August 7, 2014

Your Community Connection since 1994

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Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 23, No. 32

August 7, 2014

Obama Defends Stance on Executive Orders

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n what has been described as President Barack Obama’s “boldest move,” news sources reported Wednesday that he may act alone on some aspects of immigration reform legislation. The issue may become the defining moment in the second term of his presidency.

Hampered by Congressional gridlock, the president is eager to push forward long debated immigration laws that have languished in the Halls of Congress for months. With members of the House and Senate safely out of the way, on a 5-week recess, Obama is hoping he can get something done.

Criticized by some for overusing executive power to bypass the barriers posed by partisan politics, the president said he is willing to take action on the border crisis without Congress.

It is not clear what Obama plans to do. However, he said in a speech: “What I am consistently going to do,

• Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

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est Basin Municipal Water District Board Member Ronald Smith pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Torrance Superior Court to charges of misusing public funds. His bail has been set to $125,000 and he was ordered to return Aug. 12 for a preliminary hearing.

He was arrested on Saturday by Long Beach police.

Elected to the West Basin Board of Directors eight years ago, Smith represents Carson, the Palos Verdes Peninsula and parts of San Pedro.

President Obama is focused on immigration reform.

wherever (there are) legal authorities, is to make progress on behalf of middle class Americans…whether it’s by making sure federal contractors are paying a fair wage to the workers, making sure that women are getting paid as much as men for doing the same job, I’m

going to seize those opportunities.”

According to White House officials and other insiders, Obama could effectively expand the Deferred Actions for Childhood Arrivals program. (DACA), which has shielded hundreds of thousands of young

undocumented immigrants, brought to the U.S. as children, from deportation.

There is speculation the president may also provide temporary relief for as many as five million undocumented law-abiding citizens who are closely related to U.S. (Continued on page 10)

I Am My Brother’s Keeper

On The Inside: • News

Smith Arrested on Corruption Charges

By Thomas Bunn, Creative Director/Producer

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or the last 5 weeks at our beloved Roger’s Park, a powerful amalgamation of bright, effervescent youth, from at-risk communities throughout Los Angeles, received the chance of a lifetime. After demonstrating leadership qualities, and an interest in both health awareness, 15 young men (Continued on page 2)

Inglewood Today Proudly Serving Inglewood for 20 Years

Ronald Smith Smith was charged with two felony counts of misusing public funds, one felony count of conflict of interest and four felony counts of filing a false affidavit. He allegedly used about $20,000 in public funds to pay for rent, boat repairs and his children’s tuition, dance and tennis lessons, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

He allegedly got the board to agree to donate money to a nonprofit, which then wrote checks for the tuition and other expenses, according to prosecutors. They (Continued on page 2)

Sign up for a chance to win 2 tickets to see Frankie Beverly, Maze, and Patti LaBelle live in concert, September 21st at the newly renovated Fabulous Forum • www.inglewoodtoday.com

Inglewood Today

Page 2

August 7, 2014

Community Water Conservation: Doing Our Part

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By Anne Cheek La Rose

ll of California is experiencing the worst drought in 40 years and we are currently in the third consecutive drought year.

Add in the heat waves we’ve experienced recently, and we could be in for big problems if we don’t begin to conserve water. In fact, Governor Brown has declared a statewide drought emergency.

The City of Los Angeles has stringent watering rules and stiff fines for non-compliance. The County has also imposed regulations and fines for water use. Each city has its own regulations, but Inglewood, so far, has not set limits on how and when to use water wisely.

West Basin Municipal Water District has some nifty tips for water conservation that are painless and can reduce water use by 20% or 30 gallons per day.

Outdoor tips: • Water the lawn only 1 or 2 times

Anne Cheek La Rose per week—Save up to 840 gallons per week. Water only when the lawn needs it. Most lawns only need about 1 inch of water each week. If you decide not to water your lawn, don’t think it’s dead because it has gone brown. It is dormant and will revive once you begin to water it again in cooler weather.

• Check sprinkler system for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, and overspray and repair promptly—Save up to 500 gallons per month • Use a broom instead of a hose to clean sidewalks and driveways—Save up to 150 gallons each time • Water plants early in the morning or in the evening to reduce evaporation and ineffective watering due to wind—Save up to 25 gallons each time • Install a ‘smart’ sprinkler control that adjusts based on weather, soil type, amount of shade, and plant type—Save up to 40 gallons a day • Use a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around trees and plants to reduce evaporation and discourage (Continued on page 10)

Smith Arrested on Corruption Charges (Continued from page 1) also allege that Smith wrote checks from his own West Basin discretionary funds for those expenses.

Someone from the nonprofit became suspicious and contacted police in the fall of 2013. Prosecutors began investigating in January. The District Attorney’s Office filed a felony complaint for an arrest warrant on July 3.

West Basin Municipal Water District (West Basin) Board of Directors unanimously voted on Tuesday to remove Director Smith as West Basin Board Treasurer and assign the Treasurer responsibilities and position to West Basin’s Chief Financial Officer Margaret Moggia.

During the special board meeting, West Basin directors discussed board assignments and an audit of the directors’ outreach and sponsorship programs. The Board also directed staff to implement a combined forensic and financial audit of the outreach and sponsorship funds and any other relevant programs.

The audit will be conducted by an external, independent auditing firm.

“I fully support the immediacy of the Board’s actions today to address the serious nature of the alleged charges against Ronald C. Smith. The Board and staff remain fully committed to continuing to meet the mission of the District,” said West Basin Board President Donald L. Dear.

A father of seven, Smith filed

Indoor tips: • Fix any leaks promptly—Save up to 50 gallons per week • Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes—Save up to 20 gallons per day • Take a 5 minute shower—Save up to 8 gallons each time. Okay, this is a bit difficult, but one can save water by wetting down and turning the water off, lathering up, then turn the water on to rinse. This would save approximately the same 8 gallons • Turn off the water while brushing your teeth—Save up to 2.5 gallons per minute • If you are in the market for a new toilet or clothes washer, buy water-saving models— Save many gallons per day

I Am My Brother’s Keeper (Continued from page 1) were hand selected and provided an opportunity to become advocates of health in their communities. They were given the opportunity to be part of the 2014 SJLI Urban Health Fellowship.

The Urban Health Fellowship is a 5-week hands-on preventative health program and internship, focused on achieving optimal health, preventing chronic disease and exposing high school male students to careers in the health field.

How will your participation further your personal and professional goals? What makes you a leader?

Why should we select you for this program? These are the types of questions asked to a host of high school males ages 14-19.

