December 25, 2014 by Inglewood Today News

Your Community Connection since 1994

20 Y EA RS

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 23, No. 52

December 25, 2014

Who Were the Wise Men? By Veronican Mackey

he meaning of Christmas is often defined by a myriad of symbols from gifts and Christmas trees to angels and lights. While many criticize the commercialization of the Christian holiday, even worse is the distortion of facts surrounding the birth of Jesus. The facts of his birth, like the manmade traditions associated with Christmas, has deviated from the truth. Yet, if we look to the Scriptures, we find that the historical account of his first coming is the same as it has always been. The Word never changed, only man’s interpretation. Inherent in the biblical story are the wise men, usually referred to as “the three wise men.” Being told by the angel Gabriel that Jesus, the anticipated Messiah, had been born, the men began their journey, bringing with them gifts for the newborn king. Christians honor this tradition each year by giving gifts to follow the example of the wise men, and more importantly, to honor

On The Inside: • News • Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

Inglewood ‘Must-See’ for Holiday Lights

God’s gift to the world, his Son, Jesus. According to Scripture, King Herod, hearing that Jesus had been born became “disturbed and troubled.” It continues, “He summoned the wise men and told them to let him know when they found Jesus so he may come and worship him.” (Matthew 2:8). Historically the men were from an ancient kingdom that we now call Northern Iran. They were called

Magi. Their visit was one of the first signs revealing that Jesus came for all the world, not just for a few. Why were they called the “wise men?” The Amplified Bible equates the phrase “wise men” with “astrologers.” They were known for studying the stars, practicing magic and interpreting dreams. “This pulls at the traditional understanding that Christians have that they shouldn’t subscribe to as-

trology, but there has got to be some relationship,” Rev. Andrew Robinson-Gaither, former pastor of Faith United Methodist Church said in a 2003 interview. “The resurrection experience that we call Easter is based on when the full moon comes. That’s why it falls sometimes in late March and sometimes in early April.” The wise men have often been portrayed as kneeling beside the manger, dressed (Continued on page 2)

Leading By Example This Holiday Season

By Thomas Bunn

os Angeles music collective and indie record label, Top Dawg Entertainment, is in the holiday spirit, and has decided to not only host a local toy giveaway, but a holiday concert in Watts as well. The label is partnering up with Nickerson Gardens projects to give away toys and shoes, and put on a free concert for the (Continued on page 7)

Inglewood Today Proudly Serving Inglewood for 20 Years

hristmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the lights, nativity scenes, and Santa and his crew. And Christmas in L.A. wouldn’t be the same without seeing a stunning display of homes all decked out for the holidays. The annual tradition of “light seeing” is back, and there is no shortage of places to go. And even with fake snow (i.e. sheets of cotton) on the ground, there is still a feeling of a winter wonderland in the air. Folks in Inglewood can find plenty to see right in their own backyard. The area referred to as “The Avenues” is bordered by Century Blvd. on the

South, Crenshaw Blvd. on the West, Manchester Ave. on the North, and Van Ness Ave. on the East, and is famous for its holidaythemed decorations. In fact, in Southern California, it is a must-see experience. Inglewood Councilman George Dotson, whose district houses the area, has lived on a highly decorated block for 30 years. “The decorations started many years ago. It’s been a tradition in The Avenues since (Continued on page 2)

Happy Holidays from Inglewood Today

Inglewood Today

Page 2

December 25, 2014

Community

Luminarias at the Adobe

By Anne Cheek La Rose

he last event of the year of the Historical Society of the Centinela Valley will take place at the Centinela Adobe on Sunday, December 28, at 6pm. Walk the drive lined by luminarias, to experience the holidays as they were in old California, as you make your way to the Walter Haskell Heritage Center for this fun and festive evening. The holiday program starts with holiday favorites by a local children’s choir under the direction of Lillian Sambrano. Following will be more holiday selections delivered in bell ringing by the Glissando Bells lead by Ruben Mendoza. The Glissando Bells are a treat. I discovered them last year at this event. Light refreshments will be served after the program to allow for mixing, mingling and chatting. Though the Adobe and Land Office are not open for this year-end event, there is plenty to see in the Heritage Center. The library features the fireplace, furnishings, and bookcases from the Daniel Freeman mansion. There is also a glass case with samples of the Freeman family’s china and silverware that gives a peek into how people lived during the Gilded Age. The mansion was the home of Inglewood’s founder Daniel Freeman that stood on the western portion of the Daniel Freeman Hospital property. It was demolished in 1972.

Anne Cheek La Rose The Centinela Adobe is the 1834 birthplace of Inglewood and a good portion of the South Bay. Though it sits next door in Westchester, the Adobe grounds are all Inglewood. The Centinela Adobe grounds are located in a residential neighborhood at 7634 Midfield Avenue, Los Angeles 90045. Take Florence or Manchester west and turn right on Hindry. Turn right on west 82nd Street and follow the road as it becomes Midfield. The Adobe will be on your right about half a mile down. Street parking is available and the event is free. If you are new to this Historical Society event, I encourage you to start this year and make “Luminarias at the Centinela Adobe” part of your holiday tradition.

