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EYE ON THE CITY Rams
Chargers
May 07-13 , 2020
Clippers
Forum
Exclusive “Charter School” See Page 4
VOL. 35, No. 19
Sen. Bradford Applauds
& Lakers
Inglewood poised to host NFL football on schedule Mayor Butts says the decision is responsible
Clippers Purchase
By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
As the coronavirus restrictions loosen throughout the nation, Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. made an announcement this week that will resonate in the city and beyond. Mayor Butts stated publically for the first time he supports the decision of the National Football League (NFL) plan to begin the season on schedule in September. If the NFL does proceed in the process of starting the most popular sport in America on time, it will mean that newly built SoFi Stadium will be open for business in Inglewood. Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has paralyzed the globe, construction of the $5 billion home to both the Rams and Chargers have continued without interruption.
of The Forum IT News Wire
INGLEWOOD – Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) released the following statement regarding the finalization of the Clippers organization completing the $400 million purchase of The Forum from Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corporation (MSG). “I applaud Mr. Ballmer and the LA Clippers organization on their recent purchase of The Forum from the Madison Square Garden Company,” said Senator Bradford. “When I authored SB 789 and coauthored AB 987, the idea of creating an economic revitalization and bringing desperately needed jobs to the City of Inglewood was a dream. That dream is now closer to becoming reality for the residents of Inglewood, who welcome the Clippers with open arms and will benefit from this partnership for decades to come.” The Senator’s response comes after the ownership of the forum has officially changed. The Clippers had announced their intention to build a new arena more than three years ago, but MSG opposed the construction vigorously in court.
MSG executive chairman, and Knicks owner, James Dolan lead multiple lawsuits against the arena project in order to delay their competitor, effectively forcing Mr. Ballmer to purchase a space not far from where he originally intended. MSG had two additional lawsuits pending in relation to the arena, deposing dozens of key figures from the Clippers, MSG and Inglewood. The Entertainment Corporation even went so far as to pay the legal fees for a community group that also filed a suit. In contrast, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer announced in 2019 that he would be investing $100 million toward the surrounding community. Of the Continued on page 3
Dean Spanos, Chargers Chief Executive Officer, City of Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. and Rams Chief Operating Officer Kevin Demoff during the early stages of construction of SoFi Stadium. The NFL has announced plans to begin the season on schedule amid concerns stemming from coronavirus pandemic.
Continued on page 2
Union workers protest Centinela Hospital Complaints rise and negotiations fail for essential workers
Centinela Hospital in Inglewood was under siege from union workers this week. SEIU is demanding that parent company Prime Healthcare retain essential front lone health care workers during the coronavirus pandemic. The hospital did not make at statement regarding the matter at press time. (Kenneth Miller/Photos) By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) was joined by nonunion staff and supporters in an early weekday protest at Centinela Hospital in Inglewood. SEIU-UHW represents some 97,000 healthcare workers, patients, and healthcare consumers in advocating to ensure affordable, accessible, high
quality care for all Californians, provided by valued and respected healthcare workers. On May 5th many of their members campaigned outside of Centinela Hospital, accusing both the hospital and parent company Prime Healthcare for cutting essential services and also threatening to cut pay and benefits of hospital workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
Buppie is Back! See Page 6
Horns blared from cars as supporters of the union workers circled the block on Hardy St. and Arbor Vitae, while protesters mounted a rally outside of the hospital. Henry G. Washington has been working as an engineer for Centinela for 30 years, but says that he is at wits end with his employer. Continued on page 3
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May 07-13 , 2020
A Stronger Los Angeles Depends on an Accurate Black Census Count By Kirk Samuels
An accurate census count is vital to all of us, but in the current moment it is even more critical for our Black communities across Los Angeles County. The Los Angeles County region has reached a 50% response rate to the census. While we’ve crossed the halfway mark, which is a point of celebration given the global coronavirus pandemic that is gripping our community — we still have a long road ahead. We need every Black resident of Los Angeles County to join this journey now more than ever. But why does the census matter? Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau counts every person living in the United States — regardless of their race, ethnicity, immigration status, or age. Data from the census helps determine where billions of dollars go to for federal resources that are directed to our communities such as hospitals, parks, schools, and affordable housing programs across Los Angeles. More than 60% of census funding goes to public health programs that receive federal funding like WIC, SNAP, Medicaid/ Medicare and community health centers. These are the programs and services that are serving as a lifeline during this unprecedented moment of
PRESIDENT/ EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Willie Brown PUBLISHER Kenneth Miller VICE PRESIDENT Gloria Kennedy PRODUCTION Kenneth Denson QUALITY CONTROL MANAGER Gloria Kennedy Inglewood Today Weekly is a legally adjudicated newspaper of public circ ulation, published weekly by Ads Up Advertising, Inc. News and press releases may be submitted for consideration by mail to 9111 La Cienega Boulevard, Suite 100, Inglewood, CA 90301 or by email to itnetworks@msn.com.
