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EYE ON THE CITY Rams July 23-29, 2020
Chargers
Clippers
Forum
& Lakers
“Black Media Matters” See Page 5
VOL. 35, No. 30
Clippers Arena in Inglewood Cleared to Go
The privately-financed IBEC project will include a world-class basketball arena, practice facility and team offices for the L.A. Clippers
READY TO GO: Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, Jr., Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and Clippers executive board member Jerry West during the initial renderings of Clippers Inglewood Arena. On July 22, the Clippers cleared the final hurdle, the environmental impact report. IT News Wire
INGLEWOOD — The environmental impact report (EIR) for the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center, which will transform 28 acres of land into a vibrant sports and entertainment
campus and a source of community pride, was unanimously approved Tuesday July 22nd by the Inglewood City Council. The EIR is the most extensive environmental study ever completed
Brad Pye, Jr. laid to rest in Inglewood By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
Brad Pye, Jr.’s long enduring journey, one that began modestly in Plain Dealing, LA, evolved in Los Angeles as a pioneering journalist and broadcaster came to a solemn conclusion at Inglewood Park Cemetery on a hazed Tuesday on July 22nd. Pye’s life was celebrated at the Inglewood Park Cemetery Chapel by an intimate gathering of family and friends amid the cloud of a COVID-19 pandemic that has not just claimed lives, but also reduced memorials. After succumbing following multiple health complications, Pye’s daughter Jill was devastated to learn that a full celebration of her dad had to be scrapped because of the swelling pandemic regulations. He was 89 years old. As Andre Egans version of Blessed
by the City. The vote marks a critical milestone in the approval process of the project, which is expected to break ground in the summer of 2021. The arena will open in time for the start of the 2024-25 NBA season following the
Opinion: Can Working Parents Still Teach Their Kids at Home? Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media
Continued on page 8
expiration of the L.A. Clippers’ lease at STAPLES Center. “This City is the perfect fit for the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center,” said Chris Meany, co-founder and managing
Last Friday, Gov. Newsom held a press briefing to announce his “Pandemic Plan for Learning and Safe Schools.” Although his plan offers clear guidance on when and how schools should reopen, it doesn’t answer some pressing questions. The governor’s plan incorporates the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) framework that establishes a baseline of standards for K-12 schools to reopen for in-person instruction for the 2020-2021 school year and under what circumstances schools would
Buppie is Back! See Page 6
have to shut down and return to distance learning. Guidance for colleges and universities is still being finalized. Newsom’s plan for elementary and secondary education during the COVID-19 pandemic focuses on five key requirements: (1) safe in-person school based on local health data, (2) strong mask requirements for anyone in school, (3) physical distancing requirements and other adaptations, (4) regular testing and dedicated contact tracing for outbreaks at schools, and (5) rigorous distance learning. Continued on page 8
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Page 2
July 23-29, 2020
Rep. Maxine Waters Mourns the Death of Civil Rights Icon John Lewis
IT News Wire
Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, issued a statement on the death of her dear friend and civil rights icon, Congressman John Lewis (GA-5): “Today is a sad day in American history. We have lost my dear friend and colleague of nearly three decades, Congressman John Robert Lewis. “John Lewis was a revered civil rights icon who dedicated his entire life to what became his signature mantra, making ‘good trouble.’ Despite being one of the youngest leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, John Lewis galvanized and inspired hundreds of his peers to join in the fight for equal rights. He was a founder and leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee; he organized and led countless marches and freedom rides across the Jim Crow South; and he worked alongside Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the struggle to secure the right to vote and end the demoralizing discrimination, unconscionable violence, and debilitating poverty facing Africans Americans. “Very few people could have been harassed, arrested more than 40 times, beaten within inches of their lives, and still espouse Dr. King and Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings of nonviolence, peace, and love. However, these principles were core philosophies to
John Lewis, and our nation is forever indebted to him for his humble sacrifices. “It was John Lewis, clad in a trench coat and a backpack, who fearlessly led 600 people to march from Selma, Alabama across the Edmund Pettus Bridge to Montgomery, Alabama in support of voting rights. At the bridge John Lewis and the marchers were confronted by local police and Alabama State Troopers and ordered to turn around. When they refused, the police shot tear gas and began beating the nonviolent protesters. John Lewis’ skull was cracked open by a state trooper’s club, and this painful episode became Continued from page 1: As Coronavirus...
