May 12, 2016

Your Community Connection since 1994

Including Inglewood Airport Area • Baldwin Hills • Crenshaw/LA • Ladera Heights VOL. 25, No. 19

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May 12, 2016

Michael Slager Indicted in Walter Scott Case

outh Carolina police officer Michael Slager was indicted Wednesday by a federal grand jury in the fatal shooting of Walter Scott.

The Department of Justice issued a statement that says the three-count indictment includes charges for a federal civil rights offense for the shooting, excessive force without legal justification, and obstruction of justice for making false statements to South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigators.

The April 4, 2015 shooting, which was captured on film by a bystander, shows Scott, a black man, running away on foot from Slager, who is white. Scott was unarmed.

Michael Slager

The former North Charleston police officer initially pulled over Scott for having a broken tail light on his car. As Scott attempted to run away, he fired five shots from behind. Scott was a 50-year-old Navy veteran and father of four.

A conviction on the charges mean a potential $250,000 fine and a maximum sentence of a life behind bars.

The 34-year-old already faces an indictment by a state court. The Post and Courier explains: The new charges could serve as a backstop if the state’s case against Slager were to fail. Putting him on

• Community • Entertainment • Health • Real Estate • Business

“It is time that the cover was pulled and I thank God that my son was the one that was used to pull the cover off all of the violence and the cover-ups that have been going on,” said Judy Scott, the victim’s mother.

“I’m happy for that but I’m sad my son is gone.”

“Justice will prevail,” she added.

“If this can be the turning point, where the Justice Department is going to step in and help these families,” Stewart added, “then this is a great day.”

Slager remains free on $500,000 state bail.

Another Promise Kept

On The Inside: • News

trial in both state and federal courts for the same shooting would not be double jeopardy because the jurisdictions are considered sovereign.

“This is history in so many ways,” said L. Chris Stewart, an attorney for Scott’s family, according to CNN. “This never happens,” he said of the indictment, citing cases like those of Michael Brown and Trayvon Martin.

Indeed, as the Post and Courier reports, “The indictment makes the case one of the few high-profile American police killings in recent years to result in a federal criminal charge.”

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By Thomas Bunn

ith gray clouds looming overhead and streets slick from fresh and much needed rainfall, Councilman Alex Padilla woke at the crack of dawn Saturday morning and thought the City of Inglewood’s Fire Service Day was going to be a cold and wet celebration. In an almost mystical fashion, the clouds parted, sunlight peeked through and hundreds of residents packed inside the newly opened Fire Station 172 to revel in the once dormant fire station’s grand return.

(Continued on page 8)

Photos by Rachel Doe

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Inglewood Today

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May 12, 2016

Community

Inglewood History – Moreton Bay Fig Tree

By Anne Cheek La Rose

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nglewood has many treasures, but in my opinion, the most magnificent treasure is our Moreton Bay Fig tree. I first told you about this tree in October 2014.

The centerpiece of the Daniel Freeman Memorial Hospital site property is the 128 year-old Moreton Bay Fig tree. Unless one has strolled the grounds on the west side of the hospital, not many have seen this tree. It is an Inglewood hidden treasure.

The residential development on the site has been approved and construction will begin soon. There will be 310 homes made up of five different architectural styles to create this gated community.

The tree was planted by Inglewood founder, Daniel Freeman, in his front yard in 1888. Actually, he planted a pair, but the other was removed in 1972 to facilitate the demolition of the Freeman mansion.

Moreton Bays are native to Australia and they are not supposed to grow in Southern California; our climate is all wrong, but don’t tell the trees that. There are perhaps four dozen of these trees from San Diego’s Balboa Park to Santa Barbara. The tree in Santa Barbara is the best known due to their tourism publicity campaign. Only a handful

Anne Cheek La Rose were planted in the 19th Century, most were planted in the early 20th Century.

Moreton Bays are visible in many places around Los Angeles. There is one outside the entry to the Proud Bird Restaurant, one in Montieth Park in View Heights, and another on National Blvd, east of the 405 freeway, on the Presbyterian Church property. The University of California has two at the Ronald Tutor Campus Center and the Moreton Fig Restaurant there is named for them. Close by on the SE corner of Adams/Magnolia is a nice one in a private yard.

Pasadena has one on Marengo and another couple of trees on pri-

vate properties. If there were a prize for the most Moreton Bays, Santa Monica would be the winner. There is the old one, planted in 1888 by Roy Jones, Santa Monica founder, in his front yard. That property is now the Fairmont Hotel at the corner of Ocean Ave/Wilshire. There are two trees in Tongva Park, across from City Hall, and finally, there is a street in the northern part of the city lined with Moreton Bays!

Our Moreton Bay was not on anyone’s radar until last year when I, as president of the Inglewood Historic Preservation Alliance, contacted a state horticulturist (who is an authority on the tree) and a certified arborist, to access the tree’s condition.

Armed with their opinions and care suggestions, I began work with the property developers and their certified arborist on a Tree Protection Plan for this treasure. After months of work, the plan is complete. The plan covers the tree’s protection both during and after construction. The city, recognizing the importance of this tree, called in an independent certified arborist to check our work.

Now, our living treasure is being cared for in the manner a living treasure deserves.

Space Shuttle Tank to Move Through Inglewood

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he external tank of the space shuttle is making its way up the west coast of Central America and on its way to dock in Marina del Rey. On Saturday, May 21 around midnight, the tank is scheduled to leave the port and cross into Inglewood at approximately 9:00 a.m.

Tanks used in previous space launches disintegrated after the fuel was used, and burned up on re-entry. This particular tank was never used in a flight. It’s 147 feet long, 37 feet high, and weighs 66,000 pounds. It will be loaded onto a 42-wheel transport trailer engineered by Emmert International that will bring it to the California Science Museum.