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crisis. As the coronavirus is impacting our Black brothers and sisters at a disproportionate rate, responding to the census is one small, yet important action that each and every one of us can take in the recovery process by ensuring adequate public health and social services go to our communities for the next 10 years. Historically, Black people in America are accused of being a “hard-to-count” population. We rarely consider the multitude of systemic barriers and obstacles the Black community has to face in order to participate in civic practices, particularly the census. During the inception of the census in 1790, Black people were only counted as 3/5 of a human in order to preserve political power for Southern White plantation owners. After 230 years of systemic oppression, Black people continue to experience despair that causes major inequities for the entire community. Unstable living conditions, along with the lack of access to high- speed broadband Internet, and a host of other issues facilitate disproportionate obstacles for the Black community to be accurately counted. Our community is aware of these discrepancies, but this year presents a unique opportunity for us to do something different. We have a chance to collectively advocate for full political
representation and equitable funding for our communities. A Stronger Los Angeles Depends on an Accurate Black Census Count -Page Two The “Shelter at Home” order enables us to contact high numbers of people in the Black community because most people are available due the COVID-19 Pandemic. It’s more important than ever that we engage the Black community to assure we have the resources we need not only to survive, but to thrive and live whole lives. Making up over 9% of the total population of Los Angeles County, spanning every corner of 4,000 square miles and 88 cities, the Black communities of Los Angeles can and deserve to be counted accurately on the
2020 census. As we grapple with how we move past the current coronavirus crisis, our communities will be changed in the aftermath of it all. It is up to us to empower one another in playing a role, no matter how small, in shaping what our communities will look like for the next 10 years. Play your role now: complete your 2020 Census form today. Completing your form is simple. It’s fast. It’s safe. Complete your census online at my2020census.gov, by phone at 844-330-2020 or by mail if you received a paper form. Your responses are protected by the law and cannot be shared with other government agencies and organizations. For example, your landlord cannot get access to your responses. Count everyone living in your household and don’t forget young children. Help spread the word on why the census is so important. Tell your neighbors, your family, your relatives and your friends. Even as we remain sheltered in place and continue to live our lives in this new environment, we have an important opportunity to work together to create flourishing communities for every Black Angeleno. An accurate census count of our community will build a future that is stronger, healthier and more representative for all of us.
Continued from page 1: Inglewood...
Recycle Used Motor Oil and Filters
“It is only responsible for the league to prepare for all alternatives and we will be ready if they can make adjustments to their plan of playing the entire 2020 season as scheduled,” Mayor Butts told Inglewood Today. The news of the NFL season does not impact the current State of Emergency that Inglewood will continue to operate under until further notice. “League and City decisions will continue to be guided by the latest advice from medical and public health officials as well as current and future government relations,” continued Mayor Butts. The Mayor reiterated: “The primary focus remains protecting the health of our fans, players, club and league personnel. The games will only happen if safe for players, fans and the community.” Whether or not the NFL stadiums will even feature spectators has been the focus of ongoing debate. The Miami Dolphins have contingency plans for games to be played with a limited number of fans adhering to social distance regulations that have been implemented nationwide. For Inglewood, starting the 2020 NFL season has enormous ramifications. As a crippled economy moans for help, the NFL will instantly provide thousands of stadium jobs here in Inglewood and throughout the nation where NFL teams are located. The 2020 season is set to kick off on Sept. 10, with the first full weekend of games on Sept. 13-14.
FINISH THE JOB RIGHT! Join your Inglewood neighbors in recycling your used motor oil and filters. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s the right thing to do! LOCAL USED OIL CERTIFIED COLLECTION CENTERS O’Reilly Auto Parts 11316 S. Crenshaw Blvd. Inglewood, 90303 (310) 910-9047
O’Reilly Auto Parts 250 N. Market St. Inglewood, 90301 (310) 673-0739
AutoZone 10110 S. Hawthorne Blvd. Inglewood, 90301 (310) 412-8166
AutoZone 433 N. La Brea Ave. Inglewood, 90302 (310) 673-4152
AutoZone 2876 W. Imperial Hwy. Inglewood, 90303 (323) 777-7495
Pep Boys* 200 E. Spruce Ave. Inglewood, 90301 (323) 678-2255
AutoZone 2600 W. Manchester Blvd. Inglewood, 90305 (323) 942-8080
* This location does not accept used oil filters.
