Oakland Post, week of September 6 - 12, 2023

Currys Give Back $50 Million to OUSD Steph and Ayesha left their hearts and souls in Oakland

Stephen Curry with Oakland scholar Vivian Wu. Photo: eat.learn.play.org.

By Post Staff Stephen and Ayesha Curry are committing to raise $50 million over the next three years to support Oakland schools, children, and families through the Currys’ Eat. Learn. Play.

Foundation.

With the support of the Currys’ foundation, Lockwood STEAM Academy, an elementary school in East Oakland, this week unveiled a reimagined schoolyard, which includes two new kid-designed play-

grounds, two multi-sport courts, two mini soccer pitches, an outdoor classroom, enhanced community gardens, and a mural that spans the entire schoolyard.

The Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation, which is centered on supporting nutrition, education, and physical activity for children, is working to improve access for every child in Oakland to nutritious food; resources to learn and read; and safe places and equitable opportunities to play.

Ayesha Curry providing Congressional testimony on ending hunger in America. Photo: eatlearnplay.org.

Oakland Post “Where there is no vision, the people perish...” Proverbs 29:18

60th Year, No. 34

DA Price Charges Enhancements for Attack on 81-Year Old Man postnewsgroup.com

Weekly Edition.

Edition. September 6 - 12, 2023

Congresswoman Lee NAACP Presents TenPoint Voter Action Plan for Nominated by President Biden to Represent the United States a Safer Oakland at the UN General Assembly

Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. Photo: NBC

By Post Staff

The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office has filed charges against James Lambert, 23, for the brutal assault last month with a knife and a metal pipe on 81-year-old Francisco Gonzalez.

Witnesses reported that on Aug. 17, Lambert stabbed the elderly man eight times in the head and proceeded to strike him with a metal pipe while he lay on the ground. The defendant is accused of launching the unprovoked attack on Gonzalez as he walked along Whitman Street in Hayward.

The assault was halted by the intervention of an off-duty security guard, and Gonzalez was rushed to Eden Medical Center, where he is currently in critical condition.

Charges brought against Lambert include Assault with a Deadly Weapon under Penal Code 245(a) (1) and Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse, Infliction of Injury under

Penal Code 368(b)(1). Additionally, in accordance with a Special Directive, the District Attorney’s Office is pursuing a Great Bodily Injury charge pursuant to Penal Code 12022.7(c).

“This case presents extraordinary circumstances, a senseless and brutal attack on a vulnerable victim,” said District Attorney Pamela Price.

“We are seeking a sentencing enhancement for Great Bodily Injury. Our message is clear: anyone who commits acts of violence against vulnerable individuals in Alameda County will be held accountable,” she said.

Without the enhancement, Lambert could potentially be sentenced to a maximum of nine years in prison. With the enhancement, an additional five years could be added to the sentence.

Cynthia Adams, president of the Oakland Branch of the NAACP. Courtesy photo.

Special to The Post Cynthia Adams, the President of the Oakland Branch of the NAACP released her organization’s Ten Point plan for a safer Oakland this week. She called on voters to fight crime through voting and active monitoring of public safety and local governmental decision-makers.

Accordingly, the NAACP presented the following ten strategic goals for a safer Oakland: 1. Increase the Oakland Police

Force to a minimum of 1,000 officers and hire a Chief of Police 2. Enact mentoring and job training programs. Jobs for youth provide alternatives to a criminal lifestyle 3. Fully staff and improve the 911 system 4. Enforce Oakland’s Criminal laws in a constitutional manner 5. Install security cameras and license plate readers to moniContinued on page 8

The Black Repertory Group Cites Broken Promises from City of Berkeley (Part 1)

By Tanya Dennis

On March 22, the Berkeley City Council passed its first phase of reparations to descendants of slaves. According to City Council, the reparations bill was passed to address past economic inequities to descendants of enslaved Africans.

Led by City Councilmember Ben Bartlett, the reparations legislation was co-sponsored

by Mayor Jesse Arreguín who said, “The time for reparations is long overdue. By beginning this

process, Berkeley can become a leader in righting the wrongs of our history.”

Another co-sponsor, City Councilmember Sophie Hahn said, “We are overdue to confront the many ways our city has been active and complicit in discrimination against African Americans and launch a new path forward for the equitable future we all yearn for.”

Black Repertory Group (known as the Rep) owners Dr. Mona Scott and her son, Sean

Photo: Black Repertory Group. Courtesy photo.

Scott, question the politician’s words when those speakers have ignored their commitment to fund the theater $25,000 a year for “maintenance and upkeep.”

For 23 years the city has failed to keep its promise to the oldest Black-owned theater west of the Mississippi located at 3201 Adeline Ave. Sean Scott, grandson of theater founders Nora and Birel Vaughn, says that the theater has been under assault by the city of Berkeley for years, and cites gentrification as the engine trying to drive them out of their location.

“The City Council general fund budget allocated the Black Rep $25,000 a year for upkeep and maintenance almost 30 years ago,” Scott said. “They haven’t kept that promise for 23 years, and don’t even pick up the trash from our location. Now they want to do a safety walk through to assure we’re compliant.”

Scott says this is not the first time they have experienced is-

Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Official photo.

Special to The Post Washington, DC – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12) issued the below statement following President Joe Biden’s announcement of his intent to nominate her to serve as Representative of the United States to the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations.

If confirmed, this will mark the eighth time the Congresswoman has served as Congressional Rep-

resentative of the U.S. to the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

“I am deeply honored to be nominated for this role by President Biden and thank the administration for continuing to support a strong U.S. presence in the UN and on the global stage,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Strong international cooperation is vital in addressing the global challenges of the 21st century, and the United Continued on page 8

Sandré Swanson Runs for State Senate, ‘Putting Kids and Families First’

sues with the city, from whom they lease the building for $1.00.

“They broke into our building last year, prying the side door open to assure we are ADA compliant. My grandparents built this facility to be ADA compliant and the city knows this. We filed a police report but have heard nothing. They’re coming back on Sept. 15 looking for a reason to shut us down.”

Sandré Swanson. Courtesy In 1993, the Scotts were told photo. to suspend all plays, then the city reneged on the Rep’s mortgage, By Ken Epstein set the news against them, and atVeteran progressive leader tempted to give the theater to the Sandré Swanson, who is runShotgun Players.

Black Repertory Executive ning for office to “put kids and Director Mona Scott says that families first,” spoke at a funthere were times the city support- draiser over Labor Day weeked them: during Gus Newport’s end emphasizing his committerm as mayor of Berkeley from ment to serving Oakland and 1979 to 1986 and Mayor Shirley the East Bay as his campaign Dean from 1994 to 2002.