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Assurance bellowed from the chapel speakers, Pye’s family inclusive of daughters Jill White, Jenice PyeConkrite, Jan Pye, Sharee Hollis, five grand children and four great-grand children took the painful steps to their seats for a final moment with the man renown for catch phrases Switch Reels, Pretty Little Green One and Have a Ball laid rest in a silver casket draped with an American flag. Squirms, tears and emotions pierced through the slice there after of the celebration for a man who lived to praise others, advocating for racial justice in sports and politics while breaking down color barriers that has forever changed the landscape. Mark Allen ‘Panther’ Felton horn blowing serenade escalated emotions of the occasion. The hour ceremony was decorated with a backdrop of silver balloons, floral arrangements, resolutions from Rep. Maxine Waters, The Jefferson High School Alumni and a trio of speakers Supervisor Janice Hahn, long time friend Dr. Leroy Vaughn and his daughter Jan Pye, a councilwoman in Palm Desert CA. Hahn, whose father was along time ally of Brad, could not attend because she had been in contact with someone who had contracted the coronavirus and had to be quarantined. An aid that represented her spoke of the fondness the Hahn family, namely her late father Kenneth Hahn shared for Brad and she continued to demonstrate it throughout his life and through the service as she sponsored the full color
known as ‘Bloody Sunday.’ John Lewis’ sacrifices and bravery on the Edmund Pettus Bridge absolutely led to the passage of the Voting Rights of 1965 shortly thereafter, and I am so proud to have joined him in Selma numerous times over the course of our careers to recognize his sacrifices on that bridge and the ongoing fight to protect the right to vote for African Americans and people of color. “John Lewis was first elected to Congress in 1986, and he served 17 terms. He distinguished himself as an effective policymaker and true progressive who was relentless in his fight on behalf of the least of these. As a result, he earned the respect of not only his colleagues on both sides of the aisle, but elected officials and leaders around the world. “It was the honor of my life to serve alongside such a kind, courageous, and persistent leader and public servant. I considered John and his late wife, Lillian, dear friends, and my heart is heavy with the magnitude of the loss of one of our nation’s most beloved sons. My sincere prayers and deepest sympathies are with his son, John Miles Lewis, family, friends, staff, and constituents during this difficult time.”
obituary booklets. Vaughn was overrun with emotion as he remembered a man she shared a friendship with for 30 years. He told of how Brad used his influence as managing editor and sports editor at the Los Angeles Sentinel to break racial barriers in every sport including football, baseball, boxing and track and field. Vaughn also told of the story of the late fame criminal attorney Johnnie Cochran 30-year friendship with Brad and how it was Brad that was instrumental in establishing his private practice as the only Black retinal specialist on the West Coast. Brad also appointed Vaughn to the State Boxing Commission and State Athletic Commission. “My dad would work four jobs and when he got home we all had to have our homework on his desk,” Jan said. “Our jobs was to make sure the house was cleaned and he would wake us up if a cabinet door was left open. That discipline was the trademark of Brad Pye, Jr.’s life. A riveting parting view captured his granddaughter Alexis Washington tender hands closing the coffin as a lasting goodbye. Washington, the daughter of Jill was among the many family members, including Jill and Jenice who cared for Brad during his final days. At the burial at Inglewood Park Cemetery ensued with a three Marine military salute to the bugle of “Taps”. Rev. Dr. Mary S. Minor eulogized Brad Pye, Jr. fighting the good fight of faith. He is home now with this mother, wife Eunice and son Brad Pye III who preceded him in death.
PUBLIC NOTICE
COVID-19 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION OPTIONS
Due to the existing COVID-19 health emergency and the social distancing measures currently in effect, and pursuant to the Governor’s Executive Order N-29-20((https://www. gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/3.17.20-N-2920-EO.pdf)), please note that members of the public will only be allowed to observe and address the Planning Commission Meeting of August 5, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. by telephone, video and other electronic means, as follows: Viewing and Listening to the Meeting without Making Public Comments: •On Spectrum Cable Local Channel 35 with audio and limited video. Please check with your cable provider for details. •Live on-line through Facebook Live, with audio and limited video, at https://www.facebook.com/cityofinglewood/ •The above access options provide the public with the opportunity to both observe and listen to the meeting. •However, members of the public who wish to orally address the Planning Commission must use the public access options noted below: Listening to Meeting and Oral Public Comments: The meeting’s telephone number and access code access number will be provided no later than 72 hours before the meeting on the meeting agenda published at https:// www.cityofinglewood.org/AgendaCenter/PlanningCommission-4 Please observe the following tips when phoning in: •When you call-in, the operator will provide further instructions on how you can make public comments via phone. •If you are calling from a cell phone, please call from an area with good reception. •If you are watching the meeting on Facebook or Channel 35 while also accessing the phone line, it is requested that you mute the sound of your video feed as it is offset by 3 seconds from the phone transmission. Additionally, when you are making public comments on the phone line you will be inaudible due to feedback. Written Public Comments: Members of the public can submit comments electronically for consideration by the Inglewood Planning Commission by sending them to the Case Planner indicated below. To ensure distribution to the Commissioners prior to consideration of the agenda, please submit comments prior to 12:00 P.M. the day of the meeting, and in the body of the email, please identify meeting date and subject matter. Comments received after 12:00 P.M. on day of meeting will be made part of the official public record of the meeting. Contact the Planning Division at 310-412-5230 with any questions. Accessibility: If you will require special accommodations due to a disability, please contact the Planning Division Office at (310) 412-5230, One Manchester Boulevard, 4th Floor, Inglewood, California 90301. All requests for accommodations must be received 48 hours prior to the day of the hearing. Spanish: “Si no entiende esta noticia o si necesita más información, favor de llamar a este número (310) 4125230.” The Planning Commission of the City of Inglewood, California, will hold public