July 23, 2015

Your Community Connection since 1994

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 24, No. 30

July 23, 2015

Inglewood Welcomes Team Jamaica

By Thomas Bunn

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ith 6,500 athletes and 2,000 coaches representing 165 countries, along with 30,000 volunteers and an anticipated 500,000 spectators, the 2015 Special Olympics World Games—being staged in Los Angeles this summer—will be the largest sports and humanitarian event anywhere in the world in 2015, and the single biggest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games.

Inglewood’s nickname— “City of Champions”—is a fitting moniker for its role as a host town for the Special Olympics World Games this summer.

The title

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

Inglewood Schools Have $90 Million Bond Fund

T was born during the 1932 Olympics. It was sustained throughout the years with championship horse racing at the iconic Hollywood

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Park Racetrack and championship basketball with the “Showtime LA Lakers” who played at what is now the revitalized Fabulous Forum. As many as 100 cities will serve as host towns supporting the Games.

As the 2015 Torch Run began at Grace and Prairie Avenue, final leg athletes shared the torch in international camaraderie, shouting out each participant’s hometown, which stretched from California to Taiwan.

Runners made their way down Prairie Ave. and into the Fabulous Forum where

they were welcomed by a sea of spectators. Mayor James Butts and Chief Mark Fronterotta were gifted with gold coins as a token of appreciation.

Stephanie Lindsey, one of the final leg participants, and Jamaican Superintendent of Police, said “It’s an honor to be selected to be part of this group of wonderful law enforcement officers, and Olympians from right around the world, who are participating in this final leg run. Today we have 87 persons from Jamaica, (Continued on page 12)

Mysterious Bland Case to Be Investigated as Murder

he FBI has joined an investigation into the mysterious death of 28 year-old Chicago woman.

Sandra Bland was arrested in Texas after a cop pulled her over for a moving violation.

She had just been offered a job at her alma mater, Prairie View A&M University. She was found dead in her jail cell at the Waller County Jail (Continued on page 10)

Sandra Bland being arrested.

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he Inglewood Unified School District took a step on July 16 toward cleaning up, renovating, and improving its dilapidated school facilities.

School officials installed an 11-member citizen committee that will oversee the district as it taps into a $90 million bond fund for school improvements. Voters approved the bonds in November 2012.

The money has gone unspent despite unsafe and unsanitary school conditions detailed last year in a KPCC investigation.

Dr. Don Brann “Tonight is a milestone,” Don Brann, the state appointed trustee who runs the school district, said at a Thursday evening meeting attended by Tom Torlakson, the California superintendent of public instruction.

The state took over Inglewood Unified in September 2012 after the school board asked for a $55 million bailout loan. Torlakson appointed Brann as the district’s third trustee in 2013.

Under the takeover, the district’s elected school (Continued on page 2)

Page 2

Inglewood Today

July 23, 2015

Community Inglewood Schools Have $90 Million Bond Fund (Continued from page 1) board members act as advisors to the state trustee.

Brann announced in June that he plans to leave his post sometime this year, raising worries among some in Inglewood that progress in fixing the district will be slowed.

Torlakson told KPCC he won’t name a successor to Brann until after schools resume in the fall.

“What we are doing is meeting with various groups to find out what the qualities they are looking for in the next administrator, what they think the strengths of the district are today, what they think the weaknesses of the district are and how that could be addressed by the new administrator,” Torlakson said.

Torlakson has been criticized by some in Inglewood who say he hasn’t appointed a trustee knowledgeable about the needs of Inglewood’s schools. The district largely serves Latino and African-American students while Brann is white.

While the new oversight committee could not approve or stop bond spending, it would serve as a watchdog over improvements approved by the state trustee. California law requires the committee be in place before any of the bond money can be spent.

School Board Chair Margaret Richards-Bowers told the bond committee and school officials that improve-

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

A portion of the bond money will be used to totally rebuild Inglewood High School. ments to the district’s facilities should they can learn in.” have begun soon after the 2012 elecBrann said he and previous school tion when voters approved the bonds. leaders gave priority to more urgent “This should really start immedi- matters, such as balancing the disately. We have the money, we have trict’s budget. a committee now,” she said.

He didn’t give a start date for the Parents attending Thursday’s first facilities project, but said all meeting said the changes can’t hap- but one of the district’s 16 schools pen soon enough. They said parents need major repairs. He said he and have long waited for improvements his team have come up with a list of to Inglewood schools, and they improvement projects that include haven’t happened. the total rebuilding of Inglewood About the need for improve- High School. ments to district schools, TorlakKelly Iwamoto, president of the son said: “This is about respecting teachers’ union, said she’s worried students, and you respect students new leadership will derail progby providing them school facili- ress in the district and questioned ties, you tell them that school is whether the next trustee will agree important and education is impor- with the improvement plans. tant by having great facilities that Source: 89.3 KPCC

Quality Control Manager Gloria Kennedy Inglewood Today Weekly is a legally

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July 21, 2015 marked an historic moment in the nation’s capitol as throngs gathered to witness the raising of the flag of Cuba over the Cuban embassy. It is the first time the flag has flown in Washington since the U.S. broke off diplomatic relations with the communist country 54 years ago.

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

July 23, 2015

Page 3

Community

Children Take a Stand Against Neighborhood Oil Drilling

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n Monday, youth from two summer programs in South Los Angeles took to the streets dressed as bright yellow birds to demonstrate that they, their families, and their neighbors should not be treated like canaries in a coal mine because of the two oil drilling operations less than 35 feet away from homes in the community.

The two drill sites, Jefferson and Murphy, are operated by Freeport McMoRan Oil and Gas (FMOG), whose regular operations include parking tanker trucks full of toxic acid next to homes and plaguing

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residents with noxious fumes, loud noises, heavy truck traffic, and the persistent risk of catastrophic accidents. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has never been conducted at these sites, and as FMOG tries to expand capacity by adding new equipment to the Murphy drill site, the children are calling on L.A. City Council President Herb Wesson to stand with them in opposing it.

The Murphy and Jefferson drill sites are within a mile of one another and connected by a network of underground pipes. By installing additional equipment to burn off the

explosive gas generated by oil drilling, FMOG will be able to increase the amount of drilling at both sites, endangering the health and safety of the surrounding community, which includes three elementary schools within four blocks.

“We know oil drilling has negative impacts on community health,” said Richard Parks, President of Redeemer Community Partnership.

“The last thing we should be doing is allowing Freeport to expand capacity at these drill sites. We need our city leadership to listen to the community and protect our kids

from neighborhood drilling.”