“Since then, there have been gathers endorsements and supmajor disparities in funding porters for the November 2024 between us and white theaters. race for the State Senate, 7th Continued on page 8 District.

The current issues facing local communities are clearly visible all around us, Swanson said: the unhoused who struggle to survive, the piled waste and neglect on city streets, empty storefronts in commercial districts, people who tell him they are “afraid to go out at night,” and the frequent news reports of older residents who are knocked down and robbed.

Continued on page 8

Virtual Murrel, Guest Speaker

See page 6

THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 2

What We Do for Art and Democracy

Emil Guillermo, left, takes a bow after the performance of a play by Oakland’s Ishmael Reed at the Theater for the New City in New York.

Courtesy photo.

By Emil Guillermo

10.5” 10”

I’m in New York again for a return engagement of Oakland resident Ishmael Reed’s “The Conductor,” his new play on the current state of race in America.

Reed’s twist is that Blacks are running an underground railroad to help South Asian minorities under siege by whites in the Bay Area.

Based on the recent San Francisco Board of Education and district attorney recalls, Reed turns real life into a “what if” satire to expose the racism at play. It’s funny, provocative, and an example of how white supremacy has suppressed our sense of history. You’ll marvel at all the facts in the play you didn’t know about.

I play a conservative Fox News-type commentator. I know, a stretch. It’s a paid acting gig, but more of an honor to be in the 11th play by Reed. His five decades of literary artistry in drama, novels, poetry, and essays in the name of diversity and inclusion makes him worthy of a Nobel laureate in literature.

The show isn’t streaming over the internet, but it’s worth it to be in New York to see what could be the final production of “The Conductor,” at the Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave, Thursday to

Saturday @8 p.m., Sundays @3 p.m. through Sept. 10. https:// ci.ovationtix.com/35441/production/1149771

The Untold Filipino American Story While here, I’m also doing my own one-man show, “Emil Amok, Lost NPR Host: A Phool’s Filipino American History.”

In the show, I talk about my relatives’ reaction to me being a broadcaster on television, coming out of the same box as their favorite TV stars when I was on NBC local in San Francisco. To them, that’s where I worked—inside that box. Seeing a Filipino American on TV in 1980 was akin to witnessing an astronomical event. Sort of like the recent Blue Moon.

When my relatives, all hardworking immigrants from the Philippines who came to the U.S. between 1928 and 1975, saw me, they were all amazed.

“So, Emil, you just get on the camera, and you talk?” my Auntie Pacing would ask me. She worked in service jobs in hotels, restaurants, and hospitals all her life.

“And you don’t have to clean up or anything? You just talk? That’s work?”

It was a foreign notion to her that Filipinos who came to Amer-

postnewsgroup.com Freeman and Moss were acica mostly to work in the fields in the 1920s and 1930s for 10 cents cused by Rudy Giuliani of nefarian hour could wear a suit, speak, ous deeds aiding in the theft of an and afford to pay the rent. election against Trump.

I think on Labor Day about The false accusations wrecked how lucky I am to have done what Freeman’s life.

I’ve done as a journalist. Some“I’ve lost my name, and I’ve thing that my relatives a genera- lost my reputation,” Freeman testition away weren’t able to pursue. fied. “I’ve lost my sense of secuI call this iteration, “A Phool’s rity. All because a group of people, History of Filipino America,” bestarting with No. 45, and his ally, cause “phool” is how they spelled it at the Lampoon when I compet- Rudy Giuliani, decided to scapeed to be a member freshman year goat me and my daughter, Shaye.”

Giuliani is one of 18 co-conat Harvard. I had to explain why it wasn’t spelled, “Philippino.” And spirators in the organized rackethen they made me carry a pine- teering case in Georgia accused of attempting to subvert democracy. apple around Harvard Yard.

In a separate case, Freeman A Latina friend paid me a compliment saying my show was has sued Giuliani for defamation, akin to John Leguizamo’s “Latin calling him out for spreading lies American History for Morons.” about her and her daughter.

Flattered by the comparison, you Last week, Giuliani conceded don’t have to be a moron to see my the facts of the case, which means show! Check it out for yourself. the court will only consider the Two performances only, Sept. damages at the next hearing.

6 @7 p.m., and Sept. 14 @9:30 And right now, Michael Gotp.m. (all times ET). https://www. tlieb, the lawyer for Freeman and frigid.nyc/event/6897:499/ Moss, told CNN the damages This one you can livestream could be “tens of millions of dolfrom Hawaii, Europe, Rockridge. lars.”

Anywhere. It’s better in person, “You heard me correctly,” said where we can exchange our huGottlieb to a CNN anchor. “It is manness. But get a livestreamed our expectation that we’ll be able ticket if you can’t be in New York’s to prove tens of millions of dollars Under St. Marks Theater in the in compensatory damages before East Village (94 St. Marks Place, you get punitive damages in a case NYC) that we will present to the jury.”

One Last Labor Worth When people like Giuliani deConsidering So, there’s what we do for fame and lie about election workmoney and for love. What do we ers in a brazen attempt to steal an do for democracy? election, there must be a stiff price And so, we must not forget the to pay. nitty-gritty work done by election When you find yourself ever workers everywhere. The unsung confused by all the legal proceedheroes. They don’t get paid all ings over the Trump indictments, that much. But they do important just remember Freeman and Moss work. How do voters get informaand what they endured to protect tion? Translated materials? How our democracy. do ballots get distributed, sorted, No one should doubt the heart then counted? of patriotism in our community.

If you ever doubted the value of NOTE: I will talk about this election workers, just look at Ruby Freeman and her daughter Shaye column and other matters on Moss. You met them during their “Emil Amok’s Takeout,” my AAPI testimony at the Jan. 6 Committee micro-talk show. Live @2p Pacific.

Livestream on Facebook; my Youhearings in Washington last year.

They were stand-ins for aver- Tube channel; and Twitter. Catch age Americans like you and me. 12” the recordings on www.amok.com.

11.5”

Photo: iStock photo

Victim Advocates, Business Owners, Law Enforcement and Republican Officials Rally Against Crime

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Edward Henderson California Black Media

(R-Yuba City).

On Aug. 31, Republican lawmakers, businessowners, crime victim advocates and law enforcement officials held a rally at the State Capitol demanding an end to policies, in their view, that have made communities around the state less safe.

