Inglewood News, CA Local News

Los Angeles Urban League Guild (Laul Guild) Spreads Holiday Cheer At City Club Event

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 14:52:28 +0000

(LOS ANGELES, CALIF.) DECEMBER 15, 2023 — The Los Angeles Urban League Guild (LAUL GUILD) and the Los Angeles Urban League came together in a joyous celebration of the holiday season at the prestigious City Club. Against the backdrop of the iconic Los Angeles skyline, the holiday festivities brought together individuals dedicated to promoting social […]

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Happy New Year

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 15:06:18 +0000

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Advocates Want More Black Californians Involved in State’s Transition to EVs

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 14:48:08 +0000

Maxim Elramsisy | California Black Media When Los Angeles hosted its annual car show a little over a month ago at the LA Convention Center, it not only showcased the latest in automotive technology, but the event also transformed into a policy forum on clean energy, previewing what lies ahead for California’s electric vehicle (EV) […]

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Inglewood Hub:

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 14:46:07 +0000

New UPS Store Over the past three years, the city of Inglewood has virtually become a tale of two cities. In part of the city we have put in place an entirely new infrastructure surrounding The Forum, Hollywood Park Casino, SoFi Stadium and the promise of the Intuit Dome. At the same time, just minutes […]

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Unlocking Opportunities: A Comprehensive Guide to Grants for Small Businesses

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 14:42:42 +0000

Aden Ferguson In today’s competitive market, small businesses often face financial constraints that can hinder growth and innovation. However, amidst these challenges, a beacon of hope exists in the form of grants tailored specifically for small enterprises. These grants serve as vital resources, providing financial support, fostering innovation, and fueling the entrepreneurial spirit that drives […]

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UCLA v BOISE STATE

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 23:19:03 +0000

The number 32,780 represents a new attendance record for the annual LA Bowl, an NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, college bowl game. That’s a mouthful of information that may leave a pure sports fan scratching their head. Statistics, comparative analysis, and quantitative data collection are staples of any sporting event, and most fans are […]

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Los Angeles Rams Continue To Grow The Game Of Football For Los Angeles Youth

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 22:03:16 +0000

In Partnership with USA Football & Riddell, Rams Surprise Six Local Youth Football Programs with $75,000 Donation at Rams-Commanders Week 15 MatchupPrior to their Week 15 victory over the Washington Commanders, the Los Angeles Rams hosted representatives from six local youth tackle football programs for a visit to NFL Los Angeles, the home of NFL […]

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Healthcare facilities in Southern California begin a 7-day strike

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 21:37:25 +0000

Around 1,800 frontline healthcare workers at four Prime Healthcare facilities in Southern California are planning to go on a seven-day strike over the Christmas holiday, starting on Wednesday. This will be the second strike at Prime Healthcare facilities in the region. The first strike took place in October when the same union, SEIU United Healthcare […]

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California’s Affordable Housing Crisis:Brutal Commutes Threaten Residents’ Quality of Life

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 21:04:08 +0000

One of the most popular topics among our readers is the exodus of people from a state that has experienced nothing but growth in its history. In the past year, I have closely examined the various factors contributing to the so-called California exodus and have spoken to many former Californians who have chosen to relocate.They […]

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How Small Businesses Can Capitalize on Post-Christmas Sales Opportunities

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 20:48:32 +0000

Aden Ferguson The holiday shopping season is a crucial period for small businesses. Despite the flurry of customer activity, many small business owners face lower sales immediately following the Christmas rush. Rather than stagnating, savvy entrepreneurs use the post-Christmas sales lull as an opportunity to reconnect with shoppers in creative ways. Below are strategies local […]

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Justin Bieber Postpones Forum Concert Scheduled For Thursday

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 20:05:43 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — Justin Bieber has postponed his show at the Forum in Inglewood scheduled for Thursday due to “the ongoing COVID situation within the Justice Tour family.”

“Please be advised that the Justin Bieber concert previously scheduled to take place at the Forum on February 24, 2022, has been rescheduled to July 2, 2022,” the Forum said on its website.

The venue noted that tickets will automatically be valid for the new date.

pic.twitter.com/uaT68A8sCD

— Bieber Fever (@bieberfever) February 23, 2022

The postponement comes days after Bieber postponed his Las Vegas show due to a positive COVID-19 case within the tour.

On Saturday, the Justice World Tour announced that its Las Vegas show, which was scheduled to take place on Sunday, had been rescheduled.

Super Bowl Connects Businesses With New Customers

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 05:05:14 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — As the Super Bowl drew tens of thousands of people from all over the world to Inglewood, businesses connected with the new faces of tourists and long-time residents.

“I’ve been here for almost seven years,” said Afolabi Aremu, owner of clothing store Bold Men. “And I have people who live in Inglewood that don’t even know I’m even here.”

Aremu hosted the event Taste of Inglewood for three days last week, right before the Super Bowl.

(Credit: CBS)

While businesses enjoyed the influx of customers, residents like Doudley Washington and Diana Limus stayed at home as the crowds and traffic packed the streets of the city.

“It was like chaotic,” said Limus. “There’s a lot of crazy drivers. A lot of people walking around. A lot of cops as well. But in a way — there’s a lot of people in the community that were profiting with parking spaces.”

Businesses like The Wood said their profits skyrocketed not only on the day of the Super Bowl but for the whole week leading up to it. The Wood said that the events surrounding the big game and the Super Bowl itself brought in a lot of first-time customers which they believe will only help bring in more people.

“We quadrupled our dollar amount in sales as far as our weekly sales,” said manager Lisa Ruiz. “Those four days pretty much helped us tremendously.”

With the successful week, the restaurant said it will keep the temporary employees that were hired to help for the busy weekend.

“We believe our business is also growing,” said Ruiz.

While City Hall has yet to release preliminary numbers on the economic impact of the Super Bowl, local leaders estimate the game injected about half a billion dollars into the local economy.

Super Bowl Hosting Duties Officially Pass From LA To Arizona

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 18:35:08 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – After hosting a Super Bowl that saw the home team Los Angeles Rams hoist the Vince Lombardi trophy, the big game was officially handed over to next year’s host: Arizona.

Cooper Kupp of the Rams and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell pose for a picture with the Pete Rozelle Trophy at the L.A. Convention Center on Feb. 14, 2022. (Getty Images)

“It’s safe to say we’re now the greatest sports city in the world,” L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti said in a news conference at the L.A. Convention Center.

Garcetti, Inglewood Mayor James Butts and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell celebrated the success of Super Bowl weekend.

“It is true from every aspect that the Super Bowl always sets a new bar for the next city,” Goodell said. “I think that’s part of what makes this game so great, whether it’s the logistics around the game, or the work that goes into leaving a legacy behind in the community, every city seems to do it in their own way, and everyone seems to set a new bar for everyone, and thank you L.A. for setting that bar so high.”

Former legendary Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald was on hand to accept the handover.

“We truly do have some big shoes to fill next year,” Fitzgerald said.

Also at the meeting, Super Bowl LVI MVP Cooper Kupp was officially awarded the Pete Rozelle Trophy for earning Super Bowl MVP honors. Kupp had eight catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns in the game, including the game winner with less than two minutes to go in the fourth quarter.

Super Bowl LVII is scheduled for Feb. 12, 2023, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. The stadium has played host to two Super Bowls already, Super Bowl XLII in 2008 and Super Bowl XLIX in 2015.

Super Bowl: Warm Weather Drives Tourists, Locals Alike To Beach On Super Bowl Eve

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 05:14:51 +0000

SANTA MONICA (CBSLA) — With less than 24 hours until Super Bowl LVI, featuring the hometown Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals, Southern California beaches were far more crowded than normal on Saturday.

Over 100,000 football fans set to attend the big game, many actually headed away from SoFi Stadium, and instead to the sand in an attempt to take in the uncharacteristic summer day in February.

Since many of the people heading into the Southland hail from Ohio, or other Midwest states, 80 degree beach weather is far from normal, in fact, on Saturday in Cincinnati, there was a high of 23 degrees with a likelihood for snow.

So when Becky Matheny, a Bengals fan from Louisville, KY saw today’s weather she made sure she went to thaw out of her winter freeze at the beach, “I love it here,” she said.

Despite her newfound love for Southern California, she refused to drop her lasting passion for the Bengals.

“Because it’s the Bengals! We got Burrow, we got ’em all!” she told CBS reporter Nicole Comstock, “We got the best kicker in the NFL!”

Ironically, another Bengals fan named Becky spoke with Comstock while she was in Santa Monica.

Becky Shelton, who hails from Cincinnati, disclosed that today was her first time on the West Coast. But like the other Becky, she refused to give up on her Bengals, despite being in enemy territory. “We’re not going back to Cincy without a win,” she said.

Larry Wasser was of another mind, “Well, what happens when you’re in L.A., you become a Rams fan,” the Toronto transplant disclosed, “there’s no choice.”

Regardless of what team beachgoers were rooting for come Sunday, local shops and restaurants were reaping the benefits of the Super Bowl, like many other businesses across the Southland, even ahead of the big game.

Big Dean’s Ocean Front Cafe, located just off the Santa Monica Pier, was one of the many businesses that was overwhelmed by the sudden influx of consumers.

“We’ve been very busy,” said Mary Francis Bonzoni, a supervisor at Big Dean’s.

Despite the craze, employees were grateful for a change of tone when it came to their customers, especially those with the Midwestern hospitality in mind.

“Theres’s a lot of people from out of town, these people are really nice – you can tell the difference!,” Bonzoni continued.

Mike Morris was yet another Cincinnati local who took the 2,175 mile trip west to watch his team play in the Super Bowl for the first time in 31 years.

“I’ve been enjoying your city,” he said, “Did the tourist thing yesterday, hit all the big stops and today we’re hanging out at the pier; tomorrow’s the big game!”

The warm weather is expected to last again through Super Bowl Sunday, and stretch into Monday before winter weather re-descends upon the Southland, bringing back a little bit of normalcy for Los Angeles County in the wake of Super Bowl LVI.

Super Bowl: City, Team Pride On Full Display In Inglewood Throughout Super Bowl Weekend

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 04:22:57 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — Out-of-towners and locals alike flooded the streets of Inglewood Saturday as they prepared for Sunday’s Super Bowl between the hometown Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Despite the overwhelming crowds both on the roads and on the sidewalks, Inglewood residents were more than anxious for the big game, but regardless of the result, they felt like they already won in the grand scheme of things.

“Going through COVID and everything, for the city to come out in unity – everybody’s celebrating,” said London Carter, one of the many Inglewood residents representing his city on Saturday. ”

All eyes are on Inglewood this weekend, even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s, who noted that he wouldn’t be surprised to see the Super Bowl return to the area in the near future, based on the immediate success SoFi Stadium has brought, not only to the league, but to the city of Inglewood.

On Thursday the Commissioner mentioned his support in a pre-Super Bowl conference, “One of the things I’m really confident about, sitting here and feeling it this week, is that we really landed in the right spot.”

He isn’t alone, as both Rams and Chargers fans have taken an immediate liking to their home stadium. But this weekend, SoFi Stadium is all Rams, as they play “host” to the Bengals for Super Bowl LVI. Should they pull out a victory, they would be the second-straight team to win in front of their fans, as stadium hosts.

“It’s California love,” said Kenyan Payne, who was in attendance at the Taste of Inglewood street fair, “It’s always pride.”

Fans from all corners of the world gathered throughout Inglewood, and many of them weathered the record-breaking heat, and the long lines outside Los Angeles and Inglewood landmarks like Randy’s Donuts, which one visitor from Cincinnati called “world-renowned.”