It will head to the 90 Freeway, on to Culver and Lincoln Boulevards, then to Westchester Parkway. It will go through Inglewood on Arbor Vitae Street to La Brea Avenue, drive past the Forum on Manchester Boulevard, then head

President/Publisher/ Editor Willie Brown Vice President Gloria Kennedy Assistant Editor Veronica Mackey Contributing Writers Veronica Mackey Thomas Bunn Anne Cheek La Rose 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.

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north on Vermont Avenue to the museum, where it will eventually stand alongside the space shuttle Endeavour. The entire move will take approximately 19½ hours.

The $3 million to move the shuttle was financed through a fundraising effort.

As the tank rolls by, there will be rolling street closures, as traffic lights, utility wires, and

cables may need to be moved, raised, lowered and returned to their original position as the tank passes by.

For more information about the temporary street closures in Inglewood, sign up to use the City of Inglewood Everbridge Mass Notification System (https:// m e m b e r. e v e r b r i d g e . n e t / i n dex/453003085613243#/login).

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

May 12, 2016

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Community

Balancing the Scales

By Johnny Darnell Griggs, Esq.

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’m very excited to introduce myself to you as the newest contributor to Inglewood Today. Through my weekly column “Balancing the Scales,” I’m blessed to have the opportunity to keep you informed about a range of issues including current legal and business developments, employment and workplace issues, civil rights issues, developments in public education, and a variety of other issues affecting the Inglewood community.

I am no stranger to the City of Inglewood and its neighboring communities. I grew up and graduated from high school here in Southern California. Upon graduation, I attended Lewis & Clark College (Portland, Oregon), and from there attended law school at Yale University. Following law school, I moved to Los Angeles and began my career as an attorney.

During a career that has spanned more than a quarter century, I have been a partner in several major law firms, where I have had the opportunity to represent Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises in high-stakes, employment-related and complex business litigation matters. Over the course of my career, I have published numerous articles on employment law and have lectured extensively on issues pertaining to employment law, including privacy, discrimination, diversity and elimination of bias in the workplace.

I have been privileged to practice law in several major law firms, but the work of which I am proud-

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Johnny Darnell Griggs est is the work I have done that has benefited communities. Over the course of my career, I have been a trusted advisor to a variety of wellknown community leaders and institutions, including the late Willie Williams (former Chief of Police of the City of Los Angeles), David Brewer (former Superintendent of Schools for the Los Angeles Unified School District), Faithful Central Bible Church, the Los Angeles Brotherhood Crusade, and many others.

As a trial attorney, I represented a local civil rights organization in a federal race discrimination lawsuit filed against the County of San Bernardino arising from the County’s denial of the use of a recreational site as a camp for urban children.

The litigation resulted in a finding of liability against the County and one of its Supervisors, ultimately resulting in a significant monetary settlement for the organization. In addition, I was honored to assist the ACLU of Southern California

Citizenship Program at Inglewood Library

he Inglewood Public Library is proud to host a program on naturalization and citizenship this spring, in the Gladys Waddingham Lecture Hall at the Main Library, 101 West Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301, at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, 2016.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) personnel will be on-hand to discuss the naturalization process step-by-step, and provide information about eligibility and residency requirements, application forms, fees, the background security check and processing times.

The information sessions will be bilingual and include presentations in Spanish. Participants will also see sample questions from the naturalization test and receive an overview

of U.S. history and civic principles.

These sessions are part of a larger USCIS initiative to help immigrants better understand the naturalization and citizenship process, including the content of the naturalization test, and to become familiar with free educational resources and materials available from the agency.

Free educational materials will be given out while supplies last, and bilingual Immigration Service officers will be available for questions and answers at these sessions.

This program is free and open to all. Library parking is free after 4 p.m.

For more information about this program call (310) 412-5380 or visit library.cityofinglewood.org.

in successful litigation designed to halt racially-motivated traffic stops and searches of motorists by the Los Angeles Police Department.

As an advocate for the improvement of public education, I served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Education Partnership (formerly known as the Los Angeles Educational Partnership and known now as the Los Angeles Education Partnership), one of the nation’s oldest and most successful public education improvement organizations. As the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, I was privileged to lead the organization successfully through a financial crisis and a strategic management transition, renewing its mission, refocusing its work, and restructuring its operations. Today, as the Los Angeles Education Partnership, the organization continues to thrive and help students in high-need schools improve their academic achievement.

As legal counsel to nonprofits such as the Los Angeles Annenberg Metropolitan Project, Families in Schools and Urban Learning Cen-

ters, I was privileged to work to provide equal high-quality public education to children in Southern California communities.

Whether as a lawyer or as a community servant, I have had a passion for advancing causes that improve the quality of life in our communities. But that is quite enough about me. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to address issues that matter to the Inglewood community—a community that has a proud and storied history—and an even brighter future.

I really hope that you are informed, motivated and maybe even inspired, by what you read in “Balancing the Scales.” I look forward to your feedback.

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

Inglewood Today

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May 12, 2016

Eye on the City

Council Meeting Broadcast Gets Overhauled

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uesday’s council meeting began with requests for updates about the City’s status. A couple of residents wanted to know when the City would be making its quarterly report available to the public.

Mayor James Butts said information will be ready next week. Quarterly reports are always available on the table outside council chambers on the ninth floor.

During public comments, a local clergyman said he is having problems with folks illegally dumping items on his church property.

“There are 4 or 5 couches. The city sign is about 150 feet from where they dump stuff on 64th Street. It’s a tremendous problem,” he said.

“If you stick around after the meeting we will talk to you about how we can get this resolved,” Councilman Alex Padilla said.

Sylvester Matthews complained about the use of leaf blowers in the city. “It’s a detriment to the health

By Veronica Mackey

dos from all council members for his successful reopening of Fire Station 172 in District Two. “I want to thank the community for attending the Fire Safety Day and reopening of the fire station,” he said.

“I congratulate Councilman Padilla on such a well put together event. Councilman Padilla was bugging me for years to get it reopened, but we didn’t have the right Inglewood City Council deal. There will be no cost to the of residents,” he said, adding that You can do it the old-fashioned City of Inglewood for the first year. he has heart problems and had to way,” the man said.

