December 15, 2022

Celebrating 30 Years of Service in Inglewood, Airport area Communities

City of Champions

Your Community Connection Since 1994 EYE ON THE CITY

First Black Woman VP Swears in First Black Woman Mayor of Los Angeles

By Maxim Elramsisy | California Black Media

On Sunday, Dec. 12, Karen Bass was sworn in as Los Angeles’ first Black woman and second Black mayor.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who has a home in Los Angeles, conducted the swearing-in of the new mayor. Though originally planned to be conducted at Los Angeles City Hall, rain moved the ceremony to the Microsoft Theater in downtown.

The ceremony was highlighted by several live performances by wellknown celebrities, including 25time Grammy award winner Stevie Wonder and the first National Youth Poet Laureate and Los Angeles native Amanda Gorman.

In her inaugural address, the former congresswoman set the tone for new office.

“Tomorrow morning, I will start my first day as mayor at our city’s Emergency Operations Center, where my first act as mayor will be to declare a state of emergency on homelessness,” Bass said. “My emergency declaration will recognize the severity of our crisis and break new ground to maximize our ability to urgently move people inside,

and do so for good. And it will create the structure necessary for us to have a true, unified and citywide strategy to set us on the path to solve homelessness.”

Homelessness was one of the major issues debated during the election. Bass and real estate developer Rick Caruso sparred over strategies of how to get people into housing in a city where, according the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, residents spend 38% of their income on housing, compared to the national average of 34.3%.

“We know our mission – we must build housing in every neighborhood and the very best way for this to happen is by neighbors working together and deciding where housing should be built. We cannot continue to overcrowd neighborhoods that are already overcrowded. This is my call to you, L.A. – to welcome housing in every neighborhood.”

Bass made the point to elected leaders in attendance as well as Angelenos that she would be calling on them to work with her to contend with the homelessness crisis.

“Vice President Harris, Governor Newsom -- my colleagues in Congress here today -- look for me on your caller

ID. If we come together and focus on solutions rather than jurisdiction, on linking arms rather than pointing fingers – if we just focus on bringing people inside, comprehensively addressing their needs, and moving them to permanent housing with a way to pay their bills -- we will save lives and save our city – that is my mission as your mayor.”

Bass also spoke about her ambitions about addressing public health, the violent crime surge, the economy and the environment.

“Right now, there is a role for everyone,” Bass proclaimed. “If you are a Hollywood creative, I call on you to help me inspire people to help our city. If you are a tech entrepreneur, I call on you to help me make City Hall run smarter, faster and with more accountability. If you are retired, I call you to share your wisdom with our youth. If you are a community organizer, let’s organize our neighborhoods together. And finally, I call on you to come work for the city. Did you know L.A. City has hundreds of vacancies in the very departments that respond to community needs? If you want a good paying union job -- you should literally

come work for the City of L.A. I call on the people of our city to not just dream of the L.A. we want, but to participate in making the dream come true.”

Bass thanked and acknowledged the many national and local officials present. She also spotlighted women breaking barriers in government, including Vice-President Harris, California’s first female Lt. Governor, Eleni Kounalakis, the first female California Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins and the all-female Los Angeles County Board of SupervisorsHilda L. Solis, Holly Mitchell, Lindsey Horvath, Janice Hahn and Kathryn Barger.

“We are all going to make so much history together in a state that has enshrined in our constitution a woman’s right to decide what happens to her body.”

Bass acknowledged outgoing Mayor Eric Garcetti for his 21 years of service to the city. Garcetti sat in the front row next to Gov. Gavin Newsom and California’s First Partner, Jennifer Siebel Newsom.

‘It’s official Butts supreme reign..’

