SoCal Fires Force Mass Evacuations
By Veronica Mackey
Warnings are still in effect as massive fires rage the northern portion of Los Angeles County, burning through Pacific Palisades, Sylmar, Pasadena and Altadena and other nearby cities. The Palisades fire, which broke out around 10:30am on Tuesday, quickly spread, with fast-moving winds
Narrow roads and folks who waited to
evacuate created a bottleneck, making it difficult for fire trucks to reach the area.
At one point, officials told residents to either shelter in place or abandon their cars due to the fire’s close proximity.
Several people fled on foot.
“We looked across and the fire had jumped from one side of the road to the other side of the road,” Kelsey Trainor, a Palisades resident said. “People were getting out of the cars with their
dogs and babies and bags, they were crying and screaming. The road was just blocked, like full-on blocked for an hour.” Officials said they would begin removing cars from the roads to make room for emergency vehicles.
By Wednesday morning, warnings were issued to residents in Santa Clarita. Noting that “Warnings can quickly turn into evacuations,” Good Day LA reported a Palisades man stayed behind
with his dog to film his burning home. A Fox 11 News reporter explained that despite evacuation warnings, some stay and fight because they don’t want to lose everything and have to start over.
During a press conference on Wednesday, a Fire Department spokesperson pleaded with the public
Continued on page 7
Costco Addresses Affordable Housing Crisis with Planned Units in Baldwin Hills
By Veronica Mackey
Is living above a major retail store the way to affordable housing?
Costco thinks so, and plans to build 184 low income apartments out of 800 planned units above its future retail location It is the first to receive approval under Assembly Bill 2011 or the Affordable Housing and High Road Jobs Act. The 2023 California law speeds up the approval process for projects that meet affordability and labor criteria. The first Costco apartment complex will be built in Baldwin Hills.
Partnering with real estate developer Thrive Living, the project is expected to start in early 2025.
The ambitious project, to be built at 5035 Coliseum, is expected to cost $425 million, and Thrive Living founder Ben Shaoul wants to build thousands more across the U.S. He told the Wall Street Journal that Costco will pay rent for the space and the income will help his company be less dependent on government subsidies. Work is expected to conclude in 2027.
Continued on page 7
Publisher’s Message
Bringing Back Community
By Willie Brown
Just one week ago, we woke up to news about a mentally deranged person who shot and ran over people in his truck in New Orleans on New Year’s Eve. What began as young people celebrating and anticipating the new year ended up as a senseless tragedy. The very next day, another unhinged man blew himself up in an explosion in front of Trump Towers in Las Vegas. Then lightning struck the nation’s Capital Building (A warning for the president-elect?) Now we’re faced with at least 3 major fire storms less than 20 miles of Inglewood that have been burning for 2 days with zero containment.
It’s tragedy upon tragedy upon tragedy. What in the world is going on?
With 2025 getting off to such a rough and violent start, there has never been more reason to band together. A convicted felon, misogynist, wanna be dictator, and white supremacist is about to be sworn in as America’s president AGAIN, and no one in power stopped him. So, we need to hang on tightly to each other like never before. Our survival will depend on it. In some ways, this country has become unrecognizable. Drastic changes in technology, and even the climate can make us feel like the rug has been pulled from beneath us. Many may long for a simpler time, while others feel we have not come
far enough. Why, for instance does America rank so low in healthcare as a first world country with so much money and medical technology available?
We definitely need to embrace the new or we will fall behind. That does not mean we should let go of everything we value. All change isn’t good change. And being part of a community—people who unite for the common good—is something that should never change.
I’d like to draw your attention to a couple of items in this week’s edition that beautifully illustrate my point. First, there is the front page story about Costco’s efforts to actually put their money where their mouth is and build housing in Baldwin Hills that is actually affordable. This is the same company that recently took a stand against pressure from MAGA to do away with its DEI policies. Costco came out and refused to end its practice of diversity, equity and inclusion in
hiring employees and vendors. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Walmart. They were quick to not only end their equal opportunity hiring policies, but went so far as to ban their vendors from hiring DEI workers. For years, Walmart has held a reputation for job discrimination and unfair work conditions. They have got away with offering reasonably priced health insurance to their mostly low wage employees. They have contributed significantly to the 40% of Californians who rely on Medi-Cal. In fact, some employees say Walmart encourages them to apply for statesponsored medical insurance.
