. La Brea Ave. Big 5 Sporting Goods (1), 301 S. Market St. Big 5 Sporting Goods (2), 11310 Crenshaw Bl. 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 Cleaners, 1413 Centinela Ave. 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. D’Menace Copies, 254 North Market St. Darby Park, 3400 W. Arbor Vitae Diamond Beauty Supply, 1300 N. Centinela Ave. Dr. Daniel’s Weight Loss Program, 105 S. Locust St. 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 El Super, 3321 West Century Blvd. Fabulous Burger, 1315 Centinela Ave., Fabulous Forum, 1 West Manchester Bl. Faithful Central Bible Church, 333 W. Florence Ave. Family Fish Market, 1300 Centinela Ave. Fatburger, 3020 W. Manchester Ave. Fiesta Martin Mexican Grill, 1330 N. La Brea Ave. Foreign Car Repairs & Sales, 1110 Centinela Ave. Fabulous Forum, 1 West Manchester Bl.
Gin’s Liquor, 11001 Crenshaw Bl. Gonzales Northgate Market, 10801 Prairie Ave. Happy Time Liquor, 730 E. La Brea Ave. Heart & Soul Grill, 128 N. Market St. Hollywood Park Casino, 1050 S. Prairie Ave. House of Tacos and Pupuseria, 254 North Market St. 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. Instant Print, Inc., 425 E. Manchester Bl. 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. Kwin Service Gasoline, 1235 W. Centinela Ave. L&L Paralegal Services, 171 N. LaBrea 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 Orleans & York (1), 400 E. Florence Ave. Orleans & York (2), 4454 W. Slauson Ave., LA 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 St. Mary’s Academy, 701 Grace Ave. Starbucks, 5301 Centinela Ave. Starbucks, 941 N. La Brea Ave. Starbucks on Century Stuff I Eat, 114 N. Market St. Sunrise Groceries, 1400 N. Centinela Ave. Super Fish Market, 11007 S Crenshaw Bl. Superior Groceries, 11202 S Crenshaw Bl. TenderCare Child Development Center, 335 E. Spruce Ave. 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 Water 4 U, 254 W. Market St. Westchester Villa Senior Living, 220 W. Manchester Bl. Whitehorse Fish Market, 3119 W. Imperial Hwy. Whole Foods, 4508 Overhill (Slauson) Wilder’s Preparatory Academy Charter School, 830 N. La Brea Ave. 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) Zahra’s Books “N” Things, 900 N. La Brea Ave.
Inglewood Today
june 4, 2015
P u b l i s h e r ’ s Me s s a g e
Celebrate Black Music Month
Page 5
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ith Black History Month 2015 four months in the past, it’s time for another reminder of contributions made by African Americans. And what better way to honor black history than with black music? June just happens to be Black Music Month, and it’s perfectly timed for the myriad of summer concerts planned. After all, who doesn’t appreciate some form of black music? From jazz to gospel, blues to R&B, soul to funk and hip-hop, the undeniable beat, lyrics and mood of music written, sang, played and performed by black artists have made a permanent impact on the music scene. The presence of black music is so deeply entrenched into American culture that one would be hard pressed to find many music award shows or films where black music or artists were not involved. Many don’t know this, but Black Music Month got its start back in 1979 when Kenny Gamble, Ed Wright, and Dyana Williams developed the idea to set aside a month dedicated to celebrating the impact of black music. Created by music business insiders, the group successfully lobbied President Jimmy Carter to host a reception on June 7th, 1979 to formally recognize the cultural and financial contributions of black music. Since 1979, Black Music Month has grown from a small commemoration to national proportions with events held annually across the country. In 2000, US-Representative Chaka Fattah sponsored House Resolution 509, which formally
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Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly recognized the importance of Black music on culture and the economy during President Bill Clinton’s administration. Black Music Month or “African American Music Appreciation Month”—as President Obama defines it—declares the start of summer as a celebration for all the black “musicians, composers, singers, and songwriters [who] have made enormous contributions to our culture.” “The music of our Nation has always spoken to the condition of our people and reflected the diversity of our Union,” Obama said. “African-American musicians, composers, singers, and songwriters have made enormous contributions to our culture by capturing the hardships and aspirations of a community and reminding us of our shared values.” The annual Essence Music Festival is one of the most long standing and well known celebrations of black music. It comes to New Orleans every July and brings with it the A-list of black musicians and singers. But there is plenty of other local musical talent to enjoy as (Continued on page 10)
Thank dad for his love and support. Dad may not be good at expressing his feelings, but we guarantee he’ll love reading about himself in Inglewood Today. Your dad has always been there for you. That’s worth more than a tie or a pair of socks, right? Do something special for Father’s Day. Give dad a shout-out in Inglewood Today! Our special rate is only $125 for the newspaper and website— and that includes color! Use discount promo code ITW217. June 15th is the deadline for the June 18th edition. Email your ad and photo to sales@inglewoodtoday.com, or call (310) 670-9600.