Named after a Canadian town of the same name by the city’s founder, Daniel Freeman in 1873, the city has always been about pride.

Randy’s was offering a special football-shaped donut, of course in the blue-and-yellow color scheme in support of their hometown Rams. CBS reporters even caught some Bengals fans picking them up, despite the obvious bias for their Sunday rivals.

Marissa Dazell, who’s in town for the game all the way from Toledo, Ohio, said she couldn’t get enough of Inglewood or the residents, “People are so nice. We have not had one negative experience,” she said.

Visitors weren’t the only people taking in the Inglewood community for the first time though, as some Los Angeles County locals even made their way to the Super Bowl site, including Alana Gonzales.

“We’ve never been here,” she said, “we were at home watching the news and we saw all this going on and I said ‘Do you want to go?'”

Residents are beyond proud, not just that the Rams made it to the big game, but rather that they finally get to put a spotlight on their beloved city.

“It’s in Inglewood. It’s in our town,” Carter continued, “With a brand new stadium… We got our cake and eat it too.”

Super Bowl: A Viewer’s Guide To Get You Through Sunday

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 18:08:38 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — The Super Bowl between the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, will as usual be the biggest day of sports broadcasting in the United States. But this year might be the biggest of them all since this is the first time the country’s biggest sporting event is happening at the same time as the Winter Olympics, one of the biggest events in the world.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 10: A general view of SoFi Stadium ahead of Super Bowl LVI between the Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Rams on February 10, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Here are some things to know about the game as well as Super Bowl-related programming on other networks:

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HOW MANY SUPER BOWLS IS THIS FOR THE RAMS AND BENGALS?

The Rams are making their fifth Super Bowl trip — including their second in the past four years — and are 1-3. This is the Bengals’ third appearance but first since 1989. They lost to the San Francisco 49ers in their other trips.

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WHICH NETWORK HAS THIS YEAR’S SUPER BOWL?

This marks the 20th Super Bowl broadcast for NBC, which is second among all networks. CBS leads with 21 followed by NBC, Fox (9) and ABC (7).

Of the seven previous Super Bowls held in Los Angeles, NBC has aired four, including the last one in 1993 when Dallas beat Buffalo. CBS and NBC both aired the first Super Bowl, which was at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

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HOW DID NBC GET THIS YEAR’S GAME?

CBS originally had the game this year under the league’s rotation between CBS, NBC and FOX, but NBC and CBS agreed in 2019 to trade spots. CBS carried last year’s Super Bowl from Tampa instead of NBC. CBS didn’t want to compete against the Olympics while NBC could market two major events to advertisers.

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WHAT IS NBC’S SCHEDULE FOR SUNDAY?

All times are Eastern:

8 a.m.: 2022 Winter Olympics

Noon: NFL Films “Road to the Super Bowl”

1 p.m.: Super Bowl Pregame Show

6:30 p.m.: Super Bowl kickoff

10:45 p.m. : Winter Olympics Primetime

12 a.m.: Late Local News (West coast will remain with Olympics)

12:30 a.m.: Winter Olympics Prime Plus

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WHO ARE THE ANNOUNCERS FOR NBC?

Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth team up for their fourth Super Bowl. Michaels is handling the play by play for the 11th time, which ties him with the late Pat Summerall. This is Michaels’ fifth Super Bowl for NBC after his first six were with ABC. Collinsworth, who played eight seasons for the Bengals and appeared in both of their previous Super Bowl trips, will be an analyst for the fifth time. His first was with Fox for the 2005 game between Philadelphia and New England.

Rules analyst Terry McAulay, who refereed three Super Bowls, and sideline reporter Kathryn Tappen are Super Bowl TV rookies. Sideline reporter Michele Tafoya is doing her fifth Super Bowl in what is her final appearance for NBC.

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HOW MANY CAMERAS WILL NBC USE FOR THE SUPER BOWL?

NBC will use 122 cameras. For the first Super Bowl at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 1967, NBC had 11 cameras.

Executive producer Fred Gaudelli said that “in terms of cameras that shoot the game, that actually shoot the field and the play and the players — we’ll probably have 40 cameras.” All those cameras will be recorded and can be used for replay.

NBC will also be debuting a brand-new graphic look, a new score bug, as well as utilizing a lot of virtual reality and augmented reality graphics.

Gaudelli and director Drew Esocoff are working their seventh Super Bowl together and fifth on NBC. Their first two were with ABC.

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THE OLYMPICS HOST IS ALSO DOING THE SUPER BOWL PREGAME SHOW?

Yes. Mike Tirico is doing double duty. He left Beijing on Monday night to fly to Stamford, Connecticut, to host Olympics coverage Wednesday and Thursday before going to Los Angeles on Friday through Sunday.

Tirico will host the Super Bowl pregame and postgame presentation of the Vince Lombardi Trophy before going to a set outside SoFi Stadium to host Sunday night’s Olympics coverage.

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WHAT ARE SOME NOTABLE FEATURES OF NBC’S PREGAME SHOW?

NBC News’ Lester Holt will sit down with President Joe Biden during the 3 p.m. hour.

Key interviews, Chris Simms with Rams coach Sean McVay; Rodney Harrison with Rams DT and three-time Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald; Maria Taylor with Rams QB Matthew Stafford and his wife, Kelly; Tony Dungy with Bengals coach Zac Taylor; Drew Brees with Bengals QB Joe Burrow; Jac Collinsworth with Bengals DE Sam Hubbard.

Some key features: Untold History of the Super Bowl with Peter King; Snoop Youth Football; 1939 UCLA Football Team (Tim Layden narrates an essay on the historical importance of the 1939 UCLA football team, which included Jackie Robinson, Kenny Washington, and Woody Strode).

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WHAT IF I ONLY WANT TO WATCH THE HALFTIME SHOW?

The first half of a normal NFL game usually takes 90 minutes, but if there are a lot of running plays, it could be done in 1 hour, 10 minutes.

With kickoff at 6:30 p.m. EST, it would probably be a good idea to tune in around 7:40 p.m. so you don’t miss Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar.

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HOW CAN I WATCH THE GAME IF I AM A CORD CUTTER?

NBC’s Peacock streaming service will have the game for OTT devices and services, smart TVs and mobile devices. It will also be available for free on the NFL website/apps as well as Yahoo Sports. DirecTV Stream, Sling TV, Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV and fuboTV also have NBC.

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WHO HAS THE SPANISH LANGUAGE BROADCAST?

Telemundo will be the first Spanish-language broadcast network to air the Super Bowl. The pregame show begins at 5 p.m. EST with Miguel Gurwitz, Ana Jurka, Karim Mendiburu and special guest Rolando Cantu, a former Arizona Cardinals offensive lineman. The game will be called by Carlos Mauricio Ramirez with Jorge Andres providing analysis.

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WHAT DOES NFL NETWORK HAVE PLANNED?

NFL Network’s 8 1/2 hour “NFL GameDay Morning” comes on at 9 a.m. EST. Among some of the pregame features of note:

9 a.m. hour: Steve Mariucci interviews Taylor.

10 a.m. hour: NFL 360 feature titled “Ode to South Central” narrated by actor Anthony Anderson.

11 a.m. hour: Mariucci interviews McVay; Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre and Mary J. Blige sit down with Los Angeles radio legend Big Boy to discuss their halftime performance.

12 p.m. hour: Kurt Warner’s interview with Burrow.

1 p.m. hour: Warner’s interview with Stafford.

4 p.m. hour: Actors Mark Wahlberg and Channing Tatum join the show.

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IS ESPN DOING PREGAME COVERAGE?

ESPN’s four-hour show comes on at 10 a.m. ET. It will include Burrow and Stafford’s Journey, using interviews from the two quarterbacks, their parents and those close to them.

Former LSU coach Ed Orgeron, who won a national championship with Burrow in 2019, will do an interview from the ESPN set at Disneyland.

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WILL THE GAME BE ON RADIO?

Sirius XM Satellite Radio will have four channels dedicated to the game — the Westwood One national feed, a Spanish-language channel and the Rams and Bengals broadcasts.

Super Bowl: Increased Security Measures Include TSA’s VIPR Team

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 06:48:06 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — On top of the countless security measures in place to ensure public safety in the days surrounding Super Bowl LVI, some known to the public and others kept private, the Transportation Security Administration will be joining the long list of agencies on hand in Inglewood.

(Photo Credit: CBS)

“Our job is to make sure that not only the hometown fans here in L.A, but a lot of the out-of-town guests that we might see, have an enjoyable, safe and secure experience,” said Daniel Baybor, a TSA representative who spoke with CBS reporters.

The TSA’s Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response, otherwise known as The VIPR Team, was deployed to Metro stations countywide, in an effort to provide safer public transportation options with so many people set to descend upon the Southland.

The team is comprised partly of Federal Air Marshalls and Transportation Officers, whose goal is to prevent any active terrorism that may arise in regards to transportation venues in Los Angeles and Inglewood.

Members of the team could be seen at 7th Street’s Metro Station Friday evening, and riders could definitely feel the difference of their noted presence.

“I did notice a little yesterday,” said Monique Taylor, a regular commuter who convinced her friends to join her at the Super Bowl Experience.

TSA has also stationed 30 teams equipped with K9 units at SoFi Stadium and several airports in the area, including LAX.

“Joker enjoys taking long walks, playing fetch and eating watermelon,” said one of the unit’s handlers.

TSA K-9 Unit (Photo Credit: CBS)

They may be cute, but they mean business.

“Every one of the dogs you see here today is a highly-trained, highly-skilled explosives detective canine,” another TSA official declared while speaking to reporters on Friday.

Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security deployed an additional 500 members, especially with the looming threat of the “Freedom Convoy,” of truckers that are supposedly headed to the area to disrupt traffic on Sunday. The movement began in Canada, where hundreds of truckers joined together in protest of mandatory COVID vaccination.

Officials have disclosed that while they feel comfortable with the amount of measures that have been placed in motion ahead of Sunday, they still want to remind the public – If you see something, say something.

Super Bowl: Tickets Prices Dropped Mid-Week, Though Experts Say That Won’t Last

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 05:53:53 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – With the Super Bowl almost a day away, fans eager to attend the big game are keeping a close eye on tickets and might be surprised to learn that prices have come down, though how far down is the real question.

Some football fans are opting for a view of the game that’s more cost effective. Feb. 11, 2022 (CBSLA).

“I think it’s awesome because the it’s a new stadium and it’s super rad,” said NFL fan Stephen Schlett.

While thousands of people will be watching the game from the stands at SoFi, most people will be passing on the best seats in the city as the neighborhood bar has the more cost effective view.

“Desirable tickets, I think, are in the $4,500 range. So, I’m going to pass this year,” said football fan John Whitlock.

Another fan, Bryan Gomez, said he got a close up look at exactly how much a good seat costs.

“My buddy, he’s a ticket holder. He showed me how much his tickets cost. They re are in the 100’s area – $14,000 for one seat,” he said.

For those with pockets that don’t run quite as deep, ticket prices were dropping according to Stub Hub Spokesperson Adam Budelli.

“The ‘get in’ price has dropped roughly about $2,000, middle of the week, which is great for LA,” he said.

Budelli said that Stub Hub had about 3,000 tickets available tickets left for sale too.

Feb. 11, 2022

“Still, currently it’s going to cost you more than $14,000 if you want to sit on the 50 yard line, in 100 level,” Budelli added.

Whether it seems like it or not, that’s actually a good deal. The prices on Ticketmaster last week were going for around $6,000 for the 500 level. On Friday, those same tickets were selling for half the price.