The students, who attend the summer programs Adventures Ahead, run by Redeemer Community Partnership (RCP), and the Freedom School, run by Holman United Methodist Church (UMC), have spent their summer learning about social movements, the important role children have played in advancing these causes, and the value of advocating for your community.

“We are teaching our kids that their voices matter and that they can make a difference in their (Continued on page 6)

SBWIB Teen Center Youth Participate in “A Day in the Life of a College Student”

ifteen South Bay Area 8th grade students participated in the 2nd Annual “A Day in the Life of a College Student,” July 14-15, 2015, which included tours, workshops, and an overnight stay on campus at California State University Dominguez Hills (CSUDH).

The Inglewood and Hawthorne and Teen Centers are administered by the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) through its One-Stop Centers and partners with CSUDH, which made the college experience tour possible. The tour is just one aspect of the South Bay Promise program, which helps area students to begin thinking about planning for their college education.

Fifteen students from the five area school districts (Inglewood Unified School District, Hawthorne School District, Wiseburn Unified School District, Lenox School District, and Lawndale Elementary School District) participated in the experience. The students participated in a college workshop, a financial aid info session (FAFSA), campus highlights, college tour, Greek/club life at the campus introduction, as well as an overnight stay in the dorms

at Dominguez Hills to complete their full college experience.

The South Bay Promise was developed by leaders from California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), El Camino College (ECC), Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD), Centinela Valley Union High School District (CVUHSD) and the SBWIB. South Bay Promise is designed to strengthen and create a seamless transition from IUSD’s Inglewood, Morningside, City Honors College Preparatory high schools and CVUHSD’s Hawthorne, Lawndale and Leuzinger high schools to college. Through the program, Inglewood Unified and Centinela Valley Union

High School District students can qualify for guaranteed admission to El Camino College and/or California State University, Dominguez Hills. Upon completion of 60 semester credits, the El Camino College students are guaranteed transfer acceptance to CSUDH. Gabriella Goetz, Senior Career Services Manager, Inglewood One-Stop, said “The students were very excited

to have participated and wished the tour and experience could be longer. Many of them want to attend the school (CSUDH) and now know what they need to do to prepare and make it happen.”

Jan Vogel stated, “We need to get to kids as early as possible so they develop positive study habits going into high school and set themselves up for college. This is a great opportunity for students to see what life could be like as a college students and envisioning themselves in that role. CSUDH deserves a special note of thanks for making this possible and we hope to have even more participants next year. ”

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Inglewood Today

July 23, 2015

Eye on the City

Free Speech Debate Continues

By Veronica Mackey

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uesday’s council meeting agenda was light. Except for comments about the City’s engagement in a copyright lawsuit, matters remained largely on track.

The council approved: • Denial of a claim for property damage on May 27, 2015; • A one-year agreement with Ellison Wilson Advocacy, LLC to provide legislative advocacy services for the City in the amount of $27,200; Inglewood City Council • An amendment to an agreement with Atkins Global North America, Inc., to provide on-call • A cooperative purchase agreesider adoption of an amendment consultant services for the Hollyment and five-year Microsoft to modify planning and zoning wood Park Project; licensing agreement renewal regulations for land use defini• Bi-Party agreements to provide with CompuCom in the annual tions and signage. plan check on-call consultant seramount of $98,473.09 (total of • A salary ordinance was passed, vices for a potential stadium and $492,365.45). which reflects an update to the performance venue at Hollywood • Two public hearings, which were Fiscal Year 2014-2015 budget.

Park. Consulting firms in the set for August 4, 2015, at 2:00 • A transfer in the amount of agreement are: Nabih Youssef p.m. The first will consider adop$964,971, which will be made Associates; Thornton Tomasetti; tion of a zoning code amendment from the General Fund to the LiGlumac; Amec Foster Wheeler; to billboards and off-site sign ability/Worker’s Compensation and Shannon & Wilson, Inc.; regulations. The second will conClaim for Fiscal Year 2014-2015.

Resident Nia Taylor said she was “very encouraged” about the Market Street development and future Metro Rail station, but wants assurance that the community will remain a top priority. After attending a recent community meeting with developers, Taylor commented. “I didn’t feel we had a lot of information. Most of the focus was about people coming off the train. The community did not have a major focus. I’m concerned about the development company not having a focus on the community.” Taylor offered her help in getting more residents involved and improving communication about the project on social media. “I am here and I’m ready to be used,” she said.

Mina Torres, principal investigator for an eye study offered by the Dept. of Ophthalmology at USC, shared important health information. The African American Eye Study is currently offering free, (Continued on page 5)

Pick up your copy of Inglewood Today at one of these locations: 1 Stop Mini-Mart, 420 E. Florence Ave. AAA, 1234 N. Centinela Ave. A-Man Inc., 101 La Brea Ave. Airport Gas, 501 Hillcrest St. Allstate, 2300 W. Manchester Bl. Anthony’s Autobody and Painting, 259 N. LaBrea Ave. Bayou Grill, 1400 N. La Brea Ave. Big 5 Sporting Goods (1), 301 S. Market St. Big 5 Sporting Goods (2), 11310 Crenshaw Bl. 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 Cleaners, 1413 Centinela Ave. 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. D’Menace Copies, 254 North Market St. Darby Park, 3400 W. Arbor Vitae Diamond Beauty Supply, 1300 N. Centinela Ave. Dr. Daniel’s Weight Loss Program, 105 S. Locust St. 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 El Super, 3321 West Century Blvd.

Fabulous Burger, 1315 Centinela Ave., Fabulous Forum, 1 West Manchester Bl. Faithful Central Bible Church, 333 W. Florence Ave. Family Fish Market, 1300 Centinela Ave. Fatburger, 3020 W. Manchester Ave. Fiesta Martin Mexican Grill, 1330 N. La Brea Ave. Foreign Car Repairs & Sales, 1110 Centinela Ave. Fabulous Forum, 1 West Manchester Bl.