That’s the kind of deal we like,” retire early. “You said you don’t Councilman George Dotson re- Butts said. have a budget to enforce that, but called a recent visit to St. Mary’s Councilman Ralph Franklin notwith the upcoming conditions we Academy to celebrate the school’s ed that residents appreciate having a are about to undergo with the Rams, 50-year anniversary in Inglewood. nearby fire station, “which is someI am hoping you can put that in the St. Mary’s has been in business for thing we were fighting for.” The budget,” he told Mayor Butts.

127 years. He also went on a walk- councilman also applauded Monroe “We’re kinda caught between a ing tour through his First District Middle School for coming in secrock and a hard place,” Mayor Butts and found potential pedestrian im- ond place in a technology competisaid. “To not have blowers, you provements that could be made in tion. Students designed a remotely would have to use water.” the downtown area. operated vehicle that could be sub(Continued on page 11) “You can use brooms or rakes.

Councilman Padilla received ku-

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. Brass/Brass Enterprise, 2639 Manchester Bl. Briarwood, 3500 Manchester Bl. Broadway Federal Bank, 170 N. Market St. Brolly Hut Barber Shop on 109th & Crenshaw Bruno’s Pizza, 450 E. Manchester Bl. Budda Market, 3753 Slauson (Rimpau) C&J Beauty Supply, 11252 Crenshaw Bl. Carlton Square, 8700 Carlton Centinela Hospital, 555 E. Hardy St. Chili’s, 3490 W. Century Bl. Chile Verde on Crenshaw Choice Berry, 599 1/2 S. La Brea Ave. City One Stop, 110 Queen St. Copy City, 3818 Crenshaw 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. 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. Flip It Cafe, 441 E. Manchester Bl. Freequote Insurance, 257 N. La Brea Gateway Tax Service, 11200 Crenshaw 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 J P Cleaners, 253 La Brea Jamba Juice, 5305 W. Centinela Ave. King Fish Market, 10901 Crenshaw Bl. Kings & Queen’s Hair Salon, 921 N. La Brea 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. LA’s Auto Insurance, 11240 Crenshaw Lan’s Nails, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Lavender Blue, 3310 W. Manchester Bl. Lawrence Carey Barber Shop, 10901 S. Crenshaw Bl. Liquorette Liquor Store, 1400 Centinela Ave. M&M’s Soul Food on Manchester Market Street Bar & Grill, 224 Market St. Martino’s Liquor, 706 E. Manchester Bl. Metro PCS, 11244 Crenshaw Mike’s Deli, 4859 W. Slauson Ave. Moby’s Breakfast & Lunch, 3008 W. Manchester Bl. Morningside Adult Day Care, 3216 W. Manchester Bl. Ms. Kitty’s Smoke Shop, 421 Manchester Bl. New Image Dental, 1608 Centinela Ave. 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.

R-Kutts Barbershop, 10901 Crenshaw #D 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. Roscoe’s Chicken’ n Waffles, 621 Manchester Bl. Rusty Pot Cafe, 324 Market St. Scottie’s Gumbo & Grill, 945 S. Prairie Ave. Sizzler’s, Manchester/Prairie Smoke 4 Less, 925 N. La Brea Smoke & Gift, 4725 Market St. 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. Tobacco Shop, 11232 Crenshaw 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

May 12, 2016

P u b l i s h e r ’ s Me s s a g e

Get a Spring Time View

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recently had the pleasure of going on a back yard tour of homes in the Baldwin Hills, View Park and Ladera Heights areas. I was one of about 500 guests invited to visit the beautifully landscaped yards and breathtaking views of these upscale communities.

Looking at the pristine gardens, green foliage and newly planted spring flowers was quite inspiring, to say the least. It got me to thinking how Inglewood residents might do the same. While there are many well kept properties in the city, there is something about an organized event that offers other benefits in addition to a pleasant environment.

Walking tours are a great way to get to know your neighbors better.

They boost community pride and make everyone feel a little better about where they live. Now that people are getting involved with spring cleaning and gardening projects, the cleanliness and condition of our streets and buildings are more noticeable.

When you look around your neighborhood, or even in your own backyard, what do you see?

What can you do to make your street more beautiful, cleaner and more interesting? Is it time for a fresh coat of paint? Do you need to arrange to have bulk items picked up? While property values are definitely up in Inglewood, eyesores like illegally dumped furniture can have an impact on how our community is viewed. And that affects how everyone feels.

It has taken a while to bring Inglewood back from decline after the Lakers and Kings left, and the overall economy tanked. Now that it is becoming a destination city, with billions of dollars committed, residents and businesses

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Word for the Wise Spring Special!

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(800) Wise4Tires Call (800) 947-3484

Willie Brown, Publisher, Inglewood Today Weekly here need to live up to a higher standard.

I would encourage block clubs and other neighborhood groups to organize clean up and beautification projects, especially for those who are physically or financially unable to maintain the upkeep of their yards or the outside of their homes.

For a long time, Inglewood has had a reputation as a must-see area for holiday decorations. We need to set the standard for decorative spring and summer projects as well. Let’s spruce things up during the rest of the year.

Sometimes living in the same place year after year can make you complacent. You may not even notice that the outer appearance of your home or business has become lackluster. I would invite you to pay a visit to our neighbors to the north and get a renewed vision.

In just a couple of years, Inglewood is going to visibly change right before our eyes. Let’s put our best foot forward and create the type of environment that reflects the magic that has helped bring us back as the City of Champions. It’s not just about the Rams, it’s about everything.

Bishop W. Darin Moore Convenes S.W.R.M. Annual Conference

oving God’s people into higher ranks of kingdom building and community to new heights, the Right Reverend W. Darin Moore, Presiding Bishop of the Western Episcopal District, African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, will convene the 100th Session of the Southwest Rocky Mountain Annual Conference (S.W.R.M.C.) on Wednesday, May 18 through Sunday, May 22 at Second A.M.E. Zion Church, 3612 West 64th Street, in Inglewood.