Please call the FREE Used Oil Certified Collection Center nearest you to verify hours of operation and the quantities of used motor oil and filters accepted. CONTAMINATED MOTOR OIL IS NOT ACCEPTED. Do not mix oil with other chemicals, or materials including bleach, paint, solvents, water, or other automotive fluids. Transport oil in clean, non-breakable containers; no metal containers, please. Place oil filters in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leaks. Maximum container size -- 5 gallons. Funded by the California Department of Resources
Recycling and Recovery (Cal Recycle) For more information, visit CleanLA.com City of Torrance Public Works or call (888) CLEAN-LA. (310) 781-6900
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May 07-13 , 2020
EYE ON THE CITY GEORGE DOTSON
Weinberg praise Inglewood Today for Agee coverage
ALEX PADILLA
JAMES BUTTS
ELOY MORALES
RALPH FRANKLIN
AROUND THE CITY
City Council Meetings Resume Inglewood Today News
The council considered an ordinance to amend the Inglewood Municipal Code to establish policies for Short Term Rentals and another to amend Chapter 3 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic) of the Inglewood Municipal Code to implement a Citywide Permit Parking Districts Program. The council adopted a resolution to adopt the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Form 130 – Designation of Subrecipient’s Agent Resolution for Non-State Agencies. Mark F. Weinberg The council approved Amendment No. 1 to Agreement No. 19-183 with Inglewood Today News L.A. Business Printing for services “I hope this email finds you and related to the printing and production your family well and content. As you of the City’s Community Information might expect I still keep up with what Guide (CIG), extending the term of the is occurring in Inglewood, forever my second home. I read your publication routinely and am so impressed. I talk with Jim periodically as well. Like so many others I was disheartened Inglewood Today News to hear of Willie Agee’s passing. Also, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) like so many others, I was very fond of issued a statement on the passing of Willie him. Francis Taylor’s article about him Agee, a beloved and highly engaged resident this week was wonderful and the picture and advocate for the City of Inglewood who was affectionately known as the honorary ‘Mayor of of him and Tunisia was perfect. Inglewood’ and ‘Mr. Inglewood’: Over this morning’s coffee I just “I am deeply saddened by the passing of one wanted to write something about what of my dear friends and one of the most beloved Willie meant to Inglewood and to me in members of our community, Willie Agee. “Willie Agee was an extraordinary individual my role as CM. who loved the City of Inglewood, loved the I am including it here as an attachment, people of Inglewood, and loved the elected and pasted and copied below, in the event officials who represent our community. Willie that you would be kind enough to share Agee attended Inglewood City Council meetings it with audience, should you be printing and community events like no other. He was a constant presence and voice at my community any other tributes or letters about Willie from your readership.” Continued from page 1: Union... Stay safe and well in these turbulent times. “Following the instructions given by With sincere best wishes, the CDC and hospital administrations, Mark F. Weinberg there have been times where I’ve been in areas and I know that I ‘ve had the same mask on for about two days,” Continued from page 1: Sen. Bradford... Washington explained to Inglewood Today. $100 million, $80 million is designated t Washington says that he was also o affordable housing, renters’ assistance concerned of the safety risk for him and first-time homebuyers. The and others on days when he is working remaining portions will go toward extended shifts as the only engineer. school and youth programs among other “I am here for several hours, community benefits. sometimes eight hours by myself and I Senator Bradford has been a powerful think there should be two of us. I’ve got voice when it comes to the economic the power plant, boiler rooms. All of the development of the City of Inglewood machinery that keeps this place going.” and the construction of the new Clippers Washington, who is a member of the arena. In 2017, he authored SB 789 in union left his shift to join in the protest order to streamline the revitalization with other members. project, which would have created over Ask if he is concerned about his job, 3,000 permanent jobs. In addition, he he stated emphatically: “Hell no!” co-authored a measure introduced by Union members wore purple SEIU Assemblymember Kamlager, AB 987, T-shirts, but not all protestors were in which continued his work to provide the union. bureaucratic relief equivalent to what One worker who says that he has was granted to the new Sacramento AIDS is concerned for his own health Kings arena and the new Golden State while working at the hospital. Warriors arena in San Francisco. AB Inglewood Today reached out to 987 was signed by Governor Brown in Centinela Hospital for comment, but did 2018. not receive a reply at press-time. Now with the legal conflicts behind Centinela was one of several hospitals them, the Clippers predict construction targeted by the union, others included will finally begin on their new arena by Encino Hospital Medical Center and the middle of next year, bringing with Garden Grove Hospital Medical Center. them entertainment, jobs, and affordable housing.