As for who is gobbling up the tickets, Bengals fans may barely make a dent because Californians are on a buying frenzy.

“Over the past 24 hours, 75% of our sales have come from the state of California. So, clearly the Rams fans have been waiting and are picking tickets left and right here,” Budelli said.

It’s definitely the LA way to come late to the party, but buyers beware about waiting too long, and as the other saying goes, if something seems to good to be true, it probably is.

“Never buy off the street with cash and always use a trusted source like Stub Hub,” Budelli said.

Although, most people can’t afford to spend that kind of cash for a bucket list event, just knowing the Super Bowl is in Los Angeles is making many fans super proud.

“I’ll be going to the experience. The city being packed the way it is has been fun,” said fan Chanette Thompson.

Finally, for people who think ticket prices will drop closer to kickoff, experts say that’s usually not the case. In fact, they believe that prices will start rising again tomorrow.

Super Bowl: Navigating Inglewood Ahead Of Sunday’s Big Game

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 01:29:46 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — With over 100,000 people expected to converge on Inglewood on Sunday alone, Los Angeles County transportation officials have been busy working to formulate plans and open additional services for the influx of visitors.

As a result of the big game, several streets in Inglewood will be closed until early Monday morning, a move that went into effect on Thursday, in order to accommodate for the variety of events surrounding the Super Bowl, as well as working to prevent a disruption to Inglewood residents. A list of the road closures can be found here.

Parking won’t only be limited in the area, but it will be extremely pricey, with reports of single parking spots at SoFi Stadium costing upwards of $6,000. Officials also warned attendees to keep an eye out for illegal parking operations, similar to what happened at the NFC Championship Game in January, when several fans got scammed out of their money, and a legitimate parking option.

Additionally, L.A. Metro Transportation official Dave Sotero spoke with CBS reporters on Wednesday to offer advice on how to tackle the vehicle and foot traffic that have begun to affect the city.

Officials are highly recommending the use of public transportation, due to the gridlock that will undoubtedly be surrounding the Stadium, beginning in the early morning on Sunday, as fans gather to tailgate and prepare ahead of kickoff at 3:30 p.m.

They suggest parking at Wally Park, located near LAX, and getting to Inglewood via Metro bus from Century Boulevard, or parking at one of 90 Metro Park and Rides in the area, then taking the C-Line to Hawthorne-Lennox Station, where a free shuttle will be available to all starting at 10:45 a.m.

Uber officials have also disclosed that their ridesharing will experience a surcharge around SoFi Stadium, with much longer than expected wait times. However, should you be able to secure a ride with Uber, SoFi Stadium will have both drop-off and pick-up areas available for all ridesharing options.

While excited about the revenue headed to their city, and L.A. County as a whole, Inglewood residents not attending the game, who have already experienced their share of annoyance surrounding home games at SoFi, have seemingly come to a mutual agreement ahead of the Super Bowl – stay home.

Samuel Sandoval and Keith Young were two of the many who had no big plans ahead of the big game, “We’re just staying home. Traffic is going to be really bad,” Sandoval said.

Young doubled-down on that plan when speaking with CBS reporters, “We’re going to hunker down. We’re not going to get out.”

Both detailed a series of different trends they’ve noticed on game day in Inglewood, including illegal parkers, litterers and rowdy crowds in their residential areas.

“Once the game’s done, they’ll come out here – stop at the liquor store, get a few beers – just drink and leave a mess out here. We’re the ones that got to pick it up,” he said, when detailing that he’s complained to the city on multiple occasions about the mess left in both he and his neighbor’s yards.

“Just respect the neighbors. That’s all we want.Just clean up after yourself. Don’t leave a mess and don’t be so rowdy,” he continued.

One thing officials can guarantee, is that parking illegally – anywhere in Inglewood – or the surrounding area, will get you towed. They also warn that loitering will not be permitted and enforcement will be in place to make sure the surrounding areas remain clear, while indicating that permit parking restrictions will be strongly enforced.

The Sound Of Inglewood: Local Recording Studio A Trailblazer For Musicians

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 15:30:11 +0000

The 1500 Sound Academy in Inglewood is a recording studio and trailblazing educational institution for sound creators. Lesley Marin reports.

Super Bowl Street Closures In Inglewood Start Thursday

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 02:49:09 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — Street closures ahead of the Super Bowl begin Thursday in Inglewood.

The City of Inglewood released a traffic advisory Monday to alert drivers to the impending street closures that will take place ahead of the Super Bowl, which takes place Sunday at SoFi Stadium.

“This is the first time the Super Bowl has ever been held in the City of Inglewood, and we are thrilled for the opportunity to feature our beloved City on a global stage,” Mayor James T. Butts said in a statement. “We have been laser focused on making sure this event is a positive experience for residents and stakeholders alike.”

City officials say they are working with SoFi Stadium and the NFL to maximize the fan experience while minimizing disruption to the surrounding neighborhoods, so street closures will be minimal.

The following streets will be closed at these times:

Thursday:

Yukon Ave. from W. Century Blvd to Stadium Drive will be restricted to the general public from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Prairie Ave. from Victory St. to Touchdown drive will be closed from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Stadium Drive from S. Doty Ave. to the entrance of the Panhandle Lot will be restricted to the general public from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday:

Northbound Prairie Ave. from Century Blvd. to Arbor Vitae St. will be closed from 1 a.m. until 2 a.m. Monday
Century Blvd. from Yukon Ave. to Airport Blvd. will be closed from 7 a.m. until 2 a.m. Monday
98th St. from Bellanca Ave. to east of Flying Food Group will be closed from 7 a.m. until 2 a.m. Monday
Kareem Ct. from Manchester Ave. to Pincay Drive will be restricted from 10 a.m. until 1 a.m. Monday
Manchester Ave. from Prairie Ave. to Crenshaw Blvd. will be closed from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. Monday
Pincay Drive from Prairie Ave. to Kareem Ct. will be restricted from midnight to 2 a.m. Monday

A “significant number” of ticket holders are expected to make their way to the game in high-occupancy shuttles, so city officials are anticipating lower traffic volume than during regularly-scheduled events at the stadium. Transit Service, LAZ Parking, IPark&Go remote parking, and other shuttle services will operate as usual, while dedicated lanes and drop-off points will be available for rideshare services.

Non-ticketholders are being discouraged from trying to make their way to SoFi Stadium on game day. City officials say loitering will not be permitted, enforcement will be in place to make sure the surrounding areas remain clear, and permit parking restrictions will be strongly enforced.

New Hat, New Badge! Let’s support our Los Angeles @RamsNFL safely, we want all of our fans to celebrate responsibly.

Stay in the KNOW!#SuperBowL Don’t miss out on important information like traffic updates and emergencies.

Text INGSB to 888-777 and sign up!#LASD pic.twitter.com/Mzcjg0qeNs

— Alex Villanueva (@LACoSheriff) February 6, 2022

Super Bowl: ‘Taste Of Inglewood’ Kicks Off Thursday As Part Of The ‘Big Game Festival’

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 01:42:33 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – Inglewood is hosting a free three day “Big Game Festival” over Super Bowl weekend, including the Taste of Inglewood, an event where vendors are hoping to cash in for their tasty treats.

Ray Fowler with All Seasons Catering preps chicken for the Taste of Inglewood, Feb. 9, 2022 (CBSLA)

Nearly 100 vendors lining Market Street will feed and entertain around 10,000 people who are expected to come out and enjoy what many are calling the Pregame Kick Off event.

“These two hands have touched over 10,000 pieces of chicken, literally. So, I’m hoping to get rid of all of it,” said Ray Fowler, a vendor with All Seasons Catering.

Businesses are hoping to take advantage of the crowds coming into town for the Super Bowl, but also the locals who know about this annual festival that brings the community together.

Besides the food, there are plenty of other items to shop for.

Kathrine Finely owns Blue Sugar, a vintage emporium. This is her first event in two and a half years because of COVID and she said she couldn’t be more excited.

“The Super Bowl in our city, period. Yes, it’s South Central Los Angeles for sure, but it’s South Central at its best. It’s South Central at its best,” she said.

Michael Ortiz owns California Fish Market, where customers can sample a little bit of fried alligator.

“We’re the only one who offers it. If you don’t like our food, we give your money back, no questions asked.”

The vendors said the festival is about bringing the community together.

“The Super Bowl is here. We have the SoFi Stadium, we have the Rams, you know. It’s almost like a win-win situation,” said Fowler.

The Taste of Inglewood has been going on for five years now, though it’s being held this week to coincide with the Super Bowl. The event goes until about 9 p.m. Thursday and is back on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is free. More information regarding the Taste Of Inglewood can be found by following this link.

Super Bowl: Homeland Security Alert Warns Of Possible Trucker Protest

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 07:05:59 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — As local law enforcement agencies ramp up on security in advance for Super Bowl LVI on Sunday, many security concerns still surround the big game, including a new potential traffic threat that may force football fans into a frenzy.

A planned protest by truckers similar to the group in Canada referring to themselves as “The Freedom Convoy,” with outspoken opposition to vaccination mandates, is reportedly ready to cover the entire span of the United States in coming months, with potential to end up in the Los Angeles area just in time for the Super Bowl. According to CNN, the American convoy of truckers plans to set out in California in mid-February, with the intent of ending up in Washington D.C. by mid-March.

The Department of Homeland Security has issued an alert for the group’s movement, which may disrupt traffic surrounding the game on Sunday. Part of the alert read:

“DHS is tracking reports of a potential convoy that may be planning to travel to several U.S. cities. We have not observed specific calls for violence within the United States associated with this convoy, and are working closely with our federal, state, and local partners to continuously assess the threat environment and keep our communities safe.”

In Canada, hundreds of truckers have gathered to disrupt traffic throughout Ottawa, prompting a declaration of a state of emergency in the nation’s capital.

SoFi Stadium neighbors have already dealt with a myriad of traffic issues in recent years since the arena’s construction began, but this new potential threat has city and government officials on high alert.

On top of that, many Inglewood residents have reported illegal street and driveway parking opportunities to those will-be attendees on Sunday who are looking for more convenient and cheaper parking options, in comparison to the record-high rates at SoFi for the Super Bowl, which are selling at an average of $5,000 per parking spot.

“They invite anyone, they don’t know who it is, we don’t know who’s coming through the gate,” said one Inglewood resident who lives in a gated community, “They’re not friends … and they’re letting them in.”

Another resident shared those same frustrations, with a long list of complications they’ve seen so far, “We’ve been inundated with cars being hit, trash being thrown on the floor, people parking outside of the brackets, people parking illegally – in front of fire hydrants…”

But not all is bad with the looming Super Bowl, as both Los Angeles County and Inglewood are set to experience a massive boom in business, to the tune of a potential $477 million dollars for the county, and $52 million for Inglewood.

Small business owners are among those most excited for the crowds descending upon their community, including Tyson Baker, the brand ambassador for the Inglewood Store, with products all inspired by the city he loves. He displayed one of his favorite products to CBS reporters, a sweatshirt branded with a large “I,” detailing that, “It stands for ‘I am amazing,’ ‘I am positive,’ ‘I am strong,’ ‘I am encouraging,’ and ‘I am all about Inglewood.”

Baker is also offering shuttle services and parking spots at various commercial lots around the city.