The second article is about a community effort to offer free food to anyone who needs it. No ID or explanation required. This is a great idea and solution to alleviating hunger in Inglewood and surrounding areas. It also puts good food to use that would otherwise go to waste. As Maya Mackey points out in her article, 120 billion pounds of food is wasted in America every year. It sickens me to think about It when I see so many people homeless and begging for food on the street.
It’s time to get back to community— everything from offering a few dollars to homeless people, to simply speaking to your neighbors. You never know who can benefit from your kindness.
Inglewood Today
Announces Internships
Inglewood Today (https://inglewoodtoday.com) has announced immediate internship opportunities for aspiring journalists and data/research assistants. The 31-year old media company is considering college and high school students for 3-6 month internships working hybrid 4-8 hours per week.
Journalist interns will have an opportunity to build their writing portfolios while interviewing celebrities, elected officials and other community leaders. They will also cover issues related to Inglewood and surrounding areas. Data/research assistants will work behind the scenes maintaining databases and helping to organize and launch a new blog.
Interested candidates may apply by submitting resumes to veronica@ inglewoodtoday.com. If applying for the journalist internship, candidates must also submit their best 2-3 writing samples.
Gov. Newsom to Present 2026 Budget: What Black Californians Should Watch
By Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media
On Jan. 6, California Gov. Gavin Newsom previewed budget highlights while receiving the North San Joaquin Valley’s regional economic plan, a part of California’s broader Jobs First Economic Blueprint aimed at driving local and statewide development.
The proposed $322.2 billion budget, including $228.9 billion in general fund spending, addresses a $2 billion deficit that Newsom is required to balance under state law. The Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) notes that while $16.5 billion in additional revenue from a strong economy, stock market gains, and higher tax receipts provides flexibility, long-term structural challenges persist. Spending growth, projected at 5.8% annually, continues to outpace revenue growth of 4%, with deficits potentially reaching $30 billion by 2028-29 without adjustments.
To ensure fiscal stability, Newsom plans to save $1.2 billion over two years by eliminating 6,500 state jobs and cutting $3.5 billion through operational efficiencies like reduced travel and IT modernizations. Despite these measures, Newsom assured there will be no cuts to core programs. Temporary revenue boosts, including $7 billion from stock market-linked income taxes, offer short-term relief but are not sustainable, making California’s $17 billion rainy-day fund a critical tool for managing future fiscal pressures.
This budget will incorporate strategies discussed during a recent special legislative session convened to prepare for potential conflicts with the incoming Trump administration and to safeguard critical state programs against federal interference or defunding.
During the Dec. 2 special legislative session, lawmakers introduced SBX1 authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), which allocates $25 million to the California Department of Justice to cover litigation costs for defending state policies against federal challenges. These funds will support Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office in lawsuits targeting federal actions on reproductive rights, zero-emission vehicle standards, and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. An additional $10 million is earmarked for county and city legal departments to defend local initiatives.
The budget continues investments in education, healthcare, housing, and economic growth. In the 2025-
26 budget, Proposition 98 funding for K-12 schools and community colleges increases by $1.5 billion, reaching $116.8 billion, with per-pupil spending rising to a record $23,723. Of this amount, $2.8 billion will be available for new commitments, reflecting forecasts for growth and a 2.46% statutory costof-living adjustment. Initiatives such as Universal Transitional Kindergarten, expanded after-school and summer programs, and Universal School Meals are expected to strengthen educational outcomes.
Despite this funding boost, inequities persist in educational outcomes for Black students, who face suspension rates nearly three times higher than their peers and lower graduation rates. Discretionary funds could support programs aimed at addressing these disparities, including investments in teacher training, mental health services, and restorative justice initiatives. In addition, Newsom will fund programs addressing literacy gaps, such as dyslexia screening and high-dose tutoring.
California’s higher education system is expected to benefit from increased funding to support affordability and access across its community colleges, California State University, and University of California systems. The budget will likely emphasize financial aid expansion, enrollment growth for underserved groups, and infrastructure improvements, while aligning educational programs with workforce needs to ensure graduates are prepared to fill existing gaps in the job market.
California’s housing crisis continues to disproportionately affect Black residents. Although Black Californians make up nearly 6% of the state’s
population, they represent roughly 50% of its unsheltered homeless population. As of 2024, California’s homeless population exceeded 180,000, reflecting a 31% increase since 2007.