A Message from the Interim County Administrator

Dear Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD) Staff, Students, Families, and Community, IUSD Stellar Student Spotlight by Maygan Orr

Daniel Sanchez has a bright future as a top chef and is also at the top of his class! This 8th grade “foodie” at Crozier Middle School ranks #1 in his class and has a 4.0 GPA. Daniel wants to attend culinary school at the Institute of Culinary Education after high school, and would like to become a chef and food critic one day. He would also like to open his own restaurant, specializing in traditional Mexican cuisine and Mexican bakery items. Daniel says he wants to serve food that represents where his family comes from, Jalisco, Mexico, known for its Birria and Pozole. Daniel’s dedication to cooking stems from the love and dedication to the recipes that have been in his family for decades.

During the pandemic, Daniel became known in his family for his delicious carne asada burritos, and enjoys baking cakes and cake pops with his mom for family gatherings. Daniel says his favorite recipe to make with his mom is Pozole. His mom, and You-Tuber and travel/food blogger Will Sonbuchner of “Best Ever Food Review Show”, are his greatest inspirations. Daniel’s mom inspired him to become a chef because he always helps her cook at home. Daniel says Will Sonbuchner inspires him because he travels around the

world and explores food from various cultures. Besides cooking, Daniel’s hobbies include playing video games, and spending time with his family.

Daniel has this quote of advice for his fellow IUSD students: “Your education is like cooking - if you put in the right ingredients, you will get the right results.”

To nominate a stellar IUSD student to be spotlighted next month, email maygan.orr@inglewoodusd.com.

IUSD All-Star Employee Recognition

We are thrilled to name Sevak Shakhverdian - Information Technology, as our All-Star Employee for the November 28, 2022 - December 12, 2022 time period. Congratulations, Sevak, and thank you for your hard work, dedication, and vital contributions to IUSD!

Every 2 weeks a classified employee from the District Office will be named as the All-Star Employee, offering them the privilege of parking in the first parking spot of the District Office labeled: “IUSD All-Star Employee”.

What’s Happening in our District and Schools?

District Committee Meeting Updates

In an effort to keep our community informed, our next School Closure and Consolidation Committee meeting will take place on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at the District Office Board Room and the Asset Management Advisory Committee meeting will take place on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. The meetings are open to the public to attend, listen, and provide public comments. Please click here for information regarding our committee meeting agendas and supporting documents that will be posted 72 hours prior to the meeting.

Shoes Giveaway at Highland TK-6 Elementary

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On Tuesday, November, 29, 2022, Shoes that Fit partnered with the Los Angeles Rams and provided new athletic shoes to over 400 students at Highland TK-6 Elementary! This festive event featured an LA Rams PLAY 60 field day, and appearances from rookie players, Cheerleaders, and team mascot Rampage. The event was filled with smiles, laughter, and great memories, as students engaged in funfilled activities that encourage positive healthy physical activities with their peers, teachers, IUSD administration, and community partners. We are very thankful to our partners for these amazing opportunities and resources that are presented to our students.

Beulah Payne P-8 STEAM Academy has Partnered with Education Through Music

Thank you staff, parents, students, and community members for your ongoing support and commitment to the success of our district.

#WeAreInglewoodUnified Sincerely, Arturo Valdez Interim County Administrator

PRESIDENT/ EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Willie Brown PUBLISHER Kenneth Miller

VICE PRESIDENT Gloria Kennedy PRODUCTION Kenneth Denson

Gloria Kennedy

It’s official Butts supreme reign endures Dotson rejected by 70 percent of voters

Across town to the north, Los Angeles officially welcomed its first woman Mayor in Karen Bass, but in the City of Inglewood James T. Butts, Jr. glorious legacy of establishing the once troubled sliver of the South Bay will endure as the Inglewood General Election certification was completed on Dec. 13th.

Since 2011 when Butts defeated Daniel Tabor to become mayor, Inglewood has evolved into that shinny little city on a hill, transforming a community besieged with gangs, drugs and crime into a model for economic boom, business development, entertainment and oh did I mention three professional sports teams in the Rams, Chargers and soon to be Clippers.

While all of those teams carry the name Los Angeles for marketing reasons, they call Inglewood home and dare I mention that the Forum which housed Sunday church services is the most glorified concert venue in America.