He isn’t the only small business owner that stands to make a profit with the increased foot traffic and influx of visitors. “The traffic has been incredible,” said Brandon Furman, who owns Gettin’ Faded Barbershop. “A lot of people flying in, it’s been awesome,” he continued.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is one of the many in full support of both SoFi Stadium’s location and the community surrounding the home of two NFL teams. On Wednesday, he made it clear that he wouldn’t be surprised to see the big game return in the near future, “One of the things I’m really confident about, sitting here and feeling it this week, is that we really landed in the right spot,” he said.

The City of Inglewood is set to be the nation’s biggest hotspot this weekend, both literally and figuratively, as potentially record-setting Super Bowl temperatures pair up with the over 100,000 visitors set to flood the streets in coming days.

Super Bowl: Some Inglewood Businesses Clocking Uptick In Foot Traffic As Super Bowl Nears

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 03:26:28 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – As more Super Bowl visitors hit the city, Inglewood business owners are feeling the excitement themselves.

“Foot traffic has been incredible, yeah, definitely, for the Super Bowl, a lot of people flying in. It’s been awesome,” said Brandon Furman at the barbershop Gettin’ Faded.

The Sweet Red Peach in Inglewood. Feb. 9, 2022. (CBSLA)

From haircuts to The Sweet Red Peach, local favorites within eyesight of SoFi Stadium are calling the game a sweet success.

“Yes, oh my gosh, and it’s been a blessing, like, we are so thankful every time the door opens,” said Karolyn Plummer owner of The Sweet Red Peach Custom Cakes.

Plummer had a line out the door as she said foot traffic for her sweet treats has doubled and special orders had to be cut off last week.

“Events for the Rams. Did something for the Chargers today. We’re doing something for the NFL Network. So, we have our hands full,” she said.

Around the corner on Market Street, however, the story flips.

“I was hoping to get an influx of people, but this week, so far, it’s been really slow,” said Linda Credit.

Credit owns the Rusty Pot and her restaurant is far from a greasy spoon.

“…the overload breakfast sandwich, but we also have chicken and waffles. We have bacon and eggs. We do catfish. We do shrimp and grits,” Credit said.

She said she was a little disappointed when Market Street closed so setup for the Taste of Inglewood, which starts Thursday, can get underway.

“The street is blocked off. It’s just a terrific mess right about now,” said Credit.

Though things are a little slow for at the moment, the Rusty Pot is banking on business picking up by this weekend.

“We are stocking up. We got more food and we are going to be more prepped because I think there is going to be vast difference come Saturday and Sunday,” Credit said.

Although businesses next to the stadium aren’t expecting as much foot traffic on Sunday, The Sweet Red Peach has a plan for that too.

“We’re actually going to put a table outside, in front. So, I’m going to sell them on street corner like the old days,” said Plummer.

Business owners in the are doing whatever they can to make sure the thousands of fans flocking to SoFi don’t just fly by, but leave a little dough behind as well.

In High Demand: Super Bowl Parking Spots Going For Hundreds Of Dollars

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 18:19:35 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – Those lucky enough to get a ticket to attend Super Bowl LVI this Sunday could find themselves paying hundreds of dollars just to nab a parking spot for the big game.

Outside SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Feb. 3, 2022 in Inglewood, CA. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images)

On third-party ticket reseller StubHub Wednesday, parking passes were starting at $374 with fees for a spot a mile from SoFi Stadium. StubHub had parking spots going for as high as $6,200.

SeatGeek had somewhat more affordable options — although you will have to be prepared to walk or Uber to the stadium — with passes starting at $88 for parking spots over two miles from SoFi.

SeatGeek also had a spot listed in The Forum parking lot, next door to SoFi, going for $5,700. It’s unclear if it was real or a scam.

On Craigslist, meanwhile, one Inglewood resident was offering five parking spots at their home for $200 each. The home was more than two miles from the stadium. Another had two spots in a garage in a gated Inglewood community for $300 each.

Yet another homeowner who lives in Norwalk, about a 30-minute drive from SoFi, was offering a parking spot for an affordable $600, which included a ride to and from the stadium.

As of Wednesday, the cheapest tickets for the Super Bowl were going for $4,700 with fees on Ticketmaster. Prices have been steadily dropping leading up to the game. People have been advised to be aware of scammers. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. The Super Bowl will only have mobile tickets, so if you’re sold a counterfeit, you’ll likely have no recourse.

The Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals will kickoff at 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

Law Enforcement Ramps Up Security Around Inglewood, SoFi Stadium In Preparation For Super Bowl LVI

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 07:06:40 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — As promised, the Los Angeles Police Department has made a drastic increase in patrols in the area surround SoFi Stadium in preparation for Super Bowl LVI, set to take place in just a week’s time.

(Photo Credit: LAPD)

The increase isn’t just being felt at SoFi Stadium though, as attendees at the Super Bowl Experience at the Los Angeles Convention Center, L.A. Live and other hotspots around the city have reported a much larger law enforcement presence in recent days.

Officers could be seen standing by at each entrance to the Super Bowl Experience, a “football theme park” allowing fans to experience NFL history up close, on Sunday, as thousands of fans flooded in and out of the convention center for the event.

Along with the LAPD, members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and federal partners of the FBI, the Secret Service and Department of Defense have all begun to descend upon the Southland in order to prepare for the week-long party that is planned for Super Bowl LVI.

Some of the major procedures underway include a helicopter from the Department of Energy Nuclear Security Administration, equipped with radiation sensing technology. While Customs and Border Protection agents plan to utilize a scanning device that can detect weapons, explosives or any other type of contraband, not just on people, but in their vehicles.

Their reach is expected to reach from Downtown L.A. to Inglewood and beyond, including tracking any potential concerns surrounding the area through Feb. 13, the day of the big game.

According to LAPD Chief Michel Moore, preparations for this event have been underway for the greater part of the last two years.

Sheriff Alex Villanueva sporting a Rams cap and his Super Bowl LVI Sheriff’s badge. (Photo Credit: LASD)

L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, who could be seen wearing both a Rams hat and a special edition Super Bowl LVI Sheriff’s badge, encouraged Angelenos to celebrate the Rams berth in their “hometown” Super Bowl responsibly, by signing up for a text alert system, which will relay game day traffic related issues or emergencies.

As the game draws nearer, Inglewood residents can hardly contain their anticipation. “The whole city is excited,” said Tyson Baker, an Inglewood resident who was enjoying the experience with his son on Sunday. “It’s lit, as the kid said,” he continued.

Despite the expected increase in both foot and vehicle traffic, and some potential stress when heading to the local supermarket or restaurant, he said it’s all worth it. “I mean the Super Bowl is big all over the world, ” he told CBS reporters, “So for that to come to your city, you should be proud and you should be patient… and you should be prepared to wait a little bit.”

Security in regards to SoFi Stadium is still drawing massive amounts of scrutiny however, as Daniel Luna, the man attacked prior to the NFC Championship Game on stadium property, remains in a medically induced coma after undergoing brain surgery as a result of an altercation that occurred.

Los Angeles County as a whole will be in the public eye in coming years, with the Super Bowl being the first of a few major events planned for the city’s future. After Sunday’s big game, including the College Football Playoff, the World Cup and the Olympics.

Family Of Daniel Luna, SoFi Stadium Attack Victim, Releases Statement

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 00:34:38 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — The family of Daniel Luna, the man who was attacked at SoFi Stadium on Sunday, as the NFC Championship Game took place, has issued a statement on the condition of their loved one.

Daniel Luna. (Photo Credit: Mistura Piedmont Instagram)

Luna, 40-years-old, suffered severe injuries from the incident, when he fell backwards and hit his head. He has been in a medically induced coma since. He is a native of Oakland, and was in town to watch the 49ers take on the Rams for a Super Bowl berth.

Video of the incident shows Luna pushing the suspect, now identified as Bryan Cifuentes, from behind. In turn, Cifuentes pushed Luna from behind before he struck Luna in the mouth. Luna fell and hit his head on the pavement, where first responders found him a while later.

Cifuentes was arrested on Thursday after investigators were able to locate the suspect. He was released on $30,000 bail later that same day.

Luna’s family released a statement in response to the tragic incident,

“Our loved one Daniel Luna remains in a coma in intensive care after the violent attack he suffered at SoFi Stadium prior to the NFL Conference Championship game between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. We pray for him.

We want to thank the paramedics who found him and the doctors, nurses and staff at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center for taking care of Daniel at this challenging and difficult time.

The physicians performed a hemicraniectomy on the right side of Daniel’s head to relieve internal pressure on Friday. We know he has a long road ahead of him.

Right now, we are focused on Daniel’s care and getting through this traumatic and horribly difficult time. We want to make sure these NFL events are safe and secure for everyone and that all parties responsible for this tragic and violent attack will be held accountable so that something like this never happens again.

We also want to thank police and law enforcement officials for continuing their investigation to ensure justice is served.

If anyone has any information, photos, video, or details of any kind, we urge them to reach out to the Inglewood Police Department Det. Will Salmon 310-412-5115. His email is: wsalmon@cityofinglewood.org. We have retained the services of a well-regarded attorney Jonathan E. Davis of the Arns Law Firm to assist Daniel and our family in seeking justice.”

He was supposed to attend the game with a group of colleagues, but ended up going alone as their plans were canceled for various reasons. Luna is a chef and the owner of an Oakland restaurant called Mistura.

The family is pleading with anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact authorities and assist in their ongoing investigation. They also want to make sure that no one else has to go through what they’ve had to over recent days.

They have been by his bedside at Harbor+UCLA Medical Center since the incident occurred.

CBS reporters spoke with the family’s lawyer, Jonathan Davis, who wanted to make sure that no conclusions were being prematurely drawn.

“Anyone who’s characterizing the incident or drawing conclusions at this point, it’s premature and I think it’s counterproductive,” he said.

While he didn’t name any names, one prominent public figure in Inglewood Mayor James Butts spoke at a press conference in regards to the incident, where he presumptively declared that, “The reality is this was a one punch, one shove, two shove, one punch altercation. The greatest damage was done because he landed on the back of his head on the pavement.”

Davis doesn’t believe that this tells the whole story, especially based on Luna’s character, which has been maintained by friends and frequenters at Luna’s restaurant, who consider the man to be well-liked and respected.

He thinks there’s much more to the incident than the public has been made aware of, especially since SoFi Stadium is such an advanced arena with up-to-date technology, “there’s no question hours of video,” exist with footage of the incident “from a myriad of angles. This is a sophisticated environment,” he continued.

Authorities were able to locate the suspect in the incident using that video footage, and Davis believes this can be also be used to the investigators benefit, in order to make a more thorough picture of the events that led up to the altercation.

“We know that SoFi will be preserving all that video tape so that the full picture can be examined and we can really understand, not just the snapshot at that moment, but what happened before, that created the environment for this tragic incident to occur,” Davis said.

Both the Luna family and Davis are concerned as to why authorities weren’t called sooner, especially with the bustling atmosphere at SoFi Stadium.

“It’s a very large question the family wants answered,” Davis said.

He also noted that they don’t want this just for their own peace of mind, but to make sure that steps are taken to prevent repeat occurrences at the NFL’s newest stadium

“I know everyone wants an answer to it ,because we need to keep these environments safe and secure for everyone to come to enjoy. The Super Bowl is coming, and I think that folks want to make sure they can be there with confidence that they will be in a secure, safe environment so they can enjoy the game.”

Mayor Butts has continued to maintain that the security in place at SoFi Stadium is readily capable of handling the Super Bowl, and the more than 100,000 people who are expected to head into Los Angeles in coming days.

Suspect Arrested In SoFi Stadium Attack Which Left 49ers Fan In Coma

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 05:11:03 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – A suspect has been arrested in connection with a violent assault outside SoFi Stadium during the NFC Title game last weekend which left a San Francisco 49ers fan in a coma.