contract an additional one-year period. The council approved a waiver and general release for retired Police Canine, Falco and a three-year agreement with Lexis Nexis Coplogic Solutions, Inc., for access to the Desk Officer Reporting System. The council approved a five-year agreement with AT&T to purchase equipment and services to upgrade the City’s emergency phone system. The council adopted a resolution conditionally naming streets for the future City rights-of-way at Hollywood Park Development Site and another authorizing the issuance of taxable pension obligation bonds. The council adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Capital Improvements Program Budget for the Intelligent Transportation Systems
Rep. Waters hail the late Willie Agee town hall meetings. Though we were on opposite ends of the political spectrum, over the course of many years we developed a close friendship. I will miss our regular meetings at restaurants throughout our community where we discussed a variety of important issues. He never hesitated to tell me about the initiatives that he was taking up on behalf of the City of Inglewood. I am so pleased to have been among his close family and friends as we celebrated his 90th birthday in October of last year. This was one of the many precious memories we shared throughout our decades-long friendship that I will cherish for the rest of my life. “Willie Agee was a combat veteran of the Korean War and was always in attendance at many events of importance to veterans and
(ITS) Gap Closure Improvement Project (P701) in the amount of $13,500,000. The council approved an agreement with Crosstown Electrical & Data to order and store material for the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Gap Closure Improvement Project: Material Procurement, per Bid No. CB-20-04. The council approved an Agreement with Curtis-Rosenthal, Inc., for real estate appraisal services for the proposed IBEC Project, subject to the approval of an Advance Fund Agreement with Murphy’s Bowl LLC. The council authorized the execution of a Billboard Lease and Development Agreement with WOW Media, Inc. It was also noted that City Hall is scheduled to open, without the need for an appointment, on May 18, 2020. members of the community on a variety of issues. For the past 26 years as a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission – 13 of which he spent as Chairman – Willie Agee never hesitated to make his voice heard on behalf of the needs of our community. His consistent involvement in important local matters and his tireless leadership in securing funding to renovate the playhouse at Ed Vincent Park led the city council to rename it ‘The Willie Agee Playhouse’ in his honor. “I join our entire community in thanking Willie Agee for all of the time he dedicated throughout his life to the advancement of the City of Inglewood. It is because of his undying love and commitment to this community that we affectionately referred to him as the honorary ‘Mayor of Inglewood.’ I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends. Willie Agee is a local hero, and he will truly be missed.”
Remembering Willie Agee Understanding COVID-19 By Francis Taylor, Senior Writer
The announcement of Willie Agee’s passing came as a shock to me and the community of Inglewood residents who knew him as a civic activist, Park and Recreation Commissioner and outspoken supporter of the beautiful city of Inglewood. While Willie had a long and very successful life and I am thankful that I got to know him, it seemed to me that he had a lot of life ahead of him and I wanted to understand what COVID-19 does to one’s body. I learned that COVID-19 mainly affects the lungs but the virus can make it harder for your heart to function as it should. Dr. Neha Pathak explained in a recent article that the virus can be a gastrointestinal disease causing only diarrhea and abdominal pain. It can cause symptoms that may be confused with a cold or the flu. It can cause pinkeye, a runny nose, loss of taste and smell, muscle aches, fatigue, diarrhea, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, wholebody rashes, and areas of swelling and redness in just a few spots. In a more severe disease, doctors have also reported people having heart rhythm problems, heart failure, kidney
damage, confusion, headaches, seizures, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and fainting spells, along with new sugar control problems that contributes to a weakened immune system. Dr. Pathak explained that when viral particles land in our eyes, nose, or mouth, “spike proteins” on the virus connect with a specific receptor, known as ACE2, on the surface of our cells, allowing entry. ACE2 receptors make a great target because they are found in organs throughout our bodies. Once the virus enters, it turns the cell into a factory, making millions and millions of copies of itself - which can then be breathed or coughed out to infect others. Many with mild or no symptoms are able to fend off the virus before it gets worse. These people may have symptoms only in the upper airway, at the site where they were first infected. But when someone’s body can’t destroy the virus at its entry point, viral particles march deeper into the body. The virus seems to take a few paths from there, setting up camp in the lungs, fighting its way into the digestive tract, or doing some combination of both. Once the virus is deeply embedded in Continued on page 7
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May 07-13 , 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
“Why Should Today’s Fresh Start Charter School-Inglewood Charter be Renewed?” By Kenneth Miller, Publisher
Today’s Fresh Start Charter School Inglewood is a Model of Achievement, bringing into reality the reason why charter schools were created. Today’s Fresh Start serves the underserved children’s population and has succeeded even when the traditional school system has failed these students. TFSCI is “Raising the Bar and Closing the Achievement Gap!” “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X The Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD) shares the dubious distinction of being one of just two California school districts under State Receivership Oversight, which presents special challenges for the IUSD. There have been several State or County Lead Administrators. Today’s Fresh Start Charter School (TFSCS) is located in Inglewood and authorized by the Inglewood Unified School District. The Today’s Fresh Start Charter School has continued to thrive keeping on the track of student success and achievement. I am informed, it is the plan of IUSD to close “all” charter schools authorized by the IUSD regardless of academic achievement. That’s correct, the IUSD is attempting to shut down this high performing charter school. What about the children’s future…The dropout rate, the discouragement they feel in their future? Today’s