hearings on August 5, 2020 at the hour of 7:00 p.m., to consider the following: 1.A public hearing to consider an application by Shomof Hospitality, LLC, for Special Use Permit No. 2020-004 (SP2020-004) to allow 1) the on-site consumption of beer and wine and distilled spirits, 2) outdoor dining, and 3) outdoor live entertainment within a hotel, hotel restaurant, and hotel pool lounge on an approximately 86,102 square-foot, M-1L (Limited Manufacturing) zoned property at 3900 West Century Boulevard and legally described as Lots 5, 6 and 7 of Lockhaven Tract (AIN 4032-001-035). A Notice of Exemption (EA-CE-2020-032) has been prepared stating that the proposed project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a copy of which is available for public review in the Planning Division office of City Hall and via email at asalazar1@cityofinglewood.org. Case Planner: Arturo Salazar, Planner (asalazar1@ cityofinglewood.org.) 2.A public hearing to consider an application by Patrik Purnag, Owner, for Special Use Permit No. 2020-005 (SP2020-005) to subdivide a property into four (4) condominium units on an approximately 7,500 square-foot R-3 (Multiplefamily Residential) zoned property at 334 East Stepney Street and legally described as Southwest 50 feet of the Northwest 150 feet of Lot A, Block 11 of the re-subdivision of the Northern part of Inglewood (AIN 4016-016-022). A Notice of Exemption (EA-CE-2020-014) has been prepared stating that the proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a copy of which is available for public review in the Planning Division office of City Hall and via email at bmccrumby@ cityofinglewood.org. Case Planner: Bernard McCrumby, Planner (bmccrumby@ cityofinglewood.org) 2.A public hearing to consider an application by Jeff Williams, representing 7-Eleven, for Special Use Permit No. 2020-007 (SP-2020-007) to allow the sale of beer and wine for off-site consumption from a proposed convenience market on an approximately 9,083 square-foot, C-2 (General Commercial) zoned property at 837 South Prairie Avenue and legally described as The Western 90 feet of the Eastern 102 feet of Lot 8 and Portion of Lot 9 of Block 360, MB9-198 (AIN 4024-007-043) A Notice of Exemption (EA-CE-2020-044) has been prepared stating that the proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a copy of which is available for public review in the Planning Division office of City Hall and via email to mfewell@ cityofinglewood.org. Case Planner: Marissa Fewell, Assistant Planner (mfewell@cityofinglewood.org) Pursuant to Government Code Section 65009, if you challenge any of the proposed public hearing items in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. In the event that the Planning Commission meeting of August 5, 2020 is not held, or is concluded prior to a public hearing agenda item being considered, the public hearing will automatically be continued to the next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting. “Si no entiende esta noticia o si necesita mas informacion, favor de llamar a este numero (310) 412-5230.”
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July 23-29, 2020
EYE ON THE CITY GEORGE DOTSON
ALEX PADILLA
JAMES BUTTS
ELOY MORALES
RALPH FRANKLIN
AROUND THE CITY
Clippers Arena Public Hearing Dominates City Council Meeting
By Francis Taylor, Senior Correspondent
The Los Angeles Clippers’ plans for a billion-dollar arena complex moved closer to reality following this week’s Inglewood’s City Council meeting when council members voted unanimously to approve the environmental impact report for the project. During a 13-minute video presentation, which dominated the council meeting, the project’s developer, Wilson Meany, played a nearly 13-minute video in which Clippers coach Doc Rivers, owner Steve Ballmer, president of business operations Gillian Zucker, and Hall of Fame player and team advisor Jerry West strongly encouraged the project’s approval. Following the council’s weekly agenda, the members adopted a resolution making findings, overruling protests and objections, and ordering that delinquent sewer fees and refuse charges are placed on the tax rolls, for Fiscal Year 2020-2021. The council received public input on the Draft Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Annual
Action Plan and considered the adoption of a resolution amending Inglewood Municipal Code Chapters 8, and 12, including Zoning Code Amendment 2018-01 (ZCA-2018-01) to establish short term rental regulations and short term rental fees. Public hearing to consider multiple actions associated with the Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center (IBEC) Project that includes an arena intended to promote the enjoyment and recreation of the public by providing access to the City’s residents in the form of spectator sports, specifically basketball, with up to 18,000 fixed seats to host National Basketball Association games, and with up to 500 additional temporary seats for other events such as family shows, concerts, corporate and community events, and other sporting events; an up to 85,000-square foot team practice and athletic training facility; up to 71,000 square feet of LA Clippers office space; an up to 25,000-square foot sports medicine clinic; up to 63,000 square feet of ancillary and related
arena uses including retail and dining; an outdoor plaza adjacent to the arena; parking facilities; relocation of a City of Inglewood groundwater well; and various circulation, infrastructure, and other ancillary uses (the Project). The Project will also include a limitedservice hotel and was approved by the council. The council approved the Fifth Amendment to CEQA Funding Agreement No. 18-055 with Murphy’s Bowl LLC to include an additional $1,378,601.00, to cover certain City costs and activities associated with the Phases II and III Scope of Services provided by third party consultants necessary to provide certain environmental, legal, fiscal and appraisal services on behalf of the City as required and/or contemplated by the Amended and Restated Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with regard to the proposed development of a National Basketball Association Arena and Associated Facilities (Project). The council approved Amendments to Agreements with Environmental
Science Associates (ESA), Tiffiletti Consulting, Inc., and Remy Moose Manley LLP (RMM) for certain third party environmental, legal and other consulting services regarding the proposed development of a National Basketball Association Arena. The council approved a four-year payment authorization for the annual software licensing renewals and equipment maintenance. The council adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2019-2020 budget authorizing a transfer in the amount of $33,964 from the Community Affairs Division to the Scientific Services Division for personnel expenses related to unfreezing one Forensic Specialist position. The council approved Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No. 17-510 with Community Veterinarian Hospital to continue providing veterinary services for the Police Department’s canines.