“I was thankful that someone was hopefully being held responsible for this situation and hopefully justice will be served in that capacity,” said Chancy Kirtdoll, a long-time friend of the victim.

An undated photo of Daniel Luna. (Facebook)

In a news conference Friday, Inglewood Mayor James Butts identified the suspect as 33-year-old Bryan Cifuentes Alexis, a resident of Los Angeles. He is charged with one felony count of assault by means to produce great bodily injury.

He was arrested Thursday, but was released from jail early Friday morning on $30,000 bail.

Butts said Alexis was identified with the help of surveillance video from SoFi Stadium. A suspect car that was seen on security video in the stadium parking lot was traced by Inglewood police to its registered owner Thursday. The owner of the car was not a suspect.

“They (investigators) left contact information (with the owner) after indicating we were trying to locate an individual involved in a potential assault on Sunday at SoFi Stadium,” Butts said.

Bryan Cifuentes Alexis. (Inglewood PD)

Alexis then called investigators while he was at his place of work in Montebello, Butts said. Officers went to his work, and he voluntarily accompanied them back to Inglewood police headquarters, where he was interviewed and arrested.

The victim, 40-year-old Oakland resident Daniel Luna, who was wearing a 49ers jersey, was found injured in Parking Lot L of SoFi Stadium in Inglewood around 4 p.m. Sunday, about 30 minutes after the start of the Rams’ 20-17 victory over the 49ers that advanced them to Super Bowl LVI.

“I think he would have to be provoked and I hope it didn’t occur any other way because it’s not his personality,” said Kirtdoll.

Luna was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he was placed in a medically induced coma with extensive injuries to his face and upper body. He remains in a coma Friday.

“His condition has not improved or degraded,” Butts said.

In a previous news conference Thursday, Butts said that, upon review of surveillance footage, investigators determined Luna was mingling with a group of people primarily wearing red 49ers jerseys when he allegedly shoved a man wearing a Rams jersey from behind.

“The suspect then retaliated by pushing Mr. Luna from behind, and then struck (him) once in the mouth area,” Butts said. “Luna then fell to the ground, where he was later found by security personnel who summoned paramedics.”

The man who punched Luna was seen in the security footage interacting with the occupants of a vehicle following the altercation before he left the scene.

Butts said Friday that following the attack, some fans tried to help Luna.

“There were other fans in that group, and at least one person, in the short clip that I saw, which is only a minute-and-a-half, bent down and tried to turn him on his side,” Butts said.

Former prosecutor Michele Hagan called the case a mess and said that Cifuentes could have a possibility of claiming self-defense.

“Self-defense is a possibility there’s also whether or not there was intoxication,” said Hagan. “It’s a messy case because we have a blurry video and the mayor’s opinion. We haven’t seen the video so we really don’t know who is the aggressor.”

A family friend said that Luna traveled to Los Angeles and attended the game alone after other friends had canceled their plans to go with him. Luna is a chef and the owner of an Oakland restaurant called Mistura.

Butts deflected suggestions that the city and police delayed reports of Luna’s assault, claiming instead that authorities only learned of a crime occurred after reviewing the security footage.

“To be blunt about it, it looked like a small altercation that went very bad from one punch and someone hitting their head on the ground,” said Butts, a former Santa Monica Police Department chief and a deputy chief with the Inglewood Police Department.

SoFi Stadium officials issued a statement saying, “We are aware and saddened by the incident. Our thoughts are with Mr. Luna’s friends and family during this difficult time. We are working with law enforcement officials in their investigation.”

Former Los Angeles Police Department Assistant Chief Horace Frank said authorities should have been more transparent about the circumstances around Luna’s beating.

“You should have put out that information to the public because the perpetrator is a public safety hazard and a threat to the community,” Frank, who oversaw major game operations, told the Los Angeles Times. “You want to get the persons responsible for this heinous attack into custody as soon as possible.”

Trio Accused In Hammer Smash-And-Grab Robberies Of 6 Cell Phone Stores In 1 Day

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 23:34:14 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — Three men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in the hammer robberies of half-a-dozen cell phone stores in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, and have been linked to as many as 50 similar robberies across the region.

Tony Tyron Lee Stewart, 21, of Highland; Rayford Newsome, 23, of Compton; and Jerome Gregory Belser, 20, of San Bernardino, are in federal custody and are scheduled to be arraigned in federal court on Feb. 10. The trio has been accused of stealing $33,795 worth of merchandise, and have been linked to more than 50 cell phone store robberies throughout Southern California.

According to the federal indictment, Newsom drove Stewart and Belser in a blue Kia Optima vehicle on Jan. 15 to rob T-Mobile stores in Long Beach, Carson, Inglewood, Encino, and Camarillo, and an AT&T Wireless store in Woodland Hills. Prosecutors say Stewart and Belser used hammers to smash display cases and phone displays to steal iPhones and other electronics at each of the stores, while Newsome was the getaway driver.

According to an affidavit filed with the criminal complaint in this case, GPS location data for Stewart’s and Newsome’s phones, and the blue Kia Optima, showed that the phones and the vehicle were in the area of the robberies when they occurred. Later that night, investigators used the vehicle’s GPS data to track it down to North Hollywood, according to federal prosecutors.

The trio was found in the car after a short pursuit, along with devices taken from the Encino store, and hammers with distinctive handle coloring resembling the ones used during that robbery.

All three men have been charged with one count each of conspiracy and six counts each of interference with commerce by robbery.

Assemblywoman Autumn Burke Resigns, Citing ‘Unprecedented Challenges’ From Pandemic

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 18:52:25 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — In a letter co-signed by her daughter Isabella, state Assemblywoman Autumn R. Burke has resigned, effective immediately.

Burke, 48, announced her resignation Monday to her constituents in a series of tweets. She said she had hoped to finish out her term, which was set to end in December of this year, but her circumstances had recently changed.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives and consciousness of everyone, and I am no exception,” she said on Twitter. “Over the last two years, we’ve faced unprecedented challenges as a state and a people.”

SACRAMENTO, CA -JANUARY 19, 2021: Assemblywoman Autumn Burke of District 62, representing Inglewood, lets her daughter Isabella, 6, sit on her lap during a session in the state Assembly in the Capitol on January 19, 2021 in Sacramento, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The assemblywoman represented the 62nd District, which includes Inglewood, Hawthorne, Lawndale, El Segundo, and Gardena, the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Westchester, Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Venice, and Del Rey, and the unincorporated communities of Del Aire, West Athens, Lennox, Westmont and Marina del Rey.

“After taking some personal inventory, I feel it is of the utmost importance that I have the flexibility and ability to spend more time with my family,” Burke said.

Burke’s presence in the halls of politics started with her own birth – her mother, Yvonne Braithwaite Burke, was the first member of Congress to give birth while in office. When she was first elected in 2014, Burke and her mother – who later served as a former Los Angeles County supervisor and California assemblywoman — became the first mother and daughter to serve in the Assembly. Her father is William Burke, a former chairman of the South Coast Air Quality Management District Governing Board.

It was the honor of a lifetime.

With deep gratitude,
Autumn Burke and Isabella pic.twitter.com/39tWek6DnA

— Autumn Burke (@autumnrburke) February 1, 2022

Among Burke’s legislative achievements were the creation of the California’s Lifting Children and Families Out of Poverty Act, which aimed to reduce deep child poverty by 50%; expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Fact Act requiring all clinics provide clear and accurate information for pregnant women, and efforts to help underprivileged children in her district by providing tablets, computers, eye exams, and eyeglasses. She said she would continue to work on the issues most pressing to the state.

“At the forefront of my work, I will continue to focus on lifting African Americans by helping grow the black voice throughout the entire political process,” Burke said.

Super Bowl Could Be Economic Boon For Inglewood

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 15:38:23 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – Economic experts say Super Bowl LVI could bring in hundreds of millions of to Los Angeles County, with a large chunk of that going to businesses in Inglewood.

The city of Inglewood, Calif. Jan. 31, 2022. (CBSLA)

It’s not actually the big game that has Ron McCan excited, it’s the prospect of new customers to his restaurant, Big Daddy’s Kickin Chicken, just a few blocks from Sofi Stadium. The restaurant opened just before the pandemic as a take-out operation only. McCan said sometimes he gets forgotten.

“Most of the people go down Manchester Boulevard and they miss our restaurant here,” McCan told CBSLA Monday.

Analysts said having the Super Bowl in Inglewood is the victory.

“The Super Bowl is definitely the granddaddy of the world events,” said Roy Weinstein, who wrote the economic impact report for the L.A. Sports and Entertainment Commission.

“We receive both immediate and long term benefits,” Weinstein said.

According to Weinstein, the Super Bowl will bring in about 150,000 visitors who will spend on average $350 a night on hotels, and $300 a day on other expenses.

“In addition to hotels and restaurants, they go shopping, they enjoy Southern California,” Weinstein said.

In all, the Super Bowl is expected to bring in upwards of $477 million in revenue to L.A. County, with $52 million going to business in Inglewood, Weinstein said.

Weinstein said most of the visitors will stay at hotels in downtown L.A. He noted that even though the Rams are already based here, that shouldn’t affect the out-of-town crowd. The Super Bowl is a bucket list event, and only a fraction of the seats go to the actual teams playing.

“The attendees for the game are not going to change because they purchased their tickets and made their hotel reservations a long time ago,” Weinstein said.

Locally owned restaurants like Big Daddy’s hope football fans stop and enjoy the flavor of the Inglewood community instead of just driving by.

“Come on down to Big Daddy’s well have it ready for you,” McCan said.

Analysts add that it’s not just immediate purchases that affect the economy here, but the exposure. People see Southern California on television and it could inspire them to plan a trip.

CBS Reporters Discover Illegal Parking Operation Near SoFi Stadium; Quickly Shut Down By Authorities

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 05:57:28 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – When CBS 2 reporter Tena Ezzeddine was in Inglewood on Sunday, reporting on the Rams showdown versus the San Francisco 49ers at SoFi Stadium in the NFC Championship game, she noticed something out of the ordinary across the street from the arena.

The displaced fence. (Jan. 30, 2021/CBS 2 News)

As she surveyed her surroundings, she noticed a displaced chainlink fence, leaning up against the wall of a building next door to an empty lot with overgrown grass.

On that lot sat dozens of cars, and with those cars Rams and 49ers fans aplenty – tailgating ahead of the game.

The infamous “Charles.” (Jan. 30, 2021/CBS 2 News)

Upon further investigation she was introduced to a man who went simply as “Charles,” who was offering fans premium parking right across the street from SoFi for just $100 dollars.

It proved too good to be true when law enforcement arrived, shutting down the operation which proved to be illegal, primarily based off of the fact that Charles and his partner didn’t actually own the lot they were allowing people to park in.

Cameras caught an officer berating Charles after he was found out, “You can’t open a parking lot that you don’t own!”

Many of the patrons were given their money back, and directed to leave the area to find another parking – legal – parking lot. However, upon the arrival of authorities, Charles’ partner bolted from the scene, with half of the money the partnership earned in hand.

Some fans who paid upwards of $100, on top of the monumental ticket prices and fees that they paid to attend the NFC Championship in the first place, left empty-handed and without a parking spot for the game.

Charles attempted to explain himself after his operation got shut down,”Hey, I’m making the fans happy!”

But that wasn’t enough for some of the people who got scammed on Sunday, including one family who paid an extra $20 just to tailgate in the lot. “What’re we gonna do now?” the man asked when he was directed away from the area by law enforcement.