The rally took place one day ahead of the Appropriations Committee suspense hearing where the fate of several bills the Republican Caucus prioritized was determined for this session.

California Black Media (CBM) will follow up with more coverage on bills that advanced this session and others that have been put on hold.

“Enough is enough – the Legislature needs to stop excusing and enabling the crime wave that’s turning people around the state into victims,” said Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher

double down on the pro-criminal

“Members of the Appropria-

tions Committee have a choice: policies that got us into this mess or protect law-abiding Califor-

nians. I hope they make the right decision.”

Speakers, including traffick-

ing survivor Dominique Brown, of Breaking the Chains, called on the

committee to advance Senate Bill (SB) 14, which would make human trafficking of a minor a serious felony.

“SB 14 is a critical step to pro-

tect children and young adults from the horrors of human traffick-

ing,” said Brown. “I hope the passage of SB 14 will make a lasting

statement that God’s children are not for sale.”

Attendees also rallied to stop

other public safety and crime-andpunishment related bills, including SB 553, SB 94, SB 81, and ACA 4.

Pay your unpaid tolls to keep your baby on the road.

Whether your car is your style statement or your passport to all the places you want to go, if you want to keep your wheels on the road, you need to pay your unpaid tolls.

Vehicles with overdue, unpaid tolls may not be able to renew their vehicle registration until

File Name: FAS-2404 Oakland Post NP 12x10.5 EN Eyelashes-MR2 Created: 03/11/23

all outstanding balances are paid. Payment assistance is available if you need it, so act now to avoid a hold on your vehicle registration.

Visit BayAreaFasTrak.org/assistance or call 877-BAY-TOLL (877-229-8655) today to keep rolling.

Colors: CMYK Live area: 11.5 x 10”

Release File Color: CMYK

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THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 3

postnewsgroup.com THE POST, March Aug. 10-16, 2022, Page 66 THE POST, 16-22,, 2022, Page THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 4

THE POST, March 25-31,, 2020, Page 5 postnewsgroup.com postnewsgroup.com

Representatives Lee,Month: García Introduce BillGroup Prohibiting Rental The Monkeypox Health Crisis: How California Is Responding Women’s History California Honors Leaders, Discusses Priorities Ragtime Royalty: Evictions During COVID-19 Public Health Emergency The Musical Journey Latter-day Saints AC President Russell NelsonAwarded Speaks at NAACP’s Convention in Detroit A SafeM.Place $180,000 Grant from Broadway Hustlers, Mob’s PILGRIM CHURCH HAYWARD of Scott Joplin The Blue Shield of California Foundation

postnewsgroup.com

banjo and encouraged his musical plin aimed to elevate the status of pursuits. He showed remarkable ragtime by publishing “The School the county’s response is that Among Black Californians,

By Tanu Henry, THE POST, Aug. 26-Sept.

1, 2015, Page 55 government also declared talent at a young age, and his appostnewsgroup.com POST, 2019, Page www.postnewsgroup.com

By Charlene Muhammad, to July Black24-30, women in California of Ragtime,” an instructional man- “fireside chat” to take THE a broadretired California Assemblythere have been 129 cases re- we did not have enough cases California Black Media monkeypox a national public California Black Media member and a commissioner titude for the piano soon became ual that provided aspiring musi- er look at aging and elder care and today the topic is ‘Black ported so far, accounting for at that time. I want them to health emergency.

Courtesy of Women Aging With Dignity the Black community. on the California Commission evident. Despite facing financial cians causes unless the tenant guide per- in with a comprehensive about 11% of all confirmed know that that response will As the monkeypox virus “We are prepared to take Rep. Lee’s Office History on Aging said 23% of Black and Respect.’”

To mark Women’s Whether they were expetrates a serious criminal act outbreak spreads around the our response to the next level challenges, Joplin’s passion for to playing and understanding rag- cases in the state. African not work this time. There is During their remarks, Month, The California Black women live in poverty, which pressing the justice joys offorcaring equality and all,” that would endanger the health, In too December 2016,panelthe never few of cases.” upEllis, about globe, Gov. Gavin Newsom addressing this virus and music led him to teach himself the time music. This book not only AmericansDr.make Larry Senior Pastor Representatives Barbara Lee isin the ists outlined resources Black Women’s Collective (CBWC) for loved one orW.exposing second-highest percentsaida NAACP President and Church gave an indexed datalife, and safety of other tenants.

At the state level, the CDPH 6.5% of the state’s total popusays California will need to we urge every American to (CA-13), Jesústhan “Chuy” the technical aspects the women need to make sure that honored more 100 García Black age in the U.S. — only behind intricacies of musical composition emphasized range of We challenges Black CEO Derrick Johnson.

“We base of the historic Freedmen’s · Self-terminate six months Invite You to Join Our Family! hasChurch begun to disaggregate the lation. galvanize across core- take monkeypox seriously,” and notation.

(IL-04),leaders andforces 39from additional must recognize and accept their needs are met while elwomen across the Native American women. women face as they age, the Bureau Records to the Smithafter FEMA terminates the of playing but also the importance Worship Christian Life5, Class BibleitStudy Monkeypox data is collectAs of Aug. CDPH reports gions and relax some state said U.S. Health and Human The Broadway Hustlers and sponsors the Rental His breakthrough came in the importance of creating amity sonian National Museum evating some concerning stastate fromintroduced different professionpanelists shared useful insights Brown pointed out that Gov. Sunday 10am Sunday 9am 6:15pm of emergency declared byintegthe that there of preserving the art form’s ing by race, Tuesday city, hospitalizahave been 1,310 conregulations and statutes to Services Secretary and former AC Mob will be holding their Eviction Moratorium Act on with those that are raising the African American History of A Safe Place since 1984, delivery of subjective counselSafe Place will launch a tistics. al backgrounds, including methat could shape public health Gavin Newsom set aside $2 lateA 1890s with the composition President. localgender, and state level.

Asand a tions, age and D.C. sexual firmed cases ofofmonkeypox in the Temporary Worship Location: Mission Paradise Hall combat aMarch disease that poses 5th Annual Family Reunion on California Attorney General two-year faith and domestic ing rity.and guidance. consciousness this nation — Monday, 23, to prohibit Culture in Washington, designed and implemented “Blackadvocate women for in California dia executives, public health billion for the Master Plan on of the “Maple Leaf Rag,” a ragpolicy or improve ways Afri- longtime Congresswoman Lee is the battered 31113 Mission Hayward, CA 94544 Saturday, Sept.

