March 28 2024

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The History of Women and Birth Control

By Veronica Mackey

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, we find a plethora of people and inventions to celebrate. However, nothing has impacted women’s history more than birth control. In fact, one might argue, it is what made success for women much more sustainable.

Since the modern era of birth control began around 1960, women’s progress began to accelerate. No longer confined to being at the whim of hormones, women enjoyed more freedom and the ability to focus on social justice and their careers. They worried less about whether they would become pregnant. They could control if and when they became pregnant.

Now that pharmaceutical company Perrigo has announced the first overthe-counter birth control pill approved by the Federal Drug Administration,

Local,

By Veronica Mackey

Prospective first-time homebuyers are getting financial help from state and national real estate agencies to make their home-buying dreams come true.

NAREB

The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) is seeking to bolster Black homeownership with initiatives that can connect with the more than 2 million African American mortgage-ready renters who are not yet homeowners and other families and individuals in communities across the country.

According to NAREB President Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, the “NAREB Building Black Wealth Tour” will make stops in 100 cities, bringing valuable education about homeownership and wealth building.

“Our mission is to alert families and individuals, and especially those who can qualify for a mortgage, how

important it is to buy a home and be put on a path towards generational wealth,” Dr. Rose said.

She added, “Discriminatory housing

policies have kept our families for generations from opportunities to build wealth. We want everyone to know the important steps and information that

can lead to wealth-building and homeownership.”

According to sources, 45% of Black consumers do not know how much down payment is required, and with lower average credit scores and available funds, general unfamiliarity with mortgage requirements may disproportionately impact Black consumers, according to Fannie Mae’s 2023 Black Housing Journey.

The tour has held events in Houston, Birmingham, and Charlotte and has upcoming events in Mt. Vernon (4/13/24), Little Rock 6/8/24), New Orleans (8/3/24), Atlanta (11/9/24), Miramar (3/25), Beverly Hills, MO (6/25) and Los Angeles (8/25).

Publisher’s Message

Inglewood School

Closures: Pros and Cons

By Willie Brown

News that 5 Inglewood schools are on the chopping block is a hard pill to swallow. It is the result of a sharp decline in enrollment over the past few years—from 18,000 students to slightly less than 7,000.

Schools affected include Morningside High School, Crozier Middle School, and Hudnall, Highland and Kelso Elementary Schools. Displaced Morningside students will end up at either Inglewood High School or a new high school academy that is planned. Crozier Middle School students will have several options, including Frank D. Parent, La Tiera, Oak Street, Payne and Woodworth-Monroe. The affected elementary schools will be relocated to Warren Lane Elementary, which was previously closed, but will reopen, according to reports.

Parents are up in arms over the news, citing inconvenience and unwelcome changes in their family’s routine. Some have said the decision to close certain schools and keep others open was based on their proximity to the city’s entertainment venues. They argue that schools near So-Fi and the Forum, were saved from the closures.

I can’t say whether this is true or not, but like County Administrator Dr. James Morris, I am concerned about having children navigate getting to and

from school near a heavily trafficked area, near major transportation. It’s a safety issue.

A lot has been said about how people in Inglewood feel about the pending closures. But not enough explanation has been given about the reasons why.

For starters, Inglewood public schools have been under state conservatorship for the past 12 years, amidst charges of fiscal mismanagement. The District currently pays the State of California $2 million a year to manage the schools.

As unfortunate as it is, the fact is what we see happening here in Inglewood is part of a growing trend in urban-based schools in general, and California in particular. State schools have been losing students due to massive migration. People are moving out of California. A lowered birth rate in the state is another reason. The impact or Covid 19 and the subsequent rise in virtual learning; a decline in enrollment at traditional colleges and increased interest in trade schools have all played a part.

Fewer students mean fewer dollars for our schools. So it’s clear to see the economics behind the closures. While no one can really argue economics, it’s not that easy to quantify factors such as the emotional and logistical toll that relocation will put on some families. Then there are other factors like tradition, legacy and concern over quality education.

Again, I am in agreement with Dr. Morris, who said, “A school is more than a building.” Some things can’t be measured by dollars and cents.