Just Saying... People like a person with good sense, but life is hard for someone who cannot be trusted. Inglewood Charter School Approved for Funding (Continued from page 4) what little we don’t have,” Ray Davis said. Councilman Eloy Morales told the public, “We just act as a conduit for the bond issue. We’re not on the hook for anything, (so) I am supportive of parents having the choice of doing the best they can for their children. Whatever we can do to improve any facilities, that’s what we should do.” “I think it would be unconscionable for the council not to approve this,” Mayor James Butts said. The council denied personal injury and property damage claims occurring between February 2014 and March 2015, rejected bids for the installation of turf at Edward Vincent Park, and approved the following: Transcription services for the • police department Pre-employment polygraph • examination services for the police department A license agreement with the • Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles to lease 138 acre-feet of the City’s groundwater rights • Contract award with the lowest bidder, Patriot Contracting & Engineering, Inc. for the Residential Sound Insulation project Dates were set for three Public Works hearings to discuss the annual levy and collection of assessments. Hearings will be held on July 7, 2015 at 2pm for: the In-Town Maintenance
Yvonne Horton
Assessment District No. 1975-1; Inglewood Street Lighting Assessment District No. 180-1; and Darby-Dixon Maintenance Assessment District No. 1987-1. A hearing was also set for the Section 8, Housing & Community Development Block Grant to consider the Inglewood Housing Authority Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Annual Plan. That hearing will be held June 30, 2015 at 7pm. In closing remarks, Councilman Alex Padilla reminded everyone of the Relay for Life event this weekend. The annual fundraiser for the American Cancer Society is a 24hour event because “cancer never sleeps.” Held at parks and schools nationwide, teams of participants walk or run to raise money. Inglewood’s event will be held Saturday, June 6 to Sunday, June 7 from 9am to 9am at Crozier Middle School, 120 W. Regent Street. “A vigil will be held at 9pm, where we will light up the track in memory of those who have lost their fight against cancer,” Padilla said. Prizes will be raffled from the Team Padilla booth. Teams have been formed by other Inglewood Council districts as well. Councilman Eloy Morales commented on “how very well behaved the class of children are here today” and reminded people about the CERT program. The Community Emergency Response Team program is designed to train residents how to respond to help save lives during (Continued on page 10)
Inglewood Today
Page 6
June 4, 2015
Community
Medi-Cal Renewal Now Automatic for Eligible Californians By McKenzie Jackson/ California Black Media
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os Angeles County resident, Diyon Clark, is relieved to learn that his Medi-Cal renewal will be automatic this year. In 2014, he remembers his re-certification process being especially confusing and frustrating. “That’s cool,” said Clark, a 20-year-old who lives in the San Fernando Valley. “That is one thing I hopefully won’t have to worry about.” Late last year, the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) announced that county human services agencies across the state will renew coverage for most Medi-Cal members by using the information they already have on file. That includes information pertaining to a person’s place of residence, immigration status, and income. If the county is able to verify all of an individual’s information their coverage will be renewed. In a March 25th email, DHCS spokesperson Anthony Cava said re-certifications begin well ahead of the date members’ plans are set to expire. “For renewals due January 1, 2015,” he wrote, “the process started approximately 60 days in advance (end of October/early November 2014).” For Californians who qualify, Medi-Cal offers health care benefits at either no or low cost. The coverage funds a prevention-oriented approach that promotes well-being
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through 21 managed and countyspecific health plans such as Anthem Blue Cross, L.A. Care and Molina. The health program is open to low-income adults; individuals with disabilities; families with children; senior citizens; children in foster care as well as former foster youth up to age 26; and pregnant women. According to numbers from DHCS, as of last month approximately 927,280 African Americans were enrolled in Medi-Cal. This year, DHCS expects to renew the insurance plans of about 12 million Medi-Cal members. “If all the information is available and it indicates continued eligibility, the individual’s coverage will be continued for another 12 months,” said Cava. Clark, who is half African American and half Jewish and has been covered by Medi-Cal for most of his life, says the most painful part of his renewal process last spring was completing it by phone. “It took about three months for me to get renewed,” said Clark, a college student and wireless phone salesman. “I was told to call and ask for Medi-Cal, then Covered California, then Medi-Cal.” Clark said needing to have surgery on his torn rotator cuff last year further complicated the process and heightened his frustration. And he was not the only person angered by the 2014 renewal process. There was a significant amount of chatter
among health care advocates and Medi-Cal users alike, lamenting the fact that due to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the questions asked on the renewal forms had become too complicated. Elizabeth Landsberg, director of legislative advocacy at the Sacramento office of the Western Center on Law & Poverty, an organization that works to secure housing, health care, and a strong safety net for low-income Californians, said the renewal process seems to be more streamlined now. “The process we have been seeing in 2015 is quite different,” she said. “Essentially in the past we had been expecting people to re-apply for Medi-Cal all over again. Now the onus is on the state to check people’s records. Cava said Medi-Cal users will only have to complete renewal forms if their Medi-Cal service cannot be automatically renewed, for example DHCS cannot verify certain information like income or residency. “Then, a pre-populated renewal form is sent to them, outlining the information used for the redetermination and what information is still needed from them to complete the renewal process,” he said. Cava said that any forms must be completed within a 90-day period or a current enrollee could lose his or her Medi-Cal coverage. “This is our standard Medi-Cal
policy,” he said. “If the information is provided within this timeframe, the counties will accept the information as if it had been submitted on time and complete the redetermination process. If the person remains eligible, their coverage will resume and be treated as if there was never a break in coverage.” Besides providing an opportunity to have surgery on his rotator cuff, Clark says having Medi-Cal also allowed him to have surgery on his broken right hand—all within the past year. Inserting a metal plate into one of his appendages wasn’t cheap, he said. “Medi-Cal has saved me at least $20,000 in medical bills, easily” he said. For more information on renewals, visit your local county human services agency, go to www.coveredca.com/medi-cal/renewingmedi-cal-coverage/ online or call 1-800-300-1506. The article above is brought to you by California Black Media, a coalition of Black-owned media outlets committed to making a difference in our communities. It is made possible via a grant for public outreach from The California Endowment. We share the common goal in reaching as many residents as possible with useful information that will help expand access to affordable, quality healthcare to all Californians.