Health Equity Programs Director Derek Steele said, “We conducted community outreach about the 2014 Urban Health Fellowship this past spring and received applications from all over LA county. This program is for every young man, system involved or not, with GPA’s from 0.9 to 4.0. Everyone deserves an opportunity.”

Anyone in their right mind would ask, well, how in the world does anyone plan to control 15 boys with different personalities, and backgrounds in one space, for four hours everyday? Being part of the fellowship meant that the students had to be committed not only to the program, but to their fellow brothers. Tardiness was enforced with push-ups and sit-ups, emphasizing that lateness is not accepted in any of the respected fields the boys chose as a career path.

However, push-ups and sit-ups were just a small portion of the exercise required for the young men to perform everyday.

The program worked in collaboration with local fitness studio Branded Body Fitness run by Brandy Ran(Continued on page 5)

bankruptcy in 2007. He won reelection in 2010 against Louis Atwell, current Inglewood Public Works Director. Atwell came to Inglewood in 2012.

Edward C. Little was the only board member who did not support Smith, noting that he had concerns about his personal finance issues.

“He is unreliable,” Little said. Little retired from the board in May and moved to Virginia.

West Basin stated in a letter that it will “do everything possible to recover ratepayers’ funds,” should the alleged charges result in a conviction.

If convicted of all charges, Smith could face up to nine years in state prison.

President/Publisher/ Editor Willie Brown Vice President Gloria Kennedy Assistant Editor Veronica Mackey Contributing Writers Veronica Mackey Thomas Bunn Brooke Stanley Staff Photographer Thomas Bunn PRODUCTION Manager Dené Glamuzina Quality Control Manager Gloria Kennedy Inglewood Today Weekly is a legally

adjudicated newspaper of public cir­ culation, published weekly by Ads Up Advertising, Inc. News and press releases may be submitted for consideration by mail to 9111 La Cienega Boulevard, Suite 100, Inglewood, CA 90301 or by email to itnetworks@msn.com.

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Inglewood Today

August 7, 2014

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Community

‘Do Nothing’ Congress Takes a Recess

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embers of Congress have called it quits for the next 5 weeks, taking their annual summer vacation. Meanwhile pressing issues like immigration reform, unemployment extension, and the minimum wage go unresolved.

The mad dash out of Washington in the midst of pressing unfinished business only adds to the growing dysfunction in Congress. The picture of a divided House and Senate, failing to do their jobs was evidenced recently on “Meet the Press.” Several empty seats were shown of members who didn’t even show up to confirm a new ambassador to Russia.

This Congress is on its way to being the most unproductive in history. The Republican-led House and Democrat-led Senate could not be farther apart. Meanwhile, the president is sidestepping the stalemate, using his authority of executive orders to get things done.

Republicans are sending mixed messages, opposing nearly everything President Obama or the Senate puts on the table, and at the same time, have filed a lawsuit against Obama for acting on his own.

“Do-Nothing” Congress is a term first coined by President Harry Tru-

By Veronica Mackey

man, when he ran for a second term in 1948. Frustrated by what he saw as a lack of progress, Truman remarked, “This country can’t afford another Republican Congress!”

Congress passed more than 900 bills that year. But even that Congress approved nearly seven times more laws than 2014 lawmakers.

The current year total so far is 142.

Polls by NBC News and the Wall Street Journal say 3 out of 4 voters agree that Congress hasn’t done much this year. About 50% classify Congress’ record as “very unproductive.”

There is a virtual tie of who Americans want in charge of Congress, with Republicans holding a slight

Bradford Seeks to Close Loophole for Hit-and-Run Drivers

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bill requiring hit-and-run drivers to face justice will be heard in the Senate this week.

Current law requires a driver involved in a collision resulting in injury, death, or damage to property, to stop. A driver can be absolved of the crime if the victim of the collision appears before a court to settle the case.

AB 2673, by Assembly Member Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), eliminates that civil compromise loophole.

“Hit-and-run crimes are a particularly dangerous offense, and they are on the upswing,” Bradford said. “A person involved in an accident who refuses to even stop poses a great danger to society and they should not be able to buy their way out of facing punishment for endangering the public.”

This bill would eliminate the option for a civil compromise to absolve the perpetrator of the crime.

“Writing a check may clear a dangerous driver’s conscience, but it should not automatically clear their record,” Bradford concluded.

The bill is sponsored by the Los Angeles City Attorney, who wrote in a letter of support that between

Steven Bradford 2007 and 2011, there was an average of 22 severe or fatal hit-and-run collisions involving bicycles and 92 involving pedestrians each year.

The bill passed the Assembly floor with 75 votes in favor.

Assembly Member Steven Bradford represents the 62nd Assembly District, comprised of the cities of Hawthorne, Lawndale, Inglewood, and El Segundo, and the communities of North Gardena, Westchester, Venice, and Del Rey, and parts of Westmont and Park Mesa Heights, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

lead—43% to 41%. According to CNN polls, 22% of Americans say the president has not taken enough executive action; about 45% say the president has gone too far.

“I don’t feel good about it at all because about 3.5 million people have yet to get their unemployment extended…We’re just not moving forward on the things people need.” said Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN). “The president is going out of his way to try and be productive. I wish we could get some action in the House.”

“House Republicans actually got together this week and voted to sue me for taking actions on my own, and then they left town without settling a bunch of unfinished business which

matters to working families across America,” President Obama said.

“We’ve come a long way these past five and a half years…Imagine how much stronger our country would be if Congress would just do its job.” He urged Americans to ask their representatives a few questions if they see them in their hometowns during the break: “Ask them why they haven’t passed bills to raise the minimum wage or help with student loans…”

Republicans says it is the Democrats who are holding things up.

“We’ve been very productive.

We’ve passed about 350 bills and sent them to the Senate,” said Robert Pittenger, (R-North Carolina).

House Republicans did pass a border bill before leaving for recess, but it stands no chance of survival with the Senate, who will vote when they return.

New York Times Washington Bureau Chief Carolyn Ryan said: “I think Republicans are fearful of primary opponents. They don’t want to move toward the middle, so they move to the extreme.” Money is driving the gridlock,” Ryan said.

“There is going to be $2 billion in outside spending in Congressional elections.”

Inglewood Today

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August 7, 2014

Eye on the City

The Value of Security

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By Veronica Mackey

he City of Inglewood is getting ready for MTVs “Video Music Award” Show, at the Forum on August 24. But everyone is not on board about hiring additional police.

A request was made by Inglewood Police for an additional $25,000 to supplement law enforcement officers with members of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Dept., which led to some discussion.