In 2021, the LA Philharmonic relocated its Youth Orchestra Program (YOLA) to Inglewood; YouTube opened a 6,000 seat theater in Inglewood. and the NFL Network relocated from Culver City to Inglewood; in 2022 Showtime opened 115,000 Square Feet Production Studio in the north end industrial area of the City. In February of 2022, Super Bowl LVI was held in Inglewood and the Rams were victorious; in 2023, the NCAA Championship Bowl game will take place in Inglewood and WrestleMania will be held here as well. By 2024, the Clippers will open a state of the art NBA arena – The Intuit Dome – in Inglewood. Finally,

in 2028, the Olympic Games will open in Inglewood, California and Olympic Basketball and Swimming competitions will occur in the resurrected City of Champions.

All of this achieved under the leadership of Butts, and if you listen to him Inglewood hasn’t even got started yet.

So, with all due respect to madam Bass and her historical election victory, James T. Butts, Jr. certification win with 53.66 % of the vote was not just a stamp of approval, but a rousing endorsement of a small city mayor who has elevated his stature to a national level.

Meanwhile, the only drama in the City of Inglewood elections took place in District 1 where incumbent George Dotson was forced into a runoff against Gloria Gray. Dotson won 30% with 2,230 votes.

Dotson managed to achieve a chance for survival with the dubious distinction of roughly 70 percent of the voters choosing someone other than him. Gray eked out runner up status with 1661 votes to 1641 for local community activist Yolanda Davidson.

A final tabulation so close that not even Gray was sure what the outcome would be until it was certified.

Gray was elected to the West Basin Municipal Water District (West Basin) Board of Directors in 2006 and is the first African-American woman elected to the Board. She represents the Division ll city of Inglewood, and the unincorporated Los Angeles County areas of Lennox, South Ladera Heights, West Athens and Westmont.

The runoff will be conducted on March 3, 2023.

By Kenneth Miller, Publisher

Mayor James T. Butts, Jr.

George Dotson

Gloria Gray

Serving Ladera, Hawthorne, Westchester, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson

Area Communities Black Caucus Welcomes New Members, Installs Leaders

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

On Dec. 5, Asssembly member Dr. Corey Jackson (D-Riverside) was sworn in at the State Capitol on the first day of the 2022-23 Legislative session.

Right after taking the oath of office to represent California’s 60th Assembly District, Jackson appeared to be in awe when he walked into his new role -- and into his brand new, empty state office two blocks away to a desk, chair, an empty bookshelf, an American flag, and a California State Flag.

“Now it’s time to go work,” he said, smiling, to his staff and visiting constituents who attended the swearing-in ceremony. “I came here (to Sacramento) to talk because my business is to talk about issues and how to fix them.”

Jackson’s district includes Moreno Valley, Perris, a large part of Riverside, Hemet, and San Jacinto.

The first Black openly LGBTQ+ person elected to the State Assembly, Jackson is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of SBX Youth and Family Services. He is former member of the Riverside County Board of Education and a graduate of California Baptist University where he received Master and Doctor of Social Work degrees.

Jackson is one of the new faces in the last 16 months to join the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC). Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles), Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), and Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) are the newest members of CLBC’s coalition of 12 Black lawmakers.

Smallwood-Cuevas represents the 28th Senate District. She is the only Black woman in the Senate. A graduate of California State University at Hayward (now called CSU-East Bay), she is an educator, labor organizer, community advocate, researcher, and journalist.

Smallwood-Cuevas replaces Sydney Kamlager who was elected to the U.S. Congress seat held by Karen Bass. Last month, Bass was elected the first Black woman to be mayor of Los Angeles.

Smallwood-Cuevas’ district includes the communities of Ladera Heights, View Park, Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw, Downtown Los Angeles, Leimert Park, Mar Vista, Mid City, South Los Angeles, University Park, West Adams, and Culver City.

“I am the 63rd woman ever to be sworn into this illustrious body and one of a handful of dynamic Black women leaders to grace this chamber with their excellence,” Smallwood-Cuevas posted on her Facebook page last week.