Gin’s Liquor, 11001 Crenshaw Bl. Gonzales Northgate Market, 10801 Prairie Ave. Happy Time Liquor, 730 E. La Brea Ave. Heart & Soul Grill, 128 N. Market St. Hollywood Park Casino, 1050 S. Prairie Ave. House of Tacos and Pupuseria, 254 North Market St. 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. Instant Print, Inc., 425 E. Manchester Bl. 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. Kwin Service Gasoline, 1235 W. Centinela Ave. L&L Paralegal Services, 171 N. LaBrea 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 Orleans & York (1), 400 E. Florence Ave. Orleans & York (2), 4454 W. Slauson Ave., LA 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 St. Mary’s Academy, 701 Grace Ave. Starbucks, 5301 Centinela Ave. Starbucks, 941 N. La Brea Ave. Starbucks on Century Stuff I Eat, 114 N. Market St. Sunrise Groceries, 1400 N. Centinela Ave. Super Fish Market, 11007 S Crenshaw Bl. Superior Groceries, 11202 S Crenshaw Bl. TenderCare Child Development Center, 335 E. Spruce Ave. 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 Water 4 U, 254 W. Market St. Westchester Villa Senior Living, 220 W. Manchester Bl. Whitehorse Fish Market, 3119 W. Imperial Hwy. Whole Foods, 4508 Overhill (Slauson) Wilder’s Preparatory Academy Charter School, 830 N. La Brea Ave. 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) Zahra’s Books “N” Things, 900 N. La Brea Ave.

Inglewood Today

July 23, 2015

P u b l i s h e r ’ s Me s s a g e

Protecting the Value and Cultural Legacy of Inglewood

Page 5

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ajor business development in Inglewood and certain areas of L.A. will inevitably change property values and demographics. This point was brought home recently in an L.A. Times article.

It focuses largely on View Park and the current battle over placing it in the National Registry of Historic Places. Some say the designation is a real estate ploy to get more whites to buy property there. As the L.A. Times points out, whites can no longer afford to turn their noses up at property in the black community, now that Westside prices have gone through the roof.

Whites are moving back to View Park and other predominately black areas of Los Angeles. Blacks fear the African American cultural identity in these geographic areas will become lost. Opponents of the designation feel one of Black L.A.’s best neighborhoods is about to become eaten up—overtaken by outsiders whose sole motivation is to make a profit.

Along with nearby Windsor Hills, Baldwin Hills and Ladera Heights, View Park is considered “Black Beverly Hills”—a distinction which has become a source of pride for upwardly mobile African Americans. It is not only the Black L.A. cultural Mecca, but is home to Black L.A. affluence. This makes the area all the more valuable to homeowners, and something that is to be fiercely protected.

According to Zillow.com, blacks are denied home loans at twice the rate of whites. This makes it less competitive for non-black buyers

Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly to cash in on real estate in areas like View Park. It is easier for banks, flippers and non-African Americans to grab foreclosed properties.

No wonder there has been an overall drop in Los Angeles’ black population, from 17% in the 1970s and 1980s to 9.6% in 2010.

Although Inglewood does not boast the higher incomes or property values of View Park, it is one of the few areas of the county that caters to African Americans. Now, with plans for a sports stadium, construction of 3,000 new homes at Hollywood Park, and other major developments, Inglewood could find itself struggling to maintain its own cultural identity.

Its current demographic of 44% African Americans and 51% Latinos (2010 U.S. Census) is certain to be upset as the money poured into new developments attracts those looking for a stake in Inglewood’s future. The City will no doubt experience an influx of new faces.

Mayor Butts recently announced that home values have risen by 51%. Still, compared to other

nearby areas, Inglewood is one of the most affordable cities in L.A. County to purchase a home. The question is, how long will this opportunity last?

Change is inevitable. But that does not mean current residents have to become invisible. Holding our own requires that those currently in Inglewood take a more active role in civic affairs. Residents will need to become more vocal in the community, take steps to increase the value of their property and build strong businesses. They must show up in greater

numbers at community meetings and be included in the decisions that will determine how the City moves forward in the future.

It all begins with knowledge—talking to neighbors, getting involved with block clubs and business groups, and reaching out to city officials. It will take doing research on various projects in the City, and staying informed.

Gentrification is a way of life, but you can take steps to protect what is yours.

Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) comprehensive eye exams to all Inglewood residents who are African American, age 40 and older.

The study is part of a research project to determine the prevalence and causes of eye conditions affecting African Americans. It is funded by the National Eye Institute.

“Close to 2,000 Inglewood residents have participated,” Torres said. “We will be here for another 21/2 years and we need your help to spread the news…At the end of the study, we will provide a summary report and we will also provide a gift certificate for Target for their time. We urge residents to talk to their field representatives when they come to their door.”

The African American Eye Study is being conducted at 110 S. La Brea Ave. in Inglewood. To make an appointment, call (323) 8656912.

Closing remarks were brief and general: Councilman George Dotson recently met with members of the Queen St. Block Club. “They are very satisfied with the streets (improvements),” he reported. “But everyone wanted to know when their street will be done. I explained everyone’s street will be done, but it has to be done in an orderly manner.”

Councilman Ralph Franklin recognized the Vega family for their hard work and contributions to Inglewood. The family, who owns La Sinaloense Market at 10500 S.

Prairie Ave., has operated the market for 31 years. “The parents are transferring title of ownership to their children. Hats off to them. They are valued in the City of Inglewood, and they are long time investors,” Franklin said.

Concilman Eloy Morales congratulated Inglewood Police Chief Mark Fronterotta for an award he received.

“We are grateful to have him,” Morales said.

Mayor James Butts responded to criticisms that the city’s lawsuit involving possible video copyright infringement and the reduction of time for general comments to oneminute is a violation of free speech.

The public is allowed three minutes to speak on topics related to the agenda.

“They are hyperbolizing be-

cause the City is engaged in a lawsuit, and so now I’m a ‘dictator.’ It tells me people need something to cling to…We spent some $60,000 to stand up (lawsuit), and every decision won’t pan out, but we’re running around 99 percent right now and I’m proud of that,” Mayor Butts said.

He added that “We (City) have money in the bank, crime is down, economic activity is up, and our fiscal situation is unprecedented.

So if you need (to say) that we are somehow against the flag and free speech, we’ll take your arguments.

But we’re not dictators and we’re not trying to stop anybody from speaking.”

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Inglewood Today

Page 6

July 23, 2015

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

African-Americans Face Twice the Rate of Sudden Cardiac Arrest, Compared to Caucasians New Study in Medical Journal Circulation Also Shows African-Americans with Sudden Cardiac Arrest Are Significantly Younger and Have Higher Prevalence of Diabetes and Hypertension

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ompared to Caucasians, African-Americans face twice the rate of sudden cardiac arrest, according to a new study from the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute.

The studys findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Circulation, result from the first scientific analysis comparing the detailed medical history of patients of different races who were stricken by the usually fatal condition. Approximately 350,000 die every year from sudden cardiac arrest in the U.S. “We do not know why AfricanAmericans are more likely to have sudden cardiac arrest,” said Kyndaron Reinier, PhD, lead author of the paper and research scientist in the Arrhythmia Research Laboratory at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute.