19, 2 p.m. tillau6 orientation. the Church state with the most conPhoto: iStock photo alandlords threat greater than local Xavier Becerra.

However, Joplin’s journey the is committed to dofromactivists, evicting rental The database contains geneservices and Boulevard, preThe project part-& intervention project, “Speaking of have many barriers in their evprofessionals, politican American caregivers at- women Aging, a 10-year project, but violence their children, she Co-Chair of will the foster Steering time piece that would become his p.m., at deFremery Park, 18th Theatand age group with the firmed cases being reported in thorities may be able to reCDPH Director and State To learn more about Pilgrim, visit our website www.pilgrimbcsm.org ing just that.” alogical information of freed vention activities for victims nerships between domestic Faith,” thanks to an $180,000 tenants during the COVID-19 was not Committee, without challenges.

He tend to the needs of aging fam- most eryday life.

As we get older, the cians and more. she questioned, how would the recently employed proPolicy a senior at Adeline in Oakland, called signature work.

Released in 1899, highest number of reported Los Angeles (431) followed spond to effectively.

Public Health Officer Dr. In addition to its joint pur- grams African Americans after the Among Black thereviolence have been 129Appropriations cases report- ofilydomestic violence. programs and from The Californians, Blue Shield of public organization health emergency.

The people the money is intend- grant issues don’t change. The issues also held and services for male member of the faced racial prejudice and faith finan- by members.

“AThe Day of NoisViolence/All monkeypox cases (482) are 25 San Francisco (398) and “California working urTomás J. Aragón says he the “Maple Leaf Rag” gained imsuits with the NAACP, the Civil War. These programs include the leaders.

California Foundation. ed so far, accounting for about 11% of all confirmed cases in the bill will ofbepanel part of the third ed to help access the money. violence. aLives series discussions just getof domestic more complicated,” “This is our third event as victims Committee, former Chair of Matter.” cial struggles throughout his life.

34 year-olds, who make up Alamedaseeks County There to “Only gently acrossstimulus all levelspackage of gov- welcomes the federal health Top Delane Sims, Cheryl A Brown; L-Ralso ShavonChurch to (83). strengthen theinformation comprehension Program, Safe Bottom Place will join Emergency In L-R: partnership with Instipopularity and the is Hon. considstate.

CBM image.

COVID-19 For Regina more aboutof Brown Wilson, leading to the celebration part of theShelter California Black said said currently there are mense theIvie.

Congressional Black CauThe up Broadway Hustlersof Brown about 36.8% of all confirmed have been 7,509 confirmed ernment to slow the spread emergency because it opens da Webber-Christmas, Sylvia Drew African American individuals Despite his immense talent and the true fatherhood of God can Teen Dating Violence Preventhe Blue Shield Against Viotute on Domestic Violence in introduced the House of not effective systems in place ered one of the most significant cus, Chair Emeritus of the Pro- Women Empowerment se- the Blue Shield Projectandand moderator of the event exand highlighted several policy were knownby for its GQ style, tecovirimat (Tpoxx) used to infections in California. be extremely painful in some cases in the United States and monkeypox, leveraging our up channels for California to and families through genealbring full appreciation of the tion Program, and community lence (BSAV) Foundation’s the African American Commucontributions, he struggled to seBarbara Lee other events, contact Carolyn Representatives, the Take ReJesús “Chuy” García ecutive director of California priorities, including aging and ries,” said Yvonne Wheeler, a to inform people about getting “That’s why it’s critical to funnel down through the Calicompositions in the history of gressive Caucus, Co-Chair of ogy. and business leadership in treat monkeypox is limited, “We’ll continue to work cases as well.

28,220 around the world. robust testing, contact tracget more access to resources true brotherhood of men and education and outreach proCulturally Responsive Domesnity (IDVAAC), the “Speakat (510) 986-8600 x sponsibility for They Workers cure consistentonfinancial success elder care.

Black Media. member of the strategy team Russell help they need. involved those levels,” fornia Department of Aging get theViolence Pro-Choice Caucus, and be a gram. gang activities. wereand a the ragtime.

This piece only The Church African 315. but the treatment can which now withtrue thesisterhood federalthey government “Over 99% ofnot people who tic Shortly after helps theand governor ing and community partnerto slow the spread of the dis- ing the of can women,” Network, of Faith” project will showraise By Joe W. Bowers Jr. dents about dowe if Families Act. “Before what COVID-19, The gang Hon. of Cheryl Brown, a Rep. of the CBWC. Thetheir eventroots was TheChuy funds, she“Last said,week willI down Brown emphasized. to county agencies.

García. street moreduring than 75 riumthis Act Would: Senior Democratic Whip.

She from his music.

Yet, he remained cased Joplin’s mastery of syncoAmericans trace Nelson said during a 2018 administered at more than 30 to secure more vaccines, raise get form of the disease are Through A Safe Place, Rusdeclared a State of Emerlinks 17 statewide domestic ships strengthened the awareness and educate the ease.

Edward Henderson Rep. Barbara Lee said, “As a natural disaster. fiwere with already experiencing organized in as partnership with faced Ahead of Women’s History men and women that roamed authored a letter that 77 Mem- faith-based · rhythms Prohibit landlords from also serves Chair of the Maas far also back possible. committed toas his craft, continuing diversity and has governed domesagencies across the sell but alsoHowever, marked a violence on best facilities and providers across awareness of about reducing likely to community survive. gency, Shane Harris of The the celebration pandemic to ensure that those “We hope today’s action in- pated more workers California Black Organized Media nancial hardship, poor health Black Women for Broadway fromare 2ndlosing Streettheir to Month, a group of influenbers of Congress signed, callevicting rental tenants due jority Leader’s Task Force on As the state gets drier, hotChurch donated $2 million in oneness in the church.

“That tic violence programs on both state. practices and models to apply the state,” a press release isrisk, and stand with the LGpeople with weakened imPeoples Association of Justice most risk aretheir our focuslimfor jects additional federal fund- turning point in the recognition of to compose and perform. jobsMacArthur orat having W Blvd.hours in Oakoutcomes, and when the panPolitical Action (BWOPA).

California Blacktowomen ing on mortgage lenders to stop when to failure to paywith rentfamilies or other tial Poverty and Opportunity.