Fresh Start Charter SchoolInglewood is targeted by IUSD as one of those schools to be shut down in spite of attaining all academic and regulatory requirements. This is unfortunate, because its political and not based on actuality of achievement. Therefore, it is alarming that the IUSD County Administrator denied renewing the charter of TFSCS and has vowed to close it down, if possible. There is an assault on charter schools operated for underserved communities, which is reflected in the current political atmosphere for Today’s Fresh Start Charter School regardless of academic performance. “If a charter school is failing they rush to shut it down, but if a public school is failing they throw money at it,” said Cameron Curry, who serves on the Board of the California Charter School Association and was an active voice in the development of their academic accountability framework benefiting all charter public schools. When TFSCS Inglewood opened its doors in 2008 on crime plagued Imperial Highway, a negative reflection quickly transformed into one of beaming hope
and promise for the community and the children and families who would later enroll their children at TFSCS Inglewood I personally witnessed proud parents pulling up alongside the school for drop off and pick-up of spirited school aged children, bouncing and anxious to see what the new day would bring. Dedicated Teachers and committed staff would greet children and escort them to their respective classrooms. This routine would repeat itself each Monday through Friday and it wasn’t long before the commitment of the Superintendent, teachers, staff and Administrative Staff began to show positive progress and gains. The record is clear, TFSCS has historically achieved among the highest test scores in California, even climbing to as high as 844 on the Academic Proficiency Index metric (API) when that metric existed. An API score of 800 in California was considered to be excellent, only 10% or less of all public schools in California ever achieved an
overall API score greater than 800. TFSCS has been questioned repeatedly as to, “How do you get those test scores so high?” “We really work hard here at Today’s Fresh Start Charter School concentrating on high academic achievement. All Charter School staff work together as a team collaboratively and everyone is dedicated to the Charter School’s mission. To teach every child to reach his/her highest potential, academically, socially and emotionally,” stated Dr. Parker TFSCS Superintendent. The Today’s Fresh Start Charter School has experienced increases in academic achievement as measured by the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and awarded “A Top School In Los Angeles County-2019.” In 2013 TFSCS, subgroups scored high ranking near 800 on the API. Three of four subgroups scored high enough that they were not assigned a growth for the following year. As California has moved away from the API metric, TFSCS has continued to demonstrate above average academic success through the new modified (CAASPP) metrics. “Academic achievement is more than working hard. It’s working to target the need for knowledge of each and every child’s level of functioning. In addition to that, every effort is made to motivate by inspiration with a caring and encouraging school environment,” said the Superintendent, who has a team of professionals teachers and administrators who support the TFSCS program. TFSCS administrators and highly qualified eager teachers and
professionals who require that families are respected, a critical component to gaining trust in the education process; consequently, ensuring each student of the commitment that TFSCS has for their education and always with a willingness to help. If a parent or child requires additional resources, TFSCS aims to provide them. TFSC has an ongoing collaboration with UCLA to assist with tutoring children who need additional help. Moreover, the school has energetic, committed professionals who keep up to date on education and professional development also provided with the input of teachers. TFSCS has maintained a collaboration with the University of California San Diego (UCSD) to assist with Teacher Development on an ongoing basis. TFSCS teachers recognize the needs of their students each and every day, by always reviewing the previous day’s assignments to ensure that the child has captured the details of the lesson taught. Teachers and auxiliary staff will allow that child additional small group instruction time to work with children to reinforce lessons previously taught. TFSCS Inglewood was honored to be selected as a National Association of Special Education Teachers awardee (NASET) as an exceptional Charter and Special Education School in 2019. This honor is presented to charter schools that meet NASET’s rigorous professional criteria and have demonstrated truly exceptional dedication, commitment and Continued on page 6
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May 07-13 , 2020
Sports & Entertainment Fair Pay to Play Act: California Skeptical of NCAA Rule Changes
Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
The National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) highest governing body announced last week that it is moving toward allowing student-athletes to receive compensation for endorsements and promotions. The NCAA’s Board of Governors says it now supports lifting longstanding restrictions on student-athletes that ban them from getting compensation for third-party endorsements both related to and separate from athletics. The new guidelines pave the way for college student-athletes around the country to earn compensation without affecting their scholarship eligibility. The board is also giving its consent for other student-athlete compensation opportunities, such as social media promotions, businesses ventures they have launched and personal appearances. But colleges and universities still cannot give student-athletes paychecks. “Throughout our efforts to enhance support for college athletes, the NCAA has relied upon considerable feedback from, and the engagement of, our members, including numerous studentathletes, from all three divisions,” said Michael V. Drake, chair of the Board of Governors and president of Ohio State University. California state Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), who is African American, co-authored and introduced legislation last year that will give student-athletes in California the green light to earn money for endorsements and more while retaining their NCAA eligibility. Gov. Newsom signed the bill, Senate Bill 206 (SB 206), into law last fall. The first legislation of its kind in the United States, SB 206 will go into effect in January 2023. “I commend the NCAA governing board for their decision to allow college