“It could be due to the higher burden of illnesses that increase risk of heart disease, like hypertension and diabetes. Or it could be genetic because we know that certain health conditions are more prevalent in particular groups of people. Or, the reason could be environmental, such as access to good healthcare.

But there is no doubt that there are differences between the races when it comes to clinical outcomes.”

The study came out of the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study, a comprehensive, 16-hospital, multiyear assessment of cardiac deaths in the 1 million population Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area. Led by Sumeet Chugh, MD, the project—

now ongoing for more than a decade—provides Chugh and his team with unique, community-based information to help determine the causes of sudden cardiac arrest.

Because sudden cardiac arrest is usually fatal, we have to prevent it before it strikes, said Chugh, senior author and associate director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute and the Pauline and Harold Price Professor of Cardiac Electrophysiology.

These findings suggest the possibility that when it comes to prevention of sudden cardiac death, different races and ethnicities may not necessarily be painted with one broad brush.

In this study, interviewers reviewed medical records of 126 African-Americans and 1,262 Caucasians with sudden cardiac arrest in the Portland area between Feb. 1, 2002 and Jan. 31, 2012. Among the study’s findings: • African-Americans were an average of six years younger when they experienced sudden cardiac arrest.

• The incidence of sudden cardiac arrest among African-American men was 175 per 100,000 people, compared to 84 per 100,000 for Caucasian men.

• For African-American women, the incidence was 90 per 100,000, compared to 40 per 100,000 for Caucasian women.

• 52 percent of African-American patients had diabetes, compared

to 33 percent of Caucasian patients.

• Hypertension, chronic kidney insufficiency and congestive heart failure also were significantly more prevalent among AfricanAmericans.

Although sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack often are used interchangeably, the terms are not synonymous. Unlike heart attacks (myocardial infarctions), which are typically caused by clogged coronary arteries reducing blood flow to the heart muscle, sudden cardiac arrest is the result of defective electrical activity of the heart. Patients may have little or no warning, and the disorder usually causes instantaneous death.

Sudden cardiac arrest has been blamed for the deaths of journalist Tim Russert and filmmaker John Hughes as well as U.S. Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman and professional basketball players Pete Maravich and Reggie Lewis.

As of this year, Chugh has expanded this study to Southern California with the goal of analyzing sudden cardiac arrests in more ethnically and racially diverse communities.

Chughs Arrhythmia Research Laboratory at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute is funded in part by National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute grants R01HL105170 and R01HL122492.

Children Take a Stand Against Oil Drilling (Continued from page 3) community,” said Pastor Kelvin Sauls, Head Pastor of Holman United Methodist Church. “Neighborhood drilling is unequivocally an issue of environmental justice.

This drill site is just steps from our church and our members live right across the street. Our children deserve to grow up in a community where they aren’t poisoned by toxic emissions.”

Children chanting “hey hey ho ho, oil drilling has to go!” walked from the Adventures Ahead center to the nearby Jefferson drill site, where they sang songs inside an eight foot tall birdcage and took photos in front of the gates with signs displaying how close they live to the site. The children then met at Holman UMC to march to the Murphy drill site carrying signs and singing songs. On the lawn in front of the gate, situated in between convalescent homes, schools and residential housing, the children cheered, “EIR! EIR! EIR!” Both RCP and Holman UMC are part of the Stand Together Against Neighborhood Drilling Los Angeles (STAND-LA) coalition, which is dedicated to safeguarding the well being, health and safety of Angelenos living and working in close proximity to oil drilling sites.

Place your DBAs, Probates, Trustee Notices, Legal Notices, Summons and more in Inglewood Today Print & Online Call: 310.670.9600

How to Identify Insect Bites

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unny summer days are meant for outdoor fun, but few things ruin time outside more quickly than bites from pests. Insect bites can result in consequences that range from minor, yet aggravating, irritation to extreme pain and even potentially fatal illnesses. If you are on the receiving end of a bite, it is important to detect which pest inflicted it so you can determine the best course of treatment, as well as investigate whether there is a pest problem on your property that warrants a call to your local pest control company.

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) offers the following information on how to identify the culprits of three common summertime bites:

Mosquitoes A mosquito bite typically results in a red, itchy bump on the skin.

Despite the temptation to scratch, doing so agitates the venom and increases the itchiness of the bite. All bites should be washed with soap and water, and the best remedies are antihistamines and anti-inflammatories. Anyone experiencing fever, head or body aches, skin rashes or swollen lymph glands following a bite could have been infected with potentially fatal West Nile virus and should seek medical attention.

Ticks Because of their small size, blacklegged deer tick bites frequently go unnoticed. However, these tiny

pests are vectors of Lyme disease, and the earlier you can identify a bite from a Lyme-infected tick, the sooner you can begin the necessary antibiotic treatments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a circular bullseye rash appears within 3-30 days of the bite in approximately 70-80 percent of infected persons. Anyone who develops this characteristic rash should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Red Imported Fire Ants Red imported fire ants are an aggressive species capable of stinging and injecting venom with their bites, causing an intense burning sensation. Red bumps form at the

sting, and within a day or two they become white fluid-filled pustules.

While the bites and stings are often excruciating, medical attention is typically only necessary for those who are severely allergic to the venom.

If you are repeatedly experiencing issues with these pests on your property or are concerned for the health and safety of your family, contact a local pest control company to evaluate the problem and determine the best course of treatment. Find a qualified pest control professional at PestWorld.org.

Source: NewsUSA

July 23, 2015

Inglewood Today

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Community

Planning Ahead – Part 2

By Anne Cheek La Rose

D

o you know this Greek mythology riddle of the Sphinx?

What goes on four legs in the morning, two legs in the middle of the day, and on three legs in the evening? The answer is man.

As we age, there may come a time when we need assistance to handle everyday needs—bathing, fixing meals, taking medications, etc.—or we may become seriously ill and require more intensive care.

We all have certain ideas of how we want things done and what we want done. Planning ahead with medical directives will make sure your wishes are honored.

Whether you rely on Medicare, Medigap, or Medi-Cal, the need for long-term care Insurance depends on your health, resources, and future care arrangements. It’s an additional expense, but depending on your health, this may be a good option.

A Power of Attorney is a written legal document that gives another the right and authority to act on your be-

Anne Cheek La Rose half. That authority will end if you become incapacitated unless you have a Durable Power of Attorney. A Durable Power of Attorney will still be in place if you become incapacitated and cannot handle your affairs.