February toa San the International understanding inspires us ATragically, Safe Place seeks break working The Federal Emergency Man- ter andcommunity wetter – and as more and sued by Newsom’s office BTQ fighting stigmune systems, children Activists, Diego-based vaccines, treatment and outand into our ragtime as a legitimate genre.under brought Rev.resources Ron Linzie Joplin’s life was cut ited, in families putand at risk land the lateare 70’s earlyof ing “Our goal is to talk about their perspectives toforeclosures during this public African American Museum with passionate desire to build the cycle of domestic and famexperiencing violence in the Continued on page states. matization,” Newsom added. of age, people with advocacy group,(FEMA) called has on more agement Agency’s reach,” said Aug. response efforts. 8 years residents experience ex-8 missing the rentgovernor or forgoing food on collective 80’s.

Brother Joplin’s compositions werea ily short bylast illness.

He passed away the issueswhich that are important gether month in a virtual health crisis.

But nearly a third (IAAM), is set to open bridges of cooperation instead violence by providing bathome.

T o place a Legal Ad As of Aug. 2, the state had designated Aragón echoed the goverSan DiegoSeptember County officials 1theThe astable. he declared a state The state remains focused on history of eczema, and people as Emer-to treme ACWe Mob a people gangof (510) can’twas allow weather conditions every Dr. characterized bynearly their T intricate of U.S.541-9650 residents or areRev. renters -- lion 2021 demographic on the formerdata Gadson April 1, 1917, the age of 49. in of walls of segregation.” women andat their children Domestic violence isbreastthe tered By Sean Ryan jobs and doubled contact onya Peacock: distributed nearly 1,713 treatnor’s statement. who are pregnant or release on emergency in California. slowing the spread of the virus gency Preparedness Month as part that thestreets AC Transit Lowery at (510) 766to berode on the in thebuses. middle Jasper in the communities I represent leading den’s Wharfcases in there.

Charleston, year“Our – officials the informamelodies and fusion oflikely Afrisafe shelter and cause injury to While he didn’t witness the full Phone: (510) 272-4747 growth—and without it, with ment courses and resourc168 IV of team say is also commitfeeding maythebeof more monkeypox California Department in impacted communities, ad- GDP They were also friends and as- 5404 or Michelle Murray aka of The a public health crisis – that’s its public awareness campaign South Carolina. in Chicago the ratio is much es, and to prevent violence women between the ages of can rhythms with European musiBrother tion is lifesaving, and preparation Fax: (510) 743-4178 Congresswoman Barbara we would have neared a doubledoses of tecovirimat to health ted to reducing stigma among to get seriously ill or die,” the “The governor has declared of Public Health (CDPH) has ministering the limited numextent of his influence, his legacy Presents sociates with with the Rep. Broadway at (510) 472-5255. why I worked Garcia “Niecey” on disaster preparedness. higher. Working-class people, 15-44. through outreach and locations educaMore than one million Email: tonya_peaLee, Chair of the House Approdigit recession.

Compared to cal forms.

His music was a blend centers in various CDC reports. a state of emergency as of last begun to collect and report ber of vaccine doses we have, for emergencies is a lot simpler Hustlers.

Former AC Mob For thoseBaptist who wish to suffer con- San lived on. His compositions and Amos Brown (left), pastor of Third Church, Francisco and witness president the NAACP, San Francisco toRev. introduce the Rental Evicimmigrants, and renters children each year the oftion.

Lastand week, the Governor’s Ofcock@dailyjournal.com priations Subcommittee on State previous economic recoveries, Continued on page 8 across the state.

According to the governight constituents deserve racial and other demographic and raising awareness about of catchy, syncopated rhythms members hold top social sertribute food or funds to support President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Russell M. Nelson at the 110th annual branch greets think. tion Moratorium Act. This im- disproportionately from eco- brutal victimization of a par- their impact on the of mu- fice of Emergency of Emergency than most people Since 1976, A world Safe Place Brother All other classifieds conand Foreign Operations, issued this past year’s has also been far Scott Joplin.

Wikimedia photo.

So far, CDPH has received nor’s office,complexity, CDPH has taken People to knowHenry the truth about vidata, tracking howensures the disease prevention measures acvice positions today. efforts ofAssociation their streetand minisnational convention ofthat the the National theent Advancement of Colored (NAACP) Sunday and melodic appealportant legislation Brandon George White inthis 1900. offered atoBy 24-hour crisisin Services attact the hands ofterms an intimate nomic recessions like theforone For more information on getsic continued resonate through the POST: Phone (CalOES) released a the following statement on groups March more equitable in ofexpand prog- has a little over 109,000 mona number of steps to rus in our region,” said Harris is impacting various cess to treatment,” Aragón The Family Reunion will tries, send donations to Urojas Detroit.

Photo courtesy of The Salt Lake Tribune. renters in the Bay Area and the inthis Patterson White, who represented North Caring to a wide range of audiences. line, emergency 20-bed shelpartner.

Jesus isPresents the Way By Tamara Shiloh Texarkana, Texas, Joplin’s life country will likely be fac- ress (510) 287-8200 Fax the years, vaccines influencing later 11, marking one food, year since the Community against child poverty, of at online toolkits (in 12 ting prepared visit Listos Califorkeypox — ofgenerawhich number to vaccinations andfood the ter, feature music, spoken speaking aHouse’s press conference. across the state. said, before Services’ adding that Cali- access corponation cannot be evicted from olina, was the only Black a children’s program, comThe faith environment can Alongside the “Maple Leaf Rag,” ing, andtook they1271 need the journey him from afinancial humble Thea president of thestate Church (510) 287-8247 for each We don’t even They customized the Sunday.

“May have we gobeen forward American Rescue Plan Act of Grace Church of Richmond has several insecurity, and unemployment word, kid zone and 51,000 doses dis- languages) state has have launched a public in- munity “My office led this state argument office, Washington The Governor’s of rate fornia is other. “well-positioned” to be tions of musicians. inform resi- nia.

Scott Joplin, a pioneering figure their homes during the guest COVTheto exemplify Senate counseling, support acompositions safe and natural place to lawmaker attothe time.

Democrat rooms for rent, including it’s church. Sanctusecurity this bill would provide, Presents of Jesus Christ of Latter-day his like “The Enterhave to agree with each other beginning to becoming a celebratChurch’s self-reliance services doing our best Email: 2021 was signed into law: speakers. for low-income communities and Ave., Suite 452, San Leandro, tributed to local health departformation campaign, mostly during COVID that we needed emergency follows similar actackle the outbreak. community education address family violence andtore-be groups, ID-19 pandemic.

We must enpassed a bi-par- Sen. Cory Booker and Republican ary rents negotiable. Call for more informain American music,M. is best known Saints Russell Nelson reimmediately.” to love each other.