Photo courtesy City of Inglewood

Inglewood ‘Must See’ for Holiday Lights (Continued from page 1) I’ve been here. It used to be so bad you could not even get out of your driveway. As time moved on, some of the older people moved out, but it’s still very nice and people come from all over.” Make it a point to check out the Christmas decorations at night if

you can. And be prepared for slow moving traffic. It is a drive-by tour, and you’ll want to catch every sight. After you drive down one block, turn around and look at the houses on the other side. Then drive to the next block and repeat. The section of Torrance known as Sleepy Hollow is another South Bay favorite. The homes located on Calle Mayor, near Pacific Coast

Who Were the Wise Men? (Continued from page 1) in fine Persian robes. They were kings bringing gifts to another king. People assume that Jesus was poor because he was born in a manger. But that’s because all the hotels were filled that night. The men brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. According to Jewish tradition, the gifts that the men brought were put into a trust fund so Jesus would have wealth later. Another assumption is that the men came to see Jesus when he was a newborn baby. But Matthew 2:16 indicates that was not the case: “Then Herod, when he realized that he had been misled by the wise men, was furiously enraged, and he sent and put to death all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that territory who were two years old or under, reckoning according to the date which he had investigated diligently and learned exactly from the wise men.” Why would he order the boys as old as two years old to be killed if Jesus was just born? Bible scholars place Jesus at around two years old when Herod’s order was given. We see nativity scenes of shepherds and the wise men visiting the baby Jesus in a manger. But he was actually a toddler by the time the wise men arrived.. Another clue is found in Matthew 2:11, which reads: “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary, his mother and they fell down and worshipped Him.” Where did the house come from? What happened to the manger? It is another clue that some time had passed between Jesus’ birth and the time the wise men actually found him. Finally there is the misconception that there were three wise men. We know there was more than one, but the Scripture doesn’t say how many. People assume it was three men because they brought three types of gifts. Christmas stories bring us comfort and joy. But we can only know the truth when we read the book. Merry Christmas. This article was revised and reprinted from Family Health Guide (Nov/Dec 2003)

Highway, are nicely lit, displaying just about every Christmas theme imaginable. It’s best to park and make it a walking tour. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly for the occasion. Residents sell hot cider, cocoa and dessert to appreciative spectators. *Here is where you can find other festive holiday decorations: (Continued on page 8)

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.

You can reach us at 310-670-9600 or by fax 310-338-9130 www.inglewoodtoday.com The artistic contents of Inglewood Today Weekly are copyrighted by Ads Up Advertising, Inc. and permission to reprint any article herein must be obtained in writing from the Publisher. Display Advertising 310-670-9600 X107 Classified Advertising 310-670-9600 X104 Subscription Information Subscriptions are available by mail for $100.00 per year. Home Delivery may not be available in all areas, or gated communities.

We want to hear from you! Tell us what you think about local issues. Letters should be addressed “To the Editor” and include your name, address and phone number. (Only your name and city will be published.) Email: itnetworks@msn.com Online: www.inglewoodtoday.com Mail: 9111 La Cienega Blvd., Suite 100, Inglewood, CA 90301 Fax: 310.338.9130 Letters may be edited for clarity or length. Not all letters will be published. Submission of a letter to the editor constitutes permission to publish the letter in the printed version of Inglewood Today Weekly and on www.inglewoodtoday.com.

Inglewood Today

December 25, 2014

Publisher’s Message

Be Thankful for Christmas and the New Year

gainst the backdrop of political and social unrest and economic injustice, one could conclude that world events (mostly negative) would overshadow Christmas. But if you will fully embrace the Christmas-New Year’s holidays, you will gain a positive perspective. While the violence we have seen this year both within the U.S. and overseas makes us feel enraged and a little uncertain, it also reminds us of how much there is to be thankful for. Being with friends and family, and enjoying the light of Christmas will eclipse what we have witnessed in Ferguson New York, and overseas in Syria—even if temporarily. Last week, Councilman Eloy Morales reminded us how blessed we are to live in a city that has learned to leave its racial differences behind. The rich diversity of Inglewood can and should become a role model for those in other parts of the country who are struggling to figure it out. The City’s tree lighting ceremony was the largest Inglewood has ever seen. Not only did the event illuminate the glory of Christmas, but the blessing of diversity and brotherhood. It is an excellent example of “good will toward men.” I hope you will be welcoming this holiday with open arms, as

os Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has announced that he plans to outfit police officers in his city with body cameras. In an effort to help reduce incidents of unarmed civilians being injured or killed by police amid questionable circumstances, Garcetti said he hopes to have 7,000 cameras by the end of next fiscal year. He will include funding in his next budget proposal. Los Angeles follows a growing number of cities dealing with the aftermath of protests following non-indictments of white officers killing unarmed black men. The problem is systemic, said Theresa Fouman, an activist in L.A. “Here you have grand juries failing to prosecute the police. Prosecutors are used to working with police to indict criminals. Their relationships make it harder to get a conviction, especially when the police become the bad guys.” Racial profiling, police brutality and abuse of power in com-