The person named to act as your agent does not have to be an attorney, but it should be someone that you trust. Your Power of Attorney

can have as broad or narrow authority as you wish, like paying your bills or handling everything for you.

This document is almost always a safer way to go than adding someone—even one of your children to your bank account. Your agent serves without any compensation.

Before signing a Power of Attorney, make sure you completely understand the terms, and again, be absolutely sure your choice of agent is capable and trustworthy. Unscrupulous agents—even agents who are family members—have taken seniors life savings. This document will remain in place until your death.

An Advance Health Care Directive (the expanded form of a Living Will) is for when you cannot speak for yourself concerning your medical care, even future care and should include your wishes about life-support. In addition to naming an agent, you may also name an alternate.

This document can be revoked any time, as long as you are still com-

Supplier Diversity Progress Stalls

C

ontracting with Latino-owned companies plunges as energy & telecom company spending with minority-owned firms drops by $67 million.

Contracting with minority-owned businesses by California energy and telecommunications companies dropped in 2014 and contracting with Latino-owned businesses plunged to its lowest level in the past five years, the Greenlining Institute reports in its latest Supplier Diversity Report Card.

While the overall level of contracting with diverse businesses remains high, the drop represents a surprising interruption in years of steady progress.

“With leadership from the Public Utilities Commission, California companies still lead the nation in contracting with businesses owned by people of color, women and disabled veterans, but it’s worrisome to see progress stall this year,” said Greenlining Institute Energy and Telecommunications Policy Director Stephanie Chen.

“Supplier diversity brings jobs and business opportunities to underserved communities and helps companies get better products and services at lower cost. Companies that have been leaders need to reenergize their efforts to maintain that leadership.”

Among the report’s key findings: • Spending with diverse businesses

remains high, with two companies—Southern California Gas and Sprint—doing more than 30 percent of their contracting with minority-owned firms in 2014.

• Overall, spending with Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) declined by $67 million.

• The proportion of spending with Latino-owned businesses dropped by nearly 20 percent to its lowest level in the past five years. Lesser declines were seen in spending with Asian- and African American-owned firms.

• Sprint set a new record, reporting over 40 percent of its contracting with MBEs. “With Latinos emerging as California’s largest ethnic group, it’s disturbing to see such a large drop in contracting with Latino-owned businesses,” said Alice Perez, President and CEO of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce. “We need to ensure all barriers to contracting opportunities are removed and are working with several companies through our Procurement Mentorship Program to help businesses gain the experience needed to contract with larger companies.

Companies can boost value for their shareholders by seeking out the outstanding goods and services that diverse businesses can provide.”

The full report card is available online http://thegreenlininginstitute. pr-optout.com.

petent. Copies should be given to your agents, doctor, health plan representatives, and your family. Take a copy with you if you are admitted to a hospital or nursing home.

A form approved for use as of 2009, Physician Orders for LifeSustaining Treatment (POLST), is an excellent choice for those who are terminally ill, in frail health, or may become permanently unconscious. It is signed by your doctor and has the same force as a doctor’s medical order. In it, you give specific end-of-life treatment instructions regarding pain management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, feeding procedures and other medical interventions. This does not replace the above Advance Directive.

One last thing to consider is becoming an organ donor. When you are no longer here, your organs and tissue can help save the lives of others. Applications are available from DMV.

South Bay Workforce Investment Board Assists Job Seekers, Employers and Youth Through Government-Funded Programs

F

or more than 30 years, the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) has administered employment and training programs for LA County’s South Bay Area.

Within the 11 cities serviced (Carson, El Segundo, Gardena, Hawthorne, Hermosa Beach, Inglewood, Lawndale, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Lomita and Torrance), the SBWIB accomplishes its goals through partnerships with local committees handling business and economic development, One-Stop locations, performance and evaluation, as well as a Youth Development Council.

Through workforce investment funds, the SBWIB offers dislocated workers with free training programs and jobsearching resources. Job-searching equipment, as well as seminars, workshops and job placement assistance are available at the four One-Stop Business & Career Centers (Gardena, Inglewood, Carson and Torrance).

The SBWIB assists businesses through an innovative Rapid Response Program geared towards layoff aversion. Parker Hannifin Corporation’s Carson facility is a recent success story. An initial meeting revealed that nearly 60 employees lacked sufficient English skills and were facing potential layoff. A layoff aversion plan was formulated that resulted in the SBWIB approaching a local adult school partner to assess the employees’ English skill levels and set up on-site train-

ing. Since September, the affected employees have been attending Business English classes three days a week with several of those individuals now being considered for promotions.

Recruitment assistance, pre-screening of applicants, On-The-Job training and Transitional Subsidized Employment (TSE) are other programs available to local companies and small businesses.

The SBWIB also prepares youth for entry into the workforce by emphasizing education and services that promote relevant workplace skills and experiences leading to industry-recognized credentials and career pathway employment, including apprenticeships. Special emphasis is aimed at the reengagement of disconnected youth through intervention and prevention services.

The SBWIB is one of the highest performing Workforce Investment Boards (WIB) in the state and is often recognized by the California Workforce Investment Board (CWIB) for its achievements.

Continuous collaborations with business, economic development, education, government, labor and community organizations, helps the SBWIB provide a dynamic, efficient and effective workforce development system, ensuring a skilled workforce and vibrant economy in the South Bay Area.

310-970-7700 | www.sbwib.org | www.southbay1stop.org

Inglewood Today

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July 23, 2015

Community

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Recycle Used Motor Oil!

Finish the Job Right!

Join your Inglewood neighbors and recycle your used motor oil and oil filters.

It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s the right thing to do!

USED OIL Collection centers AutoZone* 433 N. La Brea Ave. Inglewood, CA 90302 (310) 673-4152

AutoZone* 2600 W. Manchester Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 942-8080

AutoZone* 10110 S. Hawthorne Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 412-8166

O’Reilly Auto Parts* 250 N. Market St. Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 673-0739

AutoZone* 2876 W. Imperial Hwy. Inglewood, CA 90303 (323) 777-7495

Pep Boys* 200 E. Spruce Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301 (323) 678-255

*

Please call the FREE Collection Center nearest you to verify hours of operation and the quantities of used motor oil and filters accepted.

CONTANIMATED MOTOR OIL IS NOT ACCEPTED. Do not mix oil with any other chemical or material including bleach, paint, solvents, water, or other automotive fluids.