If it is any consolation to concerned educators, students, and their families, the District will be investing more than $200 million toward a long overdue renovation of Inglewood High School. Hopefully, having some schools closed in Inglewood will mean more dollars available toward the ones that remain open. Let’s hope for the best.

SF DA Brooke Jenkins, Other Leaders, Weigh in on Prop 47 and Retail Theft

On March 21, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins shared her perspectives on Proposition 47 (Prop 47), a controversial ballot measure that has been inflaming debates and influencing law enforcement action in California. The 10-year-old proposition has significantly impacted legal proceedings related to crime and punishment in the state.

voters on Nov. 5, 2014. The initiative reclassified some non-violent property crimes from felonies to misdemeanors, where the value of item involved does not exceed $950. In addition, Prop 47 converted some drug possession offenses into misdemeanors.

Retail thefts that exceed the $950 threshold are defined as commercial burglaries, a crime that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

On Jan. 4, the Public Policy Institute

At “A Conference on Crime,” a daylong event hosted by Capitol Weekly, Jenkins said Prop 47 started as a proactive way of reducing penalties for certain crimes. However, she added, it has evolved from a “pure” and “noble” effort into a “revolving door” for many individuals charged with lowlevel crimes.

“I think what we’ve seen are a few unintended consequences particularly when it comes to retail theft,” said Jenkins, the keynote speaker at the event, held at the California Endowment Conference Center near the State Capitol. “But I don’t want to blame it on Prop 47 alone. I think there are a number of factors that played into what came after Prop 47.”

Organizers say the conference focused on the most challenging law enforcement issues facing California today: organized retail theft, the lethal fentanyl crisis, and the growing debate on whether or not to amend Prop 47.

Prop 47 was passed by California

of California (PPIC) released a report revealing that robberies of commercial businesses were up in 9 of the 15 largest counties in the state in 2022 compared to 2019.

The state’s most populous county, Los Angeles, experienced the highest commercial robbery rate in 2022, followed by San Joaquin, Sacramento, and Kern.

“We now have watered it down to the point that misdemeanor charges are basically legalized when it comes to retail theft. There’s just not much we can do,” Jenkins told California Black Media. “So, from my vantage point, again, unintended consequences. I think there are just some adjustments that have to be made in order to get us to a point where we have something that incentivizes people to engage in the change they need for their lives.”

Sharp increases in fentanyl use and the growing frequency of retail thefts

Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Gospel Great Sandra Crouch Passes Away

By Veronica Mackey

Sandra Crouch, pastor, Grammy® Award-winning Gospel singer, musician, music producer, and twin sister of gospel legend Andraé Crouch, passed away on March 17 from complications related to a noncancerous brain lesion. She was 81.

The senior pastor of New Christ Memorial Church co-wrote one of Andre’s biggest hits, “Jesus is the Answer,” and has worked with some of the music industry’s greatest artists, including Michael Jackson, the Jackson 5, Quincy Jones, Madonna, Paul Simon, and Neil Diamond. In her own right, Sandra was Grammy-nominated for her work on 3 albums, including “We Need to Hear From You.”

Sandra’s long-running career also included the formation of a Gospel group called the Disciples with her brother in the 1970s. The group ranked near the top of the Gospel charts with hits like “Take Me Back,” “Soon and Very Soon,” “Through It All,” and “My Tribute (To God Be the Glory).”

Her funeral will take place at New Christ Memorial Church in San Fernando, CA on April 16-17. She is preceded in death by Andre Crouch, who passed away in 2015.

Continued from page 2: SF DA...

were other concerns discussed in depth at the conference. Fentanyl has been linked to thousands of opioid-related deaths across the state over the last three years and images of individuals wearing masks brazenly storming retail stores in smash-and-grab heists continue to haunt business owners, leading to store closures up and down the state.

Panelists participating in the discussion on Prop 47 included Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), Marc Beaart from the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office Organized Crime Division, Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper, and Lenore Anderson from the Alliance for Safety and Justice.

Anderson was the campaign chair and co-author of Prop 47, explained that the proposition was designed to minimize incarceration and reallocate prison funding to reform efforts involving mental health and drug treatment, kindergarten to 12th grade education, and victim programs.

Anderson, an attorney, told attendees that Prop 47 has been “overwhelmingly successful” since it became law 10 years ago, adding that it has helped to alleviate prison overcrowding.