High rental costs, averaging $2,225 per month for a two-bedroom apartment statewide, contribute to housing instability. The budget is expected to include funding for affordable housing construction, homelessness prevention programs, and emergency rental assistance. However, long-term solutions such as increased funding for affordable housing developments and tenant protections remain critical.
Medi-Cal, which serves over 14 million Californians or about one-third of the state’s population, remains a critical focus area for the budget. With federal funding accounting for 64.4% of Medi-Cal’s budget, potential changes under the Trump administration could pose risks. The state has historically relied on reserves to stabilize Medi-Cal programs during times of uncertainty. Proposals expected in the 2026 budget include expanding access to mental health services, addressing maternal and infant health disparities in Black communities, and increasing funding for community clinics in underserved areas.
Additionally, the budget will likely prioritize environmental justice initiatives aimed at improving air quality and providing safe drinking water in underserved communities, addressing longstanding health and environmental disparities. Public transportation improvements are expected to receive attention as well, enhancing accessibility and economic mobility in Black and low-income communities.
Economic recovery poses significant challenges for Black Californians, who face an unemployment rate of 6.7%, significantly higher than the 3.4% rate for White and Asian individuals and the 5.9% rate for Hispanic or Latino individuals. These disparities underscore the need for workforce development programs, including apprenticeships, small business grants, and enforcement against wage theft.
The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) is anticipated to play an active role in budget negotiations. Historically, the caucus has championed policies that address disparities in education, housing, and healthcare impacting Black Californians.
In the 2026 budget cycle, the CLBC is expected to prioritize equitable distribution of Proposition 98 funds, expanded allocations for affordable housing, and targeted healthcare initiatives to address disparities in underserved communities. With $3.7 billion in the Proposition 98 reserve, discussions may focus on ensuring these funds address inequities affecting Black Californians.
Key dates in the budget process include May 14, when the Governor presents an updated version of the budget incorporating amended revenue forecasts and adjustments. June 15 is the deadline for the final budget passage.
Newsom’s 2026 budget will outline California’s approach to addressing systemic inequities while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The active involvement of stakeholders, including the CLBC, will be pivotal in shaping the state’s response to critical issues impacting Black Californians.
Area Communities
Serving Ladera, Hawthorne, Westchester, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson
Christmas Toy Drive Delivers Holiday Spirit
Inglewood Today News
Over 300 toys and gift cards were given away on Dec. 19, thanks to generous donors who contributed to the District 1 Holiday Toy Drive.
“It was wonderful!” said District 1 Councilwoman Gloria Gray. “It was so good to be able to do something for people who really appreciated it.” The event, held at the ICOP Center at 2901 Manchester Blvd., was attended by a diverse group of people of all ages.
Air Taxis—The Future is Now
By Veronica Mackey
Robotic food servers. Check. Talking computers. Check. Video calls. Check. Flying cars? They’re coming sooner than you might think If you’ve ever felt like a hostage on the 405—unable to move due to traffic—and wished you could fly over all the cars, you might not have to wait that long. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has been working behind the scenes with tech engineers to produce a new type of
aircraft known as “electrical vertical take-off and land vehicle”or eVTOL. So far, the FAA has created a new category called powered lift—a step the FAA had not taken since helicopters in 1940. There are still hurdles ahead for eVTOL pioneers before the FAA allows commercial flights in the U.S. For one thing, the FAA needs to determine requirements for a pilot to fly the new aircraft.
According to MSN, eVTOL vehicles “lift off the ground like a
helicopter before flying at speeds up to 200 miles per hour (322 kilometers per hour) with a range of about 100 miles (161 kilometers). And these craft do it without filling the air with excessive noise caused by fuel-powered helicopters and small airplanes.”
“We are just a few steps from the finish line. We want to turn what are now one- and two-hour trips into five-minute trips,” JoeBen Bevirt, CEO of Joby Aviation, said. He is currently testing his air taxi in
Marina, California.
Once approved, the flying cars will be able to carry up to 4 passengers from New York to Manhattan in about 10 minutes.
Dubai is most likely the first country that will be permitted to begin transporting passengers. This could happen by the end of this year. China is also vying to make flying cars a reality.
not to stay and try to save their homes. “When we say evacuate, evacuate. This is not a drill. This is real time.”
About 1,000 structures have been impacted. Grounds of the Getty Villa Museum was seen burning. So far, no deaths in Palisades have been reported, although some firefighters were injured.