Inglewood Police Chief Mark Fronterotta explained: “This proposal is to augment assets we would need to appropriately provide a safe environment.

Inglewood personnel resources would be the primary resources on the ground,” he said. Funds would come from savings of vacant police positions which are not expected to be filled by the end of this fiscal year.

cameras in the Downtown area (near the MTA Bus Facility), Siminski Park, and the area surrounding the Forum. It will be paid for by grant funds in the amount of $308,674.

• A contract to HKA Elevator Consulting Inc., to provide professional elevator design services to the Public Works Department in the amount of $35,000, plus a 20% contingency fee in the Inglewood City Council amount of $7,000.

• A three-year annual cooperative “This is to bring in resources and accounting analysis work purchase agreement with HD that we do not have at our disposal with SMF Consulting.

Supply Waterworks, for the purthat the Sheriff’s Dept. does have. • An amendment to the Fiscal Year chase of water system operation This is our choice to provide this 2013-2014 budget to transfer and maintenance supplies in the additional layer of security,” said funds in the amount of $821,000 annual amount of $65,000.

Mayor James Butts. from the General Fund Reserve • An agreement for the purchase The council voted unanimously Account to the Worker’s Comof LaserficheRio document manto approve: pensation Appropriation Account. agement software license and • An agreement for professional • An agreement with Leverage Insupport services from American services and assistance with acformation Systems to install and MicroImaging, Inc.for a new re(Continued on page 9) counting processes, procedures, maintain additional surveillance

Pick up your copy of Inglewood Today at one of these locations: 1 Stop Mini-Mart, 420 E. Florence Ave. A-Man Inc., 101 La Brea Ave. Airport Gas, 501 Hillcrest St. Allstate, 2300 W. Manchester Bl. Bayou Grill, 1400 N. La Brea Ave. Boston Cream Donuts, 2576 La Brea Ave. Bourbon Street Fish & Grill, 601 S. Prairie Ave. Briarwood, 3500 Manchester Bl. Broadway Federal Bank, 170 N. Market St. Brolly Hut Barber Shop on 109th & Crenshaw Bruno’s Pizza, 450 E. Manchester Bl. Budda Market, 3753 Slauson (Rimpau) C&J Beauty Supply, 11252 Crenshaw Bl. Carlton Square, 8700 Carlton Centinela Hospital, 555 E. Hardy St. Chili’s, 3490 W. Century Bl. Chile Verde on Crenshaw Choice Berry, 599 1/2 S. La Brea Ave. City One Stop, 110 Queen St. Cranford Scott, M.D., 211 N. Prairie Ave. CVS Pharmacy, 222 N. Market St. Darby Park, 3400 W. Arbor Vitae Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen #1, 202 E. Manchester Bl. Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen #2, 3249 W. Century Bl. Edward Vincent Park Senior Ctr., 700 Warren Lane Fabulous Burger, 1315 Centinela Ave., Family Fish Market, 1300 Centinela Ave. Fiesta Martin Mexican Grill, 1330 N. La Brea Ave. Gin’s Liquor, 11001 Crenshaw Bl. Gonzales Northgate Market, 10801 Prairie Ave. Heart & Soul Grill, 128 N. Market St. Hollywood Park Casino, 1050 S. Prairie Ave. Inglewood Airport Area, 330 E. Queen St. Inglewood Park Cemetery, 720 E. Florence Ave. Inglewood Community Police Ctr., Manchester/7th Ave. Inglewood City Hall, 1 West Manchester Bl. Inglewood Library, 101 W. Manchester Bl. Inglewood Meadows, 1 Locust St. Inglewood Park Mortuary, 3801 W. Manchester Bl. Inglewood Police Station, 1 West Manchester Bl. Inglewood Today, 949 S. La Brea Ave. Inglewood Unified School District, 401 S. Inglewood Ave. In the Kut Barber Shop on 109th & Crenshaw Jamba Juice, 5305 W. Centinela Ave. King Fish Market, 10901 Crenshaw Bl. KJLH Radio, 161 N. La Brea Ave. Ladera Physiotherapy, 409 S. La Brea Ave.

Lan’s Nails, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Lawrence Carey Barber Shop, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Liquorette Liquor Store, 1400 Centinela Ave. Louisiana Fried Chicken, 170 La Brea Lucy Laundromat across from Sizzler’s on Manchester M&M’s Soul Food on Manchester M&M’s Soul Food (new) on Crenshaw Martino’s Liquor, 706 E. Manchester Bl. Mike’s Deli, 4859 W. Slauson Ave. Moby’s Breakfast & Lunch, 3008 W. Manchester Bl. Morningside Adult Day Care, 3216 W. Manchester Bl. Nix Check Cashing, 140 E. Manchester Nix Check Cashing on Crenshaw & 110th Osage Senior Villas, 924 S. Osage Pann’s, 6710 La Tijera Bl. Pay Day Loans on Crenshaw & 110 Pep Boys, 200 E. Spruce Ave. Red Lobster, 3400 W. Century Bl. Regal Cleaners, 700 E. Manchester Bl. Regency Towers, 123 Locust St. Regent Plaza, 201 Regent St. Roger’s Park, 400 W. Beach Ave. Scottie’s Gumbo & Grill, 945 S. Prairie Ave. Sizzler’s, Manchester/Prairie Smoke 4 Less, 925 N. La Brea Spa 313 Salon, 313 La Brea Starbucks, 5301 Centinela Ave. Starbucks, 941 N. La Brea Ave. Starbucks on Century Stuff I Eat, 114 N. Market St. Super Fish Market, 11007 S Crenshaw Bl. Superior Groceries, 11202 S Crenshaw Bl. The Serving Spoon, 1403 Centinela Ave. TGIFriday’s, 6721 La Tijera Bl. True Vine Baptist Church, 1437 Centinela Ave. Union Bank, 6719 La Tijera Bl. Vons, 500 E. Manchester Bl. Walgreens on Century Westchester Villa Senior Living, 220 W. Manchester Bl. Whole Foods, 4508 Overhill (Slauson) Winchell’s Donuts, 2601 W. Manchester Bl. Winchell’s Donut Shop on Crenshaw near 108th St. Wings Stop on Century Wise Tires & Brakes, 949 S. La Brea Ave. Woody’s Barbeque, 4751 S. Market St. Yvonne B. Burke Senior Center, 4750 62nd St. (La Brea)

Inglewood Today

August 7, 2014

P u b l i s h e r ’ s Me s s a g e

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We Must Protect Our Voting Rights

oting rights has gone through a series of twists and turns— from no rights to conditional rights to full rights and now restricted rights. Last year, Voting Rights took a severe step backward when the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that certain states prone to discriminate no longer needed federal clearance before changing voting laws.