Assembly Unanimously Supports Lifting Age Cap on Cal Grants for Veterans Returning to School
bill lifting the age cap on state financial aid for veterans seeking to further their education and training passed the Assembly unanimously today. AB 1361, by Assemblywoman Autumn R. Burke (D-Inglewood), allows current or former members of the United States Armed Forces to be eligible for the award regardless of age, as long as they were honorably discharged and graduated high school after June 30, 2000. “This bill is a chance for us to give something back to those who have already given us so much,” said Burke. “The vote today is evidence that the State of California strongly supports our veterans.” Since 2007, the California Community College Transfer Entitlement award has been available
Autumn Burke to students under 28 years of age who meet other eligibility requirements. For veterans, who often begin their college studies later than their civilian peers after complet-
ing their military service, the age cap has been a barrier to pursuing higher education. 53,000 community college students in California are veterans. More than half of those, according to the California Community College Chancellor’s office, are over 30. “We know that veterans face many challenges when they complete their service and return home,” Burke continued. “Cal Grants can unlock the door to new career opportunities in civilian life and they shouldn’t come with an expiration date.” AB 1361 passed the Assembly Floor on a 74-0 vote today. It now heads to the Senate. Assemblywoman Autumn R. Burke represents the 62nd Assembly District, which consists of the cities of Inglewood, Hawthorne,
Lawndale, El Segundo, and Gardena as well as the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Venice, and parts of Del Rey. Additionally, the 62nd Assembly District includes the unincorporated Los Angeles County communities of Del Aire, West Athens, Lennox, Westmont, and Marina del Rey.
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Inglewood Today
june 4, 2015
Page 7
Community
The Hollywood Park Project – Part 2 By Anne Cheek La Rose
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any years ago I picked up a book titled Demolition. It is small book, about the size of two side-by-side business cards. In 32 pages you see a five structure complex fold in on itself and disappear into a serious cloud of dust. Like just about everybody, I am fascinated by watching buildings implode, and like you, I have been anxiously awaiting the demolition of the Hollywood Park Race Track grandstands. I think of the removal of that structure as the signal that this development is really going to happen, though construction started nine months ago. For the past few weeks the grandstands, where they joined the casino, have been demolished by hand and light equipment in preparation for the main event. So, on Sunday morning, May 31, I took a vantage point on Century and Yukon, approximately two blocks away, with camera in hand, for a great view of the stands. At exactly 6AM, the roof of the grand-
Anne Cheek La Rose stands was demolished with multiple charges set along the length of the structure. The charges were detonated in rapid succession from the casino northward. As the detonations rolled, the grandstand roof dropped behind them like the perfect wave of a surfer’s dream. The dust rose and seconds behind the last blast, covered the whole length of the stands. What I did not recall
was the enormous sound the blasts generated or the shockwaves that rolled through me with each blast. It really brought home the power of such explosions. In the early 1990s I, along with several hundred residents, witnessed the demolition of the Airport Park Hotel on the north end of the property. This time, there were no large crowds, despite the mayor noting the date and time in his online newsletter and my alerting several people. I shared my location with a professional photographer friend who captured the demolition perfectly. When I toured the Hollywood Park property in February, I was told how the demolition would go. By the time Sunday arrived, somehow I had come to believe that the entire grandstand would go. However, the wall facing Prairie still stands. Inglewood Historic Preservation Alliance, like others, has put in a request for a couple of the jockey silks plaques that decorate this wall. In the next few weeks that wall will
be demolished and hopefully the plaques will be given out. I toured the public areas of Hollywood Park after the demolition and ran across a couple of folks who had witnessed or heard the event. One lives about a mile north of the site. He had been unaware of the demolition and thought a plane was falling from the sky. Another lives in the Renaissance where the community had been alerted. She was ready and was not unnerved by the blasts. As I drove along Century I noticed the work progressing nicely on the additional westbound lane. Turning the corner onto northbound Prairie, I saw the same additional lane work there. These lanes will alleviate traffic congestion going into and coming out of the development. The casino will remain open till the new casino and its dedicated parking structure are complete. The stadium/ performing arts center is due to break ground in December. That’s the latest on the Hollywood Park development. It’s really happening.