In a special election to replace

Autumn Burke who resigned in January, McKinnor (D-Inglewood) was elected to represent the 62nd Assembly District, which includes Gardena, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lenox, Los Angeles, Marina del Rey, Venice, West Athens, Westchester and Westmont in Los Angeles County.

In November, due to redistricting McKinnor was elected to represent the 61st Assembly District which contains many of the same communities as the previous 62nd District.

“Today (Dec. 5) I was sworn in for my first term in the California State Assembly,” McKinnor posted on her Facebook page. “I am proud to represent Assembly District 61.”

In August, Bonta won a special election to represent the 18th Assembly District. She replaced her husband Rob Bonta, who was appointed California’s

Attorney General last year by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Bonta’s district covers the East Bay area of Northern California. It includes a large portion of the City of Oakland and the cities of San Leandro and Alameda.

Bonta, who self-identifies as a Black Latina, holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Yale University, a Master of Education from Harvard Graduate School of Education, and a Juris Doctorate from Yale Law School.

Assemblymember Lori Wilson represents California’s 11th Assembly district. She assumed office on April 6 after winning the seat vacated by former Assemblymember Jim Frazier.

As mayor of Suisun City, Wilson was the first Black woman mayor to serve in Solano County. She is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelor of Science degree

in Business Administration with a concentration in Accountancy

The CLBC elected Wilson and Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) to serve as its Chair and Vice-Chair for the 20232024 legislative session.

Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) was elected secretary and Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan (D-Los Angeles) was elected treasurer. The newly elected officers’ two-year terms began this month.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues to uplift over two million Black residents living in California,” Wilson said in an August written statement.

Two CLBC members will not be returning. Outgoing Assemblymember Jim Cooper (D-Elk Grove) was elected as Sheriff of Sacramento County in June, and Kamlager will begin serving in the U.S. House of Representatives in January 2023.

CLBC members make up 10% of the Assembly and 5% of the Senate. California’s Black population is about 6.5% according to the US Census.

Veteran Assemblymembers Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), Reggie Jones Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), Mike Gipson (D-Carson), and Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) are the returning CLBC members.

The CLBC, founded in 1967 under the leadership of Sen. Mervyn Dymally, describes itself as a bipartisan and bicameral body of Black lawmakers committed to eliminating existing racial and social disparities and inequities for Black Americans.

The current and former members of CLBC believe that a “caucus representing concerns of the African American community” would furnish political influence and visibility far beyond their numbers, according to their mission statement.

CBLC Vice-Chair Bradford was recently awarded the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) Lifetime Achievement Award. NBCSL is the nation’s premier organization representing and serving the interests of African American State legislators.

“I am humbled beyond words,” Bradford said as he received the award. “I know that I’m only able to do the work I’m doing because of the people that have come before me. I stand on their shoulders and hope that one day others will reach even greater heights. I graciously accept this award and commit to continuing my work to promote equity, equal justice, and opportunity in every region of California.”

Sports & Entertainment

Hello, my name is Baker Mayfield

By Anthony Harris, Contributing Writer

Last Thursday night at SoFi stadium was a movie being played out on the field starring Baker Mayfield and the reigning Super Bowl Champion Los Angeles Rams. The 2022 season has been a major struggle for the Rams sitting at 4-9 prior to Thursday night’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders. The story is not about the Raiders being on a 3-game win streak or the Rams trying to limp to the finish line of a dreadful follow up season to their Super Bowl title just 10 months ago. It was about a former number one pick in the 2018 NFL draft. A former Heisman Trophy winner with charisma and the cloud of doubt and intrigue that seems to follow him. Baker Mayfield’s fall from atop the football pedestal has increased in depth and velocity since Deshawn Watson was tabbed to replace him in Cleveland and his short stint in Carolina failed to produce the results the Panthers were seeking. After being released by the Panthers, the only NFL team interested in

best, most thought Mayfield would dress for the game and serve as a backup in emergency situations only. How could he possibly learn the playbook in such a short time to make an impact

in a game less than two days away? The Rams started their first offensive series with backup John Wolford. When number 17 came running out for the Rams second offensive series of the game, whether at home, in a sports bar, or witnessing firsthand at SoFi stadium, all football fans sat forward in their seats. Mayfield looked calm and completed his first pass for a 21-yard first down. I found myself thinking ok, there you go Baker.