“That’s a huge victory,” Anderson said.

Cooper, a law enforcement agent with over 30 years of experience and a former member of the state Assembly, said shoplifting and low-level crimes are “directly related to Prop 47.”

“If Prop 47 is working so well, why do we have over 20 bills introduced this year in the legislature to deal with Prop 47 issues?” Cooper asked.

“The proponent says, ‘Hey, crime is down.’ It’s not down (because) it’s underreported.”

Beeart is the Bureau Director for L.A. County’s Fraud and Corruption Prosecutions. His office files conspiracy, receiving stolen property, and smash-and-grab robbery charges against violators. The bureau also focuses on prosecuting “ring leaders” of mob-style retail theft. Beaart said the $950 misdemeanor limit established by Prop 47 “is a red herring for the public,” suggesting that it is misleading to focus on it as causal.

“In L.A. County we’ve decided to allocate our resources in the most efficient way possible,” Beaart said. “We do not prosecute low-level drug offenses. We use our resources for higher and better prosecution that have an impact on the community.”

Overall, PPIC analysis of crime data indicates that retailers are the main targets of crime in various parts of California. Shoplifting incidents rose in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and other urban areas. Commercial burglary and robbery are also more prevalent across the state, according to PPIC.

By 2022, commercial burglary was up in 21 of California’s 58 counties primarily in large urban counties. Commercial robberies rose in 25 counties.

“Right now, we have a system where it’s a revolving door for many of these folks,” Jenkins said. “They just come with a new case. Some of them 20 times and there’s nothing we have to sort of usher them in a different direction.”

Inglewood Today and CBCF Announce Spring and Summer 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.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) 2024 Summer Internship program is accepting applications from aspiring young leaders. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 5.

Successful candidates will gain hands-on experience in the public policy field, and make important connections, which can lead to job opportunities. This internship is based in Washington, DC. Free housing will be provided.

For more information, apply online at https://www.cbcfinc.org/programs/ internships/.

Serving Ladera, Hawthorne, Westchester, Lawndale, Gardena, Carson

Area Communities Lady’s Night

By Charles Jackson

This past February, during Black History Month, we were treated to a viewing of a portion of the Kinsey African American Art And History Collection, in connection with the great Kenny Washington, the first black man ever signed to an NFL contract. At a pivotal point in american history,

The Cleveland Rams had just moved to Los Angeles, with plans to inhabit the Los Angeles Coliseum. Citizens of color as well as whites paid into the tax pool that built that facility, and it was decided that it was time to see a black player in the NFL. It was then that the Rams owner Dan Reeves took that first step, eight

History Month, the “Collection” hosted a special celebratory showing of fine art and historical artifacts. This was the closing evening of

bills, centered on African American women. Some of the letters were written in their own hand. One very moving letter had been penned by the female master of a

months before Jackie Robinson was called to join Major League Baseball, he signed Kenny Washington.

It is that kind of history that is the cornerstone of the Kinsey collection. Not only does the collection number more than 700 pieces of art and counting, but it is recognized as one of the largest collections chronicling the African American experience. Since 2006 the collection has spread the good news to the people, traveling to 39 venues, museums, airport lounges and a 5 year showing at Epcot at Disney World. Since 2022, the SoFi Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Rams in Inglewood, California has hosted a residency for the collection.

In the waning weeks of Women’s

Kinsey’s SoFi Stadium residency and seemed a perfect opportunity to elevate and recognize the historical moments and artistic contributions of women throughout African American history. Much of that history and many of those moments are documented, displayed and illuminated by the authoritative teaching skills of curator Bernard Kensey. He patiently walked the invited guests through the exhibits pointing out letters, documents and printed

crafted sculptures set a tone for the evening that were mood altering yet inspiring.

I am sitting here, now flipping through a recently released Kinsey Collection Book that I purchased for the growth of my teenagers, because sadly this event, as mentioned, was the final leg of a 2 year engagement on the grounds of the Hollywood Park/SoFi Stadium, It has been a part of a cultural initiative brought to the stadium by the Kroenke Family Foundation and the Bernard and Shirley Kinsey Foundation For The Arts and Education in partnership with JP Morgan Chase. Due to great demand, the collection’s residency here at SoFi was actually extended, It has already been scheduled to begin a showing at the Holocaust Museum in Houston through June, If you have missed it, check their website for future showings:

https://www.thekinseycollection.com.