States have been slowly working to erode the law, introducing new Voter ID laws that make it hard for minorities, women, young and old voters. Some of the new policies require a person to pay for a birth certificate.

Depending on the county, this requirement can be both expensive and inconvenient to voters.

There are some things that should not be messed with, and voting rights is one of them.

Forty-nine years ago, on August 6, 1965. President Lyndon Baines Johnson, signed the historic legislation giving Americans the right to vote without denial, harassment or threats of violence.

The law was clear—one person, one vote, one voice. Period.

Although the language does not specifically apply to Black Americans, this population was being singled out as targets at the voting polls. In order to vote like whites, black people had to pay poll tax, pass literacy tests, guess the number of bubbles in a bar of soap or the amount of jelly beans in a jar, or other ridiculous tricks. It was another version of the “separateand-unequal” Jim Crow laws which made every exception under the sun when it came granting equal rights to people of color.

When poll workers weren’t keeping minority voters away with gimmicks, some physically prevented them from casting votes. They used threats, intimi-

Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly dation and even physical violence to stop them.

For those who say votes don’t count, ask yourself why authorities put so much energy into stopping people from voting. If votes don’t matter, why were people injured and even killed trying to obtain this very basic human right?

Election officials understood the power behind voting. They understood what could be done in a democratic society and feared not getting their way.

With election season fast approaching, we must not act nonchalant about one of our most important rights. There are some who would love nothing more than to reverse the clock back to the days of poll taxes. However discouraged you may be about voting, at least you have the right.

This has to be better than not being allowed to come to the table.

When you look around, you will see there are some people you wanted in office who were voted in. There are some laws that you like and feel benefits your city or state. Someone voted for the world in which you find yourself.

And if you don’t like it, you can help change it with your vote.

Voting rights is one of the fairest, most fundamental rights we have, and it is your right to protect it.

I Am My Brother’s Keeper (Continued from page 2) dolph who had the boys perform fitness tests during Week 1 and tracked their improvements as the weeks progressed.

Everyday the Urban Health Fellows were privileged with an inhouse chef who prepared simple, healthy, and delicious meals for them, using fresh ingredients, and providing an open discussion about the role each ingredient plays in the body.

Academic Support Coordinator, Molly Katz said, “They didn’t only learn how to become a doctor or

nurse, they received hands on experience in EMT training, and in the blood transfusion, microbiology, and pathology labs at UCLA. These are opportunities that they can take advantage of out of high school…”

The fellows culminated the 5-week program at Roger’s Park August 1, 2014 with presentations on “Careers in the Medical Industry”, and “Chronic Diseases in Urban Communities” in front of family, friends, and community members. The students presented a PSA they wrote, produced, and (Continued on page 6)

Page 5

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Inglewood Today

Movies in the Park GRAB YOUR BLANKETS AND LAWN CHAIRS AND JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING OF “CINEMA UNDER THE STARS”!

• All movies are FREE! Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:00 p.m.

• Prior to viewing of the movie, a special presentation of environmental videos will be shown.

• Bring ten recyclable items and receive a free popcorn voucher!

• Refreshments available for purchase.

• August 9-Darby Park, 3400 W. Arbor Vitae, Inglewood, CA 90305 • August 23- Inglewood City Hall - (South Lawn) One W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood CA 90301 • For additional information, contact the Movie-info line at (310) 412-8880 • Sponsored by the City of Inglewood Parks, Recreation and Library Services and Public Works Departments

August 7, 2014

I Am My Brother’s Keeper (Continued from page 5) directed, that gave the audience a few laughs while making the case for the importance of living healthy lifestyles.

Urban Health Fellow, Lee Greenwood said, “It was very insightful and a great investment to everyone who learned. I think one day when I’m older I can save someone’s life.”

“I’ve gotten to know and meet so many new people. I feel like I have gained independence in my own life. Even though I get tired of bussing here and home, I like coming to this and I know it will help me in my future to become a doctor,” Brandon Ball said.

“I thought about all the things we did in the past month. I think this program has given me positive things to do with my life and time (Continued on page 9)

VOTE TODAY • Visit www.inglewoodtoday.com

Would you like to see NFL Football in Inglewood?

Inglewood Today

August 7, 2014

E n t e r ta i n m e n t

Latest Happenings in Inglewood and Around Town‌ All About the VMAs! Special VMA Ticket Offer for Inglewood Residents For the first time in history the MTV Video Music Awards will be hosted at The Forum in Inglewood on Sunday, August 24, 2014.

Inglewood residents, don’t miss out! There are still discounted tickets available. Tickets are $80 (plus

Patti LaBelle 90302, 90303, 90305, 90308, and 90309. Forum Box Office hours are Tuesdays - Thursdays 11:00am - 7:00pm, plus event days 12 noon until 1 hour after the show starts.

City employees must produce a City ID card at the box office or at the door if purchased via Ticketmaster.

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly fees) and available online at Ticketmaster.com. Make sure you use promo code CH90301 to get your discount.

If you are purchasing tickets at Fence Going Up at the Forum the Forum Box Office, please bring With such a large production your ID to verify you live within coming to the City of Inglewood, (Continued on page 11) the following zip codes: 90301,

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Inglewood Today

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August 7, 2014

He a lt h & F i t n e s s

Poor Diabetics More than 10 Times Likely to Lose Limbs

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here the poor people are is where the amputations are,” says Carl Stevens, professor of medicine at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine and lead author of a study comparing rates of limb loss between poor and wealthier diabetics.

He called the research results “intolerable.”

Study analysis, published online Monday by the journal Health Affairs, identified ZIP codes within California where patients are more likely to lose a limb due to complications of diabetes.

The study found San Fernando,

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Compton and certain areas of South and East L.A. had some of the highest amputation rates. The picture was much different in more affluent areas such as Malibu and Beverly Hills. As many as10.7 out of 1,000 diabetic adults ages 45 and older, living in the amputation “hotspots” lost limbs, compared to wealthier areas where the rate was no more than 1.5 diabetics per 1,000.

Researchers identified nearly 8,000 diabetes-related amputations in 6,828 people. They reported, the amputation rate for people with diabetes in neighborhoods where more than 40% of households have

incomes below 200% of poverty, or $31,460 for a household of two, was about twice that of neighborhoods in which fewer than 10% of households fell below that line.

Lack of access to primary care and lack of education were said to be the biggest reasons for the disparity.