Page 3

Word for the Wise Holiday Special! Tires Repaired At No Charge Now Until December 31, 2014 With This Ad

949 So. LaBrea Ave. Inglewood, 90301

(800) Wise4Tires Call (800) 947-3484

Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly I am. We need the reprieve that Christmas brings—a time for love, joy, peace and generosity. This is a time to simply unwind, put all the busy-ness on pause and just connect with your loved ones. Turn off the news and fill your house with music. Soon the new year will arrive, and we can all breathe a huge collective sigh of relief. We can count our blessings and reflect on 2014 before we get going with 2015. For many people, Monday, Jan. 5 will be the day to go back to work after the holidays. It is the day, people will officially put the holiday season behind them. So why not go all out in your celebration, while you have a good excuse to have fun? Go overboard with goodness during this time when happiness is a mandate.

Just Saying... Don’t listen or focus on the evils of life, it will only detour you from recognizing your blessing. Happy New Year!!! Don’t worry. When you turn on the news again, there will still be plenty of issues to fret over, disagree with, or become enraged about (if that’s how you roll). I’m sure North Korea will still be upset, there will still be lots of cyber attacks, data breaches, and

Yvonne Horton

healing needed from racial conflict. Most of this is beyond our control. So find something that is under your control and have a good time with it. The staff of Inglewood Today News wishes you the merriest of Christmases and happiest of New Years.

LAPD Is Getting Body Cameras munities of color has existed for decades. However, 2014 has brought a surge of protests that has not been seen in years. Protestors have taken to the streets of America, shutting down shopping malls and freeways to draw attention to the injustice of officers walking free after the shooting death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO, and the chokehold that a medical expert said contributed to the death of Eric Garner in New York City. Both men were unarmed. In the Garner case, which was recorded, Daniel Pantaleo continued to hold his arm tightly against Garner’s neck despite Garner saying repeatedly “I can’t breathe.” There was no recording of the incident with Brown. Police often say video does not tell the whole story. They say what the public sees—usually a beating or shooting—is a reaction to what occurred before; that the whole incident, with audio and visual from start to finish needs to

be shown in order to make a sound judgment. In nearly all high-profile cases, only the violence by police is shown. Wearing cameras will help bring all of the elements together for the criminal court system as well as the court of public opinion. “These cameras will help law enforcement and the public alike find the truth—and truth is essential to the trust between the LAPD and the community, which has been a key factor in lowering crime to record lows,” Garcetti said. President Barack Obama has asked for $263 million in federal funding to provide body cameras and additional training of police.

He noted that body cameras can protect both the police and public, and clarify conflicting testimony between police officers and citizens. City Council President Herb Wesson said he expects funding for the cameras to be approved. “Trust is hard to earn, but it can easily be lost,” he said. “With the cameras, the police and the public they encounter will be on record and accountable. This is a good thing for Los Angeles.” The cameras are expected to cost around $1.5 million and will be provided through private donations raised by Police Commission President Steve Soboroff. The first 800 Axon cameras made by Taser are expected to be rolled out and worn by selected officers at the beginning of next year. The tiny cameras will be worn on the chest. While public outcry over the deaths of Brown and Garner have dominated the news in recent weeks, Garcetti said he has been pushing for body cameras for over a year.

Inglewood Today

Page 4

December 25, 2014

C OMMUNITY

Deplorable Conditions Still Exist at Inglewood Schools Inspection Reveals Little Has Changed

utumn Burke is wasting no time getting down to business. The newly-elected 62nd District Assemblywoman’s first order of business is overhauling how the Inglewood Unified School District is run. She released the following statement on Dec. 19, 2014 in response to a report by KPCC on Inglewood schools. “Yesterday’s report on KPCC about the state of schools in Inglewood—broken windows, moldy drinking fountains, and cockroaches—was sickening. Our children

tain” were among “the 23 ‘extreme deficiencies’ (that) a Los Angeles County inspector found on a recent visit to Inglewood High School despite a promise by the school district’s leadership to fix problems exposed by a KPCC investigation.” The report is a follow up to a previous article published Nov. 6, 2014 which sent shockwaves through Inglewood. The latest inspection by the Los Angeles County Office of Education was performed a month after state trustee Dr. Don Brann and state school superintendent Tom Torlakson promised to clean

students at some Inglewood schools are trying to learn. Morningside High and Munroe Middle School also showed serious neglect. “I just think about the student who’s sitting in a room looking at a hole in the wall with water or rain coming in and what that communicates to the student about how the state values his or her education,” David Sapp, director of education advocacy for the ACLU of California, told KPCC. “When I think about that I just know that if I were the state superintendent I’d be on the next plane down to Inglewood to get