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on scheduled events at SoFi, announced here in Inglewood Today. Hollywood Park, The Rams and SoFi are quite

female slave, who after a life of faithful servitude was to be sold away from her entire family in the morning, with no notice. That unbelievably sad moment, as well as many of the graphic paintings and photographs of hand

deliberate in their dedication to education and philanthropic neighborhood outreach even when the Rams are off season, Any event at which you find yourself in attendance will be safe and well handled. Quinn Kim and the entire well informed internal event staff are all a cut above.

Sports & Entertainment March Music Madness

By Maya Mackey

Next Year’s Grammy Awards are shaping up to be pretty competitive based off of the albums and songs that have dropped this month alone!

Between “King Kenny” coming back for blood and Beyonce getting ready to take us to the Rodeo on Cowboy Carter, we are being well fed this year! Here’s my review and hot takes on the music we’ve received thus far.*

Categories:

They’re BACK and they’re not messing around

Cardi B - ★★★★☆

She’s getting better and betterer! Truly. Known for her authenticity above all else, Belcalis Almenzar (Cardi B) has always told the truth about who she is, where she’s from and how she thinks. Enough (Miami) is “more of the same” yet polished.

This is the power anthem of a woman who has come to terms with her success, who knows how to play to her strengths and yet still puts in

the work to improve her skills. What takes the song into overdrive is her commitment to wit! Cardi’s wordplay and knowledge of pop culture should not be underestimated! Cardi B also dropped Punteria with Shakira and Like That this month as well as being on the Never Lose Me remix with Flo Milli. Hopefully, her sophomore album is closer than we think.

Kendrick Lamar - ★★★★★

It was the diss heard ‘round the world…again! King Kenny is still disgusted with the rap game. To everyone’s surprise in 2013, Kendrick, unprovoked, took jabs at Drake, J. Cole, Wale, A$AP Rocky, Meek Mill and Big Sean (to name a few). He said “while he has love for [them],” they ultimately won’t be named in the conversation of Rap Greats. And well, he’s still not over it. Last Thursday night, again, completely unprovoked, Kendrick came back for round two on “Like That,” a surprise collab on Future and Metro Boomin’s new album. Kendrick

Federal Agents Raid Property Linked to Music Mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs In Holmby Hills

By Inglewood Today Writer

In a significant development that casts a shadow of uncertainty around music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, federal agents, part of a collaborative effort led by the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and local law enforcement, executed search warrants at properties associated with Combs in Los Angeles and Miami. These actions form part of a broader sex trafficking investigation directed by federal officials in New York. The involvement of Combs’ properties in such a serious probe raises questions about his potential connection to the allegations being investigated.

Despite the high-profile nature of the searches, specifics about Combs’ direct involvement remain unclear. Officials from both HSI and the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan have refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation, leaving room for speculation regarding the extent of Combs’ connection to the case. Efforts to reach Combs’ legal representatives for clarification have yielded no immediate response, further deepening the mystery surrounding his role, if any, in this matter.

The search operation, especially at the Los Angeles residence, highlighted the thoroughness with which authorities are pursuing leads, examining even

minor details such as poolside furniture cushions. The temporary detention of two individuals identified as Combs’ sons during the searches adds another layer of intrigue, though they were not arrested.

As the investigation continues, the link to Combs’ properties underlines the seriousness with which federal investigators are tackling sex trafficking, but without clear evidence or charges against Combs, the situation remains enveloped in doubt and speculation.

declared once again that Drake and J. Cole do not belong in the rap G.O.A.T. conversation, denouncing existence of “The big 3, it’s just big me,” and “Prince outlived Mike Jack” - a stab at Drake who compares his Billboard Chart success to Michael Jackson.

Kendrick lit Twitter/X on fire for a full 48 hours. War has been declared amongst Drake, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar fans. And now we wait for a response from the other two. And while a diss track is not made to go commercial, the fact that I heard it played during a Clippers game at the Crypto.com Arena speaks volumes!! Kendrick is too good at invoking chaos. It’s the Gemini in him. But when you’re exceptional at what you do? I’ll allow it. All hail to the king!