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Rev. Dr. George E. Kent is host pastor and Presiding Elder of the Los Angeles District. Mrs. Devieta C. Moore is the Missionary Supervisor.

As the spiritual leader, Bishop Moore will preside over worship services and business sessions.

He will also receive reports from churches in the SWRMC. A banquet will be held in his honor on Saturday, May 21. For further information. call (310) 412-1674.

Linda Johnson, publicity chair.

Just Saying...

If you give false praise to others in order to get what you want, you are only setting a trap for yourself.

Yvonne Horton

Inglewood Today

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May 12, 2016

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

Reduce Your Risk, Know the Signs and Act Quickly to Save Lives, Says UCLA-Santa Monica Stroke Expert Doojin Kim, MD, will lead a free stroke talk, followed by blood pressure screenings and risk assessments on May 14 as part of Stroke Awareness Month.

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etting more exercise, giving up cigarettes and monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure are a few steps Americans can take to reduce their risk of stroke, says Doojin Kim, MD, a neurologist at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica who often treats patients who have suffered a stroke, the No. 4 cause of death and the No. 1 cause of adult disability in the U.S. Although most people have heard the list of risk factors before, it never hurts to provide a reminder because we often think, “It can’t happen to me.”

“The reality is, it can,” said Kim, adding that equally important is a refresher on the signs of stroke and the

urgency of taking immediate action.

“If someone has an ischemic stroke, the type in which a brain artery becomes blocked or restricted the effects often can be reversed or drastically reduced if treatment is started within three hours. But if they’re unsure or they wait to see if symptoms will go away, the window of opportunity for effective treatment can close,” he said.

According to the American Stroke Association, any of these five warning signs should prompt an immediate call to 911: • Sudden NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.

• Sudden CONFUSION, trouble speaking or understanding speech.

• Sudden TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes.

• Sudden TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

• Sudden SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause.

Sudden and severe are key words, but if in doubt, do not take chances, Kim said.

The ASA says more women than men have strokes and AfricanAmericans are at much greater risk than Caucasians. In addition to gender and race, heredity is a risk factor that cannot be modified, as is age. Growing older increases risk, but Kim said the age factor is changing.

“Stroke is occurring more and more often in younger people,” he said. “It’s still more common in those in their senior years, but just because someone is middle-aged or even younger doesn’t mean they can’t have a stroke.”

Risk factors that can be controlled or treated include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, poor diet, inactivity and certain predisposing diseases and disorders.

“To save lives and reduce disability, we have to look at prevention, early detection and quick intervention,” Kim said. “We have to remember it can happen to us, and then take steps to try to prevent it.”

Los Angeles Rams to Hold Inaugural Play 60 Field Day for 800 Inglewood Students

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he Los Angeles Rams will when they travel to Inglewood’s host the team’s first PLAY 60 Coleman Field to engage 800 Inevent in the Los Angeles area glewood Unified School District

FREE Document Shredding

and Donations Event (E-Waste and Bicycle Donations) When:

Saturday, June 11, 2016 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Where:

On Grevillea Avenue off Manchester Blvd. (in front of Inglewood High School)

DRIVE THROUGH DROP OFF Bring all of your non-working household appliances, computers, tablets, cell phones, TV's and any other electronic devices that you would like to get rid of. We will also take your used bicycles. *NOTE: Document shredding is limited to Inglewood Residents Only.

ID IS REQUIRED (3 boxes or bags per car ONLY) For more information, please contact the City of Inglewood Public Works Department at (310) 412-5333.

youth in a day of fun and fitness.

PLAY 60 is the NFL’s campaign to encourage kids to be active for 60 minutes a day in order to help reverse the trend of childhood obesity and promote active and healthy lifestyles among youth. Friday’s PLAY 60 event will feature a variety of activities and stations, including a 40-yard dash, tackling dummies, field-goal kicking and the opportunity to catch a touchdown pass from a Rams player.

The event is also the kickoff of the team’s Staff Day of Service program in the Los Angeles area.

Each month, the Rams front office staff will take time out of the office to volunteer with local non-profits.

The program, which began in St. Louis in 2009, has resulted in more than 12,000 hours of community service.

The 800 elementary and middle school students will come from 14 Inglewood schools, including: Bennett Kew Elementary, Worthington Elementary, Woodworth Elementary, Monroe Middle, Kelso Elementary, Payne Elementary, Warren Lane Elementary, Crozier Middle, Centinela Elementary, Highland

Elementary, LaTijera Charter Academy, Parent School, Oak Street Elementary and Hudnall Elementary.

Participating Los Angeles Rams players will include: Cody Davis, Johnny Hekker, Cameron Lynch, Jake Mcquaide, Chase Reynolds, Rodger Saffold, Coty Sensabaugh And Doug Worthington.

Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders; Rampage, the Los Angeles Rams Mascot; the Los Angeles Rams front office staff and student volunteers from Inglewood High and Morningside High will also participate.

The Los Angeles Rams—Los Angeles’ original professional sports team—stand as one of the oldest franchises in the National Football League, and since its founding in 1937, have garnered three World Championships and sent 29 of its members to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As a professional sports team, the organization is committed to being a valuable civic partner and serving the greater Los Angeles area 365 days a year. For more information visit www.therams.com and follow the Rams on Facebook and Twitter, @RamsNFL

Inglewood Today

May 12, 2016

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R E AL E s tat e

Foreclosures Continue in Inglewood

Keeping It REAL Estate

Keep Your Home California May Be Able to Help

By Odest T. Riley, Jr., President, WLM Financial Services

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By Glenda Brass, MBA

s most of us have come to realize, the real estate market shifts according to interest rates, seasons, inventory, etc. In today’s market there is somewhat of a disconnect as homebuyers unenthusiastically pursue their home-

Glenda Brass ownership goals due to the reduced inventory. What that means is, this is a seller’s market. Sellers face less competition and can ask for higher prices as most properties receive multiple offers, pushing the final number well over asking. Inglewood’s home prices are increasing even faster than the surrounding market due to the impending NFL stadium.