If we have materials and programs the two great commandments tainer” and Syncopations” For taken information, call Rev. CA ed composer pianist. of color.

94577. andmonkeypox ments acrossas the state. relying on “Elite webinars and town and more demographic data, and tion at (510) 499-2838. tions in Sanhas Francisco, Although is communities ads@postnewsgroup.com outreach, well as a crimiTeen issues, including children sure everyone accessfor tisan minded those assembled The Rental Moratoany hope ofEviction reclaiming the lated most effective for the initiafor histhat significant contributions toto not — to love God andbill love each Senator Tim Scott, both of whom Ron Linzie “aka” Poison at One year ago today, President With that said, we still have a further solidified his reputation as hall meetings to get informaJoplin’s early exposure to muNew York City, and Illinois. considered deadly, the Prevention exposed to violence in Violence quality housing nonational matter contheir goodwill and sense of human- that nalizing lynching at Program. the federal are Black, introduced the legislathe 110th annual Jesus is the Way tive.are of His children.

Biden signed the American Res- sic long way toAs go on all of there these isthe development of ragtime.

Born tion about monkeypox out to On July 23, the World Health disease can be fatal for some a leading figure in ragtime music. came from his family, particuCarolyn Russell, whothehas the home. a result, is financial situation.” level thisinweek, sending bill tion together this time around. vention of the National Asso- ity for which we yearn, it must The two organizations also Arm arm and shoulder to cue Plan (ARP) into lawand followToo many still lack access to served as executive director people across the state.

Organization declared categories of people, accordCongresswoman Jesus Rush, is thewho Wayrepgreat need strengthen the Beyond histocompositions, Johis mother, played the asues. sometime between 1867 1868 “No one should lose montheir larly to President Biden’s desktoafter “Although no legislation will Rep. Bobby ciation for the Advancement begin with eachwho of us, one percame together on Temple shoulder, may we strive lift

5th Annual Family Reunion

Will Launch Faith and Domestic Violence Project

September is National Emergency Send your church notes,Month stories and Preparedness

Chairwoman Barbara Lee Notes Anniversary of American Rescue Plan

events to Post News Group, Email at ads@postnewsgroup.com ALLEN

Congress Passes Anti-LynchingJackson Bill After 200 Failed Attempts Over 100+ALLEN Years Jackson

ALLEN Rooms for Rent Jackson

Send your church notes, stories and events to Post News Group, Email at info@postnewsgroup.com

ing passage

by Congress, cata- ing to Barbara health care to live a “CDPH isthey alsoneed expanding keypox a “public emerpublic health Lee authori- the home during thehealth COVID-19 House approved bill of Colored People (NAACP) son at a time.

Square last May to all the our brothers and sistersthe everypulting a historic recovery that fulfilling life.options.

MillionsAccess of call Ameritreatment to gency.”

Symptoms of months, the disease Sunday inwhich Detroit that Idifferpandemic is why intro- ties.

January.

The way Emmett Till Over the past 18 the people, organizations and Oakland, gov- in New Hope Baptist Church, CA where, in every we can. has led need to one ofundermine the are struggling to put food on the last of 2021. the antiviral prescription drug On Aug. the strongest federal — lesions andhalf blisters — For can cans ences not4, so- during duced the Rental Eviction MorAnti-Lynching Act, named for First (the executive ernments to work together towho This never be the NewPresidency Hope Baptist Church of Oakland, CAamid seeks a Senior Pastor will world provide Spirit-directed, periods of economic growth in a 10619 McArthur Blvd., Oakland, CA will 510 689-9544 the table rising costs, from thousands of families in our comciety’s shared atorium Act, to humanity. prohibit evicting administration of the church) achieve greater civility and ra- the 14-year-old Chicago boy same.” visionary leadership forthe ourdifchurch; and possesses excellent in thebyareas of preaching, century. housing toskills the this money meant “Weduring are allthis connected, and munity, “Acrisis church driven Christ has made its partnership with the cialongoing harmony. renters crisis. Famiwhose brutal MisEarlier this murder year, thein Church Many Americans had been recent spike in gas prices to the ference between having childcare should havecatalyze five plus teaching, counseling and congregational leadership development.

Candidates we are have a God-given responLast July,focused Elder Jack N. Gehonored the NAACP’s comlies hurting -- they are wor- the NAACP a high priority. sissippi in 1955 helped the onchildcare. the kingdom” left to fend for themselves during ever-growing costtheof or not, having healthy food on the years Pastoral experience (preferably Senior Pastor), be licensed and ordained by a recognized sibility to help make life better The groups have met severrard spoke at NAACP’s mitment to advance equality ried about their jobs, health, and Civil Rights Movement, allows a one the worst publicus,” health and table theM racial andfrom genor not, having secure place forofthose around NE EaW PeducaROand GAnd R A S convention Ordination Committee have apervasive Bachelor Degree accredited Bible College times to pursue joint 109th annual inan crime and justice in society. childcare and deserve thePresicer- alLicense to be prosecuted as a lyncheconomic crisesM. in Nelson history. The der inequities laid bare by COto live or not.

Sunday school 9 :00 am dent Russell said tion efforts in Chicago and San San Antonio, Texas.

“I’m honored The including seminary.

Email a cover biography, resume and ministerial license(s) toto have tainty that they won’t be kicked ing if a victim is killed or injured Our Specialty is: "Noletter, Income ARP expanded access to vaccines VID are deeper than ever.

Through my Covid Commuduring a nine-minute evening Francisco and employment “I pray that we may inChurch of Jesus Christ of LatWorship 10:00 am Qualification Programs" for to the curb and left homeless if nhbcpastoralsearch@gmail.com onSunday or before April 2, 2020. For additional information see a as the result of a hateplease crime with and testing; provided economic IUnits, urge Americans lookdear at ter-day Saints stand in unity Care Act,Non weHouston delivered speech. don’t be nity initiatives and each to other -also Owner SFR's, 2-creasingly 4Family 5+call“pastor”. they can’t“We make theirhave rent,”tosaid sentence of up to 30 years in prison. our websitein nhbcoakland.org under the heading No phone calls pm please.