Diabetes gets out of control with low income individuals because it usually goes unchecked. This causes blood sugar and lipids to rise to unsafe levels. Over the years, these patients can experience a host of debilitating conditions, including blood vessel damage, nerve dam-

Remembering Brenda Marsh-Mitchell

community advocate and icon has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of justice and unity. Brenda Marsh-Mitchell succumbed to cardiac failure after being rushed to emergency surgery on August 2.

Marsh-Mitchell was the Special Assistant to Danny Bakewell, Sr., publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel. She is credited with heading the organization of the annual “Taste of Soul Street Festival,” which has grown in popularity and been successfully held since 2008. She was also instrumental in increasing the number of Sentinel subscribers.

Bakewell said in a brief statement: “I am deeply saddened at the loss of my friend and confidant Brenda Marsh-Mitchell. Brenda loved and believed in family and dedicated her life to serving and fighting for what is best for our people. We ask everyone to continue to pray for her family and friends as we all adjust through these most difficult times.”

Ms. Marsh-Mitchell was presi-

dent and CEO of “Mothers in munity. She enjoyed traveling and Action” of Los Angeles. The spending time with grandchildren nonprofit provides services, infor- Kennedy and Mitch. mation and serves as a platform for Funeral services will be held on mothers to be heard through vari- Friday, August 8 at 11am, at First ous outreach activAME Church, 2270 ities. As the direcS. Harvard Bouletor of community vard, Los Angeles, relations and vice CA. Public viewing president of govwill take place prior ernmental affairs to the service, from with “Brotherhood 9:30 to 10:45am. InCrusade,” Marshterment will follow Mitchell mobiimmediately at Inglelized thousands for wood Cemetery, 720 the Million Man E. Florence Avenue, March and the anInglewood, CA. nual homeless food Public viewing will program. also take place on A lifelong DemThursday, August 7, ocrat, she was a Brenda Marsh-Mitchell from 12:30-8:00pm member of the at Angeles Funeral National Council of Negro Wom- Home, 3875 Crenshaw Boulevard, en. For many years, she worked Los Angeles, CA. alongside the late NCNW ExecuIn lieu of flowers, the family tive Director, Dr. Meda H. Cham- asks that donations be made to: berlain.

Mothers In Action, c/o BrotherMs. Marsh-Mitchell’s life was hood Crusade, 200 East Slauson dedicated to improving the quality Ave­nue, Los Angeles, CA 90011. of life for her family and her com-

age, and compromised immunity, which leads to higher risks of infection.

Researchers are hopeful, however that the picture will soon be changing. Because the data was collected in 2009, before Obamacare went into effect (which allows Californians access under the state’s healthcare program), Stevens expects more low income residents to get access to coverage.

“We’re already making big strides in California,” he said. “I suspect if we repeated this two years from now, we’d see fewer disparities.”

Leimert Park Village Book Fair Finds New Home at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw

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o help accommodate its growing popularity and attendance, the Leimert Park Village Book Fair has selected Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles as its new home.

The 8th annual Leimert Park Village Book Fair, which honors the best in African American art and culture, will take place at the shopping center on Saturday, August 9, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All events and activities will be free and open to the public.

Considered one of the premier African-American literary events on the West Coast, the Leimert Park Village Book Fair (LPVBF) will feature iconoclast interviews, book signings, author meet and greets, celebrity readings, writing workshops, panel discussions, poetry readings, stage performances, musical entertainment and a variety of activities for the whole family. At the Children’s Stage and Reading Corner, kids will enjoy an arts and crafts pavilion, educational exhibitions, celebrity storytelling, face-painting, book giveaways and more.

(Continued on page 9)

August 7, 2014

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Business Government Agencies to Help Low-Income Clients Make Better Financial Decisions

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he County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), along with the County Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have partnered to introduce “Your Money, Your Goals: A Financial Empowerment Toolkit,” a joint effort to provide financial literacy information to low and moderate income residents in the County.

As part of “Your Money, Your Goals,” DCA, with assistance from CFPB, will use this toolkit to equip DPSS Social Workers and Eligibility Workers with the information and tools that may increase their clients’ financial capabilities. The agencies announced the partnership this week.

“We have found that many of our clients would benefit immensely from a financial empowerment toolkit,” stated DCA Director, Brian J. Stigler. “I’m convinced that if they understood and implemented a few financial empowerment principles,

our clients may have made better financial decisions and not have found themselves in a position to become victims of unscrupulous individuals and businesses who prey on our most vulnerable populations.”

Beginning this month, DCA’s consumer education team will work with the DPSS Academy to train staff using CFPB’s financial empowerment toolkit. The eight-hour CFPB course will be integrated into the regular curriculum for all DPSS frontline staff. The Department will train approximately 9,000 staff, all of whom provide direct services to three million L.A. County residents.

This financial empowerment partnership is the first of its kind as DPSS staff will serve as ambassadors in sharing valuable financial literacy information and resources with low-income families and individuals, informing them about financial strategies, budgeting, managing debt, and consumer rights.

I Am My Brother’s Keeper (Continued from page 6) and I really appreciate everyone that attended it,” said Bryant Glover.

As part of the support staff for the 5-week fellowship, I witnessed a change in the young men as they walked off the stage, as 2014 Urban Health Fellows. All the push-ups, sit ups, community assessments, Heimlich thrusts during CPR training, professional development courses, and conversations about solutions to problems in our community, coalesced into

an experience that these young men will treasure for the rest of their lives.

At the end of each day, a fellow would volunteer to lead the group in closing out the session by chanting, “Brotherhood!” On the last day of the program, that volume increased, the passion spewed, family and friends drew their attention to the boys, and the fellows erupted into the loudest, proudest, and vehement response, of the 5 weeks, “We stand together.”

Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) cords management system in the amount of $149,796.

• The council also approved an ordinance modifying regulations for live-work units.

Michael Benbow wants more programs to help homeless men.

“Many funds come up for homeless women, but what about the men? The VA is ignoring them, the cities are ignoring them. They are not getting the jobs…We need to look for solutions to qualifying men for (homeless) programs,” he said.

A retired L.A. Unified School District employee wants to know how to get more wheelchair ramps constructed for sidewalks.

Another man is trying to get contract work with the city. “You need to have some of the people

from Inglewood bidding on the jobs,” he said. “I need some employment.”

Park and Recreation Commissioner Willie Agee said people need to be better informed about what is going on in Inglewood.

He recalled a conversation he had with a server at a Beverly Hills restaurant who knew more about the city’s progress than people who live in Inglewood. “Inglewood, start reading! Start supporting your people!” Agee said.