I couldn’t help but rout for the guy.

On the other hand, the Raiders had as

Mayfield’s services were the Los Angeles Rams. With his new playbook in hand, Mayfield boarded a plane to Los Angeles just 48 hours before the Thursday Night Football matchup. At

BUPPIE | BUSINESS

The Hub Implores U.S. DOL Secretary to Ensure Racial Equity in Hiring for Millions of Jobs Expected from New Federal Investment Dollars

LOS ANGELES –– The Southern California Black Worker Hub for Regional Organizing participated in a meeting with U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Julie Su last month to advocate for racial equity in hiring for jobs created by new construction projects funded through federal infrastructure legislation. Held at the historic Allen House on the FAME Renaissance Center’s campus in South Los Angeles, representatives of the Black Workers Centers of Los Angeles, Inland Empire and San Diego as well as other partnered organizations also participated in the meeting with Secretary Su to discuss their respective work-ready campaigns and how they can be used as a model for the federal government.

With millions of jobs expected to arise over the next decade through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Hub urged Secretary Su and federal legislators to consider Black workers and racial equity when establishing employment opportunities through this unprecedented federal infrastructure investment. The Hub expressed that Black communities have historically been excluded from these federal investment dollars, particularly women of color and BIPOC individuals.

“Black workers are in crisis. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the looming recession, we need profound and intentional investment for Black workers now,” said Elda Solomon, Policy Manager, Southern California

agencies to work with organizations like the So Cal Black Worker Hub and regional Black Worker Centers to create and sustain economic opportunities for the Black community, and to make sure that these opportunities don’t skip over us again.”

Also during the meeting, the Hub addressed legislative and statutory changes that need to be made at the federal level, such as Executive Order 11246, a civil rights era executive order that sets out minority hiring standards on federal contract projects. This executive order is critical since federal contracted work comprises 20% of the U.S. workforce.

Secretary Su conveyed during the meeting that the U.S. Department of Labor recognizes that Black workers occupy a uniquely disadvantaged position in the workforce, one that has been created by centuries of intentional and egregious discrimination and exclusion.

Secretary Su further expressed that the U.S. Department of Labor will continue to work

with the Hub as well as its regional Black Worker Centers and partnered organizations to lift up all workers, including Black workers, on federal investment projects.

Through the Hub’s new partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, it is the organization’s hope that Black communities across the country will play a fundamental role in rebuilding the nation through this federal investment act. “We are inspired about the So Cal Black Worker Hub’s continued partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor to greatly assist us in this critically important endeavor,” said Solomon.

The Southern California Black Worker Hub for Regional Organizing advocates for the economic empowerment of Black workers throughout the region by supporting Black Worker Centers in Los Angeles, the Inland Empire and San Diego as they fight for economic inclusion and opportunity for the region’s Black workers. By serving as a resource for all three worker centers, the Hub is advancing Black economic opportunity throughout the region, creating a more equitable Southern California.

Black Worker Hub for Regional Organizing. “The federal infrastructure dollars that are coming down is the perfect opportunity for federal and state

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE

Fictitious Business Name Statement

File No. 2022262997

The following Person is doing business as: The Radical Mind, The Radical Mind Psychotherapy 708 N. Eucalyptus Ave., #109 Inglewood, CA 90302

Registered Owner(s): Vonne Perry, 708 N. Eucalyptus Ave., # 109, Inglewood, CA 90302

This business is conducted by an individual(s). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on December 6, 2022 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.) Vonne Perry, Owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk on December 6, 2022

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

December 8, 15, 22, 29, 2022

IT0042230120020357 Inglewood Today

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case # 22TRCP00405

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS

Petitioner: Jefferie Lynne Cobbs, 3314 West 81st Street, Inglewood, CA 90305, has filed a petition with the Superior Court Of California, County Of Los Angeles, 825 Maple Avenue, Torrance, CA 90503 to change his name.