Yet in spite the above, since the beginning of 2016, Inglewood has had about 72 notices filed with the intent to foreclose. This could equate to potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost equity. Unbelievable in this market!

Homeowners, if you are one of the 72, or if you anticipate trouble, there may be help for you through the Keep Your Home California initiative. Following is a summary of some of the program specifics. You can also visit www.keepyourhomecalifornia.org or give me a call at 310-345-9707, for additional information.

The Unemployment Mortgage Assistance (UMA) Program This program provides temporary financial assistance to eligible California homeowners who wish to remain in their homes, but have suffered a loss of income due to unemployment or underemployment. UMA provides mortgage payment assistance equal to the lesser of $3,000 per month or 100% of the principal, interest and any escrowed property taxes, insurance, and homeowner’s association dues or assessments, for up to 18 months.

Mortgage Reinstatement Assistance (MRAP) The MRAP provides assistance to eligible homeowners who, because of a financial hardship, have fallen behind on their payments and need help to reinstate their past due first mortgage loan.

Benefit assistance through MRAP can be a one–time payment of up to $54,000 to cover principal, interest, taxes and insurance, as well as any homeowner’s association dues.

Principal Reduction Program (PRP) The PRP provides assistance to eligible homeowners who owe more on their mortgage than their home is worth and/or have an unaffordable payment. Homeowners must have experienced an economic hardship or a severe decline in their home’s value in order to be considered for the PRP. Homeowners who qualify for the PRP could be eligible for up to $100,000 in assistance from Keep Your Home California.

Transition Assistance Program (TAP) The TAP provides one-time funds (Continued on page 10)

Q&A

Q: My building was bought by an out-of-town investor and they have raised my rent from $900 a month to $1500. I have lived in Inglewood most of my life and don’t want to leave. What should I do?

A: Unfortunately, Inglewood does not have rent control, so the new owner is within their rights to raise the rents. Inglewood’s housing market has become a hot spot for investors. The best advice I would give is to look to see if you can possibly qualify to purchase a home in the city or possibly team up with a family member or friend to purchase a home together. I wish you good luck whatever you decide to do.

Q: I have real estate people knocking on my door everyday asking me if I want to sell. I bought my house 18 years ago and my friend told me it’s worth 3 times what I paid for it back then. Should I sell?

A: I’m sorry you have people knocking on your door every day, but with Inglewood being so hot you can’t really blame these realtors for trying to make a living. In 18 years your home has probably gained a large amount of value. I would need to know more about your situation before I advised you to sell or stay, but what I would say is with the price of homes in Inglewood rising at such a high rate— and with the City finally having a consistent plan—Inglewood is now a place to hold onto property.

If you sold now it is not likely you would be able to get the same kind of home and neighborhood in a surrounding community.

I would like to thank everyone who sent in questions this week. I will be doing Keeping it Real Estate Q & A the second and fourth Thursday of every month.

I am not an expert on every subject, but when it comes to real estate, lending, insurance and personal finance, I have been lucky to be around some of the smartest, hardest working people in those fields.

And now I have the opportunity to pass this wealth of knowledge along to you. So ask me anything and if I can’t personally answer it, I’ll reach out to someone who can.

Odest T. Riley, Jr. As always, at WLM Financial we are here to assist you with all of your real estate and mortgage needs, from buying and selling to refinancing your home, we can help you along. Our goal and my dream is to teach people how to get in the position to be financially free, and with a little bit of hard work and endurance you can get there.

For any questions please contact Odest T. Riley Jr., President of WLM Financial. Call (310) 905-7421, email odest@wlm financial.com or send mail to 111 N. La Brea Ave. #406B, Inglewood, CA 90301. Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook at wlmfinancial. And just a reminder, we have a first-time homebuyers seminar this Saturday, May 14, 2016 from 12-1:30pm. For more details, please call (310) 905-7421.

You’re in good hands.

The Campbell Agency (323) 750-1777

Serving the Community for Over 20 Years www.bcagencying.com

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May 12, 2016

Community

F

SBWIB Hosts 16th Annual Blueprint for Workplace Success Youth and Young Adults Job Fair

or the 16th year, the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) hosted the annual Blueprint for Workplace Success Youth and Young Adult Job Fair.

The event was held May 4 at Inglewood’s Rogers Park, in collaboration with the City of Inglewood, the State Department of Rehabilitation, the State of California Employment Development Center, the Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and the South Bay OneStop Business & Career Centers.

More than 750 participating local area youth and young adults, ages 16-24, traveled to Inglewood for an opportunity to interact with representatives from more than 60 attending businesses and organizations in the hope of securing employment. For many, this is the first foray into the job interviewing process. Students from 18 schools throughout the South Bay Area were selected by their school’s career counselors so they could meet face-to-face with potential employ-

ers. At event’s end, 158 were offered jobs on the spot and 186 are scheduled for follow-up interviews.

Inglewood Councilman Alex Padilla, representing Mayor James Butts Jr., who was out of town, encouraged attendees to be diligent, to work hard and have a strong work ethic. “You have to start somewhere. Dream big and give it 100 percent,” Councilman Padilla said.

Another Promise Kept (Continued from page 1) For close to 6 years, Inglewood Fire Station 172 has had a “Station Closed” sign hanging on its doors, due to budget cuts. Back in February, Mayor James Butts and the Inglewood City Council approved an amendment to the Fire Services Agreement that made Station 172 operational. “Everybody came together as a unified team to make this

One thing Councilman Padilla is known for is his authentic adoration for the city and its residents. From the first time we sat down to have a conversation at the District 2 ICOPS center, I sensed his passion and desire to create opportunities that would unite everyone in the community and bring us closer together.