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July 23-29, 2020
Area Communities S e r v i n g L a d e r a , H a w t h o r n e , W e s t c h e s t e r, L a w n d a l e , G a r d e n a , C a r s o n
Sen. Bradford partners with USDA Act. The program supplies boxes packaged with 12 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to community members. This event brings food into food deserts and economically disadvantaged communities utilizing the Senator’s community relationships in partnership with USDA’s 2020 Farmers to Families Food Box Program. Other partners included Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), Assemblywoman Megan Dahle (R-Bieber), Citizens of Zion Church, Ag Link Food Hub, Tri-Tipery Restaurants, and Fresh Innovations CA. “I can’t think of a better way to serve than by helping those who need it most during these tough times,” continued Bradford. As part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program announced on April 17, the USDA has exercised its authority under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to purchase and distribute agricultural products to those in need. Through this program, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service purchased up to $3 billion from American producers of all sizes.
IT News Wire
COMPTON, CA – Last week, Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture, hosted a Food Giveaway and distributed thousands of pounds of fresh food to the community. “Unfortunately, the healthiest option is usually the most expensive,” said Senator Steven Bradford. “Fresh fruits and vegetables can also be the hardest to find — especially in the middle of a pandemic. That is why I want to thank all our partners, volunteers and participants for the sacrifices they are making to help families impacted by food insecurities. And also thanks to LA Sheriff’s Community Relations Deputy Rafer Owens, and officers Lang and Yarbrough with CHP for Protecting and Serving the community.” Over 1,800 attendees were provided with supply food boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables, totaling an approximate 21,600 pounds of food. Senator Bradford in Partnership with USDA distributed agricultural food boxes to those in need through the Families First Coronavirus Response
Continued from page 1: Clippers...
partner of Wilson Meany, which is leading the development of the project. “Once complete, this will be one of the most environmentally-friendly sports venues in California, all while providing a unique, exciting and fun experience for fans, players and staff. The same core values that are helping the Clippers build a championship basketball team are also helping Inglewood’s economic and cultural renaissance.” The Inglewood Basketball and Entertainment Center will be an 18,000seat world-class facility unlike any other arena in the NBA. It is designed to create the ultimate basketball experience for fans, players and the community. Inside the building, fans will enjoy one of the loudest and most intense experiences in professional basketball. Outside, they’ll enjoy open plazas and public spaces that will engage the community in an “urban oasis.” Sustainability is at the core of the design and the project’s EIR, which demonstrates how the new Inglewood arena will become one of the most environmentally-friendly and energy efficient sports venues in the country. Governor Gavin Newsom certified that the project will not result in any net additional greenhouse gas emissions and will achieve other stringent environmental standards,
including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold status. “The Clippers team is the most philanthropic sports organization in the country, and has truly stepped up to be an impactful partner in Inglewood,” said project manager Gerard McCallum of Wilson Meany. “From hiring Inglewood residents to work on the project to refurbishing local basketball courts to helping renters and first-time homebuyers stay here in the community, the Clippers have shown this is about much more than an arena.” This project will contribute to the renaissance that is unfolding in the City of Inglewood by:
years of operation. That money will help support vital city services such as parks, libraries and police and fire stations. Being a good neighbor on and off the court is a passion that is ingrained in the team’s culture and championed by its leadership. The IBEC project includes an unprecedented Community Benefits package that will be the largest community benefits package ever to a sports venue. The Clippers organization has committed $100 million to proven, life-changing programs that will have a di- rect positive effect on the lives of Inglewood children and families. The package will provide:
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• A $75 million Affordable Housing • Creating more than 7,000 full and Development Loan Fund to buy, part-time construction jobs and up to preserve and develop affordable 1,500 permanent full and part-time jobs housing in Inglewood for Inglewood when the complex opens. residents; • Hiring local. Local hire programs • $5.5 million in homeowner and are in place to steer employment rental assistance; opportunities to In- glewood residents and businesses, including a goal that 35 • $12.75 million for education and percent of arena operation jobs would youth programs; go to Inglewood residents. • $6 million for Inglewood Public • Generating an estimated $260 Library improvements; • $500,000 for million in annual economic activity for parks and community programming. Inglewood and ap- proximately $100 million in tax revenue over the first 15
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July 23-29, 2020
Sports & Entertainment Black Media Matters; Now More Than Ever
By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