LA County Expands Safety Net for the Homeless
T
he Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to widen Los Angeles County’s safety net for the homeless, deploying teams to help particularly vulnerable populations find permanent supportive housing. “If we are to end homelessness, we must scale up our response to fit the overwhelming need,” said Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas. His motion, co-sponsored by Supervisor Hilda Solis, follows the recent release of the 2015 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, which showed a 12 percent increase in homelessness countywide since 2013. Under the plan approved Tuesday, the county would create seven multi-disciplinary integrated teams (MITs) of medical and mental health professionals to provide “street- and shelter-based intensive engagement and support” for homeless single adults with severe mental illness who may also have substance abuse issues. Homeless single adults tend to be frequent users of the county’s public hospital emergency rooms, and often get tangled up in the criminal justice system. In their motion, Supervisors Ridley-Thomas and Solis called for identifying funding that could be
used to add another team to Skid Row, and to proportionally augment staffing for MITs in South LA, the South Bay and the San Fernando Valley. A report is expected in 60 days. “It is imperative that resources are targeted to the areas with the greatest geographic burden and need, as demonstrated by the latest homeless count,” Supervisor-Ridley Thomas said. During the homeless count, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority and volunteers found 41,174 homeless people in Greater Los Angeles. When added to homeless counts in Glendale, Pasadena and Long Beach, Los Angeles County has an estimated 44,359 homeless people on any given night. About two-thirds of homeless persons were “unsheltered” and stayed in places not intended for human habitation, such as vehicles, parks, sidewalks and abandoned buildings. The “Metro” Los Angeles area accounted for 27.7 percent of homeless single adults countywide, with a concentration in Skid Row. Next in line were South LA, 16.2 percent; the South Bay, 12.1 percent; and the San Fernando Valley, 11.7 percent.
Inglewood Relay For Life June 6-7, 2015
9:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Crozier Middle School
120 W. Regent Street, Inglewood, CA
Come and join in the fun!
THIS IS A 24-HOUR WALK FUNDRAISER AND CANCER AWARENESS EVENT
Opening Ceremony: 9 a.m., Sat. Survivors Lap: 9:30 a.m., Sat. Luminaria Ceremony: 9 p.m., Sat. Fight Back / Closing Ceremony: 8:30 a.m., Sun. To DONATE or REGISTER, visit
www.RelayForLife.org/inglewoodca
For more information, contact Kimberlee Smith at 310.346.8968 or Kimberlee.smith@cancer.org
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June 4, 2015
He a lt h & F i t n e s s
Spring Cleaning Made Easy to Help Tackle Inanimate Allergens
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hile the spring season might be synonymous with cleaning your home, it doesn’t mean that you’re tackling it in the right way. So, if you’re concerned about the allergens in your home, getting rid of a dust bunny (or two) and Fido’s ferocious dander may not be enough. In fact, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) supports this claim, stating, “When it comes to cleaning, many people may actually be doing it wrong, stirring up the very allergens they are trying to remove from their homes.” However, while keeping up with cleaning is vital for controlling indoor allergens, there is such a thing as being too diligent. Take Jesse Tyler Ferguson, an actor on the hit show “Modern Family,” who lives with allergies himself. Ferguson thought that obsessively cleaning his space was the way to go. “Everyone knows I’m a neat freak, [but] I learned from AAFA that, like most of America, I was actually doing some things wrong and stirring up allergens instead of removing them,” he said. “Now I look for Certified asthma and allergy-friendly products like Febreze Fabric Refresher Allergen Reducer (Unscented) and Swiffer Dry Dusters and Sweepers (Unscented) to help me clean the right way and
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reduce common allergens in my home.” The asthma- and allergy-friendly Certification Program was created by AAFA and the international research organization, Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), as the
first program of its kind in the U.S. in order to reduce confusion about product claims targeting the asthma and allergy market, raise standards for these products, encourage innovation in the production of these products and raise issue awareness about asthma and allergic diseases. With these things in mind, Laura
Dellutri, cleaning expert and author of “White Couch with Kids?” and “Speed Cleaning 101,” offers the following tips revealing the places inanimate allergens—from pollen, pet dander and dust mite matter —may be accumulating and some
gens two times more than a typical dusting cloth and three times more than a feather duster because it picks up dust and locks it away with thousands of flexible, fluffy fibers, designed to reach into nooks and crannies. • Favor your fabrics. You may clean your couches, decorative pillows, upholstered furniture and carpets with a quick vacuum, fluff of a pillow or dusting. But spraying these hard-to-wash fabrics with something like Febreze Fabric Refresher Allergen Reducer (unscented) can help reduce inanimate allergens that can become airborne from fabrics as well. This nifty product reduces up to 95 percent of inanimate allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust mite matter that can become trapped in fabrics and soft surfaces. • Clean smarter, not harder. Technology can be a beautiful thing, and it has revolutionized household cleaning with lots of gadgets and tools that make cleaning eascleaning advice that can help you ier, faster and more effective. For remove them: instance, when it comes to remov• Window dressing. Everyone ing inanimate allergens from your cleans their windows, but few wood floors, using a Swiffer Dry remember to dust window blinds Sweeper to trap and lock the dirt and drapes—places that can be and dust, is two times more effechavens for dust mite matter and tive than a typical dusting cloth. other inanimate allergens. Using For more information, visit fea Swiffer Duster (unscented, of breze.com and swiffer.com. course) can trap inanimate allerSource: NewsUSA
Talk Before You Take When Dealing With Medicine
xperts say communication is key when dealing with prescription medicine. Research has shown that a gap in communication between health care providers (HCPs) and patients about the potential risks of prescription medicines can result in adverse drug events. Increasing communication about prescriptions can help ensure that patients avoid such events, improve adherence to their medicine regimen(s) and live healthier lives. The National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE) launched a campaign earlier this year called “Talk Before You Take,” aiming to spark this necessary patient/HCP engagement and encourage more conversations between patients and HCPs. “It’s imperative that health care providers and patients keep the lines of communication flowing,” says Ray Bullman, NCPIE executive vice president. Bullman and his colleagues’ research for the campaign was devel-