Bible Study Wednesday 7:00 relief keptalike millions outlove of vital alikethat or look to have what the American Plan with the NAACP to advance funding to support commu- Buildings, Charlotte. friends,” Nelson Rescue concluded Unit Apartment The Senate passed the bill unaniSenior Pastor Prayer Service Thursday poverty; prevented a catastrophic nity-based effortsMixed did in just a single year as a tes- 6:00pm and to hireUse and and mo- Commercial mously, though three Republican Phyllis Scott L.C.Sunday Fuller Jr. wave of evictions and foreclo- bilize community outreach work- tament to the transformative im- 8:30 am members of the House — from • 0 DOWN VA/USDA/FHA Broker sures; helped small businesses ers, community health workers, pact governmentOwner/ can have when Georgia, Kentucky, and Texas — 580 FICOMcArthur PROGRAMS DREPresiBlvd., Oakland, CA 510 689-9544 and•10619 schools stay afloat; and made I thank social support specialists, and it prioritizes people.CA voted against it. #01Democratic 201700 • JUMBO LOANS TOin $5the critical investments expan-driven others increase vaccine access dent Biden and my “AMILLION church bytoChrist The bill’s passage by Congress NMLS#358884 sion• Bank of health careLoans/P&L coverageStatement and for for their the hardest-hit and highest- colleagues in Congress Statement Loans marks the end of hundreds of failed focused on the kingdom” reducing costs for millions. risk communities through high- steadfast leadership and look attempts to pass anti-lynching leg• PRIOR BK or SHORT SALE Loans In my district in California’s forward to continuing to work totouch, on-the-ground 24-7 outreach toMortgage • Borrowers with LOW or NO FICO’s islation over more than a century.

1556 Fitzgerald Drive #271 East Bay, the ARP has been transgether to deliver for the American educate and assist individuals in Sunday school 9 :00 am • Borrowers w/Work Permits, Non- Resident Congress failed to pass such legisformative, especially its expan- getting people.”

Alien OKWorship CA 94564 Sunday 10:00 the aminformation they need Pinole, lation more than 200 times over the sion• of the Child TaxDEVELOPMENT’s Credit. Fam- about vaccinations.

Sean Ryan is a member of Financing in NEW 510-757-3659 Mobile Bible Study Wednesday Looking 7:00 pm back on its impact, Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s last 122 years, according to USA ilies•Family in myTIME district alone received FIRST BUYERS SPECIALIST 510-200-9714 Office - 877-247-7009 Efax Today.

A Next Level for Church Seniorshowing Pastor Prayerindividual Service Thursday 6:00pm 74,000 payments media relations office. we Ministering nowand have analyses The first piece of anti-lynching • PRIVATE and HARD MONEY…10 Day Closings www.24-7mtgloans.com Phyllis Scott the Spirit of Excellence a total of close to in $160 million that Sunday 8:30the amARP resulted in 4 millegislation was introduced by Rep. Rev. J. L. Porter, Senior Pastor/Teacher

Tree of Life Empowerment Ministries

“YOUR LENDER OF CHOICE”

reverse the pain and fear felt by those victims, their loved ones, and Black communities, this legislation is a necessary step America must take to heal from the racialized violence that has permeated its history,” Booker said in a statement on March 7.

Rep. Bobby Rush, who represents part of Chicago, where Till lived before he was

resents the Chicago district where Emmett Till lived, and Los Angeles Rep. Karen Bass with a photo of Emmett Till speaking before the House passed the bill last month.

Photo courtesy of Rush press office.

To read the full story, go to postnewsgroup.com

Tree of Life Empowerment Ministries

Destiny Christian Fellowship

Destiny Christian Fellowship 3601 Cutting Blvd,

A Next Level Church Ministering Richmond, 94804 in the Spirit ofCA Excellence Rev. J. L. Porter, 510-680-5031 Senior Pastor/Teacher Sunday 10:00 am………Sunday School

Sunday 11:00 am………Morning Worship 3601 Cutting Blvd, Wednesday 6:30pm……Intercessory Prayer Richmond, CA 94804 Wednesday 7:00 pm …..Wednesday Worship Experience 510-680-5031 Wednesday 7:30 pm…...Choir Rehearsal Sunday 10:00 am………Sunday School Sunday 11:00 am………Morning Worship Wednesday 6:30pm……Intercessory Prayer Wednesday 7:00 pm …..Wednesday Worship Experience

2100-5th Ave., Oakland, CA 94606 510-452-2578

Send your church notes, stories and events to Post News Group, Email at ads@postnewsgroup.com Reverend Joe L. Smith, Pastor

Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church

BibleWay Missionary Baptist Church

5717 Foothill Blvd, Oakland, CA 94605 510-569-7814 * 510-568-4408 fax A church that prays together, stays together.

1077 13th St., Richmond, CA 94801

Sunday School…………….…………9:30 AM Worship Service….…………….….11:00 AM Monday Bible Study………….…...5:30PM Wednesday Bible Study…………11:30AM

events to Post News Group, Email at info@ ads@ postnewsgroup.com Continued on on page Continued page88

CHURCH OF ALL FAITHS

Wednesday 7:30 pm…...Choir Rehearsal

Nathan P. Whittom Sr., Pastor

Send your church notes, stories and events to Post News Group, Email at Send your church ads@postnewsgroup.com notes, stories and

“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so....” Psalm 107:2.

Rev. Dr Jeffrey M. Parker First Lady Princess W.Parker

Weekly Services

Order of services Sunday school 9:30 Sunday Celebration of Praise 10:30 Wednesday Night Pastoral Teaching 7 p.m -8:30 p.m.

Free Food Giveaway Every Saturday 12 noon-4 pm

Sunday: Early Morning Worship ......................8:00 a.m.

Sunday School .....................................................9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship ................................ 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday: Bible Study .....................................7:00 p.m.

Saturday: Prayer Hour..................................... 11:00 a.m.

SEVENTH AVENUE MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 1 7 4 0 7 th A V E N U E OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA 94606 510-834-4273

Rev. Jeffrey Kirton, Pastor Mrs. Jamar Kirton, First Lady

Rev. C. T. Johnson, Pastor Emeritus 43 YEARS OF SERVICES

"

"

"

EMAIL:seventhavenuebapchurch.com …

ON THE WEB www.seventhavenuebaptistchurch.com SUNDAY SERVICES BTU AND SUNDAY SCHOOL------------------------------------------9:15 MORNING WORSHIP SERVICES----------------------------------10:45

" "

WEDNESDAY SERVICES NOON DAY PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY----------------12:00 – 1:00 P.M. BIBLE STUDY------------------------------------------------------6:30 Church Motto: “There Is Joy In Serving The Lord”

postnewsgroup.com

THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 5

Public Notices, Classifieds & Business To place a Legal Ad contact Tonya Peacock: Phone: (510) 272-4755 Fax: (510) 743-4178 Email: tonya_peacock@dailyjournal.com All other classifieds contact the POST: Phone (510) 287-8200 Fax (510) 287-8247 Email: ads@postnewsgroup.com

THE POST PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY 360 14th Street, Suite B05, Oakland, CA 94612 TEL: (510) 287-8200 FAX:: (510) 287-8247 info@postnewsgroup.com www.postnewsgroup.net

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Photographers: Zack Haber, Amir Sonjhai, Auintard Henderson Contributors: Zack Haber, Tanya Dennis, Kiki, Godfrey News Service, Robert Arnold

Distribution: A and S Delivery Service abradleyms72@gmail.com (415) 559-2623 Godfrey News Service eelyerfdog@juno.com (510) 610-5651

This newspaper was incorporated on June 8, 1963. It is published by The GOODNEWS Is..., LLC, 405 14th Street, Suite 1215, Oakland, CA 94612.