“Not real happy about it,” he continued.

Charles paying some of the victims back. (Jan. 30, 2021/CBS 2 News)

They were concerned with how easily something like this happened, during one of the biggest events of the NFL season. “One of the biggest games of the year, besides the Super Bowl. How can this happen at this big of a stage?”

Charles remained at the scene to pay back the patrons he could with the half of the money that his partner left behind, “It wasn’t right. That’s why I gave every dime back. I’m just sorry and that’s all I can do,” he told Ezzeddine after his operation was overturned.

Fans who parked at SoFi Stadium paid quite a bit more for their spot than the people across the street did, with rates at an all-time high, between $700 and $1,000 according to some fans.

It doesn’t help that the NFL had already began setting up for Super Bowl LVI, which will be held at SoFi on Feb. 13, taking up a large portion of several parking lots that surround the stadium.

NFC Championship, Super Bowl Have Small Businesses Surrounding SoFi Stadium Excited For Future

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 07:30:58 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — Los Angeles is set to host not only the NFC Championship Game on Sunday, but in just two weeks, they will also play host once again for sport’s biggest event – The Super Bowl.

As a result, hundreds of thousands of football fans are expected to flood the area over coming weeks, and businesses in the surrounding area are more than excited. Not just for the paydays, but for the return of the crowds they haven’t seen since the beginning of the pandemic.

Some businesses are expecting to more than double, and even triple, their normal weekend outputs thanks to the sudden influx of people flooding the Inglewood area.

70,000 fans are set to storm the area surrounding SoFi Stadium on Sunday, many of which are descending from Northern California, in plans of overwhelming Rams fans in their own arena, and businesses have scheduled nearly every staff member in preparation.

Restaurants and shops have put up Rams banners and flags, to show their support of the hometown team, also hoping to attract attendees who are looking for something to do before or after the game.

Some of the partying began on Saturday evening, but they’re expecting the full force of football fans beginning Sunday morning.

The Wood Barbecue and Sports Lounge is one of many businesses in full preparation mode, as detailed by Justin Strackman, the restaurant’s pitmaster, “it’s hard to quantify,” he said, “we’re just wrapping up all of our numbers on meat, sides, everything in general.”

Since their meats take so long to smoke, their preparations take on an entirely different level of planning; but Strackman’s main goal for the big event? “Don’t burn something.”

Liza Ruiz, The Wood’s manager, said the most exciting part of the Rams making it this far is the potential payday that faces her staff, “We are very fortunate. … Yes, they’re very excited, because they want to make some money.”

Martin’s Cocina Y Cantina is another restaurant looking forward to a large crowd, expecting to double their normal Sunday food sales. Esaul Martin, owner of the establishment is expected for an all-day event,”We’ll start getting a big crowd at about 10, 11 a.m.,” he said. With game-time set for 3:30 p.m., that’s a nearly five hour window before the showdown even begins.

“Even though they’re not at the stadium, they just want to be part of it, to be in the city – somewhere that’s live,” Martin continued, “We’re only a mile away from SoFi.”

He’s taken the punches of the pandemic for the last two years, and with the establishment of the new arena in town, he’s grateful for the crowds that have followed. On top of that, he’s excited for an extra boost in business. “Anything counts at this point,” he said.

While the NFC Championship will bring the surrounding area a much needed boost in business, the biggest money is expected in two week’s time when the Super Bowl comes to town, with Angelenos hoping that they’ll be represented at their home arena by the hometown team.

A 2021 report from Micronomics Economic Research in 2021 predicted that the days surrounding Super Bowl LVI could bring nearly $500 million in revenue to the City of Los Angeles, with $2 million of that expected in Inglewood tax revenue alone.

Star-studded LA Rams Host Surging 49ers In NFC Title Game

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 19:43:32 +0000

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (CBSLA/AP) — With the biggest game of the season less than 48-hours away, Rams fans and players alike are full tilt into preparations for the big game.

“They’re the best team in L.A., right?” said Zeb Jelinek, one of many Rams fans who showed up to the Thousand Oaks shopping center on Friday for Rams gear and signed memorabilia. “How are they going to beat the 49ers? Grit and determination” he continued, “They are going to get there!”

Fans were joined by several Rams cheerleaders, and their mascot Rampage at the event which was open for anyone until 6 p.m.

Wide receiver Robert Woods with Jamie Cabral and her famous Rams helmet. (Photo Credit: Jamie Cabral)

Jamie Cabral, a lifelong fan, pruned early by her father, who even adopted a ram as a family pet when she was a child, plans to tailgate and said she won’t miss the game if the Rams make it to the Super Bowl. Though the ram has since passed away, his memory lives on – in very unique form, with his horns attached to a Rams helmet, which several fans rubbed for good luck on Friday.

On the other end of the Golden State, San Francisco 49er fans plan to flood the seats at SoFi Stadium once again, purchasing almost 70% of seats in the arena, in what will be a repeat of Week 16’s eventful matchup between the two NFC West Rivals.

PJ Sports Pub, a 49ers bar located just hundreds of yards down the road, is owned by San Francisco local Kevin Gullick. He could hear the Rams fans chanting from down the road. That didn’t deter him as they head into the NFC Championship, as he told CBS reporters, “Diehard Niners fan here! We are going to kick their butts! Go Niners, beat them six in a row time for number seven!”

With a little less than two days left until game time, StubHub has already announced that the game is trending towards being their best-selling playoff game (excluding the Super Bowl) in the site’s history.

The Rams have lost their last six matchups with Head Coach Sean McVay at the helm, and the players are just as ready as fans are to snap that streak on Sunday. Should they finally defeat their instate foe, they’ll host the Super Bowl in their own stadium, with an opportunity to become the second-straight team to win a Super Bowl in front of their hometown fans. But getting through the 49ers is the first thing in line for the Rams roster.

Aaron Donald has been around long enough to know he might not get this chance again. The same goes for everybody in the Los Angeles Rams’ constellation of stars around him.

Late in his eighth NFL season as the best defensive lineman of his generation, Donald’s career is rich with individual honors, but lacking ultimate team success. The Rams (14-5) made several bold moves this season to build a team around Donald more capable of winning it all, and now they’re one step away from playing in a Super Bowl in their home stadium when they host the San Francisco 49ers (12-7) in the NFC championship game on Sunday.

“I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot in a short amount of time in this league,” said Donald, the seven-time All-Pro and three-time Defensive Player of the Year. “The only thing I’m lacking now is being a world champion. To get to that point, we’ve got to win this week.”

After crying on the sideline last January when the Rams’ season slipped away in Green Bay, Donald is desperate to take that penultimate step toward his last career goal. So are Matthew Stafford, Jalen Ramsey, Andrew Whitworth, Odell Beckham Jr., Cooper Kupp and several other Rams whose otherwise impressive careers don’t have that certain championship ring.

“So many teammates on my team, this is really all they need,” said linebacker Von Miller, the Super Bowl 50 MVP with Denver and midseason Rams acquisition. “Aaron Donald, this is all he needs, and he has the whole shebang, you know? Andrew Whitworth and Eric Weddle and all of these guys, I want to do it for them.”

These rivals match up superbly, with both offenses relying heavily on an All-Pro receiver (Kupp and Deebo Samuel) and both defenses built around elite, dynamic pass rushers.

But if the Rams (14-5) don’t overcome the 49ers’ maddening mastery over them, all their big moves will end in checkmate.

San Francisco has won six consecutive meetings with Los Angeles, and not much in their first two meetings this season suggested Rams coach Sean McVay is close to clearing the monumental mental block separating him from his good friend, Kyle Shanahan.

The 49ers feel a related urgency heading back to SoFi Stadium, where they roared back from an early 17-point deficit and surged to yet another impressive victory over their California archrivals just three weeks ago — clinching a playoff berth, no less.

In fact, San Francisco might owe its entire season to its domination of the Rams: The Niners were 3-5 and going nowhere when they routed Los Angeles in mid-November, kicking off their current 9-2 surge.

If the Rams fall again Sunday, the disappointment will be crushing, but Donald thinks they’re ready to shoulder the weight.

“This is a different type of football here that’s going on this week,” he said. “This week, my mindset is there’s no way we’re going to lose this game. We have to play four quarters. We have to find a way to finish, and I know we’re going to do that.”

NFL, LA County Go On Public Education Blitz To Block COVID From Super Bowl Festivities

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 04:00:01 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — With less than three weeks to the big game, the NFL and Los Angeles County health officials are embarking on public education blitz to try and block COVID-19 from ruining the Super Bowl.

HOLLYWOOD, CA – JANUARY 18: General view of a billboard near Hollywood & Vine featuring the Vince Lombardi Trophy, promoting Super Bowl 56 (Super Bowl LVI) to be held at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on January 18, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

The Super Bowl takes place Sunday, Feb. 13 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. And even though a surge of COVID infections across the state is starting to plateau, public health officials are taking extraordinary measures to make sure the virus doesn’t stage a comeback.

“Since SoFi Stadium has already hosted 21 home games this year, and welcomed over 1.2 million fans using similar vaccine or test verification systems, the Super Bowl plan can build upon their extensive experience,” LA County Public Health Director Dr. Barbara Ferrer told the Board of Supervisors.

People attending any Super Bowl-associated event – including those taking place at YouTube Theater, Crypto Arena, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and SoFi Stadium – will have to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within at least 48 hours in compliance with LA City and county safety rules. Ferrer said public health staff will be placed at the entrance of every event to ensure compliance.

“We know we’re going to have folks visiting from all over the US and I’m sure some people are going to go home with COVID and some people are going to bring COVID,” said Dr. Jerry Abraham, director of vaccine programs for Kedren Health.

In the run-up to Super Bowl Sunday, the county and NFL will offer free rapid COVID-19 testing at the Super Bowl Experience at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Free admission will be offered to those who get vaccinated on-site, and all visitors to the Super Bowl experience will receive a free take-home COVID testing kit. Ferrer estimated more than 60,000 of those kits will be distributed from the fan event, and the NFL will urge fans to use the kits before gathering with friends and family to watch the Super Bowl.

The Super Bowl Experience takes place Feb. 5 and 6, and again on Feb. 10 through 12.

“I told my guys nobody’s taking a break. The next couple of weeks, we’re slammed,” said Esaul Martin, a restaurant owner in Inglewood.

The NFL will offer free COVID testing to all fans before they enter SoFi Stadium, and Ferrer says every fan who attends the Super Bowl will be given a KN95 mask. Public health officials will also do extensive outreach to remind attendees to wear their masks at all times during the game, except when actively eating or drinking, she said.

‘We Have So Many Questions;’ Family Of Tioni Theus, Teen Found Dead On Side Of Freeway, Demands Answers

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 02:58:33 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) —The family of a 16-year-old girl who was found dead on the side of the 110 Freeway in early January is demanding answers.

Tioni Theus visited her father at his Inglewood workplace on January 7, in what he explained as a depressed and distraught state. Less than 24 hours later she was found dead, shot in the neck twice.

Darien Jackson, Tioni’s father, detailed the events of the day prior to the discovery of his daughter’s body on the southbound 110 Freeway in South Los Angeles, telling CBS reporters that ever since her mother was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident, his daughter had been living with him. He said that she hadn’t been the same girl he knew since that tragic incident turned her life on its head.

“She said, Daddy, nobody loves me. The only person that loved me was my mama,” he continued, “I said that’s not true, I said I love you. She just was crying, crying, I felt her pain.”