Throughout the meeting, public comments were hurled against the leadership about the city’s financial shape, and how the city is being run. One man has said Inglewood is as much as $1 billion in debt. Another claimed the city paid a secretary $100,000. A woman said the deal that the City (Continued on page 10)

Free Inglewood Small Business Seminar Thursday, August 14, 2014 at the Inglewood Public Library

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he free Inglewood Small Business Seminar, sponsored

by Jerome E. Horton, Chairman of the California Board of Equalization, local elected officials, and chambers of commerce, will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2014, at the Inglewood Public Library, Gladys Waddington Lecture Hall, 101 West Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90301.

Strategies for success in today’s challenging global economy will be presented and entrepreneurs and business owners will learn about the $400 million in tax credits available to business owners, the $8.5 billion in contracts that are available each year and the 325,000 jobs that have been created in California in the last year. “I am especially excited to bring the Small Business Seminar to the City of Inglewood,” said Chairman Horton. “Inglewood is certainly ‘on the move’ with the leadership Mayor Butts and his council colleagues are delivering, and I am proud that the Board of Equalization is in

Leimert Park Book Fair (Continued from page 8) “Our new partnership with the Leimert Park Village Book Fair reflects our commitment to providing a gathering space and a cultural resource for the Crenshaw community and beyond,” said Kenneth T. Lombard, Vice Chairman - Investments & Partner at Capri Capital Partners, the owner of Baldwin Hills Crenshaw. “We’re proud to host this event this year, which will allow the book fair to grow and reach even more people across Los Angeles.”

For the past seven years, LPVBF was held on the back lot of the Vision

Jerome E. Horton a position to bring important business building information to local business owners.”

Seminar topics include: Using Tax Credits to Finance Your Business, Traditional and Non-Traditional Business Financing, Access to Capital, The power of the Chamber of Commerce, Meeting Your Community’s Elected Officials, Using State and Federal Tax Credits to Pay your Payroll, and a host of others. The free seminar begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. Participants are urged to register online at www. boe.ca.gov/seminars or by calling 1/888-847-9652.

Theater in Leimert Park Village. The move to BHC will allow all events to take place in one centralized location. “We’re excited about all the possibilities that this new venue provides,” said Dr. Bernard Kinsey, an African American art historian and LPVBF Chairman. “Year after year, the Leimert Park Village Book Fair has grown in size and stature in the community. Our partnership with Baldwin Hills Crenshaw and the change in location will allow us to continue that trajectory.”

This year’s theme is “1970-1979: The Decade of Self-Expression,” (Continued on page 11)

Inglewood Today

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August 7, 2014

Eye on the City (Continued from page 9) made to bring the Forum to Inglewood is not benefitting residents.

Long time resident Stuart Bailey said some people are attached to elected leaders in the past and it clouds their vision. “We still think that (former Inglewood Mayor) Dorn is here. Let it go! Dorn was a good man, but we have to move forward. We have to respect the views of the future.”

The council fired back during closing remarks: “This city is on the move whether you are with us or not. I clearly want to stress that the Forum would not have been purchased had we not approved our mayor to be our spokesperson. The Hollywood Park project would not happen.

MTV would not even have considered Inglewood in the past,” said Councilman Ralph Franklin.

Councilman Alex Padilla was given extra time to address council critics: If you wanna lead by example…be real about it.

Don’t just come here and talk nonsense. Let’s set the record straight. Don’t say we’re in a crisis and we’re about to fall apart like you’re the authority. You’re not, you’re not.

“We hired a new company for parking enforcement, and you talk about they’re writing tickets.

Well guess what? That’s what they do.”

Councilman George Dotson gave a shout-out to Public Works Director Louis Atwell and “all the guys I see on the street.”

He praised their quick response time.

Councilman Eloy Morales discussed the new cameras and additional law

enforcement for the MTV show: “You’ve been asking for cameras for many years.

We never had the resources to do it. We’re about to put (them) up in 3 locations. One of those areas is Siminsky Park, which has been a (challenge) to police. The VMA (Video Music Awards) being here is amazing. We want to put our best foot forward, we’re looking forward to having this type of event year after year.”

Mayor Butts addressed the myriad of complaints, answered questions and set the record straight about erroneous comments: “The highest classification is executive secretary and that’s the top step of $61,000 and we have none currently funded in our budget. Curb cut projects will be going on for about 10 years. The VMA will be the largest bill anyone’s paid for a single event.

We’re not going to take any chances (on security). We will make much more than $25,000 for this event, so we are investing in our city as you would want us to.

“People look at this meeting and they need to know we’re not $1 billion in debt.

I feel foolish even addressing it. We heard for years we need cameras in the parks. Now we hear complaints when we are doing what people asked for.”

The meeting was closed in honor of community advocate Brenda MarshMitchell who died of a heart attack over the weekend.

She was a close associate of Los Angeles Sentinel Publisher Danny Bakewell and credited with organizing the annual “Taste of Soul” event.

Obama Defends Stance Water Conservation: on Executive Orders and plants—for any land- California: (Continued from page 1) Doing Our Part scaping www.wrd.org (Continued from page 2) citizens.

“We’re asking the presiweeds—Save hundreds There are programs, re- www.BeWaterWise.com of gallons per year bates, and incentives to help for programs and resources dent to really go as broad as he can go,” Cristina Jiyou be water-wise. Check menez, the cofounder and Other tips: these out at: www.SoCalWaterSmart. managing director of the • Have your grass cut to 1 com for available rebates group United We Dream, and ½ inches or two inch- West Basin Municipal es in height to conserve Water District: Bottom line is that we told Business Insider, addwater.

Water doesn’t www.westbasin.org need to conserve water so ing: “He has a chance to evaporate as quickly at we will have the water we make one of the boldest these heights Metropolitan Water need in the future. By start- moves he possibly could. It • If you normally rake the District: ing now, if you haven’t al- depends on how he wants to cut grass, leave it in place www.mwdh2o.com ready done so, you will be be remembered.”

Despite filing a lawsuit as mulch doing your part. The added • Choose drought tolerant Water Replenishment bonus for each of us is a against the president last week for stretching his auplants—grasses, shrubs, District of Southern lower water bill.

thority beyond what Republicans say is constitutional, Obama’s use of executive orders has not exceeded that of other presidents.

“The broader point is that if, in fact, House Republicans are concerned about me acting independently of Congress—despite the fact that I’ve taken fewer executive actions than my Republican predecessor or my Democratic predecessor before that, or the Republican predecessor before that— then the easiest way to solve it is passing legislation. Get things done,” Obama said.