oped by Johns Hopkins University and Ipsos Healthcare, with support from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the National Center for Health Statistics, nearly half of Americans take prescription medicines, and over 20 percent of Americans take at least three. However, the research found that approximately 62 percent of patients were not aware of any safety warnings
about their medicines. Ten percent of patients unaware of the possibility of a severe side effect actually experience a serious reaction. “It is important for patients to understand how to take their medicines safely so they experience all the benefits and minimize the potential risks,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Talk Before You Take
encourages more discussion about medications between patients and their health care providers and pharmacists, which can improve the health of patients and our health care system.” In addition, the campaign offers four tips for patients and caregivers to guide conversations with HCPs: • Talk to your health care provider and ask questions about the benefits and potential risks of prescription medicines you take. • Tell your health care provider about all of the medicines you are taking—including over-thecounter medicines, vitamins and dietary supplements. • Tell your health care provider about any allergies or sensitivities that you may have. • Read and follow the medicine label and directions. For more information, visit www. talkbeforeyoutake.org. This work is supported by FDA grant number 5U18FD004653-03. Source: NewsUSA
Inglewood Today
june 4, 2015
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BUSIN E SS
Insuring the Health of America’s 3 Steps to Build a Better Nest Egg Emerging Multigenerational Workforce
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or the first time in modern history, America’s workforce spans four generations. In this new era of multigenerational workers, a “one size fits all” approach to health insurance is a thing of the past. The generational gap is as varied as it is immense. There are the young-adult Millennials, the mid-
provide affordable and appropriate health coverage options across employee lifespans. Both large and small group employers are impacted, though companies with 100 or fewer employees are more likely to feel the financial squeeze because there are fewer individuals to spread risk and defray costs.
dle-aged Gen Xers, Baby Boomers nearing retirement age and the Silent Generation in their 70s and beyond. Each group has vastly different health insurance needs. Take, for example, Millennials. A recent Bankrate survey shows many prefer health plans with lower deductibles and higher premiums. Meanwhile, Pew Research reports that the Baby Boomer population is hyper-focused on long-term care coverage needs and how best to manage associated costs beyond Medicare. This workforce shift is unprecedented and poses significant hurdles for businesses as they seek to
Juggling vastly different insurance coverage needs can be quite difficult, especially for the more than 28 million small businesses employing nearly half of all U.S. workers. Affordable Care Act legislation adds further complexity as companies assess their group health plan options, or in some cases whether to offer them at all. So, what are employers to do? In response, many are increasingly turning to private healthcare insurance exchange solutions as an effective answer to meet the diversity of benefit needs from Generation Me to Generation We. “Private exchanges are mar-
I
t’s one of the biggest challenges idea is to create a retirement plan facing today’s workforce—can where you have a good chance I save for retirement? It is made of retiring the way you want if even more difficult with an unpremarkets go as planned, but still dictable economy and low levels stays above your minimum reof trust in financial institutions. tirement goal if markets behave So, what’s an investor to do? poorly. FinMason (finmason.com), self- • Next, determine how much you proclaimed numbers crunchers can set aside each month. The and producers of an independent amount you save each month investment analysis tool, may is usually the biggest driver of have the answer. your ability to ultimately retire. According to FinMason’s In this way, small sacrifices now “Building Bricks,” there are three will most likely bring big divibasic steps you can take to sketch dends down the road. Not makout a general retirement plan: ing sacrifices now will likely • First, calculate how much monlead to worse outcomes. ey you need to retire. To get a • Lastly, determine your investrough idea, take the amount of ment risk tolerance. This is anincome you would like at retireother important consideration ment, subtract the amount you since it typically drives the expect from social security and investments you choose. One divide the result by 4 percent. straightforward way to deterFor example, if your total annual mine your risk tolerance is to income required in retirement is use an online retirement calcu$60,000, subtract other sourclator that allows you to choose es of income (Social Security different risk levels and see how might be about $24,000), which that effects your retirement. You leaves you with $36,000 that want to choose a risk level that your savings needs to produce gets you as close to your goal each year. Divide by .04 and you as possible without dipping beget a whopping $900,000. This low your minimum retirement is the amount you need to save amount. It is also helpful if the in order to retire the way you tool shows you how much you would like. could lose in a stock market Next, think about the minimum crash so you can gauge what a amount of income you would really bad day would feel like. need to retire at all, and do the For more information, visit same calculation. This is your www.finmason.com. minimum retirement goal. The Source: NewsUSA
ketplaces of health insurance and other related products,” according to management consulting group Booz Allen. They offer access to multiple health plans in a single, unified program and are attractive because they enable workers to individually select the right coverage
for their current life needs. The private exchange platform provides an ideal bridge across generational divides. For example, a 22-year-old single female starting her first job out of college will likely want a different plan than the (Continued on page 10)
Show your kids how proud you are of them. Allstate Agency Owner Billy Campbell Honored Named Premier Agency for 2014
As a business leader and involved citizen in the Inglewood area, Allstate exclusive agency owner Billy Campbell has been designated an Allstate Premier Agency for 2014. This designation is being presented to Billy Campbell for outstanding business performance and commitment to putting customers at the center of his agency’s work. Billy Campbell’s agency is located at 2300 W Manchester Blvd. in Inglewood and can be reached at (323) 750-1777 or http://agents.allstate.com/billy-campbell-inglewood-ca.html.