Just how much damage is expected, no one knows. It depends on how the Santa Ana winds blow. Embers can travel up to 5 miles. Travelers are warned to stay away from the affected areas. Power outages in homes and traffic lights have added to the chaos.
Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley said, “Over the last 24 hours,
over 3,000 acres have burned and it continues to grow. “We are stretching our capacity of emergency services to their maximum limit. All aircraft were grounded due to high winds.” She also said 3,398 civilians were evacuated north of Pacific Coast Highway, south of Mulholland Road and east of Topanga Canyon.
More than 10,000 acres had burned in the Eaton Valley Fire by 10:30am on Wednesday. Two people have died. That fire is burning through Angeles National Forest, impacting residents in and around Altadena and Pasadena.
Los Angeles Fire Department
officials have requested help from 4 counties including Orange, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. Counties in Northern California as well as the states of Washington, Oregon and Nevada are also getting involved.
A fire department official said a number of LAUSD schools—about 10 percent of the district—were closed. Affected schools are located north of Manchester, east of 10 Freeway, west of the 710 Freeway and south of the 134 Freeway. Decisions to reopen were expected to be made by 4pm on Wednesday. All Pasadena schools have been closed, in addition to several other schools in Altadena, South Pasadena,
San Marino, Burbank, Glendale and Alhambra.
In Sylmar, more than 44,000 people are under evacuation orders and over 500 acres have burned with no containment in sight.
For more updates on the fires check your local news or use apps like Genasys Protect and Firespot.
Fox 11 News (Foxla.com/news) and the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD.org) have posted information on human and animal shelters on their websites.
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According to Thrive Living, the complex will create thousands of jobs, and opening the Costco store will create up to 400 new jobs.
The soon-to-be-built apartments will bring down rental rates to levels unseen in the Los Angeles area in recent years. According to the Globe and Mail, the project in Los Angeles is combining market-rate housing with dedicated affordable housing. Units designated for low-income housing with monthly rent plus utilities are set at $1,040 and available to families earning $41,610
per year.
By contrast, apartments at the new Demilo apartments, located at 201 N. La Brea Avenue in Inglewood, sitting atop ground floor commercial space, start at $2,500 for a studio. Two bedrooms can go as high as $3,912 per month. The apartment building, developed by Thomas Safran & Associates, is situated right across the street from Target Astral, with some views of the Inglewood Courthouse. Inglewood residents were furious reading the Instagram post by
EyeonInglewood. One woman commented that the studio price was “more than (her) HOA and mortgage put together.” Another woman wants “the old Inglewood back…the one I grew up in.”
At those prices, one might expect, at minimum, clean streets and sidewalks. But according to one IG user, this is not the case. “Between the urine and feces around their perimeter it’s gross. And by all means please do not leave any dead rodents out for 2 months or more either like they did near the target
entrance. Great convenience for some, terrible for those of us who work and have children that attend school in that area it’s a mess.”
Generally most Inglewood residents don’t feel that new housing springing up in the city is for them. Hopefully other large retailers will step up and take advantage of provisions in AB 2011 to bring more affordable housing to Inglewood.
Join the Free Food Movement
By Maya Mackey
A movement to combat food insecurity is taking over the nation. Various cities have started doing something they call “Free Fridge” where they plant a community refrigerator (sometimes referred to as a freedge) in a neighborhood, completely free and open to whomever needs it. In addition to getting fresh food to people in need, the community fridges also combat food waste.
It’s estimated that the amount of food waste in America totals almost 120 billion pounds per year! And with hunger and homelessness being so rampant in the states and across the world, this will make a direct impact toward solving it.
Operators of your neighborhood community fridge ask restaurants and individuals to donate any surplus food that might go to waste. Neighborhood volunteers sign up to restock the fridge, clean it, oversee the administrative details and logistics (like notifying people when the fridge needs to be repaired or restocked) and others volunteer to spread the word on social media.
The Inglewood
Community Fridge is located at the Crenshaw Dairy Mart. If you would like to volunteer to help restock or clean the fridge, email the organizers at inglewoodcommunityfridge@ gmail.com. You can also follow @ inglewoodcommunityfridge on Instagram for updates in real time.
Outside of Inglewood, there are fridges in Watts, West Adams, West Athens, Western & 56th, Westlake as well as fridges in the valley and parts of East LA. For a full list of running fridges in the LA area, follow @ lacommunityfridges on Instagram