(l-r) An inspector’s photos show “moss or mold” in a drinking fountain in the girls’ locker room“and excessive clutter or trash” in a classroom storage area at Inglewood High School; and damage to the ceiling in the back room of Monroe Middle School’s kitchen (Los Angeles County Office of Education).

deserve better than that!” She was referring to an investigative report dated Dec. 18, 2014, which revealed deplorable health and safety conditions. All Inglewood schools were included in the report. However, Inglewood High School had the most serious violations, which was noted in the article: “Filthy classrooms. Blocked exit doors. Green matter, either mold or moss, growing in a drinking foun-

up the high school. Brann announced at the time that he had hired an exterminator, bathrooms would be deep-cleaned and the school’s custodial and maintenance staff would receive additional training, support, and a list of priorities. Disturbing images of a clogged sink with an unknown green substance, peeling walls, mold and water-damaged ceilings depict the horrible conditions under which

to the bottom of what’s going on and make sure that there’s a solution.” Brann, whose budget includes a personal security detail in excess of $300 thousand, commented in an earlier interview with KPCC that he did not know if Inglewood was safe. Violent crime is at its lowest level in the city and Brann admitted there have been no threats made to his personal safety. Inglewood Mayor James Butts called for immediate action and

wrote an open letter to residents (dated Nov. 11, 2014) in response to the Nov. 6 report. Butts said he had contacted Torlakson to fix the situation at Inglewood High: “He committed to having maintenance crews at Inglewood High this past weekend and on into the week to remediate this situation immediately…Superintendent Torlakson has also verbally committed to allow the City to be consulted, informed and where appropriate, involved, before major decisions are made in the future,” Butts said. According to the November 6 article by KPCC, Torlakson was not available for comment and he has visited the high school once since last month. Burke is calling for new leadership in Inglewood Schools: “Inglewood needs a new direction, with local eyes and ears that can address these issues. That is why I am supporting Erick Holly, Dionne Faulk, and D’Artagnan Scorza for the Advisory Board of Education. “These candidates have been Inglewood residents for years and I am confident that they possess the skills and judgment necessary to ensure that Inglewood students receive the education they are constitutionally entitled to,” Burke said. Last April, the Inglewood school district had a good inspection rating—ranking 93 out of 100, according to KPCC. In December, that number dropped down to 12. County inspectors will conduct a follow-up visit on January 5th to see if any of the “extreme deficiencies” have been corrected.

Enjoy the Holidays Even if You’re on a Diet The best season of the year comes with the worst nightmare of a dieting person. Individuals who are trying to lose weight will be two times more tempted. If they’d miss their parties or turn in to a Grinch, then surviving the Christmas season would be a breeze. But, who wants to be a Grinch right? Christmas is all about being merry, exchanging gifts, and most of all parties! This is the one time of the

year where everybody is meant to be You’ll pre-occupy yourself with especially happy. So a dieting person these thoughts, and in the end should not have to go through hell you’ll regret that you even came in the coursework of the Holidays. to the party. Here is some good advice on how to keep your diet effective while simul- • Socialize. By socializing you are taneously enjoying the Christmas taking some of your attention Spirit (the parties, dude!): off food. You’ll be busy taking to people, listening to them, and • Don’t prioritize eating. It is not walking around the room—connice to anticipate the food and verting those stacked fats in your how much ought to be eaten. body to energy!

• Cooperate. If there is a physical activity at the party, like games and dancing, be cooperative. Join the fun! An advantage is that you could sweat. It would be like doing your aerobics. Same amount of weight loss, but more fun. Think positive. You can enjoy the holidays and good food without obsessing over your diet. Be confident that it is possible.

VOTE TODAY • Visit www.inglewoodtoday.com

Would you like to see NFL Football in Inglewood?

Inglewood Today

December 25, 2014

Page 5

C OMMUNITY

Nearly Three Million Passengers Expected at LAX during Holiday Season

Airline Industry Predicts LAX Will Be Second Busiest U.S. Airport This Holiday

irport officials forecast that nearly 2.97 million passengers will pass through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) this upcoming holiday travel season, a 4.1 percent increase over last year’s 2.85 million actual passengers. The 14-day holiday travel period begins Friday, December 19, and continues through Friday, January 2, 2015. Monday, December 22; Tuesday, December 23; Friday, December 26; and Monday, December 29 are forecasted to be the busiest days of the holiday period with all four days exceeding 211,000 passengers. Because New Year’s Day will occur on Thursday, the weekend of Saturday, January 3 through Monday, January 5 will extend the travel season with additional daily passenger levels exceeding 200,000 travelers. Fewer travelers will fly on Christmas and New Year days. According to Airlines for America (A4A), the U.S. airline industry association, LAX will b––e the second busiest U.S. airport this holiday, behind Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Passengers should expect to see