Veterans searching for Variety -Justin Timberlake - Everything I Thought It Was ★★★☆☆

Everything I Thought it Was was nothing I thought it would be. This album, too, caught me by surprise. I had no idea Justin Timberlake was

making a return but I’m g,mental as all his albums before, yet failed to land with his fans who are more used to a slick R&B sound from the former Mouseketeer.

Everything I Thought It Was (released March 15, 2024) is a nod back to his past with reflections on how fame impacted him and his relationships and the regrets Justin has because of it. This is not a perfect album - it’s far too long and a lot of sounds get repetitive, but Justin’s legacy will always be his fearlessness around experimentation and innovation when it comes to blending R&B, pop and whatever else he feels like throwing in the pot. The shining star of the album is his voice. Timberlake takes good care of his instrument and it shows!

The standout tracks: What Lovers Do, Technicolor, Play, Sanctified.

Who this album is for: JT fans, his “uncles and aunties”

Continued on page 7

Tips to Help Safely View the Upcoming Solar Eclipse

By Dr. Premilla Banwait, Vice President of Clinical Programs, UnitedHealthcare

For people in Inglewood and hundreds of millions more nationwide, the upcoming solar eclipse offers a great opportunity to view a rare celestial event.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks any part of the sun. On

April 8, virtually everyone across the country will have the chance (weather permitting) to see at least a partial solar eclipse, while over 31 million people in a narrow path from Texas to Maine will have the opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse. In Inglewood, the eclipse coverage will reach a maximum of 48.9% at approximately 11:12:20 AM PDT.

Spring Marketing Ideas to Boost Your Small Business

By Aden Ferguson

As the cold winter months come to an end, spring ushers in warmer weather, increasing energy and optimism –making it the ideal time for small businesses to ramp up their marketing efforts. The spring season provides the perfect opportunity to connect with customers in a refreshed way and drive new revenue after the slowdown that many businesses experience in winter. By taking advantage of spring themes and capitalizing on the renewed spirit of growth, small businesses can implement cost-effective marketing tactics that capture attention and move the sales needle.

Roll Out a Spring Sale or Promotion

One of the most straightforward ways for small businesses to generate buzz in spring is through a sale or special promotion. Consumers have grown accustomed to seeing spring sales, so not only do they expect it, but they’ll also be keeping an eye out for attractive seasonal deals. Create promotions that highlight the themes of renewal and freshness that come with spring – for example, offer discounts on spring cleaning services, car detailing packages, home décor updates, lawn care services, new spring clothing lines, and more. Make sure to promote your sale through multiple channels like email, social media, instore signage, and your website.

Host a Spring Event

Spring is a popular time for consumers to get out of the house and embrace the favorable weather before summer’s heat and humidity set in. Small businesses can capitalize on this by hosting a springthemed event to attract crowds and create an experience around their products or services. For example, a bakery could

hold a spring cookie or cake decorating class, a garden shop could put on a seed planting workshop, a cosmetics boutique could offer beauty makeovers with spring colors and styles, and a sporting goods store could organize a spring 5k or fun run. The key is coming up with an experiential event that aligns with your business and engages your target customers.

Freshen

Up Your Marketing Materials

Spring cleaning shouldn’t just be limited to your home or business – your marketing materials could likely use a refresh, too. Take a look at items like your website, brochures, menus, or catalogs, and identify ways to give them an updated look and feel for spring. Simple tweaks like incorporating vibrant spring colors, adding uplifting images of flowers or nature scenes, and adjusting copy to have a spring theme can go a long way in injecting new life. If you have the budget, spring is an opportune time to plan for a full rebrand or at least a logo refresh.

Partner With Other Local Businesses

Joining forces with other local businesses is a creative way for small businesses to multiply their marketing firepower in spring. By cross-promoting with complementary businesses, you can gain exposure to new audiences, share marketing costs, and differentiate your offerings. For instance, a clothing boutique could team up with a spa, jeweler, and restaurant to offer a spring

girls’ day out package. Or a landscaping and hardware store could bundle services and products for a spring home improvement promotion. Get creative in identifying partners that share your target customer base.