athletes the opportunity to monetize their name, image and likeness through sponsorships and endorsements,” Bradford said. “This is an issue that has been long debated, and its time has come.” Bradford and Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) co-authored SB 206, the Fair Pay to Play Act. Supporters of the policy say the California student-athlete law was the catalyst that put pressure on the NCAA. In a conversation with California Black Media, Bradford expressed some lingering concerns about how the country’s premier college sports institution will roll out its plan by the 2021-2022 school year. Bradford said, while he likes some changes the NCAA plans to implement, there are others he doesn’t care for, point out that a few key changes come with a litany of restraints. “I’m not fond of the fact they are going to try to limit how much a student can make per year. I think that should be dictated by the market and not by the university,” he said. In addition, Bradford says he has an issue with a proposal that would allow the NCAA to ask the U.S. Congress to side with colleges and universities in a decision that would reclassify student athletes as school employees. “The NCAA adding the Congress equation to the issue, Drake countered, is to build a legal and legislative landscape that would not undermine college sports and to meet the needs of college athletes as they pursue a higher-education degree. “We must continue to engage with Congress in order to secure the appropriate legal and legislative framework to modernize our rules around name, image and likeness,” Drake said. “We will do so in a way that
Photo by Antonio Ray Harvey Lonzo Ball, former ULCA star, greets fans during the first round of the NCAA’s Basketball Tournament in Sacramento, Calif., March 16, 2017. Ball left college after his freshman year and was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2017 NBA Draft.
underscores the Association’s mission to oversee and protect college athletics and college athletes.” The changes also prevent studentathletes from using schools’ team uniforms or logos for personal endorsements. These specific changes do not satisfy the student-athletes’ needs, Bradford said. Popular college student-athletes say their schools often sell sports merchandise that bears the athletes’ names or likeness. Under the new NCAA rules, universities can still cash in on selling items such as jerseys. “Some of these things are red flags to me,” Bradford told CBM. The NCAA is also setting up rules to ensure that sports agents and other representatives do not influence high school prospects to choose a school because it offers them prime benefits. But the athletes can hire sports agents and attorneys. “To be able to hire an agent or lawyer apart from the universities are good guidelines because we don’t want
any conflicts between what might be university involvement and enticing an athlete to attend,” Bradford said. Since California laid the groundwork for other states to draft legislation similar to SB 206, New York, Illinois, Florida, and up to 10 other states have introduced their versions of “Fair Pay For Play” laws. Bradford and other supporters of California’s law and the NCAA’s new policy say African Americans college athletes sports have been getting raw deals while universities, coaches, and the NCAA itself walk away with fat pockets. The NCAA, a nonprofit institution, sets the rules for three collegiate sports divisions (Divisions I, II and III) and rakes in $1billion annually in revenues. Most of the money comes from lucrative television contracts with football and basketball coverage leading the way. After Gov. Newsom inked SB206, Continued on page 7
Inglewood grad Kevin De’Shaun Lincoln murdered By Francis Taylor, Senior Writer
Kevin De’Shaun Lincoln, a 22 year-old graduate of Inglewood High School was shot multiple times on April 28, 2020 between 9p.m. and 11p.m., in the parking lot between Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles on Manchester Blvd., and the Starbucks on the corner of Oak Avenue. Inglewood police responded quickly to the scene and indicated that Lincoln did
not survive the assault. There were no witnesses to the shooting. According to Lincoln’s sister, Jamilah Terrell, Lincoln was an intelligent and independent young man who was generous and considerate of others. Being the only brother with three sisters, he had great respect for women and was always very close to his family. He was also a standout football player on the South Bay Buccaneers and earned the nickname ‘Truck’ because of his exceptional skills as a running back on the football field. “I really believe my brother had
the potential to play professional football,” Jamilah said. “He loved the game, maintained excellent physical conditioning and had the mental attitude to succeed. His football coach was his mentor and he encouraged my brother to stay focused and be the very best he could be.” Jamilah explained that her brother was not a street person involved in the trappings of gang-related activities. “Even though he grew up in Inglewood and he knew many of the young men who were involved in that lifestyle,” Continued on page 6
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May 07-13 , 2020
BUPPIE | BUSINESS It’s almost time to travel again
By Wendy Alexander, Travel Columnist
As States Across America begin to lift their stay-at-home restrictions people are still very concerned about when and where to travel. Overall flights remain down by 80% compared to a year ago an international travel down 90% compared to a year ago. The good news is that we will travel again soon and travel will return first to the domestic market with smaller trips then expanding across the region and then finally across continent to welcome the return of fun, long International trips. Travel Experts say that younger Travelers between the ages of 18 and 40 who appear less vulnerable to covid-19 will begin traveling soon and other age groups to
follow as America returns to the “new normal” However an effective restart of travel will only happen if governments around the world agree to set of Health protocols. This is the only way to reassure Travelers that it is safe again. Many changes will be implemented at the airport across the county. Travelers will be expected to wear masks while on board aircrafts and practice social distancing measures inside of airports. Aircrafts will
be subject to intense cleaning daily. These are all positive signs we are moving in the right direction and the covid-19 world we live in. The bottom line is we all want to travel again and with nearly 5 million black Millennial Travelers in the US there is a huge business opportunity for destinations, hotels and restaurants to cater to this market. Now is the time to think about and possibly purchase that next staycation browse through all the travel website checking and comparing prices because there are a lot of great deals out there. Stay safe and I hope to see you soon at my next travel destination.