Reopening Station 172 was one of those occasions.

“I gotta tell you, a few years ago

like to see some of you back here doing the interviewing.”

Since its inception in 2000, more than 10,000 South Bay youth have participated in the job fair. Among the businesses and organizations present were multiple-time attendees Target, Costco, L.A. Fire Department, U.S. Army, EDD-Inglewood, GameStop and Old Navy.

Jay Fernandez, Director of Operations for Camacho’s Inc. said this was their first year attending the event.

“We are impressed with the way the event has been organized,” Fernandez said. “This comes at the perfect time Inglewood Councilman Ralph for us as we are hiring extra help for Franklin prepared the crowd for the the busy summer months. We are also beginning of the event by urging excited about giving young people an them to repeat the chant “Yes I can. opportunity to gain employment exI’ll do my best.” perience,” Fernandez said.

SBWIB Executive Director Jan “This is a tremendously successVogel shared a success story before ful event,” Mr. Vogel stated. “Our the event officially began. “Two Blueprint participants and local years ago we had a young lady here, youth get real-world experience in just like you, trying to get a job. The interviewing and the companies are following year, she was at a table able to select among a pool of workhiring people. Next year I would ready candidates. It’s a win-win.”

dedication and an understanding that at the end of the day, the goal is to serve the community.

LA County Fire Chief Daryl Osby added, “It was a collaboration between the administration of the fire department, your city leadership, and our partners in labor to get the funding and negotiations to get this station opened so that we could provide

day possible. With us having our own fire station, it certainly is something that the community is excited about,” Padilla said.

“I really want to thank Chief Daryl Osby and Dave Gillotte for working with us, because we definitely weren’t able to open this station as soon as it was agreed to, but everybody working together has brought back another part of our community safety and community life,” Mayor Butts added.

when I was running for election, one of the few things I campaigned on was opening up the community center on La Cienega and Fairview, and hopefully in the next month, that community center is gonna open up for our residents, but the other big thing was, getting this fire station opened up, that to me, was my priority,” he said.

Reopening a fire station may seem like a simple task, but the process is arduous and requires

the best possible services to the citizens of the City of Inglewood. We’re not the LA County Fire Department, we’re your fire department!”

The day was jam-packed with fun for the entire family. To kick the event off, firefighters served guests with breakfast and as the day progressed they brought out the hot (Continued on page 10)

May 12, 2016

Inglewood Today

Page 9

Community

Urban Scholar Academy Accepting Summer Enrollment

I

n just a few short weeks, parents will face the challenge of keeping their kids safe and mentally engaged during the summer while they go off to work. Imhotep and Alexis Coleman, founders of Urban Scholar Academy in Inglewood, will be welcoming students from kindergarten through 8th grade to meet this need.

The Urban Scholar Academy will run its summer program from June 13 - July 29 at Breath of Life Seventh Day Adventist Church, 425 South La Brea Ave., Inglewood, CA 90301.

Classes will be held Monday through Friday.

“We’ll be doing robotics, physical science, forensics, phonics, reading comprehension and mathematics skills to prepare students for the 2016 Fall Term. We want students to be at least 2 months ahead when they return to school. We’ll also focus on the fundamentals of performing and fine arts. We do weekly field trips and arts and crafts as well,” Imhotep said.

Because it’s never too early to instill sound moral values, the Colemans have developed a special curriculum for character development. “Students learn to develop character through team building activities. Each week a different character trait is emphasized. For example, we work on integrity one week and the next week, we emphasize trust,” Alexis explained.

Urban Scholar Academy was established to fill a gap for parents who live in urban communities. “As a public school educa-

By Veronica Mackey

Urban Scholar Academy is looking to develop partnerships with people who have a vision for the city and working with African American and Latino youth. “We are looking for opportunities to do events in the city for children who need academic support in and around Inglewood,” Alexis said.

“Education is a critical part of any community advancement.

We want to provide a resource for parents who want their kids to excel academically,” Imhotep said.

The enrollment deadline for the summer academy is May 28. Program cost is $125 per week; registration is $25. Financial assistance is available.

Register online at www.urbanscholaracademy.org or visit Urban Scholar Academy, 714 E. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA. For more information, contact Alexis Coleman at (310) 528-3845 or email info@ urbanscholaracademy.org.

Imhotep and Alexis Coleman, founders of Urban Scholar Academy

tor and parents of two boys, we felt there was a lack of academic enrichment on the weekends for African American and Latino students, and we wanted to create something to address this.

Since 2012, every Saturday we would hold classes focusing on science, math and reading enrichment.”

Both Howard University grads, the Colemans moved to California in 2006 so Imhotep could pursue his career in television and film production. They settled and bought a home in Inglewood in 2009.

Held at Breath of Life Seventh Day Adventist Church 425 South LaBrea Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301

.

.m.-6 p.m

.m., 4 p

a 7 a.m.-8

• F un & Engaging Academics!

•R obotics & Science Investigations • Performing & Fine Arts!

• Arts & Crafts!

• Weekly Field-Trips!

• Much More!!

Includes breakfast and lunch.

Registration Deadline May 28th

Register Online: www.urbanscholaracademy.org or visit Urban Scholar Academy 714 E. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA

Questions? Contact Alexis Coleman at (310) 528-3845 or email info@urbanscholar academy.org.

Inglewood Today

Page 10

LEGAL NOTICES Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2016076092 The following Person is doing business as: Trench Art Productions 11428 Killion Street, #6 North Hollywood, CA 91601 Registered Owner: Phillip Dye, 11428 Killion Street, #6, North Hollywood, CA 91601 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on March 29, 2016 I (We) declare that all information in this statement is true and correct.

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

Phillip Dye, Owner This statement was filed with the County Clerk on March 29, 2016.