LEGAL NOTICES ORDINANCE NO. 14-07

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS DESIGN AND ENGINEERING SERVICES ITS PHASE IV (Measure R EAP Project No. N6) RFP – 0089 PROPOSALS DUE: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2014 AT 11:45 A.M. AT THE OFFICE OF CITY CLERK LOCATED ON THE 1ST FLOOR OF INGLEWOOD CITY HALL One Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90301 A VOLUNTARY PRE-PROPOSAL MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2014 AT 10:30 A.M. VENDORS ARE TO MEET IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT ON THE THIRD FLOOR OF CITY HALL AT ONE MANCHESTER BLVD. INGLEWOOD, CA 90301 INFORMATION REGARDING THE CITY OF INGLEWOOD EXISTING TRAFFIC SIGNALS, ITS IMPROVEMENTS AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT CENTER {TMC} WILL BE PRESENTED Contact Person during Proposal Period: Michael Tate, Acting Purchasing and Contract Services Manager (310) 412 - 5364 CITY OF INGLEWOOD INVITATION TO SUBMIT PROPOSALS (Specifications and Conditions Governing Award) The City of Inglewood invites and will receive proposals duly filed as provided herein for the furnishing of qualified Consultants to provide “DESIGN SERVICES FOR ITS PHASE IV” as specified in this document.

A Voluntary pre-proposal meeting will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, August 12, 2014 at the City of Inglewood Public Works Department, 3rd floor, City Hall, One W Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, California, 90301. Information regarding the City of Inglewood existing traffic signals, ITS improvements, and Traffic Management Center (TMC) will be presented.

Each bid shall be submitted and completed in all particulars and must be enclosed in a sealed envelope addressed to the City of Inglewood, City Clerk, Inglewood City Hall 1st Floor, with the designation of the project “ DESIGN SERVICES FOR ITS PHASE IV” appearing thereon.

The City Council reserves the right to waive any irregularities in any proposals, and to take proposals under advisement for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days from and after the date proposals are opened and announced.

The following conditions and terms apply: 1) The City reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

2) Attached are detailed specifications and conditions for proposal submission.

3) You must execute your contract within ten (10) days after the City mails it. If the contract is not executed within ten (10) days, the City reserves the unilateral right to cancel it.

4) If any provisions of the contract are violated, the City, after suitable notice, may cancel the contract and make arrangements to have the products and or services supplied by others. Any extra cost to the City will be paid by the vendor.

5) Proposals may be obtained from the Purchasing Division located on the 8th floor of City Hall, or call (310) 412-5266.

6) All proposals must be for specific amounts. Any attempt to qualify prices with an ‘escalation clause’ or any other method of making a price variable, is unacceptable. Proposal shall be valid for ninety (90) calendar days from receipt of proposal.

7) The City reserves the right to add or subtract quantities and/or services based on the unit prices/unit lump sums so indicated as its budgetary needs may require.

Artie Fields, City Manager City of Inglewood, California

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF A PROPERTY TAX ON TAXABLE PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF INGLEWOOD FOR PARTIAL FUNDING OF THE INGLEWOOD FIRE AND POLICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE INGLEWOOD CITY EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2014.

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INGLEWOOD DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: WHEREAS, Section 96.31 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, a statute enacted prior to August 1, 1985, authorized a local agency to impose a property tax rate to make payments in support of pension programs approved by the voters before July 1, 1978, provided the local agency imposed the property tax rate in the 1982-83 or 1983-84 fiscal year; and WHEREAS, the Fire and Police Retirement System and the Employees’ Retirement System are pension programs approved by the voters before July 1, 1978; and WHEREAS, the Council duly adopted Ordinance 2449 on August 30, 1983, authorizing the levy and collection of a property tax fixed, designated and levied as retirement funds at the rate of .146958 per $100.00 of gross assessed valuation for the 1983-84 fiscal year; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 9-1 of the Inglewood Municipal Code the County of Los Angeles is authorized to assess, equalize, levy and collect ad valorem taxes on taxable property within the City of Inglewood.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF INGLEWOOD DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. The County of Los Angeles is hereby instructed to levy upon the taxable property of the City of Inglewood for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2014, a property tax which is fixed, designated, and levied as follows: FIRE AND POLICE RETIREMENT FUNDS AND EMPLOYEES’ RETIREMENT FUNDS SECTION 2. The tax shall be levied at a rate of .146958 per $100.00 of gross assessed valuation.

SECTION 3. The tax shall be levied and collected pursuant to Section 9-1 of the Inglewood Municipal Code.

SECTION 4. The City’s Chief Financial Officer is authorized and directed to apply the tax proceeds produced by this ordinance only toward indebtedness incurred by the City in maintaining the level of retirement benefits that existed under the Fire and Police Retirement System and the Employees’ Retirement System at the time of adoption of the Charter by the electorate of this City in 1944 and amended in 1999, for all current and future employees.

SECTION 5. This ordinance constitutes an ordinance providing for a tax levy on property and may be adopted on the day of its introduction, and shall be effective upon adoption pursuant to Article X, Legislative Procedure, of the Charter of the City of Inglewood.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 22nd day of July, 2014.

ATTEST: James T. Butts, Mayor Yvonne Horton, City Clerk

August 7, 2014

Entertainment (Continued from page 7) the Forum parking lot will be fenced off starting Tuesday August 5th until Friday August 29th. The fence will be removed once all production equipment is removed out of the lot. The fencing is necessary for the safety and security of the community and MTV. Public sidewalks around the perimeter will remain open. Increased traffic may result as loading of materials and construction of various show elements will be occurring simultaneously.

Please be patient, respectful and aware of the area as work will be going on at all hours.

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D at e s i n a u g u s t

Ongoing 90302. The event will bring local Counseling for Anxiety, residents and businesses together Depression and raise funds for Inglewood Get free help for anxiety, depres- students—specifically JROTC, sion, stress and anger. Recovery music and art students.

International provides tools and The event will be filled with practice in changing thinking hab- fun and exciting activities such as its so individuals can gain personal live kid performances and activicontrol over distressing emotions ties, raffles, food, a car show and and improve life-coping skills. much more.

This worldwide non-profit orgaTo make a donation, setup a nization, founded in 1937, holds booth, participate in the car show weekly meetings every Monday at or volunteer, please contact Coun6:00 p.m. at SHARE! 6666 Green cilman Padilla’s office at 310-412Valley Circle, north of Centinela 8601 or email apadilla@cityof Ave., (2nd building on the right). inglewood.org.

Maze, Patti LaBelle Call 310-322-6411 for more inat the Forum formation, or visit www.lowself- August 9, 2014 The Forum would like to offer all helpsystems.org. A donation is re- Hope for Haiti Fundraising Inglewood residents a special op- quested but not required.