Jackson said that as his daughter was planning to leave he had a bad feeling, and begged her to stay with him. Despite denying his requests, he gave his daughter a kiss and a hug, before she left for a party with an unnamed friend, leaving him for what he said he “didn’t know was a last goodbye.”

Tioni’s body was found the next morning, and investigators disclosed that the teenager was murdered – shot twice in the neck.

Now, her family is beside themselves, searching for a reason in how somebody could take a life so heartlessly.

“Dumped on the freeway like nothing,” Jackson said, “Yeah. That just broke me down. It hurt me, it’s like who could be so cold like that?”

“We have so many questions. Everybody is so in disbelief,” said her cousin Rashida Kincy.

They want to make sure that their loved one is remembered for her beauty, vibrancy and intelligence, rather than dehumanized as the investigation of her death ensues. “Let’s speak up, let’s stand up for one another. Talk for those who can’t, save the next child’s life,” Kincy continued, “It could be your child, it could be your cousin.”

According to details provided to The Los Angeles Times by some of Tioni’s family members, when her mother’s accident occurred in 2019, she began to rebel, disappearing for extended periods of time, and being pulled into theft and prostitution.

“We’re definitely not pretending that Tioni was an angel,” her cousin Nafeesah Kincy told The Times, “She faced trauma. I want to humanize her. I don’t want her to be seen as a prostitute or a runaway or somebody that people feel like ‘Oh, well, they live that lifestyle.’ … It’s so many young women out here being victimized and being taken advantage of physically and sexually,” she said, “So it’s my cousin today. But it could be your cousin, your daughter, your friend tomorrow.”

While California Highway Patrol continues to investigate, Tioni’s family plans to make a plea to the public on Saturday.

They will gather to call upon California public officials, including the Los Angeles City Council and Governor Gavin Newsom, in the introduction of an award on any information involved in her murder – similar to the one instituted in the fatal stabbing of Brianna Kupfer, who’s victim was arrested on Wednesday following the announcement of an award fund totaling $ 250,000 for information in her case.

One of those whom will be in attendance is Najee Ali, who works with Operation Hope. “It’s important that Governor Newsom and state elected officials realize that Tioni Theus’ life mattered,” he told City News Service “The fact that someone could shoot and kill a young woman and dump her body on the side of the freeway like she was trash is outrageous.”

The group is set to gather at 11 a.m. on Saturday morning at the 76 Gas Station on South Figueroa Street in Los Angeles.

A GoFundMe for Tioni can be found by searching for the keywords, “Tioni’s Funeral Expenses.”

NFL, Inglewood Mayor Say There Are No Plans To Move Super Bowl From SoFi Stadium

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 14:13:12 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — It’s happening, insist local officials who are countering speculation that the long-awaited Super Bowl could be moved from SoFi Stadium due to the newest wave of COVID-19 infections in Southern California.

The big game will go on as planned on Feb. 13 at SoFi Stadium, despite the NFL’s confirmation that it has been vetting potential alternative sites such as AT&T Stadium in Texas.

The NFL says the league always puts contingency plans in place just in case, but there are no plans to relocate this year’s game – which is just over a month away at this time.

Why the sudden concern about where Super Bowl LVI will be played? It’s thanks to the Omicron variant driving a new, massive surge of infections across the nation. Omicron was identified as a variant of concern at around Thanksgiving, and has sent California’s positivity rate skyrocketing to nearly 22%.

“COVID is something that’s affecting the entire United States of America, so why would you leave Inglewood to go to AT&T?” Inglewood Mayor James Butts said. “As much as I love Jerry Jones, it doesn’t make any sense, does it?”

Dr. Barbara Ferrer, the director of the LA County Health Department, says they have been working closely with the NFL and SoFi Stadium and is confident the game will indeed happen as planned in Inglewood.

Backup Plan: Super Bowl Would Move To AT&T Stadium In Texas In Event Of New Lockdown Or Bad Weather

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 13:54:52 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — The Super Bowl is coming! Or is it?

The Super Bowl is scheduled to take place at SoFi Stadium on Feb. 13. But with California experiencing a major surge of COVID-19 infections and reporting a staggering 21.3% positivity rate on Wednesday, backup plans are being made in the event the state goes into a new lockdown.

If new restrictions are enacted in California that prevent the game from being played in Inglewood, the NFL has identified AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas as a backup for the big game. In an unprecedented pandemic, there happens to be precedent for such a move – last year, the stadium hosted the Rose Bowl when it was switched from Pasadena due to regional stay-at-home order.

The NFL says they always had a backup plan in case the Super Bowl couldn’t take place in California.

“As part of our standard contingency planning process that we conduct for all regular and postseason games, we have contacted several clubs to inquire about stadium availability in the event we cannot play the Super Bowl as scheduled due to weather-related issues or unforeseen circumstances,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in a statement. “Our planning process for the Super Bowl in Los Angeles is ahead of schedule and we look forward to hosting the Super Bowl there.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state’s health director say there are no plans for any new lockdowns that would force the game out of the state.

Los Angeles has been waiting decades for the Super Bowl. The last time the big game was played in Southern California was in 1993 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

Sidelined Chargers Return To Score Touchdowns in Victory Over Denver

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 00:36:58 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – Justin Herbert threw for two touchdowns and set the franchise single-season record, Andre Roberts returned a kick 101 yards for a score, and the Los Angeles Chargers moved back into an AFC playoff spot with a 34-13 victory over the Denver Broncos on Sunday at SoFi Stadium.

Austin Ekeler ran 3 yards for a touchdown on the game’s opening drive, Roberts returned a kickoff 101 yards in the fourth quarter and Williams caught a 45-yard pass from Justin Herbert later in the fourth quarter.

They were among 13 Chargers who missed last Sunday’s 41-29 loss to the Houston Texans because they were on the COVID-19 reserve list, along with outside linebacker Joey Bosa. The four-time Pro Bowl selection made six tackles Sunday, including one for a loss.

The touchdown pass to Williams gave Herbert 35 for the season, breaking the previous team record of 34 set by Philip Rivers in 2008. He completed 22 of 31 passes for 237 yards, including an 8-yard touchdown to Keenan Allen 14 seconds before halftime.

“Justin has worked extremely hard to earn that record,” Chargers coach Brandon Staley said. “It’s not a coincidence that these records are happening for him. It’s because of the type of person he is, the type of competitor he is and the type of player he is.”

Herbert called setting the record “a huge accomplishment, but it doesn’t get done without my teammates, the receivers, tight ends and especially the offensive line that has done an incredible job of protecting me all year.”

Herbert became the sixth player to have a 35-touchdown season before turning 24. Three of the other five were selected as the NFL’s MVP that season – – Dan Marino in 1984, Patrick Mahomes in 2018 and Lamar Jackson in 2019.

Herbert completed 22 of 31 passes for 237 yards, including an 8-yard touchdown to Keenan Allen 14 seconds before halftime. Herbert’s 22 completions gave him 805 for his career, reaching the 800 mark in 31 games, the fastest in NFL history. Mahomes and Matthew Stafford shared the previous record with 34 games.

Herbert was third-youngest player to reach that mark at 23 years, 298 days old. The only younger players to reach 800 completions were Drew Bledsoe, who was 23 years and 271 days old when he accomplished the feat as a New England Patriot, and former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston, who was 23 years and 296 days old.

The Chargers outgained Denver, 341 yards to 319, led 21-18 in first downs and 30:16-29:44 in time of possession.

“I felt like we really showed what we are made of today,” Staley said.

The Chargers held the Broncos (7-9) to a 61-yard field goal by Brandon McManus as time expired in the first half, the longest of his eight-season NFL career, a 23-yard field goal by McManus on the first play of the fourth quarter, and a 5-yard touchdown pass from Drew Lock to tight end Noah Fant with 6:31 to play.

Former Charger Melvin Gordon appeared to run 1 yard for a touchdown on the first play of the fourth quarter but the score was nullified on an illegal formation penalty as offensive lineman Austin Schlottmann reported in an as an eligible receiver, but did not line up in a spot as an eligible receiver, prompting Denver coach Vic Fangio to send in McManus to attempt the field goal.

Lock completed 18 of 25 passes for 245 yards in place of Teddy Bridgewater who missed his second consecutive game because of a concussion.

“I thought he had some good throws and made some good reads,” Fangio said. “We cannot seem to find a rhythm and a consistency in our offense to keep our drives sustained, or make first downs to eventually get us touchdowns.”

Dustin Hopkins kicked a 19-yard field goal in the second quarter and a 23-yarder in the third for the Chargers.

Lakers Dwight Howard Helps Unveil New Court

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 02:11:01 +0000

Los Angeles Lakers Center helped unveil a refurbished basketball court at Edward Vincent Park in Inglewood.

Rams Face Seahawks Tuesday At SoFi Amid COVID Outbreak

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 18:05:30 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – After being pushed back two days because of a coronavirus outbreak on their roster, the Los Angeles Rams will finally face the Seattle Seahawks at SoFi Stadium Tuesday.

Matthew Stafford of the Rams calls out a play prior to taking the snap against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on Dec. 13, 2021 in Glendale, Ariz. (Getty Images)

At one point last week, the Rams had more than 27 players on the NFL’s reserve/COVID list, nearly half their roster.

It prompted the NFL to postpone their game with the Seahawks, which had been originally scheduled for Sunday. It was one when it was one of three NFL games that were postponed because of COVID-19 outbreaks.

Among the affected players were stars including Jalen Ramsey, Von Miller and Odell Beckham Jr. On Saturday, the Rams activated Beckham, defensive back Dont’e Deayon, running back Darrell Henderson Jr., linebacker Justin Hollins, tight end Brycen Hopkins and tackle Alaric Jackson off the COVID list. Ramsey was removed from the list on Sunday, while Miller was removed Monday morning.

However, tight end Tyler Higbee, offensive lineman Rob Havenstein and safety Jordan Fuller were among the Rams’ starters still sidelined over COVID concerns Tuesday.

The 9-4 Rams and 5-8 Seahawks kick off at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

It’s a day-to-day situation NFL-wide, with vaccinated players able to return to the squad if they test negative twice at least 24 hours apart. Unvaccinated players must remain isolated for 10 days.

The league also moved the Las Vegas Raiders-Cleveland Browns game scheduled for Saturday to Monday, and Sunday’s scheduled game between the Washington Football Team and the Philadelphia Eagles to Tuesday.

According to the Rams, tickets purchased for the originally scheduled Sunday game will still be honored for Tuesday’s game. No refunds will be given, but fans who cannot make it are able to transfer, re-sell or donate their tickets on Account Manager.

Because of weekday rush-hour traffic, the Rams are encouraging fans to arrive at least 60 minutes prior to kickoff to ensure efficient entry.

Additionally, new rules announced by the Los Angeles County Department of Health for outdoor mega-events will be effective for the game. All attendees age 5 and older are required to provide proof of full vaccination, a negative COVID antigen test within 24 hours of the event, or a negative PCR test within 48 hours of the event.

Attendees can get tested on-site at SoFi Stadium at their own expense for $59. Testing will be available near Entry 5 and Entry 9 starting at noon, and may take over 30 minutes for a result.

The pandemic is having a wide impact on Southland sports teams, with UCLA, USC, Long Beach State and UC Irvine all having men’s basketball games either postponed or canceled. The NHL announced a pause on its season.

In addition, Lakers coach Frank Vogel missed Sunday night’s game against the Chicago Bulls after entering the NBA’s COVID-19 protocols. The Lakers were also without Talen Horton-Tucker, Dwight Howard, Avery Bradley, Malik Monk, Austin Reaves and Kent Bazemore due to COVID-19 protocols.