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 April 28; May 5, 12, 19, 2016 IT00422301103 Inglewood Today

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS Petitioner: Kristie Beltran Hernandez, Case No. VS028626, 10127 Elizabeth Ave., South Gate, CA 90200, has filed a petition with the Superior Court Of California, County Of Los Angeles, 12720 Norwalk Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650, Norwalk Court House,to change her name.

May 12, 2016

Memorial Sports Arena to Close Permanently on May 12

FROM: Kristie Beltran Hernandez – TO: Kristie Beltran Valdez-Gullen THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing on June 15, 2016, 1:30 am, Dept C, to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Pub: Apr 28; May 5, 12, 19, 2016

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS Petitioner: Jill Franklyn, Case No. BS158708, 1111 ½ S. Orange Grove Ave., L A, CA 90019, has filed a petition with the Superior Court Of California, County Of Los Angeles, 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012, Los Angeles Courthouse, to change her name.

FROM: Jill Franklyn TO: Jillian Franklyn THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing on September 1, 2016, 10:00 am, Dept 47, Room 507, to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Pub: May 12, 19, 26, 2016; June 2, 2016

Serving the Community for Over 20 Years

Visit Our Website: www.inglewoodtoday.com and Subscribe to Inglewood Today

A

fter nearly 57 years, the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena will be closing permanently to make way for the construction of a $250-million soccer stadium featuring 22,000 seats, a museum, restaurants, retail and office space. The project is expected to create 3,000 construction and full time jobs and generate $129-million annually from stadium operations. The Los Angeles Football Club is poised to debut as a Major League Soccer franchise in 2018.

The public is invited to the closing ceremony, May 12 at 2:30pm. Supervisor Mark

Another Promise Kept (Continued from page 8) dogs and popcorn. Kids were able to get their faces painted, build wooden helicopters with the help of Home Depot, hula hoop, and get a sense of what being in a 3.5 magnitude earthquake feels like from inside the Yogi Bear School House Earthquake Simulator.

In conversation with residents at the event, the support for the new station was

fire trucks, play games, eat as much as they want, it doesn’t get any better than this. I love this city.”

Inglewood resident Larry Rigsby added, “I am excited for the residents of District 2 for this reopening. The re-

overwhelming. Erica Neal of District 4 said, “I think this is awesome, for one, to re-open a fire station in the city that’s now going to be able to cut down response times, and for two, look at all these kids, they are having the time of their life. They get to chat with firefighters, sit inside the

opening just proves the City of Inglewood continues to improve in a positive manner. I am so proud as an Inglewood resident to see the progress made in our city.”

Little by little, we’re witnessing the community blos-

som into its foreshadowed potential as being one of the best cities in the country, as each phase of our development is culminated with celebration. District 2 has seen a great deal of those improvements in the last few years, and it’s going to be interesting to see what this community will look like in the next 5 to 10 years. Padilla concluded, “…it’s exciting to have a station to call our own, to be able to decrease the response time for emergencies in our district, and it’s just a welcome addition to our city. To the men and women of the fire department, thank you so much for your service. Today is a beautiful day in Inglewood.”

Ridley-Thomas, Los Angeles County, Second District will be joined by William J. Chadwick, Commission Vice President; Councilmember Curren D. Price, Jr., Los Angeles; Supervisor Don Knabe, Los Angeles County, Fourth District; Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Los Angeles; Assemblymember Reginald B. Jones-Sawyer, Sr.; and State Senator Ricardo Lara.

The sports arena is located at 3939 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90037. Parking available in Lot 6.

Foreclosures Continue in Inglewood (Continued from page 7) to help eligible homeowners relocate into a new housing situation after executing a short sale or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure. The TAP can provide up to $5,000 in transition assistance per household.

If none of these programs work for you, then please don’t allow the bank to sell your home. Exit with the same dignity you had when you purchased the home. Visit www.exitwithdignity.com and get the help you need!

Glenda is a certified short sale and foreclosure specialist and has over 16 years in the real estate industry. Her offices are located at 2639 W. Manchester Blvd, Inglewood.

For additional information on this or other real estate topics, call Glenda at 310-345-9707.

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

Inglewood Today

May 12, 2016

Page 11

D at e s i n M ay & J u n e May 14, 2016 Lupus Heath Summit Luncheon The Lupus Health Summit Luncheon will take place at the First Presbyterian Church of Inglewood at 100 N. Hillcrest Blvd. Dr David Klashman will discuss lupus, an auto-immune disease affecting major organs.

Lupus predominately affects women of color in the African American, Latino, and Asian communities; 10 percent of sufferers are men. Please join us learn more about this insidious disease that seems to be running rampant in our communities. A $15 donation is suggested. For more information, call (310) 677-5133.

May 14, 2016 Stroke Update 2016 and Risk Assessments Neurologist Doojin Kim, MD, and registered nurse Margaret Moore will present the latest information on stroke during a free program at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica. Following the presentation on stroke types, warning signs, preventive measures, treatments and actions to take for a stroke, UCLA clinicians will perform blood pressure checks and conduct stroke-risk assessments.

The program will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the ground-floor auditorium at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica, 1250 16th Street. To register, call: 800-516-5323.

May is Stroke Awareness Month.

Eye on the City (Continued from page 4) merged underwater for use in emergencies, such as oil spills.

Weekly council meeting broadcasts have resumed after a long hiatus thanks to the installation of new video equipment. “We had 60s technology that was completely overhauled. We don’t have to do the primitive thing anymore. We broadcast directly from this chamber in high definition,” Butts said.

The council rejected a claim for property damage and approved payment for legal services in the amount of $9,114.40, and videography services in the amount of $12,554.84. A sixty-day extension was approved for the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) period with Thomas Safran and Associates, to allow sufficient time to complete a review and finalize an agreement to be submitted to the City Council/ Successor Agency.

Approval was also given to purchase computer-related equipment from Dell Computer L.P. A contract was awarded to provide new highspeed broadband Internet and WiFi services to the Inglewood Main and Crenshaw-Imperial Branch Libraries.