211 LA County Announces Vet2Text

ation’s leading information and referral agency now providing 24-hour text-to-chat feature to better access available services 211 LA County, the official information source for Los Angeles County’s 10 million residents, has announced it has launched Vet2Text, a 24-hour text-to-chat feature staffed by veterans for veterans. Vet2Text was announced at Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s “Veterans Career Summit,” taking place at Los Angeles Trade Technical College and Patriotic Hall, both in downtown Los Angeles. To connect with the service, veterans text “veteran” to LA211 (52211).

“Vet2Text provides another avenue for veterans to access the many resources available throughout Los Angeles County,” said Maribel Marin, executive director of 211 LA County.

“Vet2Text is being staffed by veterans for veterans, and is just another way that 211 LA County is making sure that those who served our nation and protected our freedoms are getting the services they need.”

“Every veteran in my city should feel supported and equipped to navigate educational opportunities, job openings, and healthcare options-at any hour,” said Mayor Garcetti.

“This text-to-chat option provides a convenient, direct line for Angeleno veterans to communicate with peers who understand the complications of transitioning back to civilian life.”

By using Vet2Text, veterans, by texting “veteran” to “LA 211” (“52211”), can connect with a peer veteran community resource advisor to guide them to the following: • Get an overview of what is available with for returning veterans • How to connect with other veterans • Learn about services and resources available to the families of veterans • Connect to education and employment resources • Understand the special resources available to female veterans • Learn about and connect to medical care and financial assistance programs available to validated • Connect to legal resources, men-

tal health services, housing and shelter, and other veterans benefits Vet2Text is available 24-hours a day/7 days a week. It is a sixmonth feasibility project funded in part through USC Center for Innovation (CIR) and Research for Veterans and Military Families and the Blue Shield Foundation. Last fall, USC CIR’s Los Angeles County Veterans study found significant barriers to care, including more than 50 percent of post-9/11 veterans reporting not knowing where to go to get help. As a response, 211 LA County developed a Vet2Text platform that would provide a simple and accessible way for Veterans to reach out for help In addition to using Vet2Text, any veteran can call 2-1-1 to get access to the same information and resources. Also, 211 LA County maintains and updates a “veteran’s resource Portal” on its website, located at https://www.211la.org/lacommunityveteransportal/ 211 LA County’s experts help veterans navigate the complex social service system and get them connected to benefits and services in their community.

Other employment resources available to veterans through 211 LA County include access to worksource centers, veterans’ employment programs, vocational rehab, job fairs, and help with filing for unemployment.

About 211 LA County 211 LA provides easy-to-use, caring, professional guidance, advocacy, and 24/7 access to a comprehensive range of human services and resources to more than half a million people annually. It serves a key disaster relief role as the County’s official public information source. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, 211 LA operates primarily through fee for service contracts and public sector grants.

Created in 1981 through a joint effort of the County of Los Angeles and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles, 211 LA is an internationally recognized leader in the field of Information and Referral.

Carry oil in clean, non-breakable containers; no metal containers please.

Place oil filters in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leaks.

Maximum container size - 5 gallons.

Accepts used oil filters

For More Information Call: 888 CleanLA (888-253-2652)

Visit www.inglewoodtoday.com Subscribe to Inglewood Today

Inglewood Today

July 23, 2015

Page 9

BUSIN E SS

Who Controls Your Retirement Funds: You or the Government?

Qualified Money for Retirement Has Strings Attached

P

eople make a mistake when they feel as though they’ve lost control of their qualified retirement plans—they never had control in the first place, says retirement advisor Mark Cardoza.

“Qualified retirement funds— whether we’re talking about an IRA, 401(k), Contributory or Defined Benefit Pension Plan, or a Roth IRA – has so many hazards, pitfalls and strings attached to the government that it’s simply misguided to think one has ‘control’ over that money,” says Mark Cardoza, author of the book “Positioning 4 Retirement.” (www.positioning4retirement.com).

“However, the more you know about this money, the more control you can get back—and the more money you can keep.”

Cardoza sheds light on qualified retirement funding so retirees and pre-retirees can have greater say in their golden years: • Identify the type of qualified plan you may have through your employer—401(k), IRA, etc.—or your options for a retirement plan if you are self-employed. Plans are assigned these numbers based on the tax code they follow. The employee has the right to participate in the plan based on the guidelines established by the organization and the U.S. government to receive tax advantages. By managing your qualified and non-qualified money properly, you can save on taxes.

Often, the employer will match the employee’s contribution and will receive a tax advantage as well.

From there, one needs a solid understanding of qualified and nonqualified money, which is based on your retirement plan.

• A qualified plan refers to an account that meets certain IRS guide-

lines in order to be considered a retirement account. It is also referred to as “qualified money” or a “qualified fund.” Qualified funds can be in the form of securities, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs and annuities. The money placed in a qualified plan has special tax considerations. Each plan has elements that differentiate one from the other, such as distribution restrictions and limiting plan sponsors. The money that goes into a qualified retirement fund has not been taxed and is referred to as “pre-tax dollars.” The pre-tax dollars grow tax-deferred, meaning until you take a distribution, you do not pay income taxes.

The money is taxed based on the individual’s tax bracket and tax rules at the time of withdrawal. The general assumption is that the tax bracket will be lower when the individual has retired.

• Not paying tax on the income you earn and allowing it to grow with the funds that you would have paid in taxes causes you to be taxed on a greater portion of money. This allows the U.S. government to be a partner in your retirement plan.

Uncle Sam then has control over when and how you can spend these funds. By choosing a qualified plan, you are giving Uncle Sam the ability to mandate and establish rules, regulations and guidelines that can change frequently and in favor of the government. Uncle Sam also has the ability to change the special tax considerations. He is in your pocket and has majority control. The only control that individuals have is how and where the funds are placed in order for them to grow. But Uncle Sam still oversees the placement of money with guidelines and regulations.

• Non-qualified plans are those that are not eligible for tax-deferral benefits, which mean deducted contributions for non-qualified plans are taxed when income is recognized. This generally refers to when employees must pay income taxes on benefits associated with their employment.

Depending on circumstances, a strategy combining both categories of money can be most beneficial.

For example, those who receive employer matching contributions toward a qualified plan can opt to put additional contributions in a Roth or a non-qualified retirement plan, instead of contributing above the matching limit. This strategy lessens the taxability during retirement, providing the individual the opportunity to manage their qualified funds, yielding a lower tax rate when retired.

“Qualified money is controlled by the U.S. government with guidelines, mandates, laws, and rules that can and do change to meet the needs of the country,” Cardoza says. “It’s

important to understand that large corporations drive Congress and have influence in developing these mandates, guidelines, laws and rules. But there are strategies available for optimizing navigation in this arbitrary landscape.”