Your children have worked hard all year, getting ready for their big day. Now that Graduation Day is almost here, you’ll want to capture the memories forever. And what better way than with a personalized note of congratulations that lets everyone know how proud you are of them? Our special rate is only $125 for the newspaper and website—and that includes color! Use discount promo code ITW217. June 23rd is the deadline for the June 25th edition. Email your ad and photo to sales@ inglewoodtoday.com, or call (310) 670-9600.
Inglewood Today
Page 10
LEGAL NOTICES Fictitious Business Name Statement 2015119069 The following Person is doing business as:
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2015122622 The following Person is doing business as:
The Dyson’s Hair Studio 1250 N. LaBrea Ave., Suite 107 Hollywood, CA 90038
Grass Grabbers 815 N. La Brea Avenue, #135 Inglewood, CA 90302 5608 Deane Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90043
Registered Owner: Teri Dyson, 1250 N. LaBrea Ave., Suite 107, West Hollywood, CA 90038 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on May 4, 2015. 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.) Teri Dyson, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on May 4, 2015 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 14, 21, 28; June 4, 2015 ITO0422301067 Inglewood Today
Insuring the Health of America’s Multigenerational Workforce (Continued from page 9) 59-year-old manager with a spouse, three children and plans to retire in the near future. Employers are moving to these exchanges more quickly than forecasted, according to new data from consulting firm Accenture. The company estimates that some six million individu-
Registered Owners: Jill Christina Eschliman; Tracy Jones, 815 N La Brea Avenue, #135, Inglewood, CA 90302 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on May 7, 2015. 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.) Jill Christina Eschliman; Tracy Jones, Owners This statement was filed with the County Clerk on May 7, 2015 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.
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS Petitioner: Axel A. Munoz, Case No. SS028268, 2242 20th St., Apt. 4, Santa Monica, CA 90405, has filed a petition with the Superior Court Of California, County Of Los Angeles, 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Santa Monica Courthouse, to change his name. FROM: Axel A. Munoz TO: Ivanov Ramses A. Munoz THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing on July 10, 2015, 8:30 am, Dept K, Room A203, to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.
Eye on the City (Continued from page 5) those critical moments after a major disaster strikes. CERT consists of a series of classes from June 3-24. Students will receive free basic training in safety and life saving skills. All classes will be held from 6-9pm at Rogers Park, Senior Auditorium, 400 W. Beach St., Inglewood, CA 90302. To enroll, please contact Anne Cheek LaRose at (310) 3305337 or email alarose@ cityofinglewood.org. Councilman Ralph Franklin, who was absent from the May 19th meeting while
attending a convention in Las Vegas, called his trip “successful and meaningful.” Shopping center owners there wanted to know how Inglewood has brought in quality tenants at various shopping plazas. Mayor Butts acknowledged the City’s recent Memorial Day event, calling it “very well attended,” and announced that the grandstand was demolished at the old Hollywood Park racetrack site last weekend. “This is just another symbol of the city moving forward. I hope everyone can make it to Crozier this weekend.”
Place your DBAs, Probates, Trustee Notices, Legal Notices, Summons and more in
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 28; June 4, 11, 18, 2015 ITO0422301068 Inglewood Today
als signed up for workplace health coverage through private exchanges in 2014 alone, roughly two times the number expected. It’s predicted that private exchange participation will exceed public exchange enrollments by 2018, if not sooner. Much of this expansion is driven by the combination of health care reform and a workforce that now spans a 50-plus year spectrum.