On July 30, the NBA will resume its season with 22 of its 30 teams competing in Orlando in the bubble at Disney World during what has mushroomed into a growing coronavirus pandemic. It is a league that is dominated by Black players, most of who hail from the similar urban communities that cost George Floyd his life. The tragic video murder of Floyd is why all sports leagues are scrambling to demonstrate their compassion in the Black Lives Matter movement, one that has shaken the foundation of racism like never before. For the NBA, because of its many Black star players they had to go above and beyond to symbolize the movement, in other words to show such communities that they really care. After all without those urban communities, it would be void of the likes of LeBron James the most outspoken athlete on social justice since Muhammad Ali. The league revealed its courts in Orlando that the players will be playing on with Black Lives Matter painted above the Jerry West logo. Players have been allowed to wear messaging on their jerseys, the Lakers top stars James and Anthony Davis opted against it, while white player Kyle Korver of the Milwaukee Bucks decided to wear a slogan. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has directed that players make impacts to communities of color. The games themselves will be played without fans; players will be socially
distanced from each other, the scorekeepers and operators situated behind plexiglass. S e l e c t e d media has been approved, many of them if not all because I was not able to obtain that information are representing national outlets such as ESPN, Sports Illustrated, Yahoo, Associated Press and in all likelihood rising websites such as Stadium and The Athletic. Some of these organizations are represented by Black reporters, but the majority of all media covering the NBA and other professional sports leagues are predominantly white. It has been that way for quite some time and there is not one Black prominent media member such as a Stephen A. Smith remotely concerned about anybody but himself. Its hard for Blacks within organizations to be become advocates for social justice without the threat of losing their prestigious jobs. Jemele Hill was a rising star at ESPN until she began commenting about Donald Trump, now she is with The Athletic. Black community newspapers with evaporating advertising budgets have
always struggled to pay the cost of covering teams within their region and the respective teams have not made any accommodations to change that. The teams are in a delicate spot when it comes to Black media because of their partners and other outlets. My mentor the late Brad Pye, Jr. was the Jackie Robinson of sports reporters, demanding equal access for Blacks and he understood the responsibility that Black reporters had to perform at a high standards so that the next young aspiring journalist would have that seat on press row. Today NBA players are more concerned with control of messaging and monetizing their brand than they are accommodating Black community newspapers. They don’t see us as significant, that
is until they have too. Usually when the ball stops bouncing and life takes a bad twist or turn. Black community newspapers are the most reliable source for street cred, beyond corporate giants. Players like Magic Johnson understood that. Its time the NBA realizes that the relationships that Black community newspapers have within their region are paramount to the Black Lives Matter movement. It’s time that LeBron James, my favorite athlete, also understands that and demand that we enjoy the same access to the NBA as all other media outlets. Black Media Matters too, now more than ever.
Farewell Brad & Rest Well in Heaven
By Kenneth Miller, Publisher Inglewood Today
“I hope that I live to be 100 years old and that you live to be 101 so that I may never see good people like you pass away.” Brad Pye Jr. All I have, I would give not to be writing that Brad Pye, Jr. has ‘Switched Reels’ and left earth for heaven, but it is a responsibility that I will humbly accept with honor. I remember like it was yesterday, when Brad asked me to come and work for the Sentinel in 1977. Soon to be graduated from Fremont High School, I felt I had a few options. I had been accepted to Cal State Northridge, and had fleeting dreams of going to the Columbia School of Broadcasting. However, before I could even utter what my plans were, Brad insisted I would learn more at the Sentinel than I would at any college, as a sweetener he’d make me the next sports editor. He was right, and I did learn more at the Sentinel than I would have at
college, but that’s because Brad was the teacher. I learned about culture, civil rights, dedication, loyalty and discipline. Brad was the sports editor at the time, so you know I did not get that job. I’m a kid who grew up in a broken home in South Central, one of seven siblings raised on welfare to a single mother, but Brad did not know that. Nor was I aware of his journey to Los Angeles from Plain Dealing, Louisiana. I’d never heard of the place, but would soon learn that this is the place Brad made famous. My life since very early childhood was consumed with wanting to be a sports announcer. I studied the likes of Chick Hearn, Vin Scully and Dick Enberg, but when I met Brad I wanted to be exactly like him. Little did I know that decades earlier and 1,651 miles away in Plain Dealing, Brad was just as, if not more consumed and committed to pursue his dream to
become a journalist and broadcaster. God brought two dreamers together at an opportune moment in 1977. Here was The Brad Pye, Jr. and I, a wanderer in desperate need of a guiding light, one that aims the beam of hope from despair to glory. When I think about it, Brad was planting a seed in me for a legacy that was just halfway complete. He was not preparing me to carry it, because that would be too huge a burden.