In 2002, Mark Cardoza (www. positioning4retirement.com) was asked to help a family member settle an estate and quickly learned about insurance and its role in estate planning. Shortly after, his father became terminally ill and Mark learned about long-term care needs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.

He quickly immersed himself in the industry, learning the intricate functions of asset protection, retirement, estate, and eldercare planning. He holds the designation of CLTC (Certified Long Term Care) specialist and is certified in the area of trusts and estate planning. He is the author of the book “Positioning 4 Retirement.” www.newsandexperts.com.

Alhakim Beasley BRE# 08137456

Amber Realty

alhakimbeasley@gmail.com (323) 884-0916 Do you want to buy or sell your home?

Do you want to make a good deal?

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.

Call me for a free CMA (comparative marketing analysis) A CMA is similar to an appraisal, but it isn’t the same thing.

An appraisal is performed by a professional real estate appraiser and is usually more complex than a CMA. The appraiser uses her expertise to estimate the property’s market value as of a specific date. She bases her estimate on a wide variety of data, including general social and economic data.

Inglewood Today

Page 10

BUSIN E SS

LEGAL NOTICE Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2015148200 The following Person is doing business as: IT Point La Brain Gym 6400 Crescent Park East Los Angeles, CA 90094 Registered Owner: Regina Vartanova , 6400 Crescent Park East, Los Angeles, CA 90094 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on June 23, 2015.

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.

(A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime.)

Regina Vartanova, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on June 23, 2015 NOTICE-In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of the County Clerk, except as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A New Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration.

The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State or common law (See Section 14411 et.seq., Business and Professions Code.)

Original July 2, 9, 16, 23,2015 ITO0422301069 Inglewood Today

Mysterious Bland Case to Be Investigated as Murder (Continued from page 1) in Hempstead, Texas three days after her arrest.

It is unclear whether video footage from the police car dashcam had been tampered with, whether Bland actually hanged herself in jail, or why she was arrested in the first place.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the FBI has opened an investigation which will include forensic analysis of the videos. The Texas Rangers is conducting its own investigation.

However, a preliminary report found that one of the officers involved in the stop violated department policy.

The arresting officer, Brian Incinia, has been placed on administrative leave.

Bland was pulled over on July 10 for failing to signal a lane change. After showing the officer her ID, he asked her to put her cigarette out and get out of the car. When she refused, the situation escalated. Incinia reached in, removed her, pulled out his taser gun and threatened, “I will light you up.” He held her down on (Continued on page 11)

July 23, 2015

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5 Tips for Reducing Stress the Day of Your Job Interview

ittle things can easily derail your big moment if you don’t prepare, says career coach.

After months of responding to job postings, you finally land an interview.

This could be a pivotal moment in your life and career, so it’s natural to feel nervous. But there’s no reason to let stress rule the day, says Lisa Quast, author of the book “Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want Every Time” (www.careerwomaninc.com).

“Life routinely throws us curves, and that’s just as likely to happen on your job-interview day as any other day,” Quast says.

“Traffic could be bad. You might spill something on the blouse you planned to wear. Any number of things could go wrong that aren’t directly related to the interview, but can knock you off your game.”

While it’s not possible to anticipate every scenario, Quast says a little preparation can help you keep the anxiety level manageable.

She offers these tips for navigating your interview day as stress free as possible: • Know where you need to go. Don’t wait until right before an interview to make sure you have the correct address and phone number. Verify these online by checking the company website a few days ahead of time. You also should download driving directions or program the address into your smart phone or GPS to find potential routes and estimated drive times. “When in doubt, do a trial run,” Quast says. “You can drive there the weekend before to get the lay of the land and see where to park.” Don’t rely on technology alone.

Always have a hard copy with the address and driving directions, just in case GPS or the smartphone fails you.

• Obtain the correctly spelled name of the interviewer. And remember, bring a printout of the job posting. “It always surprises me how many people show

up for a job interview and can’t remember the name of the hiring manager or even the job title of the position they’re interviewing for,” Quast says. “Don’t be one of those people.”

• Schedule enough time for the interview. Block your calendar so you won’t need to rush from one job interview to the next, or go straight to another appointment or back to work. “The interview could take much longer than you think going in,” Quast says. For example, if things are going well, you might be asked to interview with others in the organization. Be sure to schedule ample time in case you need to stay longer.

“You don’t want to be stealing quick glances at your watch when you should be listening to what the hiring manager is saying,” Quast says.

• Turn off your cell phone. “When I say off, I mean off,” Quast says.

“Don’t put it on vibrate.”

The reason, she says, is that almost everyone can hear a cell phone vibrating in a purse, briefcase or pocket.

You will be aware that a call is coming in for you.

The people interviewing you will be aware. And you will be aware that they are aware.

• Take a bathroom break before the interview. Use the restroom before you leave your house and avoid too much coffee or other liquids shortly before your interview. If you need to use the bathroom when you arrive at the company, ask the receptionist to point you to them before he or she informs the hiring manager that you have arrived.

“One additional thing you can do is give yourself a pep talk before the interview,” Quast says. “Mentally remind yourself of all the things you plan to do during the interview, the points you want to make about your experience and the questions you have about the company.

“You may not be able to eliminate all the butterflies, but your preparation should help reduce the stress and let you concentrate on making the most of the opportunity.”

Lisa Quast is a career coach, a business consultant and author of the book “Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want Every Time” (www.careerwomaninc.com). Quast spent more than 20 years climbing the career ladder in Corporate America with career success in traditionally male-dominated companies/ industries. She has completed projects around the world in the areas of strategic planning, marketing & communications, sales, service, operations, pricing, business development, pre-acquisition analysis and acquisition integration and HR/talent development.

Serving the Community for 20 Years Visit Our Website: www.inglewoodtoday.com and Subscribe to Inglewood Today

July 23, 2015

Mysterious Bland Case to Be Investigated as Murder (Continued from page 10) the ground with his knee and called for back up. Bland tried to call relatives for help getting her out of jail.

Incinia later said Bland kicked him, but the video does not show any signs of her assaulting him.

Inconsistencies, including what appears to be an edited version of the video, have led the district attorney to investigate the case as a homicide. Video glitches show a white car appearing and reappearing several times. There are no cameras inside Bland’s cell, but the hallway video shows no one entered or came out of the cell between the time guards checked on her, and when she was found dead two hours later.