busy terminals and many domestic flights 95 percent full or fully booked. Travel experts attribute the increase at LAX to several new international air carriers, as well as more available seats as some airlines add flights to new cities, use larger aircraft, or reconfigure existing aircraft with more seats on selected flights. Airport officials recommend passengers planning to depart LAX during daily peak travel periods— from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.; from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. —arrive in their airlines’ ticketing lobbies two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Holiday Entertainment and Activities To spread holiday cheer, in-terminal entertainment and activities are scheduled, including: musical performances by local schools, universities, and community choirs; visits and photos with Santa Claus and LAX’s popular PUPs (Pets Unstressing Passengers) therapy dogs; and children’s arts-and-crafts ac-

tivities at designated “Holiday Hangars” locations. Airline terminals also are decorated with red banners designed with “snowflakes” made of airplanes and with poinsettias placed on baggage-claim carousels, while wreaths are hung on LAX shuttle buses. Some airlines added their own decorations. Ongoing Construction Impacts to Roadways, Sidewalks and Terminals LAX’s multi-billion-dollar modernization program is still on-going, and passengers should allow extra time to ensure they arrive in their airline terminals on time. Visitors can expect to see construction along Central Terminal Area roadways; in Parking Structures 3 and 4 where some elevators will be out of service; and inside Terminals 1, 2, 5, 6, 7/8, and the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Anticipating an increase in the number of travelers using LAX during the holiday season, there will be periodic construction moratoriums from December 19 through January 5, 2015, on projects causing signifi-

cant impacts to passenger flow. If coming to the airport, passengers should look for and follow the comprehensive way-finding signage near all construction sites to ensure their safety and to enhance mobility. For real-time information on the status and locations of airport construction and traffic conditions, visit www.LAXisHappening.com. In-Terminal Passenger Assistance To help departing passengers catch their flights on time, the airport will continue its popular Los Angeles World Airports employee volunteer program, “Holiday Helpers.” Wearing red vests, airport employees will roam the Upper/Departures Level in all terminals on the busiest days of the holiday season. This is in addition to the Volunteer Information Professionals and Customer Service Representatives regularly assigned to assist passengers in the terminals. LAX’s cadre of trained therapy dogs and handlers, called PUPs (Pets Unstressing Passengers), will (Continued on page 7)

Inglewood Today

Page 6

December 25, 2014

Business

Allstate Agency Owner Billy Campbell Honored Named Premier Agency for 2014

As a business leader and involved citizen in the Inglewood area, Allstate exclusive agency owner Billy Campbell has been designated an Allstate Premier Agency for 2014. This designation is being presented to Billy Campbell for outstanding business performance and commitment to putting customers at the center of his agency’s work. Billy Campbell’s agency is located at 2300 W Manchester Blvd. in Inglewood and can be reached at (323) 750-1777 or http://agents.allstate.com/billy-campbell-inglewood-ca.html.

ACLU Wins Lawsuit Against County Sheriffs

n American Civil Liberties Union federal class-action lawsuit, alleging a pattern of violence in county jails, saw victory on Dec. 16. A settlement was reached, which will require the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to overhaul its policies and practices on the use of force against inmates. Under the settlement, the Sheriff’s Department will adopt a comprehensive plan by a three-member panel of experts to overhaul use-offorce policies. The panel will also act as an independent monitor to oversee compliance with the plan, according to the ACLU. Newly elected Sheriff Jim McDonnell, who sat on the Citizens Commission on Jail Violence, said “I welcome the opportunity to work together with the designated experts, the court and others to implement these changes. We have made tremendous progress and will continue to improve and work hard in key areas.” County Supervisor Mark RidleyThomas also praised the agreement, which was approved by the Board of Supervisors in a closed-door meeting the same day. “Today’s settlement of Rosas vs. Baca, a federal class-action suit that brought to light a pattern of unbridled violence by some Los Angeles Coun-

ty sheriff deputies in the jails, closes a dark chapter in the history of the Los Angeles County justice system,” Ridley-Thomas said. “No one—not pretrial detainees, mentally ill inmates or those convicted of crimes—deserves to be treated inhumanely while in the custody of his or her government.” The agreement must now be approved by a federal judge, according to the ACLU. Once that happens, it will mandate policy improvements which include enhanced deputy training related to the treatment of inmates with mental illness, use of force, custody training, tracking and handling of detainee’s complaints and grievances. The Citizens’ Commission on Jail Violence was formed by the Board of Supervisors in 2012 after the ACLU released a 2011 report of deputies using excessive force on detainees, which resulted in serious injuries and even death. The ACLU sued the county on behalf of Alex Rosas and Jonathan Goodwin, two pretrial detainees who said they were beaten by deputies. The federal suit cited alleged violations of the Eighth Amendment, which gives detainees the right to be free of cruel and unusual punishment. In addition to the moral victory, the county must pay $950,000 to the ACLU SoCal to cover payments to the plaintiffs in the class-action suit as well as attorneys’ fees and expenses.