Utilize Spring-Themed Social Media

These days, social media is an indispensable marketing channel for small businesses – and spring provides tons of reasons to share seasonal, eye-catching content. Liven up your feeds by posting images and videos showcasing your team gearing up for spring, behind-the-scenes looks at your seasonal inventory or service offerings, tutorials or how-to’s related to spring, and of course photos that highlight the vibrant colors and freshness of spring. Capitalize on spring-related hashtags and holidays to engage your audiences.

Leverage Spring for Merchandising Spring presents the perfect backdrop for your merchandising and in-store

promotions. Dedicate parts of your physical retail space to showcasing new spring product lines, hot spring colors, and spring-themed displays. Guide customers through your space with signage and set designs that play up the spring aesthetic and prompt purchases. Cross-merchandise complementary spring items together to encourage impulse buys and trade-ups. And be sure to have your checkout counter and front windows overflowing with seasonal grab-and-go products and attentiongrabbing promotions.

The spring season holds so much potential for small businesses to hit refresh and jumpstart their marketing and sales. With the right mix of promotions, partnerships, events, merchandising, and content, small businesses can leverage spring’s fresh energy to reengage existing customers and attract new ones.

Continued from page 1: Local...

For more information, visit the website at https://nareb.com.

California Dream for All California first-generation homebuyers can get up to 20% for their down payment or closing costs, not to exceed $150,000, thanks to a new state program.

Homebuyers must register for a voucher. A randomized drawing will select registrants who will receive the voucher. This will not be first come, first served.

To qualify, one of the borrowers must be a first-generation homebuyer. All borrowers must be first-time homebuyers, and income must meet the CalHFA Income Limits for the county you are purchasing in.

To obtain a voucher, prospective homebuyers must obtain a pre-approval letter from a participating California Dream For All lender, complete a free one-hour homebuyer education course

Continued from page 1: The History...

and submit the required documents. The letter is required in order to register for a DFA voucher in April.

The registration portal will be open from April 3 at 8:00am PDT and close on April 29 at 5:00pm PDT. To get started, visit the website at https:// calhfa.dreamforall.com or call 877922-5432.

Citizens Trust Bank

Citizens Trust Bank has announced its Down Payment Assistance Grant Program to allow eligible homebuyers to overcome the financial barrier of making a substantial down payment when purchasing a home. Saving for a down payment remains one of the biggest barriers for many potential homebuyers.

Qualified borrowers can receive up to $2,000 for their down payment, and reduce the time needed to save for a down payment and provide another option for those who are otherwise

ready to take on homeownership.

“For those who have been held back by the upfront costs associated with homeownership, down payment assistance, especially toward closing costs, can help to lower the barrier to entry and make the dream of owning a home a reality,” said Citizens Trust Bank Residential Mortgage Operations Manager, Yulanda Munford.

The significant increase in rents and property values has resulted in renters paying high monthly housing expenses, leaving them with insufficient savings for a substantial down payment. Down payment assistance and accessible grants are crucial in reducing obstacles to homeownership for those who qualify.

Interested applicants should call 678406-4135 for more details, or visit the website at https://ctbconnect.com/.

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 March 21, 28; April 4, 11, 2024

IT00422301200203106

Inglewood Today

The company said it plans to offer a cost-assistance program to help qualified low-income, uninsured individuals obtain the product at low or no cost.

While the birth control pill bolstered the 1970s Women’s Liberation Movement, the notion of contraception actually began as early as 3000 BCE. During this time, it is believed that ancient societies like Crete and Egypt began developing condoms made from animal and fish bladders or intestines.

Around 1850 BCE, Egypt is credited with developing the world’s first spermicides by combining crocodile dung and fermented dough. So it seems that the ability to control if and when pregnancy occurs has been of enormous importance for men and women, for thousands of years. And so have attempts by religious and government leaders to stop it.

Here are a few historical highlights:

1619-1870: African women use folk remedies to create medicines to protect themselves from unwanted reproduction by white men.

1855: The first rubber condom was

Continued from page 5: March... and online in the coming weeks, after being greenlighted by the FDA last July. The pills will cost about $20 for a 30-day suppl, and can run around $90 for a 6-month supply.