Sandra Bland Shante Needham, one of Bland’s sisters, said she spoke to Bland over the phone the day after her arrest.

She said Bland complained that Incinia put his knee in her back, and that she was concerned that her arm had been fractured.

A bystander took a cell phone video that allegedly shows Bland’s arrest. In the video, one officer appears to be top of Bland, and she can be heard asking why the police are treating her so roughly and saying she can’t feel her arm.

Bland revealed in a recent video posted to her Facebook page that she suffered from “a little bit of depression, as well as PTSD,” but many of her friends and family aren’t buying the suicide story. They don’t believe Bland, who they said was excited about her new job, would hang her-

Inglewood Today

Page 11

D at e s i n J U ly – Sep t e m b e r July 25-August 2, 2015 Special Olympics World Games Los Angeles 2015 The 2015 Special Olympics World Games will be the largest sports and humanitarian event anywhere in the world. The Opening Ceremony, to be held July 25, 2015 in the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, is expected to attract 80,000 spectators.

Sports competitions taking place throughout the Games are open to the public and free to attend. For more information about the 2015 Special Olympics World Games, visit http://www.LA2015.org.

400 West Beach Avenue; and Darby Park, 3400 West Arbor Vitae.

Programs include Kiddie Camp designed for kids 3 to 5. Camp Discovery and Fun and Fitness are for youth ages 6-14. For details and registration information, visit www.cityofinglewood.org.

Ongoing Phonetic Reading Center Johnny Can Read Phonics Center in Inglewood invites families with 5 and 6 year-olds to practice their reading skills and go well beyond their grade levels in 30 to 60 days. The center is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 6pm. There is a 30-minute free session to introduce Through September 7, 2015 parents to the program. Interested Swimming at Edward Vincent parents can call and schedule their Park The Edward Vincent Jr. Park free session at (310) 412-8750 or pool will open on Wednesday, email funphonics48@yahoo.com.

June 24 and close on Monday, September 7, 2015. The park is Get Fit at the Mall BFit offers you ways to get fit, located at Centinela Avenue, just north of Florence Avenue. The have fun and live your life to the fullThrough August 21, 2015 swim program includes lessons est. Join us for amazing free fitness Inglewood Summer Day Camp for youth and adults, lap swim- classes at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Are you ready for summer? The ming, parent and me swimming, Plaza every week. Classes held on City of Inglewood is offering great adult water aerobics and family the Macy’s Bridge include: Zumba summer day camp experiences for swim nights. Costs range from $1 every Tuesday from 7:30-8:30pm; youth ages 3-14. There are two to $15 for Inglewood residents. Cardio Kickboxing every Thursday sessions: June 29-July 24, 2015 Non-residents pay $20. For more from 7:00-8:00pm and Yoga every and July 27-August 21, 2015. information, and specific times, Saturday from 10:00-11:00am.

Camps will be held at Lockhaven call (310) 412-8750.

Community Center, 11125 Doty Avenue; Siminski Park, 9717 Inglewood Avenue; Rogers Park, self two days before starting, and certainly not with one arm.

During a news conference in Chicago on July 16th, the family’s attorney, Cannon Lambert, addressed claims that Bland had died as a result of foul play in a county that is allegedly steeped in racism.

“There’s a political environment right now,” Lambert said. “And there’s a lot of concerns people have about the racial component.

But we’re not ignorant to that reality. I also don’t think we should rush to judgment, either. That’s why we want to speak to the investigator so we can understand.”

In a CNN interview, David Katz, former senior special agent for the DEA, said it is “disrespectful” to smoke when an officer is talking to you. “You don’t have to put it out,

but it’s the courteous thing to do. He added that “There is a state law that says a police officer can order you out of your car on a traffic stop.”

Paul Butler, a former federal prosecutor told CNN, Bland’s case is a classic example of “driving while black.” He added, “I have to tell you as a former prosecutor, as an African American and as an American citizen who hopes that he lives in a free country, I was horrified by what I’ve seen. It’s unconstitutional.”

On July 17, the DPS announced that it had “identified violations of the department’s procedures regarding traffic stops and the department’s courtesy policy,” in the case of Bland’s arrest.

Place your DBAs, Probates, Trustee Notices, Legal Notices, Summons and more in Inglewood Today Print & Online Call: 310.670.9600

Inglewood Welcomes Team Jamaica (Continued from page 1) coming here, we have 37 athletes, 13 coaches, and two officials that are travelling to compete. I’m looking forward to the competition, It’s such a sense of pride.”

The welcoming ceremony commenced at 11am hosted by renowned sports broadcaster and friend of Inglewood, Jim Hill who stated, “This is absolutely wonder- ally be here, and have my presence years, we’ve really been expanding ful, to be able to participate in what here for the rest of my career, I’m and resurrecting not only our image, many people are admiring, not just truly thankful for that.” but our substance. We feel this is another logical progression when the Special Olympics feels that Inglewood would be a great host city.

This is a great step forward as we branch out into not only the national community, but the international community.” in the United States, but around the The City also took the time to The 2015 Special Olympics world, to have all the athletes, and honor several other Inglewood na- Games kicks off Saturday July 25th to see the city really light up, is re- tives, former NBA player Reggie at the Los Angeles Coliseum. Over ally a wonderful feeling.”

Theus, Olympian honNBA superstar, newly signed Los orees Althea Mosely Angeles Clipper, and Inglewood and Marilyn White, native, Paul Pierce said, “I’m hap- Coach Patrick Roy py to be back in the City of Ingle- and Coach Clemente wood, I want to thank Mayor Butts Gonzales, both of Infor giving me the opportunity to be glewood High School. part of this. I’ve been on the east Mayor Butts radicoast playing basketball, I’ve had ated with pride as he a lot of efforts to give back to the welcomed Team JaCity of Inglewood through video- maica to Inglewood. tape, and Twitter but now, to actu- “Over the last few

te o V r u o Y Counts!

the next few days, Inglewood will host Team Jamaica and treat them to various activities including a “Day In LA Tour” where they will visit various iconic landmarks and restaurants, including the Santa Monica Pier.

Pride electrified the air as the Jamaican National team were showered with love from all the volunteers, dignitaries, and community members who came out to show their love and support for our sister city. We wish Team Jamaica much success as they move on to take their place in Olympic glory. Inglewood loves you.

COMING SOON

First-Ever Readers’ Choice Ballot in Inglewood

O VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESSES

To Be in the Running for Our

Food & Dining

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READERS’ CHOICE

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BEST OF INGLEWOOD AWARD Nominate your favorite local businesses!

STAY TUNED!

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