Black Lives Matter Shuts Down America’s Largest Mall

merica’s largest mall was the scene of thousands of holiday shoppers colliding with political protestors last Saturday. The massive protests, organized by Black Lives Matter with the help of Facebook, is a continuance of the outcry from recent high-profile deaths of two unarmed black men Michael Brown and Eric Garner by white police officers. In each case, grand juries failed to indict police. Garner’s incident was recorded by a civilian. Mall of America, which boasts 500 stores and an amusement park, was upstaged by shouts of an estimated 3,000 demonstrators, according to CNN. At least 25 arrests were made at the Bloomington, MN megamall. Management said protestors ignored warnings to keep the demonstration off Mall of America property. Protestors shouted that the mall is public property. Protestors gathered in the Rotunda area of the mall, holding signs and chanting. Some passed out pamphlets and raised their arms over their heads, a gesture to illustrate that Brown was shot and killed while allegedly surrendering to police. Others wore tee-shirts with the words, “I can’t breathe”—a complaint Garner made to the New York cop who placed him in a chokehold that eventually contributed to his death. A young white woman told CNN:

Clean Christmas trees up to 10 feet in length, without stands and ornaments, will be picked up at curbside on your regularly scheduled service day beginning December 26th and continuing through the second Saturday in January

Please Note:

This service is for approximately Two Weeks Only!

“I’m here to help fight the violence that’s going on and bring awareness to what’s happening. Black lives are just as important as mine and the color of your skin shouldn’t determine what happens out there on the street.” Protestors occupied 2 levels of the mall, causing mall management to close stores on one side. “Die-ins” were staged in front of retail shops. The mall was shut down for 2 hours as management and police tried to move protestors out on one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Despite the massive numbers of protests and the potential for con-

flict, however, one protestor said police were patient with the crowd, giving them multiple chances to leave before arresting them. “They could have arrested me, but they didn’t,” a man said, adding that he left shortly after being warned, not wanting to test the limits of that patience. Bloomington City Attorney Sandra Johnson expects to file criminal charges against Black Lives Matter organizers.

December 25, 2014

Inglewood Today

Page 7

D at e s i n D e c e m b e r & J a n u a ry learn how to integrated marketing and communication strategies. Takes place from 11am to 12pm PST. Attendees will have the chance to win 100 hours of pro bono public relations services, a $10,000 minimum value. Reservations required at www.media.bellamypr.com. Cost is $25.00. Webinar login details will be emailed to you once you register. For more information visit www. theprproject.org.

December 31, 2014 New Year’s Eve Block Party and Club Event Go to two parties for the price of one on New Year’s Eve. Downtown Long Beach is shutting down for a block party on Pine Avenue between Broadway and 4th Street. There will be 3 stages of live entertainment and DJs; and 12 bars with outdoor drinking Mardi Gras style.

The party continues at Cuban Pete’s Mojito Lounge/Hip Hop Night Club. Must be 21 and older. Enjoy Hip Hop, Top 40 and Reggae in the Main Night Club. Dance to Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and Rock en Espanol in the Mojito Lounge. Cuban Pete’s Mojito Lounge and Hip Hop Night Club is located at 245 Pine Avenue #290, Long Beach, California 90802 (Pine Avenue and 3rd Street. Upstairs above Alondra Hot Wings). Dress code: trendy (no tees, no hats, no baggy jeans). Both parties will run simultaneously from 8pm to 2am. Cost is $25. Must reserve VIP bottle service before 10pm. For more information, call Mfanisi Norman at (562) 243-2581 or visit http://facebook.com/cubanpetesmojitoloungeandnight.

January 23, 2015 Brunch & Learn: New Year Strategic Planning for Small Businesses Learn how to identify and reach your target audience at this two-hour brunch workshop from 11am to 1pm at 5670 Wilshire Boulevard, 18th Floor, Los Angeles, CA. Elements of a communication plan will be covered in detail. After January 22, 2015 Public Relations with Passion this workshop, attendees will have and Purpose a draft of a comprehensive plan Kickstart your business success in complete with strategies and tac2015 with this online webinar. De- tics specific to their business goals signed for small business owners, and objectives. Attendees will also entrepreneurs and non-profits, you’ll have the chance to win 100 hours of