Cementing her Stay

Flo Milli- Fine Ho, Stay I don’t think I’ve heard a female MC as skillfully cartoonish and innovative as Flo Milli since Missy Elliot was putting out consistent work. Flo Milli knows she’s different and makes no apologies for it. Much of this album has a real angsty feel to it with vulnerable lyrics but she still knows how to pack a punch when it’s time to flex. Each track transitions to the next effortlessly and it’s clear Flo Milli writes as well as she narrates. This rap girl is here to stay, mark my words.

Who this album is for: “Alternative” Black girls, “Anime Blacks”, fans of Missy Elliot and Tierra Whack, fans of

made.

1907: The United States government began sterilizing people who were considered useless or undesirable by society (mentally unwell, diseased, and dependent).

1914: Public health nurse Margaret Sanger coins the term “birth control” and begins her campaign to make contraceptives legal in the U.S.

1960: The first oral contraceptive is approved by the FDA. It quickly became known simply as “the pill.”

1965: The Supreme Court gives married couples the right to use birth control. Millions of unmarried women are still denied birth control.

1993: The FDA approves the first female condom.

1998–1999: The FDA approves the first emergency contraception that can be used after intercourse to prevent pregnancy.

2002: The first hormonal implant is removed from the market due to controversial side effects.

2010: Congress passes the Affordable Care Act (ACA), prohibiting sex discrimination in health insurance and requiring coverage of all preventive health care without copays.

2013: The FDA approves overthe-counter sales of emergency contraception for people under the age

The City Girls

Stand out Tracks: NEVA, Never Lose Me (feat SZA and Cardi B), Can’t Stay Mad

Welcome Aboard

Tyla - Tyla ★★★★★

An airy fairy from South Africa, this 22 year-old is surprisingly self aware and wise about relationships. She spends her debut album questioning her lovers’ integrity, intentions and admitting she knows she’d be safer running rather than giving more of herself to this relationship.

This is particularly addressed on No. 1, where she declares, “I’ve got to put me number 1, no compromising.” We love a queen that prioritizes self care.

of 18.

2014: The Supreme Court holds that employers with religious objections can refuse to cover contraception in their health insurance plans.

2017: The Trump administration expands the religious exemption from the ACA contraceptive mandate to include employers of any size, and for moral objections of any kind as well.

2020: The Supreme Court upholds the Trump administration’s religious and moral exemptions to the ACA’s contraceptive mandate, blocking access to insurance-covered birth control, disproportionately harming lowincome women.

2022: The Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992) arguing that the Constitution does not protect the right to abortion.

The history of birth control is a controversial one, which involves elements of racism, gender bias, politics, religion, economics and big pharma. Ironically, after thousands of years, It continues to stir up a whole lot of public opinion about something that normally begins as a single private act, between a man and a woman. Her sweet voice over hard Afrobeats make for a delectable ride. Welcome to Hollywood, baby!

Who this album is for: pop music fans, college girls, Afrobeats fans, people on a self-care journey

Stand Out Tracks: Safer, No.1 (featuring Tems), Breathe Me, Jump (feat Gunna & Skillibeng)

*Note: additional albums that dropped but weren’t covered in this article include Eternal Sunshine (Ariana Grande), Deeper Well (Kasey Musgraves), World Wide Whack(Tierra Whack), Las Mujeres Ya No LLoran (Shakira), and Symptom of life (Willow)

Fictitious Business Name Statement

File No. 2024064125

The following Person is doing business as:

Nimble Notary Services

Pure Bliss Parties 555 W. 92nd Street, Unit 317 Los Angeles, CA 90044

Registered Owner(s): Shaquinai Lonyett Mclemore Edwards, 555 W. 92nd Street, Unit 317, Los Angeles, CA 90044

This business is conducted by an individual(s). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the fictitious business listed above on March 22, 2024.

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.) Shaquinai Lonyett Mclemore Edwards, Owner.

This statement was filed with the County Clerk on March 22, 2024.

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 March 28; April 4, 11, 18, 2024

IT00422301200203107

Inglewood Today

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case # 24TRCP00089

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS

Petitioner: Somtoochukwu Gabriella-Tony Muonagor, 735 N. Eucalyptus Ave., Apt 1, Inglewood, CA 90302, has filed a petition with the Superior Court Of California, Torrance Courthouse, 825 Maple Avenue, Torrance, CA 90503, to change the name.