FROM: Jefferie Lynne Cobbs - TO: Jefferie Lynne Jankans

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing on December 30, 2022, 8:30 AM, Dept. B, to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Publication Dates: Nov 24; Dec 1, 8, 15, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2022269452

The following Person is doing business as: 410 Beauty 8616 La Tijera Blvd., Ste 319 Los Angeles, CA 90045

Registered Owner(s): 410 Group, LTD, 8616 La Tijera Blvd., Ste 319, Los Angeles, CA 90045

This business is conducted by an individual(s). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on December 14, 2022 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.) 410 Group, LTD, Owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk on December 14, 2022

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

December 15, 22, 29, 2022; January 5, 2023

IT0042230120020358 Inglewood Today

Continued from page 5: Hello, my... much to do with the outcome of the game as Baker Mayfield. The Raiders controlled the game and didn’t trail until the final seconds of the game. What doomed the Raiders chances was their inability to stretch the lead out of striking distance. Raiders Head Coach Josh McDaniel’s, who also calls the offensive plays got away from utilizing his stars to snatch the win. Derek Carr was mediocre at best throwing for a measly 137 yards. The Raiders simply didn’t go in for the kill feeding the ball to Devante Adams (3 catches, 71 yards) and Josh Jacobs (99 rushing yards). The Rams defense had a lot to do with the production woes of the Raiders. Although superstar Aaron Donald was out for the Rams line-up due to injury, the defense played with energy, physicality, and kept the Rams in the game. Baker Mayfield did not look like a guy meeting his teammates in the huddle for the first time. However, he must’ve been drawing plays in the dirt and telling guys to turn around at the black Buick. In the final drive to win the game, Mayfield was both lucky and sensational at the same time. After what looked like a game clinching sack, Raiders Jerry Tillery smacked the ball out of Mayfield’s hand after the played and was called for an unsportsmanlike penalty that gave the Rams 15-yards and a first down. The next play was a Mayfield interception nullified by a blatant holding penalty on the Raiders secondary. Finally, the Raiders lined up in man coverage from the 23-yard line with 10 seconds remaining which is an extremely questionable coverage in the redzone at that point of the game. Mayfield recognized the man coverage and put one up for Van Jefferson to go get the touchdown. The extra point kick is good and the conclusion to this contest is something only written for Disney movie endings. Rams win 1716 to break a losing streak with a heroic effort by a former star quarterback that arrived hours ago trying to revive his career. These are the moments in sports that last a lifetime and keep the fans coming back.

Caleb Williams breakfast club laid the foundation for the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner!