Leading by Example This Holiday Season (Continued from page 1) residents. “Members of the TDE team feel it is of utmost importance to give something back to the local communities, especially during the Christmas holiday season,” organizers said a press release. “It’s always so greatly rewarding to see such a festive spirit in the faces of young children when they receive a gift from Santa, especially as many of them may not have received a toy at all if not for the TDE team and those who support them, bringing their resources together.” The entire TDE roster is expected to perform, which is Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul, Jay Rock, SchoolBoy Q, Isaiah Rashad and SZA. TDE’s CEO, Top Dawg, said it was only right to have this event in the community that raised him. “Being one of those young boys

raised in the Nickerson Gardens projects I felt it’s my duty to bring the show back home,” he said. “Rather than just giving gifts for the holidays, I also wanted to bring something different and unique to my community.” Top Dawg has risen to international acclaim in the last 3 years with the release of Kendrick Lamar’s highly anticipated debut album, and Grammy-nominated, “Good Kid M.A.A.D City.” Following behind Kendrick is SchoolBoy Q, a South Central native who recently dropped his latest project titled, “Oxymoron,” which is also nominated for Best Hip Hop Album Grammy this year. It’s great to see that communities around the county are being lead in the holiday spirit by a group of young people who have come back to show support to the neighborhoods that gave them their first start.

Nearly Three Million Passengers Expected at LAX during Holiday Season (Continued from page 5) also roam through the boarding gate areas of each terminal to provide a less stressful airport environment by visiting passengers awaiting flights, providing comfort, and offering airport information.

December 28, 2014 Soul of Light Experience The Inglewood Center for Spiritual Living presents Antonio Newton’s Summit Symphony “Soul of Light Experience,” an exciting journey through technology, music, dance and cinema. To be held at the Inglewood Center for Spiritual Living, 525 N. Market Street, Inglewood. (1 block east of La Brea at Hyde Park) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. If you are a senior, or purchase more than one ticket, the price is just $20. For more information, call (386) 279-2005.

pro bono public relations services, a $10,000 minimum value. Reservations required. Register at www. media.bellamypr.com. Cost $99.00 and includes brunch and workshop materials. Workshop details will be emailed to you once you register. For more information visit www. theprproject.org. Ongoing Counseling for Anxiety, Depression Get free help for anxiety, depression, stress and anger. Recovery International provides tools and practice in changing thinking habits so individuals can gain personal control over distressing emotions and improve life-coping skills. This worldwide non-profit organization, founded in 1937, holds weekly meetings every Monday at 6:00 p.m. at SHARE! 6666 Green Valley Circle, north of Centinela Ave. (2nd building on the right). Call 310-322-6411 for more information, or visit www. lowselfhelpsystems.org. A donation is requested but not required.

LAX, including: taxis, door-todoor shuttle vans, long- distance buses and local buses, Metro Rail to the Green Line/Aviation Station, and the LAX FlyAway® nonstop bus service. The daily, convenient and economical FlyAway® service isavailable at Hollywood, Santa Monica, Union Station, Van Nuys, and Westwood. Fares on all routes are $8 one way, except Westwood General Travel Tips at $10 one way. Two children age Most domestic air travelers can 5 and under may ride free with each save time and avoid ticketing coun- paying adult. For more information (Continued on page 8) ter lines by checking in for their flights through their airlines’ Internet websites before coming to the Space for Lease airport. Passengers also can check on flight status and sign up to re- • 1,520 Sq. Ft. Commercial/Retail Space ceive electronic alerts from their • Ideal for Beauty Supply Shop, Mini Market, 99 Cents Store, Sports airlines about their flights. Goods or Clothing Store, etc. To avoid the hassles of driving • Visit the Site at 2105 W. Century Blvd., L.A., then contact property manager at and finding a place to park, airport (213) 712-5000 or brokerysn@gmail. officials encouragepassengers to com. take public transportation to/from

Sleepy Hollow in Torrance

Inglewood ‘Must See’ for Holiday Lights (Continued from page 2) Neighborhood Sites Altadena Christmas Tree Lane (626) 403-1123 Santa Rosa Ave. between Altadena Drive and Woodbury Road. Call for directions. Turn off your headlights and drive through three very long blocks of large trees sweeping over the street, highly decorated with colored lights. Those who have made the drive say it is well worth it.

Nearly Three Million Passengers Expected at LAX during Holiday Season (Continued from page 7) and to purchase tickets online, visitwww.LAXFlyAway.org. Motorists picking up arriving passengers can wait up to two hours for free in the LAX Cell Phone Waiting Lot for their passengers to call to say they are ready for pick up in front of their terminal. The lot is located at 96th Street and Vicksburg, adjacent to the southwest entrance of LAX Economy Parking Lot C. Passengers should always ensure that any carry-on baggage complies with the airline’s size and weight limitations and that they do not contain items prohibited by federal law. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website at www.tsa.gov lists items that are permitted onboard with passengers, items which must be packed in checked luggage, and items totally prohibited on flights. U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) website at www.cbp.gov advises travelers on what items can be brought into the U.S. from overseas. Both federal agencies offer programs that passengers can sign up for to expedite processing through their respective inspection areas. The TSA Pre-v (Pre-Check) Program is currently available for passengers traveling on most of the major domestic airlines serving LAX including: Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, United, USAir-