Rapper Slim 400 Shot, Killed In Inglewood

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 21:30:54 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – Rapper Slim 400 was shot and killed in Inglewood Wednesday night, according to police.

Dec. 9, 2021. (CBSLA)

The rapper, whose real name is Vincent Cohran, was shot at 7:50 p.m. in the area of Manchester Boulevard and 7th Avenue.

Officers on patrol heard the gunshots and responded to find a man on the ground with gunshot wounds, Inglewood police Lt. Neil Cochran told reporters.

The victim was treated by paramedics at the scene and then rushed to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he died, the L.A. County Fire Department told CBSLA.

FILE — Rapper Slim 400 performs onstage during the first annual YG & Friend’s Nighttime Boogie Concert at The Shrine Auditorium on Feb. 17, 2018, in Los Angeles. (Getty Images)

No arrests have been made and there was no word on a motive. The exact circumstances of the shooting were unclear.

Investigators were canvassing the area for security video and witnesses.

Traffic Nightmare? SoFi, The Forum Both Hosting Events Wednesday Night

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 16:45:18 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – For the first time ever, both SoFi Stadium and The Forum will host events Wednesday night, leading to possible gridlock as tens of thousands of people descend on Inglewood.

BTS fans line up outside SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Nov. 26, 2021. (CBSLA)

K-pop superstars BTS will hold court at SoFi for the third of their four sold out shows there, scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. The adjacent YouTube Theater will also be holding a BTS Dance Party, where the concert will be livestream.

Meanwhile, The Forum will host the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s “The LA Revival” to commemorate World AIDS Day. The free concert event, which is sold out, will feature singers Christina Aguilera and Jennifer Hudson. It starts at 8 p.m.

SoFi has a capacity of between 70,000 and 100,000, depending on the event, while The Forum can hold up to 17,500 people.

Event organizers and Inglewood city officials are advising people to come as early as possible. Parking lots at SoFi Stadium open at noon.

People are also advised to go online and prepay for a parking spot in an onsite of offsite lot prior to driving to Inglewood, or to use public transportation or a rideshare app.

This past summer, Inglewood converted the residential neighborhoods around SoFi Stadium to permit parking only on event days in order to keep neighborhoods from being overrun by SoFi attendees.

BTS Fans Angry At Ticketmaster’s Late Ticket Release For LA Shows

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 23:37:28 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) — More tickets to this weekend’s BTS concert at SoFi Stadium were released Friday, but some fans were less than delighted about the surprise opportunity to see their beloved boy band in person.

Tickets to the band’s quartet of shows that start this Thanksgiving holiday weekend have been sold out for months. But that changed abruptly Friday morning, sending some fans scrambling.

“Due to production releases, additional tickets are available for BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE LA,” a notice on the show’s Ticketmaster page said. “Due to the limited number of tickets available, a select number of previously waitlisted Verified Fans have been selected at random to receive codes to purchase from this late ticket release.”

Fans who were initially unable to purchase tickets were forced to make other plans, such as buying tickets to the BTS Live Play at the adjacent YouTube Theater. The surprise release made it necessary for fans who managed to purchase tickets to then sell the Live Play tickets. Other fans were less than thrilled that so many tickets were held until a day before the first show on Saturday.

why was ticketmaster holding onto THAT MANY tickets for a day before the concert and why do you need a code to get them and how did nobody know about this. pic.twitter.com/iHxDDMWPGg

— Mr Yunki (@prodyngs) November 26, 2021

@Ticketmaster can you release more BTS tickets for verified ARMY fan? Some of us didn't get a chance to even buy during presale since you held back so many tickets.@TMFanSupport #BTSTickets #PTD_ON_STAGE_LA #btsconcertLA

— Carey (@Careycarecare) November 26, 2021

Still, that discontent doesn’t seem to have dampened enthusiasm for the group. An extensive, and winding queue of BTS fans was spotted in an Inglewood parking lot, waiting to buy officials band merchandise ahead of this weekend’s shows.

Snoop Dogg Joins Chargers And Rams For Inglewood’s 7th Annual Turkey Giveaway

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 03:37:08 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – The City of Inglewood hosted its 7th Annual Turkey Giveaway with members of the Chargers, the Rams and a special appearance from rapper Snoop Dogg. Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. also showed up to Tuesday’s event, held at SoFi Stadium.

“[We’re] just giving back to the community anyway possible,” said Chargers linebacker Uchenna Nwosu. “There’s no rivalry when we’re helping out families and doing it for the community.”

“It brings a lot of joy to my heart because clearly I feel like they are in a position where they needed it,” said Rams free safety Terrell Burgess. “Anything we can do to impact them and make somebody else smile is a great thing.”

This is the second year that the event has been hosted at SoFi Stadium.

“This is something that we’ve been doing for a long time, to establish our relationship in the community, to make sure that everybody has a meal and everybody has something to look forward to for Thanksgiving,” said Snoop Dogg. “We want people to be thankful that we have the opportunity to give back. This is what we look forward to doing every year.

Green Day, Miley Cyrus, Machine Gun Kelly & More To Perform At Super Bowl Music Fest At Staples Center

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 01:17:51 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) – Green Day, Miley Cyrus, Machine Gun Kelly, Halsey, Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani will take the stage at the third annual Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest, a three-day concert event leading up to the big game.

The three-night event will be held at Staples Center on Feb. 10, 11 and 12 ahead of the Feb. 13 Super Bowl at Sofi Stadium in Inglewood.

Halsey and Machine Gun Kelly are scheduled to perform the first night followed by Shelton and Stefani on the second night and wrapping up Miley Cyrus and Green Day on the final night.

According to organizers, more than 75,000 people attended the music festivals in 2019 in Atlanta and last year in Miami.

“With this year’s festival taking place in the iconic Staples Center, we’re excited about the line-up of musicians we have brought together across various genres, and can’t wait to bring people in Los Angeles even more fun to what is already set to be a big weekend,” Lane Joyce, director of experiential marketing for Bud Light, said in a statement.

Tickets will go on sale at 7 a.m. Thursday at SuperBowlMusicFest.com and Ticketmaster.com.

Forum Announces First-Ever Los Angeles Residency With Mana

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 21:23:08 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — Grammy award-winning Mexican rock band Mana announced Monday a residency at the Forum in Inglewood starting in March.

The arena residency marks the first-ever in the city of Los Angeles. Mana said they promise to play “for as long as Los Angeles fans will have them.”

The Forum will be the only place in the United States where fans will be able to see Mana play live in 2022.

“We are proud to announce this historic residency with Mana, doing what no other band has ever done in Los Angeles,” said Geni Lincoln, general manager and senior vice president of booking for the Forum.

“On their 2019 Rayando El Sol Tour, Mana cemented their position as the reigning kings of the Forum, breaking the record for the most shows sold out on a single tour since our remodel and reopening. This residency is the culmination of an incredible journey, with an incredible band, and we look forward to hosting their fans from around the world for these historic shows.”

Performances will begin on March 18 and 19 and April 22 and 23, with more dates soon to be announced.

Tickets will be available at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 19 at Ticketmaster.com.

Inglewood High Football Coach Takes Criticism For 106-0 Win

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 23:00:17 +0000

INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – The coaching staff of the Inglewood High School football team is facing significant criticism after Friday’s crushing defeat of Inglewood Morningside High School.

Inglewood High defeated Morningside 106-0. Inglewood’s starting quarterback Justyn Martin, who has committed to play at UCLA, threw for 13 touchdowns, a national high school football record.

“This violates everything you want from a leader of a HS team,” ESPN’s legendary analyst Dick Vitale tweeted Sunday. “How can anyone in their right mind defend the Coach of Inglewood? He is up 104-0 & goes for 2 pt conversion to win 106-0.”

Both teams are part of the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section. Inglewood High has a 9-0 record on the season. Morningside is 2-8.

Inglewood High’s head coach, 36-year-old Mil’Von James, played college football at UCLA and briefly spent time on the Cleveland Browns back in 2008.

“It was a classless move,” Morningside head coach Brian Collins told the Los Angeles Times. “I told them, ‘Go play St. John Bosco and Mater Dei.’”

According to the Times, James has been Inglewood’s head coach for the past three seasons. In 2016, he was fired as head coach of the Augustus Hawkins High School football team because he had ineligible players on his roster.

“We at the Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD) are saddened beyond words by the events that transpired at the football game Friday between Inglewood and Morningside high schools,” said Inglewood Unified School District County Administrator Dr. Erika Torres in a statement. “We will conduct a full investigation and take whatever steps are necessary to ensure that a similar outcome never happens again under an IUSD athletic program. Our expectation at IUSD is that every athletic contest reflects the highest-level sportsmanship, respect, and collegiality in every interaction among players, coaches, staff, and administrators. We value the hard work and commitment made by every student athlete and regret these actions have taken the focus away from the positive strides our programs have made at IUSD.”

Inglewood High is slated to face Ventura’s St. Bonaventure High Friday to open the Division 2 CIF Southern Section Playoffs.

1⃣3⃣ TDS?!
INGLEWOOD (CBSLA) – Police are on the hunt for a gunman who shot and killed an 18-year-old volleyball player outside her home in Inglewood late Monday night.

18-year-old Daina “Gucci” Monroe shot outside her Inglewood home Monday night.

Family members of the victim, Daina Monroe, are shattered and grieving.

“She was just a bright spirit. She loved everybody and everybody loved her,” Derrick Summerville, Monroe’s brother said.

The 18-year-old was sitting in a car with her older sister and two guy friends in front of her Inglewood home when a vehicle pulled up next to them and opened fire, killing Monroe, police said.

“It was definitely random, definitely random. My daughter was an extremely popular volleyball player,” Darrin Monroe, the victim’s father said. “This isn’t anything other than wrong place, wrong time. It’s not anything related to her or any of the people she was with.”

Her father said she recently graduated from Culver City High School, where she was a stellar volleyball player who had a gift for drawing.

The group had been discussing what movie they wanted to see when the car pulled up next to theirs, shot at them and then took off.

Monroe was rushed to the hospital where she died of her injuries. The other passengers in the vehicle were not hurt.

Family members said they have no idea why anyone would want to hurt her.

“A random act of, I guess, just empowerment. They feel they can do just what they want to, no questions asked. They just pulled alongside the car and just ended whoever’s life for whatever reason. We don’t understand it yet,” said Daniel Butler, also a brother to the victim.

Relatives have set up a GoFundMe Campaign to help cover the expenses of her untimely death.

They are pleading for whoever is responsible for cutting her life short to do the right thing and come forward.

“That could’ve been your sister or your mom or auntie that in that car. So, how would you feel if that happened to you,” Summerville said.

Police have not yet released a description of the suspect or the getaway car. Monroe’s family plans to hold a vigil in her honor on Saturday at 5 p.m. at Bill Botts Park in Culver City.

Red Hot Chili Peppers Announce 2022 Tour With Stop At SoFi Staidum

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 21:26:43 +0000

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA) — The Red Hot Chili Peppers will take the stage at SoFi Stadium in 2022.

The band announced their 2022 tour dates for Europe and North America in a video dressed as newscasters.

KHOT news: RHCP tour stops have been announced! pic.twitter.com/nbMSz0RASO

— Red Hot ChiliPeppers (@ChiliPeppers) October 7, 2021

The band will kick off their North American part of the tour in Denver, Colorado on July 23 and play at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on July 31, 2022.

Opening acts vary based on location and include Anderson Paak, A$AP Rocky, Beck, HAIM, King Princess, St. Vincent, The Strokes and Thundercat.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Oct. 15 at redhotchilipeppers.com.