Continued on page 6
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July 23-29, 2020
The Lion Queen
BUPPIE | BUSINESS The Wood Barbeque Saucing Competition
PROTECT THE QUEENS By Michelle Lyons, Columnist
During this pandemic quarantine domestic violence has been rising. In fact, one statistic showed domestic violence as the number 1 crime in the last four months. Just this past week, Megan The Stallion was allegedly shot in the foot by her boyfriend. Our community instead of taking to the streets demanding justice, which I am certain all the feminist in this country would have done if it was Taylor Swift, in turn started joking about something that could have been fatal. 50 cent, the renowned rapper, even joked about it on his Instagram. The trolling affected Megan so much that she made a public statement, “It might be funny to y’all on the internet and just another messy topic for you to talk about but this is my real life and I’m real life hurt and traumatized.” No woman should ever be harmed, especially by her lover. Black women are the most unprotected women in America. A disturbing statistic is that at least 2 out of 5 black women will experience some form of domestic violence in their lifetime. And we wonder why our community isn’t thriving? No community can thrive if it doesn’t have a clear understanding to Protect Its’ Queens. Queens birth the black lives that we march the streets to profess Black Lives Matter. Michelle Obama once stated ,“The difference between a broken community and a thriving one is the presence of women who are valued; where relationships among women and between women and men are based on mutual respect.” So it’s up to us to Respect And Protect Black Women. I do not agree with Will and Jada’s entanglement fiasco, but I did respect how emotionally intelligent Will was during their Red Table Talk. Jada said some things that were a complete blow to his ego, but he remained strong. Subsequently, less than 10 minutes after it aired memes were all over social media suggesting Will should have gone Ike Turner on Jada. Violence is for protecting yourself from violence not protecting your feelings. We need to man up or woman up and be stronger emotionally because we as can no longer afford to be less conscience than bees. Bees are tiny insects that only know to work and Protect The Queen! I hope they arrest the cops that killed Breonna Taylor… #protectthequeens
By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
Visitors and residents of Inglewood have always had their choice of the best barbeque in Southern California. Staples such as Woodys and Phillips are mainstays that have attracted patrons from afar and near. Kenny’s Q has also been receiving rave reviews, but there is a new kid on the block and so far The Wood has been knocking the socks off the competition. The same businessman that owns the Savoy on La Brea, the top club and entertainment location in Inglewood owns the Wood. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the Savoy to alter course. Instead of hoping to wait out the crisis, the owner decided to try his hand in the barbeque business. Curbside service, and Mobil delivery services such as Doordash and Uber Eats have created a new economic stream for eateries and The Wood has cashed in. However The Wood is not getting it done with gimmicks and cute
Continued from page 5: Farewell...
I couldn’t fill Brad shoes. NO ONE CAN. NO ONE EVER WILL. They say great point guards like Magic Johnson could read three to five plays ahead, well Brad Pye, Jr. was seeing three to five decades ahead. He took the task of chronicling the accolades of Black athletes in high school, influencing college recruitment of those athletes and ultimately forced the hand of professional sports leagues to drafting of those athletes. Back in those days television was void of Black sportscasters, so in essence Brad was sort of like a powerful network. He had the ability to influence through radio and newspaper during an era when there was nothing else. And boy did he influence. With famed criminal attorney Charles E. Lloyd as his close ally, Brad had locked in relationships with the most prominent politicians and was buddy buddy with Raiders owner Al Davis. Brad had a steadfast belief in Black people and was sincerely committed to
promotions, although it has been savvy in marketing the restaurant. The best sales pitch The Wood has is the food. While the barbecue spare ribs can match the competition, the game changer is the succulent mouth watering brisket. The bake beans are tangy and just sweet enough and the deserts offered are from vendors who are trying to
get their foot in the door, essentially promoting entrepreneurship. Located on 129 N Market St. (310) 466-9741, The Wood may be just was Inglewood desired in barbeque. For a review of your restaurant send an email to kmiller@inglewoodtoday. com
uplifting young people. I believe that he had hand in the Coca Cola Bottling Company of Los Angeles sponsoring the annual Watts Summer Olympics. I know for a fact that it was Brad who convinced Golden State Mutual Life Insurance to cut the check for the annual Victory Banquet honoring high school basketball champions. Perhaps his greatest gift was to groom people to survive independent of him, including his family. He never spoke the words that he loved me, but his actions demonstrated that. He would pay well for services rendered, but scowl if you had your hand out. He may not turn you down, but you would not be enthusiastically running back for another loan. One of the last times I saw Brad, I had come over to the house to see him. His granddaughter let me in. Upon entering the room, he asked for the TV to be turned on. I notice that he didn’t have on his eyeglasses. He said someone had taken them to be fixed, and not happy that it was taking so long. I knew how much it meant to him
to watch television and especially read the newspaper. So, I told him I would go and buy him a pair. He obliged, and whispered, “Bring me back a six-pack of Coke.” It wasn’t until I returned with the glasses, that I was told he wasn’t supposed to be drinking Coke. I was just glad to help Brad see. After all where would I be if Brad could not see? Brad was not a very fast runner on the track team at Jefferson High School. He’d often quip that he was the slowest on the team. Life is not a race you have to run fast. Usually those out the gate quickly, also stop abruptly. Brad ran a very long race in life. It was a beautiful journey, some twist and turns but overall a race decorated to the brim with monumental historical accomplishments. His rest in heaven is well earned Brad Pye, Jr. is simply THE BEST!