As the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner was announced, the USC Trojan football legacy claimed the most Heisman recipients in the history of the award. The Heisman is awarded to the best football player in the nation in a particular season. The following Trojan names have now been inked on this historical award: (1965) Mike Garrett, (1968) O.J. Simpson, (1979) Charles White, (1981) Marcus Allen, (2002) Carson Palmer, (2004) Matt Leinart, (2005) Reggie Bush, and now Caleb Williams. I won’t mention the Reggie Bush situation. He was one of the most electric college football players I’ve ever seen and won the award fair and square. Those Bush moments and accomplishments cannot be taken away from the memory of sports fans. Caleb Williams winning the award was no surprise as he pulled away from his fellow nominees with sensational performances in his final three games of the season against UCLA, Notre Dame, and Utah. Williams passed for 4,075 yards, 37 touchdowns, only 4 interceptions, and a season QB rating of 86.5. He also punched in 10 rushing touchdowns and 372 yards on 109 carries. This year’s winner thanked many during his acceptance speech including USC Athletic Director, Mike Bohn. A classy move to include and acknowledge the behind-the-scenes hard work of the USC athletic administration. Caleb Williams also created a first when he brought his entire offensive line with him to New York and thank each one publicly. Williams continued to thank his Head Coach, Lincoln Riley, and his Gonzaga high school coach. All who have played a significant role in his development as the award-winning quarterback he is today. As most winners do, Williams also thanked his mother who he said always has a smile on her face and is the most important woman in this life. The speech turned emotional when Williams described his relationship with the “Old Man” over there (his dad). Williams mentioned the “Breakfast Club” workouts when he and his father would train daily beginning at 5:30 am. Williams won the 2022 Heisman in a landslide claiming 544 1st place votes with second place Max Duggan of TCU a distant second with 188 1st place votes. Williams had a message for his fellow nominees that although he won the award, they are competing in the College Football Playoffs so be careful what you wish for. Williams’ message was “the job is not done” as he is looking to lead USC back to the National Championship in his time in Southern California. That job is not done although the future is bright for the USC football program with Caleb Williams at the helm. The Trojans will have one more season in 2023 to get to the CFP before Williams becomes a First Round NFL draft pick. But first, Williams and the Trojans will take on a tough Tulane (11-2) team who will be the Trojans (11-2) opponent in

the Cotton Bowl at AT&T stadium in Arlington, TX on January 2nd.

Chargers getting healthy at the right time, positioning themselves for a playoff spot

It’s no secret that when healthy, the Chargers have one of the most talented rosters in the league and can play with anyone. Unfortunate injuries have destroyed Chargers playoff opportunities in recent years. It has been 3 seasons (2018) since the Bolts beat the Ravens in the Wildcard round and then lost to the Patriots in the Divisional round. As the end of the regular season approaches, the Chargers will need to run the table beating the Titans, Colts, Broncos, and Rams to get in the playoffs. A tall order but if the Bolts can get key players like Derwin James, Joey Bosa, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Bryce Callahan, and perhaps Rashawn Slater back on the field, they certainly have a fighting chance to advance. The Chargers played one of their best and most complete games of the season on Sunday hosting the Miami Dolphins on Sunday Night Football at SoFi stadium. Coach Brandon Staley called it a “complete team win”. On a night where wide receiver Mike Williams returned to the line-up with Keenan Allen, Justin Herbert eclipsed the most passing yards by a quarterback in NFL history by a player in their first three seasons. Herbert is looking healthier recently as shown on a game clinching 10-yard run in the fourth quarter. Herbert can hurt defenses with his running ability but has been hesitant to run this season. Herbert was pleased to have his top guns #81 and #13 back together and found them early and often. Mike Williams snagged 6 balls for 116 yards and a touchdown while Keenan Allen pulled in 12 catches for 92 yards. Herbert finished 39 of 51 connecting with 9 different targets for 367 yards, a TD, and no interceptions. While the offense seemed to get their grove back, the Chargers defense executed an allaround stellar performance holding the top ranked passing offense in check. The Dolphins best offensive play was a fumble scooped up by Tyreek Hill as he raced 57 yards to the endzone for a lucky Miami score. Hill did beat Michael Davis on a long TD throw from Tagovailoa in the fourth and walked into the endzone due to Davis falling on the play. The Chargers must build on this win and create serious momentum that will carry them into the post-season. Combining that momentum with getting key players back from injuries has Charger fans eager and hopeful to break the playoff curse. The Bolts must take a one game at a time mentality without looking ahead. The Titans come to town on Sunday with a two-game losing streak and will look to run the ball with their punishing running back, Derrick Henry. Hope is in the air and a little luck would be nice for the Bolts during this holiday season.

Celebrating Hanukah: The History, Traditions and the Faithful

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media

Hanukkah, one of the most visible holidays of the Jewish faith, is right around the corner.

As much as the public may be aware of Hanukah, many Californians don’t understand the basics of this holiday, which will be celebrated by millions around the world for eight days beginning the evening of Sunday, Dec. 18 and ending the evening of Monday, Dec. 26.