The meeting was closed in memory of Inglewood Pastor Doyle Hart and the mayor’s 104-year old aunt.

May 14, 2016 First Time Home Buyer Seminar Make your home buying dreams come true in 2016! Take the first step by coming to this seminar for first-time home buyers, presented by WLM Financial Services. Learn how to qualify and get access to affordable financing, including down payment assistance. The seminar takes place from noon-1:30pm at 111 La Brea Ave., 5th Floor, Inglewood, CA 90301. To RSVP, call (310) 905-7421 or email info@wlmfinancial.com.

on a home that you like when you already have a home that needs some upgrades? Enjoy the home you already have, increase your equity, and learn how to turn your home into an investment property. This informative seminar takes place from noon to 1:30pm, 111 N. La Brea Ave., 5th Floor, Inglewood, CA 90301. RSVP today by calling 310-905-7421 or email info@wlmfinancial.com.

June 11-12, 2016 Relay for Life Join your Inglewood friends May 14, 2016 and neighbors at Crozier Middle Walk to Cure Arthritis School, 120 W. Regent St., from Over 3,500 runners and walkers 9am to 9am and help stamp out will be on hand at the 2016 Walk cancer in our lifetime. The annual to Cure Arthritis at Exposition Park Relay for Life event is a walk and – South Lawn in Los Angeles. The run that raises money to support Walk to Cure Arthritis brings to- cancer patients. Organized by the gether communities to fight arthritis, American Cancer Society. To parraise money and offer support for the ticipate, sign up online at http://renation’s leading cause of disability. lay.acsevents.org and join the team For more information, visit www. for your district.

WalktoCureArthritis.org/LosAngeles or contact Debbie Martin at 323- June 13-July 29 2016 954-5760. To learn more about the Urban Scholar Summer Arthritis Foundation’s quest to cure Academy arthritis, visit www.arthritis.org.

The Urban Scholar Academy is accepting summer enrollment for May 28, 2016 students in kindergarten through 8th “Don’t Move! Improve Your grades. The program includes acaHome” demic, technology, arts and crafts, Tired of coming home to the same movies, weekly field trips and much old house? Have you been outbid more. Held Monday through Friday

at Breath of Life Seventh Day Adventist Church, 425 South La Brea Ave., Inglewood, CA 90301.

Enrollment deadline is May 28.

Program cost is $125 per week; registration is $25 (Includes breakfast and lunch). Financial assistance is available. Register online at www.urbanscholaracademy.org or visit Urban Scholar Academy, 714 E. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA. For more information, contact Alexis Coleman at (310) 528-3845 or email info@urban scholaracademy.org.

Ongoing Talk to a Lawyer Online In cooperation with the City of Inglewood, the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA) now offers a teleconferencing center at the Main Library, where you can speak to a lawyer live, and send them documents. They offer legal advice and guidance on a variety of civil matters, including evictions, divorces, and child custody. They can provide referrals to private attorneys, other legal services, or other resources as needed.

Hours for teleconferencing are every Wednesday from 11am to 2pm. Ask the Audio/Visual Desk assistant for help or call ahead for an appointment at (310) 412-5380.

Grim Sleeper Convicted of 10 Counts of Murder

L

onnie Franklin, Jr., better known as the “Grim Sleeper,” was found guilty of 10 counts of first-degree murder on May 5. A Los Angeles jury convicted Franklin of a series of murders that started in 1985—including a young woman whose body was found in Inglewood.

According to NPR’s Kirk Siegler, “The nickname ‘Grim Sleeper’ first came about because of an apparent gap in the murders. There were the unsolved slayings in the 1980s, and in the early 2000s, bodies of women again started turning up in alleys and dumpsters in South LA. “But it’s now thought that the killer may have never ‘slept.’ Police uncovered nearly 100 pictures of unidentified women from Franklin’s home.”

Prosecutors say he started killing the year before, when he murdered Sharon Dismuke. Her body was found with a rag stuffed in her mouth in the men’s room of an abandoned gas station in South L.A., according to the motion.

Dismuke died as a result of two gunshot wounds to her left chest – the same wounds found on eight of Franklin’s murder victims. Franklin was convicted of killing:

Lonnie Franklin, Jr. Debra Jackson, Henrietta Wright, Barbara Ware, Bernita Sparks, Mary Lowe, Lachrica Jefferson, Alice “Monique” Alexander, Princess Berthomieux, Valerie McCorvey, and Janecia Peters. Berthomieux, 14, was found in an alley behind 8121 S. Van Ness Blvd., in Inglewood on March 12, 2002. She had been missing since December 21, 2001.

The serial killer targeted mostly poor, black women, some of whom were prostitutes, according to police. One woman, Enietra Washington, who was shot in the chest and sexually assaulted, testified that she believed Franklin was her attacker in 1988, NPR reported.

In addition to Dismuke, prosecutors also posit that Franklin killed four others: • Inez Warren, August 15, 1988.

Her body was discovered in a

South L.A. alley after police responded to an anonymous 911 call. “The voice of the 911 caller sounds like the defendant,” according to police. The victim died as a result of a gunshot wound to her left chest.

• Georgia Mae Thomas, December 28, 2000. She died as a result of two gunshot wounds to her left chest. DNA evidence connects her to Franklin, according to prosecutors.

• Rolenia Morris. She has been missing since September 20, 2005. Her Nevada driver’s license and two photographs of her were found in Franklin’s garage, according to prosecutors.

• Ayellah Marshall. She has been missing since January 11, 2006.

She was 18 at the time of her disappearance. Her Hawthorne High School ID card was found in Franklin’s garage, prosecutors say.

The sentencing hearing for Franklin is scheduled to begin May 12.

Franklin’s legal team will have the opportunity to argue for life in prison instead of the death penalty, and introduce any evidence to mitigate his crimes. The convicted murderer has reportedly shown no remorse.

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