FROM: Somtoochukwu Gabriella-Tony Muonagor – TO: Somtoochukwu Gabriella-Tony Okpala

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing on, April 12, 2024, 8:30 A.M., Dept. P, to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name change 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.

Publication Dates: March 7, 14, 21, 28, 2024

Unveiling the Hidden Truth in The Battle Over Books in American Schools

In the ongoing debates about book bans in American schools, there is one narrative that dominates the discussion: those who oppose certain materials in school libraries are merely “book banners,” seeking to censor and limit the free exchange of ideas.

However, a controversy last year that unfolded at a Miami public school reveals a more nuanced narrative.

Reports about the incident, which attracted international attention, suggested that the K-8 school banned Amanda Gorman’s celebrated poem that she recited at President Biden’s inauguration. In reality, the school in question opted to relocate Gorman’s masterful work from the elementary section of its library to the middle school division. This measure was not taken with the intent to censor the piece, but rather as a strategic choice to align the poem with the appropriate age group.

In a similar vein, the head of the United Federation of Teachers, Randi Weingarten, wasted no time in voicing her outrage over the termination of a Texas educator who chose to read Anne Frank’s iconic memoir to her students. Taking to the popular social media platform X, Weingarten declared, “The blatant dismissal of a teacher for exposing her students to The Diary of Anne Frank speaks volumes on its own!”

However, it is essential to clarify that the book, “Anne Frank’s Diary,” is not the original work that has touched the hearts of millions. Instead, it’s an adaptation that emphasizes sexual passages. It was not, as many have claimed, a “censored” version of Anne Frank’s story, but one that deliberately highlights the most salacious and explicit elements. The educator tasked her eighth-grade pupils with reciting and debating a sexually suggestive excerpt from the adaptation, where Anne inquires if her friend would be willing to expose their breasts to one another and expresses a strong longing for a kiss. Unbeknownst to many, this incident, branded as a potentially oppressive, stemmed from concerned parents’ reaction to the educator’s focus on erotic themes within the beloved Anne Frank story.

It’s unsurprising that parents objected to its inclusion in their children’s school libraries, alarmed by the presence of explicit material in such a sacred and esteemed work.

However, instead of addressing these valid concerns, the education establishment and media paint these parents as narrow-minded and bigoted. They have been accused of attempting to ban a book that is considered a literary staple and a symbol of resistance against oppression. Yet, the truth is that the majority of these objections were not about race or LGBTQ identity, as it has often been portrayed. In fact, only a

mere 7% of these objections mentioned LGBTQ without also including the word “sexual.” And of the 10 books that were the most frequently omitted, all of them included shockingly risqué references to sexual encounters. For example, the topvoted book “Gender Queer” showcases a graphic illustrations of sex acts being performed and includes a lewd section of text.

Then there is Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, published in 1970; a tale chronicling the journey of a young Black girl grappling with feelings of inadequacy due to her lack of blue eyes. While critically acclaimed for its commentary on race and racial identity, this novel also delves into themes of pedophilia, rape, and even incest. It’s this content (not its racial commentary that led to frequent calls for censorship and its banning from classrooms in numerous school districts across the United States.

These examples highlight the deceptive tactics used by those who seek to paint concerned parents as intolerant and hateful.

However, the heart of these book bans lies in the moral disconnect between the majority of Americans and the education establishment. While most Americans believe that sexually explicit material has no place in school libraries, the education establishment continues to champion the idea that it is necessary and even “inclusive” to expose children to explicit images and descriptions of sexual acts.

It is not about censorship or restricting the free exchange of ideas, as some suggest. Rather, it’s about safeguarding the innocence and well-being of our children. It is about standing up against the normalization of sexually explicit material in places where children should feel safe and protected. Ultimately, it is about upholding societal values and principles.

In the ongoing debates about

book bans, we must not allow ourselves to be swayed by misleading narratives and manipulative language. Honest and open discussions are crucial to understanding what truly hangs in the balance of our society’s moral compass and the well-being of our children. Anything less would be a disservice to future generations.

About the Author

Craig J. DeLuz has almost 30 years in public policy and advocacy. He is currently President of the Robla School District Board of Trustees where he has served for almost 20 years. You can follow him on X at @CraigDeLuz.

Craig J. DeLuz | Special to California Black Media Partners