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she said, “Kevin was not about that and that was evidenced by vthe fact that the police determined that he was a victim of crime providing $7,500 to be applied to his final expenses. Jamilah has been in close contact with the Inglewood Police Detectives who are investigating the murder and
she is hopeful that the surveillance cameras in the shopping center may lead to an arrest in this tragic shooting. Covid-19 has placed restrictions on funeral services at this time but after the arrangements have been finalized a viewing will be announced on social media.
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achievement in the field of Special Education. Among the other many accolades and honors achieved by TFSCS includes: Recognition as a Top Los Angeles Public School for Underserved Students by the University of Southern California (USC) and Innovate Public Schools (2019), only 15% of the 2080 public schools in Los Angeles County were chosen to receive these awards. TFSC received six academic (6) awards. On April 5, 2019 Induction Ceremony for Over 100 TFSCS Scholars to the National Elementary and Junior High School Honor Society; Winners of the Los Angeles County Office of Education, “It’s My Write Essay Competition”; Winners of scholarships to prestigious private high schools, Harvard Westlake High School Pacifica Christian High School, Participants in Major Local Parades, Martin Luther King Day Parade, Cesar Chavez Day Celebration, International Day of Peace Parade; Winners of the Foundation for Interscholastic Youth Athletics (FIYA) League: *TFSCS Lions Basketball Team Division 2 Championship *Winners of “Read to Achieve
“Life is messy but when we get through the mess we find out who we really are..”
Program” awarded by the Los Angeles Clippers *Winners of “Read to Achieve Program” awarded by the Los Angeles Lakers With accomplishments such as these it is quite concerning that any regulatory body would deny TFSCS the renewal of its charter or attempt to close it down. Closing this successful charter school will force students at TFSCS to attend low performing schools and essentially punish children for excelling in school and their parents exercising their “right to choose” an alternative for their child’s education. Such a decision would also admonish parents of these children and further deny them their “right to choose” the best education for their children that the California Legislature has stated they have a legal right to when they passed the Charter School Act in California. The community along vigorously support that the California State Board of Education (SBE) grant the renewal of the Today’s Fresh Start Charter School Inglewood Charter petition for the next five (5) years because TFSCS has exceeded the requirements set forth in the statute for renewal.