June 4, 2015
Inglewood Today Print & Online • Call: 310.670.9600
“At the heart of the solution is access to choice,” said Ron Goldstein, president and CEO ofCHOICE Administrators, the nation’s leader in developing and administering employee-choice health benefit programs and exchanges for employer groups. The company’s exchanges include the country’s first and only multicarrier private exchange, CaliforniaChoice, as well as CaliforniaChoice 51+ and
ReservationsRequired
Reserve your space in Inglewood Today. We have increased distribution just in time for those hungry Father’s Day and Graduation crowds. Advertise your brunch, lunch and dinner specials. We cover Inglewood, Crenshaw, Leimert Park, Ladera Heights, View Park, Lennox Park and South Los Angeles. Advertising special: Just $175 (includes color). Mention Code ITW217. Offer good until June 30, 2015. Ask how you can get your free complimentary write-up to support your ad. Call (310) 670-9600 or sales@inglewoodtoday.com.
Choice Builder, the nation’s first ancillary exchange for dental, vision, chiropractic and other benefits. “Smart business owners are teaming with their broker to identify and select a platform that enables their employees to design plans that best fit their lifecycle needs.” The age of the fourgeneration workforce has dawned. Owners and small businesses are wise to em-
brace the private exchange that technology employees have come to rely on, such as online enrollment, as they seek to cost-effectively address the needs of their workforce across all stages of their lives. For more information about employee-choice health benefit programs and private health insurance exchanges, visit choiceadminexchanges.com. Source: NewsUSA
Publisher’s Message (Continued from page 5) well. On June 28th, the BET Experience will come to L.A. Live, headlining the one and only Beyonce. The concert will be followed by other live performances by Erykah Badu, New Edition, MC Lyte, and The Jacksons. All summer long there will be plenty of music to enjoy in the L.A. area, from concerts to festivals and impromptu performances in Leimert Park. And be sure to check the City of Inglewood (www.cityofingle-
wood.org) and Inglewood Today websites (www. inglewoodtoday.com) for upcoming events. American life would be missing a lot of flavor without the presence of black music. The soulful beats and passion that defines black music is something that is felt more than heard. It causes us to dance, smile, sing. It just makes us feel good. So get out this summer and enjoy some live music. It’s good for the soul and wonderful tribute to the history of black music.
Visit our website: www.inglewoodtoday.com and subscribe to Inglewood Today
june 4, 2015
Inglewood Today
Page 11
D at e s i n J UN E – Sep t e m b e r Through June 24, 2015 CERT The City of Inglewood Police Dept., in conjunction with the County of Los Angeles Fire Dept., will hold a series of emergency response training classes. The Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) program is designed to train residents how to respond to help save lives during those critical moments after a major disaster strikes. Students will receive basic training in safety and life saving skills. All classes will be held from 6-9pm at Rogers Park, Senior Auditorium, 400 W. Beach St., Inglewood, CA 90302. To enroll, please contact Anne Cheek LaRose at (310) 330-5337 or email alarose@cityofinglewood.org. June 4, 11, 2015 Water 101 Classes and Tours As California faces a serious drought, join West Basin Municipal Water District for one of its upcoming water education classes to learn about the importance of water reliability. The free Water 101 course and twilight tour provides a global, national and local look at current and future water issues. The June 4th event will take place at the Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility, 1935 S. Hughes Way, El Segundo, Ca 90245. The June 11th event will Inglewood High Senior Wins Prestigious Gates MilleniumScholarship (Continued from page 1) Millennium Scholars Program didn’t make the decision any easier. As one of 1,000 2015 Gates Millennium Scholars from across the country, Jose was recently awarded a good-through-graduation scholarship to pursue any undergraduate degree at the college or university of his choice—completely easing the financial burden of attending college. The program, which also cov-
be held at the West Basin’s Donald L. Dear Building, 17140 S. Avalon Blvd., Ste. 210, Carson, Ca 90746, 3rd Floor. Classes begin at 7pm and a light dinner is provided at 6:30pm. Reservations are required. Please email info@ westbasin.org or leave a message at (310) 660-6243 to register. Donate an old pair of shoes on the day of the class to the Soles for Life organization and take home a free conservation device (Limit: 1 device per person). Please note that the classes are subject to cancellation if there is not a minimum of 15 participants. All participants will be notified in advance if class is cancelled. June 13, 2015 True Vine Presents A Day of Local Giving True Vine Baptist Church of Inglewood partners with Goodwill to celebrate “A Day of Local Giving.” Bring your “unwantable” toys, clothing, books, cookware, etc., to the church parking lot at 1437 Centinela Ave. Your donations will contribute to the after-school Reading, Math & English Clinic, which opens in the fall. Contribute to the youth of Inglewood as Goodwill continues providing jobs in our community. The Goodwill truck and bins will be waiting!! For early drop-off and more information, call ers certain graduate programs for continuing scholars, is available to students of African-American, American-Indian, Asian Pacific Islander- American or HispanicAmerican descent. Students must meet a variety of eligibility criteria concerning academic performance, leadership attributes, community service work and more. Cervantes’ official acceptance letter came in a thick envelope mailed to his home on a recent Friday, he said. “I was already excited (to see the envelope),” Cervantes recalled. “I