“Life is messy but when we get through the mess we find out who we really are..”
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July 23-29, 2020
Real Estate/Classified PUBLIC NOTICE
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2020093492 The Following Person Is Doing Business As: Khaki Noir 326 S. Serrano Ave., #3 Los Angeles, CA 90020
Supporters Kick Off “Yes on Proposition 16” Campaign as Opposition Gets Into Gear
Registered Owner: MAJR LLC, 326 S. Serrano Ave., #3, Los Angeles, CA 90020 This business is conducted by a company. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on June 10, 2020 I (We) declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) MAJR LLC, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on June 10, 2020. 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 July 2, 9, 16, 23 20200 IT0042230120020133 Inglewood Today
Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2020102125 The Following Person Is Doing Business As: Elite Signing Services 2200 W. Century Blvd., # 470736 1544 W. 111th St. Los Angeles, CA 90047 Registered Owner: Marquis Lamont Cox, 1544 W. 111th St., Los Angeles, CA 90047 This business is conducted by a company. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on July 8, 2020 I (We) declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.) Marquis Lamont Cox, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on July 8, 2020. 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 July 16, 23, 30; Aug 6, 20200 IT0042230120020134 Inglewood Today
Quinci LeGardye | California Black Media
Ahead of the November election, the Opportunity for All Coalition has begun its “Yes on Proposition 16” campaign. To kick off the drive, the group held a virtual press conference on Zoom July 14 featuring lawmakers, advocates and activists. Supporters of the constitutional amendment followed that meeting with another that included members of the Black press and other ethnic media from across California July 16. Proposition 16 asks voters to decide on reinstating affirmative action in California, which would allow state agencies and institutions to once again consider race in employment, contracting and college admissions. In 1996, California voters passed Prop 209, which ended any consideration of race in decision making related to the state. “California has suffered for the last 24 years trying to create equality and justice and equal opportunity without an affirmative effort to do that. And we see a decline with regards to not only the achievement gap, but also the economic gap between people of color and women and White men in the state of California,” said Assemblymember Dr. Shirley Weber (D-San Diego), chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. State Board of Equalization Member Malia Cohen says the Black vote will be a deciding factor this election cycle across the United States. She said African Americans in California will also need to play a vital role in the approval of Prop 16, and the statewide campaign before it to educate voters about the benefits of the proposal. “There are many experts out there and they are expecting record turnout this election. But one thing that we know is that Black voters are critical,
and we need Black voters to turn out all the way up from the top of the ballot all the way down,” she said. “Prop 16 is one of the many important ballot measures that is going to help us chip away at the structural racism that has prevented too many Black Californians from realizing their full potential.” ACA 5, the legislation Weber introduced that paved the way for Prop 16 to become a ballot initiative, passed the California Assembly with a 60-14 vote on June 10. Shortly after, the state Senate approved the proposal with a 30-10 vote on June 24. Eva Paterson, President of the Equal Justice Society and co-chair of the “Yes on Proposition 16” campaign, emphasized the importance of the proposition during the current national reckoning on racism that is happening across the country. “What we hear repeatedly are calls for the end of systemic racism. The reinstatement of affirmative action is a concrete way to dismantle systemic racism. You have heard that businesses owned by women and people of color have lost $1.1 billion a year. Imagine what that money would have done in the pockets of our community. And so that is one concrete example of what will happen when Proposition 16 is passed,” said Paterson. People opposed to Prop 16 have already begun to organize around the state. On July 12 in Fremont, Fremont City Council member Yang Shao joined anti-Prop 16 activists for a rally that was streamed on Zoom, Facebook and YouTube. “Some students would go to a worse school than others only because of their race,” said Jeff Yang a student activist at the Fresno rally. “How is that fair? How does that make us feel that the United States of America is actually equal?”