Balian House 1960 Mendocino Ln Altadena, CA 91001 Close to Christmas Tree Lane, this mansion is home to the famous ice cream manufacturer, and sits on 3.5 acres decorated with 10,000 colored lights and numerous holiday depictions. Lots of photo opportunities. Long Beach Christmas Tree Lane 562-570-4450 Daisy Avenue between Willow Street & Pacific Coast Highway Celebrating Daisy Avenue’s 23 lighted and decorated Christmas trees. Musical entertainment is featured on weekends.

ways, and Virgin America. The CBP Global Entry Program expedites international arriving passengers through the passport control process. Additional time-saving tips to help motorists and pedestrians navigate LAX during the holiday season can be found at www.LAXisHappening.com/holiday. Airline Relocations During 2014, the following airlines relocated to other terminals: • US Airways now operates in Terminal 6. • Air New Zealand now operates in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. • United Airlines no longer operates in Terminal 6, but continues in Terminals 7 and 8. New Dining and Shopping Passengers can do holiday shopping in any of the terminals. TSA recently started a new policy that allows travelers holding boarding passes for same-day departures to process through passenger security screening in any terminal, regardless of their airline’s terminal, to shop and dine. New restaurants and shops opened since last year offering passengers more dining, shopping, and personal service options, include: • Terminal 4: Kogi BBQ Taco Truck, Campanile, Cole’s (originators of the French dip), La Provence Patisserie & Café, Real

The Grove in Los Angeles

Public Attractions Los Angeles L.A. Zoo Lights (323) 644-4747 5333 Zoo Drive. Call for directions. Dazzling nighttime winter wonderland of awe-inspiring animal escapades rendered in led lights, lasers, 3d projections, spectacular sets and interactive displays. Light shows begin every hour between 6 and 11pm. Tickets are between $11 and $13 each. Children 2 and under are free. The Grove 323-900-8080 Third Street, just east of Fairfax Avenue Here you’ll find a 100’ tall Christmas tree, a magical snowfall, San-

Food Daily, and 8 oz. Burger Bar. • Terminal 5: Ford’s Filling Station and The Original Farmers Market • Terminal 7 : The Counter, Loteria Grill!, BLD, Yogurtland, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Rolling Stone Bar & Grill • T erminal 8 : Engine Co. No. 28 • New Tom Bradley International Terminal (New TBIT): Lucky Fish, III Forks, Petrossian Caviar & Champagne Bar, Larder at Tavern, 800 Degrees Pizza, Pinkberry, and James’ Beach. Also, a 971-square-foot children’s play area called “LAX Beach” features hand-painted, soft, sculpted foam pieces resembling beachscapes is open in New TBIT, beyond passenger security screening. Timely information on flight status, traffic conditions, and other travel tips is available on LAX’s Internet website at www.lawa.org/lax, and LAX’s Twitter @flyLAXairport and Facebook atwww.facebook.com/LAInternationalAirport. Los Angeles Airport Police’s Twitter @LAAirportPD also provides up-to-date information on traffic and parking conditions at LAX.

ta’s Cottage, and holiday entertainment at the trendy outdoor mall next door to Farmer’s Market in L.A.’s Fairfax District. Beverly Hills Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel (310) 275-5200 or (800) 545-4000 On Wilshire Blvd. & Rodeo Drive Twinkle lights and red ribbons adorn the trees, lavish holiday displays decorate the shop windows, poinsettias are planted in the center divider, and the infamous “Pretty Woman” hotel, The Regent Beverly Wilshire, is bejeweled with lights and interior decorations. Make a day of it and stop in for Afternoon Tea at the Regent. *Use Google Map or Mapquest for directions.

mercial air carriers. LAX ranks 14th in the world and fifth in the U.S. in air cargo tonnage processed, with over 1.9 million tons of air cargo valued at over $91.6 billion. An economic study in 2011 reported that operations at LAX generated 294,400 jobs in Los Angeles County with labor income of $13.6 billion and economic output of more than $39.7 billion. This activity added $2.5 billion to local and state revenues. LAX is part of a system of three Southern California airports – along with LA/Ontario International and Van Nuys general aviation—that are owned and operated by Los Angeles World Airports, a proprietary department of the City of Los Angeles that receives no funding from the City’s general fund. For more information about LAX, please visit www.lawa.aero/lax or follow on Twitter@flyLAXAirport, on Facebook at www.facebook. com/LAInternationalAirport, and on YouTube atwww.YouTube.com/ laxairport1. As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disAbout Los Angeles ability and, upon request, will proInternational Airport (LAX) vide reasonable accommodation to LAX is the sixth busiest airport ensure equal access to its programs, in the world and third in the United services, and activities. Alternative States, serving nearly 66.7 million formats in large print, braille, audio, passengers in 2013. LAX offers 692 and other forms (if possible) will be daily nonstop flights to 85 cities in the provided upon request. U.S. and 928 weekly nonstop flights © 2014 Los Angeles World Airto 67 cities in 34 countries on 62 com- ports. All rights reserved.