Bazaar portunity to buy tickets before the Years have passed since that devgeneral public for the following ex- August 9, 2014 astating earthquake. But the people citing show: “Bounce TV Summer Discover District 2 of Haiti still need your help. SupCouncilman Alex Padilla will port the people of Haiti, fellowship Music Festival 2014” starring Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Patti La- host the first ever “Discover Dis- and have fun from 11am to 4pm.

Belle and special guest Ruben Stud- trict 2” event, from 10am to 4pm Held at New Life L.A. Church, at True Vine Baptist Church, 1437 2600 S. La Brea Avenue, Los Angedard on Sunday, September 21.

For a limited time on Thursday, Centinela Avenue, Inglewood les, 90016.

August 7, from 10am to 10pm, Inglewood residents may take advantage of a 12-hour exclusive Inglewood-residents-only presale by purchasing tickets at Ticketmaster.com, using the password FORUM under the promotions code prompt on Ticketmaster’s purchase page. The offer is subject to availability.

If you have trouble getting through to the website for the promotion, tickets will also be available through the Forum Box Office during the following extended hours: Friday, August 8, from 11am to 7pm. Note: First Winning Team – Inglewood Today there are no Ticketmaster fees for Union, Republic Services, The Rob- les Mayor Eric Garcetti and several box office ticket sales. ert Group, WBSA Architects, Time other board members calls for a staWarner Cable Business and Centi- tion with all the bells and whistles.

Inglewood Chamber Golf nela Hospital.

The motion states that this new faTournament Recap Gold Sponsors included Centinela cility should exceed the needs of The Inglewood Area-Airport Chamber of Commerce hosted its Hospital, Time Warner Cable Busi- the traveling public with amenities 20th Annual Golf Tournament on ness, Sodexo, Abbott Construction; such as flight information boards Friday, July 18, 2014 at the Califor- Silver sponsors include Automac and a place for airline check-ins, as nia Country Club in the City of In- Parking Inc. and The Forum; Bronze well as bathrooms, WiFi service, cell dustry. The golf tournament is one Sponsors included WBSA Archi- phone charging areas, a drop-off area of the larger fundraising efforts by tects and Inglewood Today. Erick for cars and taxis, a bike hub, retail, the chamber; all proceeds go toward Holly, Inglewood Chamber Execu- public art, ATMs, LA and LAX visithe Inglewood Chamber Scholarship tive Director wanted to “Thank ev- tor info, a pedestrian plaza with landFund for college-bound high school eryone that was able to participate scaping and street furniture. students from Inglewood. “One of and support the Chambers 20th Anthe goals of the Chamber is to build nual Golf Tournament. We look for- Hollywood Park Update Hollywood Park hosted its monththe scholarship program to be able to ward to seeing you next year!” ly meeting on July 31st to brief the give more students the opportunity community on the latest developto attend college” said Erick Holly, Crenshaw/Lax Aviation ments on the project. RepresentaInglewood Area-Airport Chamber of Station Update The Metro Board of Directors re- tives from Hollywood Park, Turner Commerce, Executive Director.

With twenty teams competing, cently approved a new light rail sta- Construction and the City provided Inglewood Today Publisher Willie tion at Aviation Boulevard and 96th a presentation that outlined the curBrown’s team not only won first Street along the Crenshaw/LAX Line. rent schedule, upcoming activities place, but also won longest drive Metro must environmentally clear the which include required environmenand the putting contest. Avid golfer, station first, design it and identify the tal remediation, grading and other Councilman George Dotson par- funding before anything gets built. steps needed before the installation ticipated in the tournament as well, Acceleration of current funding is of infrastructure such as streets, utilities, landscaping and parks. giving strong competition to Willie currently undergoing evaluation.

The new station, however, is slatIf you would like to sign-up for Brown’s team. Other participating teams represented Madison Square ed to be an iconic gateway to the updates, please visit hollywoodpark Garden, Water and Power Credit airport. A motion from Los Ange- life.com.

The fundraising bazaar will feature raffle drawings for beauty products, home goods, flowers and more. The entire 100% of proceeds will be given to Haiti. Vendor space is available for $50, but hurry. The deadline is Saturday, July 26!

For more information, contact Sheila De. Gruy at lcd920@yahoo. com or Lisa Cathran at wcathran@ yahoo.com. Visit www.hopeforhaiti foundation.com and www.newlifela.us August 23 & 30, 2014 Community Financial Workshop City Treasurer Wanda Brown will conduct 2 free community workshops about financial management. Topics include retirement planning, investing, home mortgages, first time home buying programs, reverse mortgages, tax savings, avoiding scams and more.

Take advantage of the free wisdom offered by Inglewood’s top financial expert. Held from 1:30 to 3:00pm in City Hall, Community Room A. For more information, call 310-412-5642.

Leimert Park Book Fair (Continued from page 9) featuring an array of exciting events, activities and programs that focus on the literary and cultural contributions of that era. As part of the book fair’s tribute, its annual Legacy Awards will recognize award-winning screenwriter Eric Monte (“Good Times,” “Cooley High,” “The Jeffersons” and “All In The Family”) and legendary musician/philanthropist Stevie Wonder. Annette Thomas, the former literary coordinator for the NAACP Image Awards, and Dr. Rosie Milligan, founder of Black Writers on Tour, will coordinate special programming for authors.

Highlights will include a special tribute to Dr. Maya Angelou and Ruby Dee on the main stage, as well a panel discussion entitled “Writing for the Entertainment Industry,” featuring screenwriters Aaron Rahsaan Thomas, Tyger Williams, Abdul Williams, Rob Edwards, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Lena Waithe. Dr. Kinsey will also be an exhibitor at the book fair, autographing and talking about his coffee table book, “The Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey: Where Art and History Intersect.”

Finally, this year’s event will mark the debut of the LPVBF Jessie Redmon Fauset Book Awards. Named after one of the most prolific and revered novelists and writers of the Harlem Renaissance, this awards program will present “best of” awards in five categories: Fiction; Non-Fiction; Poetry/Spoken Word; Children/Young Readers; and Youth/ Teen/Young Adult.

For additional information on LPVBF’s events and activities, please call (323) 730-0628 or visit www.leimertparkbookfair.com.

SEPTEMBER 21 Presale ticket offer for local residents: Thurs. August 7, 10am - 10pm Use password: FORUM at ticketmaster.com General on sale: Friday, August 8 at 10am!

Special on-sale box office hours: Friday, August 8, 11am TO 7pm (No ticketmaster service fees!)