At the same rally, Aparna Madireddi, a mayoral candidate in San Ramon, a town in Contra Costa County east of San Francisco, spoke. “No matter where we came from, who we are, we are here now in the land of equal opportunities,” she said. “We all have access to equal opportunities to education and in the public sector if we work hard and hard enough.” Weber said opportunity should be shared by all people across California, particularly because it is a state that is majority ethnic and has a majority of women. In California, 37 % of state residents are White. Combined, ethnic groups account for 63 % of the population of nearly 40 million people. Approximately, Hispanics make up 39 %; Asians, 15 %, and African Americans, 6 %. White Californians make up nearly 60 % of the people whose earnings rise to the top 10 % of annual incomes in the state, followed by Asians whose earnings comprise close to another 20 % of that category, according to the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC). Hispanics account for nearly 15 % of those top earners and the number of African Americans among the people with the highest incomes in the California falls below 5 %. Less than 2 % of Californians own nearly 20 % of the state’s net worth and they are concentrated in just 30 zip codes out of 2,597 in the state. “Proposition 16 will give us an opportunity to restore affirmative action back to California, not to restore quotas, not to restore any kind of preferential system, but a system of outreach and opportunity that will allow California to work to acquire the kind of equal opportunity that is so necessary for the state,” Weber added.
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Continued from page 1: Opinion...
California schools closed for inperson instruction in mid-March as part of a broader set of CDPH recommendations intended to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Under Newsom’s plan public and private schools in California counties on the state’s coronavirus watch list must stay closed for in-person instruction until the county has remained off the list for 14 days. Thirty-two counties — including Los Angeles, San Diego, Alameda, and Sacramento — are currently on the state’s monitoring list because of their COVID-19 transmission levels and hospitalization rates. Eighty to 90 % of the state’s students live in these counties and if the status of their county doesn’t change will have to start the school year distance learning. Newsom said, “Learning is nonnegotiable. The virus will be with us for a year or more and school districts
must provide meaningful instruction in the midst of this pandemic.” With his announcement coming just weeks before many of the state’s 1,000 school districts were planning to resume with a hybrid of in-person instruction and distance learning, teachers and parents welcomed Newsom’s updated school opening guidelines because of
their concerns about whether schools could open safely with the state experiencing a surge of COVID-19 cases. California Teachers Association (CTA) President E. Toby Boyd said, “Today’s updated guidance from Governor Newsom through the California Department of Public Health is a good step in providing some clarity and uniformity across the state. We cannot reopen unless it is safe!” Newsom expects schools in counties on the coronavirus watch list to offer rigorous distance learning. “The word rigorous is foundational,” he said. “If we are going to have distance learning, and we will, to make sure that it’s real, that we address equity, we address the divide and its quality to rigorous distance learning.” The education budget allocates $5.3 billion specifically to mitigate learning loss due to the shortcomings of distance learning and it sets requirements to
ensure schools provide rigorous and grade-appropriate instruction. Schools districts are required to provide -devices and internet connectivity; daily, live interaction with teachers and other students; class assignments that are challenging and equivalent to in-person instruction; and targeted support and interventions for English learners and
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special education students. During the press briefing Newsom said, “Students, staff, and parents, all prefer in-classroom instruction, but only if it can be done safely.” Schools in counties not on the watch list when beginning in-person instruction must require students and staff in third grade and above to wear a mask or face covering. Second grade students and below are strongly encouraged but not required to wear masks. If a student arrives for school without a face covering, one is supposed to be provided by the school. CDPH requires all staff to stay 6 feet from one another and the students. Students should maintain 6 feet from one another when possible. Schools must provide increased sanitation, including the installing of hand-washing stations and periodic disinfectant efforts. Staff in every California school is recommended to be tested for COVID-19 periodically. The state will provide resources and technical assistance for tracing COVID-19 outbreaks in school settings. Anyone entering school must be given a health screen. Students or staff found to have a fever or other symptoms must go home immediately. If anyone in a student or staff member’s household is sick, they should stay home.
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When at least 5% of the student body and staff are diagnosed with COVID-19, a school will shut down and begin offering distance learning. An entire school district should close if 25 % or more of its schools have closed due to COVID-19 within 14 days, and in consultation with the local public health department. Districts may reopen after 14 days, also in consultation with the local public health department. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said, “Today’s guidance from the California Department of Public Health lays out clear metrics for our schools so that they can best understand the conditions when they must close.” “Gov. Newsom has heeded the call for additional guidance on the issue of reopening schools, and continues to prioritize the health and safety of communities,” according to California School Board Association CEO and Executive Director Vernon M. Billy Newsom has provided needed clarity to school districts on when and how to open and close schools and signed a budget that included distance learning standards. However, important questions remain unanswered. Two important ones are: What will be done about the ineffective and inadequate online teaching many students -especially Black and Brown students -- experienced during the strict stay-athome order last Spring, and, with kids at home, how will we address the needs of working parents?