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Classified LEGAL NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Inglewood, California, will hold a public hearing on May 19, 2020 at the hour of 2:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, Ninth Floor, Inglewood City Hall, One Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, California to consider the following: Amendments to Inglewood Municipal Code Chapters 8 and 12 including Zoning Code Amendment 2018-01 (ZCA-2018-01) to establish Short Term Rental Regulations. All persons interested may attend the hearing before the City Council, remotely in the manner described below and be heard with reference to this matter: Pursuant to Executive N-29-20, which suspends portions of the Brown Act, and given the current health concerns, members of the public can access meetings live on-line, with audio and limited video, at https:// www.facebook.com/cityofinglewood and on Spectrum Cable Channel 35. In addition, members of the public can participate telephonically to submit public comments on agenda items, public hearings, and/or City business by dialing 1-877-369-5243 or 1-617-668-3633 (Access Code 0935453##). The conference begins at 1:30 p.m., Pacific Time on May 19, 2020, and all interested parties may join the conference 5 minutes prior. Should any person need assistance with audio, please dial 889796-6118. Should you choose to submit comments electronically for consideration by the Inglewood City Council/Successor Agency/Housing Authority/ Finance Authority/Parking Authority/Joint Powers Authority (Legislative Body) by sending them to the City Clerk/Secretary at yhorton@cityofinglewood.org, and Deputy City Clerk at aphillips@ cityofinglewood.org. To ensure distribution to the members of the Legislative Body 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 the agenda number or subject matter. Those comments, as well as any comments received after 12:00 P.M., will be distributed to the members of the Legislative Body and will be made part of the official public record of the meeting. Contact the Office of the City Clerk at 310-412-5280 with any questions. A Notice of Exemption (EA-CE-2018-061) has been prepared stating that the proposed amendment is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, a copy of which is available for public review in the Planning Division office, fourth floor of City Hall. An electronic copy can be obtained by emailing fljackson@ cityofinglewood.org. This notice is given by the order of the City Council of the City of Inglewood and is dated this 7th day of May 2020. Yvonne Horton, City Clerk City of Inglewood, California If you will require special accommodations due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (310) 412-5280 or FAX (310) 4125333, One Manchester Boulevard, 1st Floor, Inglewood, California 90301. All requests for accommodations must be received 48 hours prior to the day of the hearing. “If you challenge the proposed code amendments 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 City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.” In the event that the City Council meeting of May 19, 2020 is not held, or is concluded prior to this public hearing agenda item being considered, the public hearing will automatically be continued to the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. “Si no entiende esta noticia o si necesita mas informacion, favor de llamar a este numero (310) 412-5280.”
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the body, it begins to cause more severe disease. This is where direct attack on other organs that have ACE2 receptors can occur, including heart muscle, kidneys, blood vessels, the liver, and potentially the central nervous system. Beyond the collateral damage from COVID-19, other things like low blood pressure that comes from a severe illness, low oxygen levels, ventilator use, and drug treatments themselves can all harm organs throughout the body, including the heart, kidneys, liver, brain, and other organs. With an already compromised immune system as a result of cancer treatment, one can more readily understand how one’s body may not survive COVID-19.
he said the compensation problem in college athletics is connected to “social justice.” Bradford agrees, calling it a “civil rights issue.” “Without a doubt,” Bradford said when he was asked if he still stood by his civil rights statement. “A majority of these athletes are people of color. And regardless of race, how do you discriminate against athletes versus any other students? If you’re a computer science major, on full scholarship, and develop an app, you can monetize it. But if you’re a college athlete you can’t monetize your name, image or likeness?” The Board of Governors are sending the recommendations to all three divisions. They should adopt the guidelines in January 2021. The rules will go into effect in the fall of the next year. Since California’s SB206 is less than three years away from becoming law, legislators in Sacramento are watching carefully how the NCAA will set the guidelines in motion. “As they say, the ‘devil is in the details,’” Bradford said. “As they are adding parts, Skinner and myself are going to closely monitor what the NCAA finally comes up with and what they approve. We are going to be watchdogs.”
PRESS RELEASE City of Inglewood – Recognizes a great incentive program engaged in by the City’s Waste Haul provider, Consolidated Disposal Services/Republic Services to help local businesses, their employees and customers during the pandemic
SUBJECT: Waste Hauler – “Committed to Serve” INGLEWOOD, CA, April 27, 2020, Mayor, James T. Butts, Jr. is pleased to announce a community initiative launched by the City’s waste hauler, Consolidated Disposal Service/Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG). The “Committed to Serve” initiative is designed to help its employees, customers and communities across the United States during this time of crisis. The Company has committed $20 million to support frontline employees and their families, as well as small businesses that are the economic engines of local communities. The program will last for two months. Key elements are: 1) a weekly meal for all frontline employees, a weekly dinner for frontline employees and their families, and; 2) bi-weekly $100 gift cards to all frontline employees (totaling $400 per employee over 2 months). All meals will be purchased from local small businesses to help support the Company’s business customers and to generate local taxes for the community. Finally, Republic Services will donate $3 million to the Republic Services Charitable Foundation to fund our longterm nonprofit partners that operate locally and serve local communities and small businesses. To date, they have used several local Inglewood restaurants and will continue to do so in the future. “This initiative is targeted economic stimulus at the local level, designed to benefit small business customers as well as local employees, their employers and our region.”; says Mayor Butts. CDS/Republic Services has a stable, predictable and resilient business model, and through prudent planning and hard work they are wellpositioned to manage through this crisis. The City has a valuable partnership with this company and applauds their innovative efforts. The Company is taking enhanced measures to help ensure the well-being of its employees by closely following guidance from the CDC, and state and local public health agencies. The Company is also continuing to work closely with public health experts and other advisors and will continue to adhere to OSHA guidelines regarding the safe handling of waste and recycling. For more information, contact - Ms. Dawn Harris-Benton @ dharris@Republic Services.com or 310.628.2115.
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