Origins of Hanukah

Hanukkah began with a war and a miracle, according to Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein, a rabbinic scholar and Black Jewish leader in the Jewish Equity, Diversity & Inclusion program of the Jewish Federation of North America, or JEDI.

It marks the freeing of Judea by the Jewish freedom fighters called the Maccabee over the Assyrian-Greek occupiers more than 2,300 years ago. After recapturing the Holy Temple in Jerusalem which had been desecrated by the occupiers, the freedom fighters searched for oil to light the Temple menorah as part of the rededication of the temple. They found a single day’s worth of fuel, but it miraculously burned for eight days before being resupplied.

“So, there’s a combination of things in the holiday, which is really celebrating that the oil lasted longer, and also the War of the few against the many,” said

Rothstein “And then, the over the last 15 or 20 years, many other themes have come into being, like light over darkness.”

By many, the holiday is referred to as the “festival of lights” and is celebrated on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar. Because the Hebrew calendar follows the lunar cycle, the dates of Jewish holidays change from year to year according to the Gregorian calendar. As a result, the beginning of Hanukkah can range from late November to late December.

Although often compared to Christmas, Hanukkah is not one of the High Jewish Holidays, which are considered more core to the belief system. Hanukkah is closer to Thanksgiving in tone. It celebrates the rededication of oneself to God, the faith and family.

The Celebration

The most visual part of the holiday is the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah, or “hanukkiah” in Hebrew. It holds eight candles, one for each day of the festival, and a helper candle or “shamash,” in the center which is used to light the others. It can be made of a wide range of materials and has become a symbol of the faith.

Many communities have large communal hanukkiah which are lit as part of an inclusive celebration. Washington, D.C. has a National Menorah and lighting festival, while New York claims the world’s largest Hanukkah menorah.

The tone of Hanukkah is not the same as Christmas which has traditionally become a holiday heavily focused on youth. Christmas gifts are ubiquitous in the United States and the eight days of Chanukkah have also begun to include gifts.

In other parts of the world, where Jews were persecuted a quieter less public observance took root. Many in Europe escaping Nazi persecution or Russian pogroms were raised to be cautious in their celebrations according to Rothstein.

Often the very act of displaying or lighting a hanukkiah could be dangerous. It led to the lighting of the menorah to be associated with rebellion against oppression.

Some of the concepts of the menorah and lighting its candles have even influenced other holidays like Kwanzaa, some religious and cultural observers say. For Hanukkah, each candle represents a day of the holiday; for Kwanzaa, each one stands for a life principle.

A custom associated with Hanukkah is playing games with the dreidel, a small spinning top. According to Rothstein the toy was used to fool the ruling authority and hide the study of the Torah.

Another Hanukkah custom is to give money (called Hanukkah gelt) to children. Hanukkah-themed chocolate coins wrapped in gold or silver foil are used as substitute to real money gifts.

Food is a big part of the holiday.

Traditional Hanukkah recipes include foods fried in oil, to commemorate the original miracle of the oil. Fried donuts and potato pancakes or latkes are a favorite. Dairy products are also popular during Hanukkah.

The People

There are about 7.6 million persons who identify as Jewish across the country, with California containing 15%, the second highest behind New York at 21% according to the American Jewish Population Project.

Black Jews.

There are at least 200,000 Black American Jews. There are biracial Jews with a Jewish parent like him. Some converted to Judaism, and some belong to Black Hebrew congregations that formed at the turn of the last century.

Rothstein and his organization are working to connect to African American members and address those feeling disconnected.

“We’re building community, like every single week,” said Rothstein. “We connect with different Black Jews and Jews of color from across the community, across the country.”

This California Black Media report was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.

DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETINGS

November 15, 2022 - 5:00 p.m.

December 14, 2022

December 13, 2022 - 5:00 p.m. January 17, 2023 - 5:00 p.m.

January 26, 2023 March 16, 2023 June 1, 2023 August 17, 2023