(310) 672-9370. Delicious spaghetti will be served. June 24-September 7, 2015 Swimming at Edward Vincent Park The Edward Vincent Jr. Park pool will open on Wednesday, June 24 and close on Monday, September 7, 2015. The park is located at Centinela Avenue, just north of Florence Avenue. The swim program includes lessons for youth and adults, lap swimming, parent and me swimming, adult water aerobics and family swim nights. Costs range from $1 to $15 for Inglewood residents. Non-residents pay $20. For more information, and specific times, call (310) 412-8750. June 29-August 21, 2015 Inglewood Summer Day Camp Are you ready for summer? The City of Inglewood is offering great summer day camp experiences for youth ages 3-14. There are two sessions: June 29-July 24, 2015 and July 27-August 21, 2015. Camps will be held at Lockhaven Community Center, 11125 Doty Avenue; Siminski Park, 9717 Inglewood Avenue; Rogers Park, 400 West Beach Avenue; and Darby Park, 3400 West Arbor Vitae. Programs include Kiddie Camp opened it up … the first thing it said was, ‘Welcome to the GMS family.’ “I was really happy.” Cervantes came up through Inglewood Unified schools, attending Oak Street Elementary and Crozier Middle before enrolling in Inglewood High, where he took advantage of the school’s AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and College Bound programs. AVID “is kind of a family,” Cervantes said. “I love the people who come up to me and ask for help.” While Cervantes is self-motivat-
designed for kids 3 to 5. Camp Discovery and Fun and Fitness are for youth ages 6-14. For details and registration information, visit www.cityofinglewood.org. July 25-August 2, 2015 Special Olympics World Games Los Angeles 2015 The 2015 Special Olympics World Games will be the largest sports and humanitarian event anywhere in the world. The Opening Ceremony, to be held July 25, 2015 in the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, is expected to attract 80,000 spectators. Sports competitions taking place throughout the Games are open to the public and free to attend. For more information about the 2015 Special Olympics World Games, visit http://www.LA2015.org. Ongoing Get Fit at the Mall Bfit offers you ways to get fit, have fun and live your life to the fullest. Join us for amazing free fitness classes at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza every week. Classes held on the Macy’s Bridge include: Zumba every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30pm; Cardio Kickboxing every Thursday from 7:00-8:00pm and Yoga every Saturday from 10:0011:00am. ed, he said his older sister’s success in school and acceptance into UCLA helped influence his decision to apply for the Gates Millennium scholarship and work hard to get into a good college. She even hung a UCLA poster in his bedroom that remained with him through high school. Now, two of the five Cervantes siblings will be Bruins, as Jose has decided to follow his sister’s path to UCLA. (via: Inglewood Unified School District)
Assembly Expands Access to Maternity Care
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bill to improve access to health care for California women by allowing certified nurse midwives (CNM) to practice independently passed the Assembly unopposed today. AB 1306, by Assemblywoman Autumn R. Burke (D-Inglewood), allows California’s approximately 1,200 CNMs, within their existing scope of practice, to work without the supervision of a physician. “Millions of women are newly insured under the Affordable Care Act, but may not live in communities with easy access to a supervising physician,” Burke said. “This bill allows them to get essential primary care services from midwives who already have the experience and training necessary to provide excellent care.” California is one of only six states in the country to require CNMs to work under the supervision of a physician. If signed into law, CNMs will be able to independently provide a full range of primary care services for women in hospitals, clinics, birthing centers, and homes in communities across the state. “This is a commonsense measure that removes an onerous restriction on women’s access to health care,” Burke concluded. CNMs already provide primary
te o V r u o Y Counts!
care services to women, including nurse practitioners, by the Board of care during pregnancy and birth. Registered Nursing. Over 95 percent of the births atAB 1306 passed the Assembly tended by CNMs take place in hos- 74-0. It now moves to the Senate.
pitals and research shows that the midwifery model of care reduces the risk of cesarean birth and can improve both maternal and infant outcomes. In 2013, California removed the physician-supervision requirement for licensed midwives, even though they have a lower standard of education and training in comparison to CNMs who are licensed as registered nurses with additional training in midwifery and considered advance practice nurses, along with
Assemblywoman Autumn R. Burke represents the 62nd Assembly District, which consists of the cities of Inglewood, Hawthorne, Lawndale, El Segundo, and Gardena as well as the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Venice, and parts of Del Rey. Additionally, the 62nd Assembly District includes the unincorporated Los Angeles County communities of Del Aire, West Athens, Lennox, Westmont, and Marina del Rey.
LA. Approves $15 Minimum Wage (Continued from page 1) “Despite our recovering economy, millions of Californians, many of them children, continue to live in poverty,” said the bill’s author, San Francisco Democrat Mark Leno in a statement. “Full-time workers in this state should not be forced onto public assistance simply because they earn the minimum wage.” The state’s current minimum wage of $9 an hour leaves workers below the federal poverty line for a family of four, Leno said. Many LA City lawmakers say the state’s proposal doesn’t go far enough in alleviating struggling families. Councilwoman Nury Martinez (D) said that many families in LA “still have to live in poverty.” Opponents of the wage hikes include the California Restaurant Association, National Association of Theater Owners and small businesses. Restaurants especially struggle to meet rising costs of doing business, and labor is one of the highest costs. L.A. joins San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago and Seattle as cities that recently passed ordinances to raise the minimum wage. The current federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. If the state minimum wage in your state is higher, you are entitled to be paid the higher minimum wage rate.
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