The contents of the POST Newspapers are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without the advance written consent of the publisher.

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THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 6

Oakland’s Black-Eyed Pea Virtual Murrell, Black Panther Party Member, to Speak at Festival Brings Out Black Merritt College on Sept. 16 History in Music, Food The activist and author is part of the and Art Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris lecture series

Bluesman Alvon Johnson will be featured at the 8th Annual BlackEyed Pea Festival on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, at Oakland Technical High School’s Front Lawn, 4351 Broadway, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. This is a FREE community event for all ages.

Photo courtesy Alvon Johnson.

Special to The Post

California Senate Sees Leadership Shifts on Both Sides of the Aisle

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Edward Henderson California Black Media

Both Democrats and Republicans in the California Senate announced changes in their leadership last week.

Senate Pro Tem Toni Atkins, who made history as the first woman and first LGBTQ+ Californian to hold the Senate’s top job, announced on Aug. 28 that the Democratic Caucus had convened and chosen Sen. Mark McGuire (DHealdsburg) as the Senate Pro Tem designee.

Atkins, who is termed out and must leave the Senate at the end of next year, will step down from her post in January 2024.

“I am confident that this will be a seamless transition, and that Senator McGuire will continue to guide the Senate and California down a path of success.

“Senator McGuire has been a key member of my leadership team,

a trusted confidant, and time after time, the convener who sets the table to get things done,” she said.

“The Senate and the people of California will be in good hands with Senator McGuire as their future leader of the Senate.”

The same day, Senate Republican leader Sen. Brian Jones (RSantee) announced that Sen. Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) will replace Sen. Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach) as Senate Republican Caucus chair.

Nguyen is the first Vietnamese American state legislator in the United States. She is stepping down to run for a seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

“I look forward to working with him on our priorities to fix California. As a retired firefighter, Kelly is a fearless advocate for protecting the public and tackling fentanyl in our communities,” said Jones at a Capitol press briefing.

If eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day is supposed to bring good luck, then Oakland will be having a tremendous lucky day on Sept. 30, 2023, when it will host the 8th annual Oakland Black-Eyed Pea Festival.

Appealing to all ages, the free festival at Oakland Technical High School will feature African American traditional music from several genres including blues, gospel, New Orleans-style second-line and more. Our full line-up includes headliner Alvon Johnson (Blues); MJ’s Brass Boppers (Second-Line); the John Santos Quartet and Dimensions Dance Theatre.

Especially for kids The BEPF is providing dedicated fun for children.

From 12:30-2 p.m., the festival has entertainment for children by vocalist Rhonda Benin and Friends ‘What Is a Band?” and members of the Prescott Circus including stilt walkers. AseArts, led by Nichole Talbot, will provide arts and crafts for toddlers up to early teens, using black-eyed peas as well as drawing and painting. Musician/vocalist Benjamin Mertz will preside over a touchand-play area where children can experiment with musical instruments. All will be available until 5 p.m.

Hand-made items for sale by people of African descent will include among others jewelry by Corinthia Peoples and paintings,

8TH ANNUAL MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA TO BENEFIT SCAN ME

mugs and prints by the festival’s poster designer Karin Turner.

Black-eyed peas are on the menu, by local chefs: Carolyn Creole Kitchen and Arnette Cheri’s Catering, and desserts by Krazy Kettle.

Why a Black-Eyed Pea Festival?

“The black-eyed pea is a metaphor for what is resilient, creative, and collaborative about African-American culture,” said Wanda Ravernell, director of the Black-Eyed Pea Festival and founder of Omnira Institute.

“We are especially pleased to have a range of genres in this year’s line-up because it brings to mind the time when Oakland’s Seventh Street was the ‘Harlem of the West,’” Ravernell said. Gentrification has almost finished the job that the construction of the Grove Shafter Freeway, BART tracks and the Post Office did in dividing what had once been a thriving Black community.

The sound of the music, the scent of the food and the creativity of the artists invokes that time of prosperity. “Their work is entertaining, but it’s also a history lesson and a healing.”

This festival is unique because it focuses on the specific relationship between black-eyed peas and African American culture and history.

It is common knowledge that black-eyed peas have been a staple New Year’s Day dish for generations of African Americans.

But to festival organizers, it’s important to know that the first domestication of the black-eyed pea was in West Africa and that George Washington Carver (African American biologist and inventor) promoted the planting of black-eyed peas because the crop enriched the soil and had high nutritional value.

The festival is sponsored by the Post News Group and receives support from the California Arts Council, The San Francisco Foundation and the Alliance for California Traditional Arts.

“This festival brings our mission to life,” says Ravernell. “We want to highlight and preserve the cultural and spiritual traditions of African Americans and demonstrate how these traditions are connected to Africa and the African Diaspora.“ For more information, please see our web site www.oakbepf. com or email us at oakbepf@ gmail.com or call (510) 3325851.

VETERANS OF OAKLAND CALIFORNIA Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2727, located in Oakland, CA is seeking new members to join its Post.

Marcelle Davies Lashley Direct from Brooklyn, NY backed by Vicki Randle, Shelley Doty, and Kofy Brown.

SPIRIT Featuring Destiny Muhammad (Harpist from the Hood), Michaelle Goerlitz, Valerie Joi, and Caroline Chung

Rashida Oji - Vocalist Emcee - Melanie Berzon, Radio Producer

Sunday, October 8th, 2023, 7:00 PM Freight & Salvage 2020 Addison St. Berkeley, CA Tickets: https://secure.thefreight.org/13226/charlotte-maxwell-clinic-benefit

Must meet eligibility as follows: 1. Proof of Service by providing a copy of your DD Fm 214 2. Must have been awarded a recognized campaign medal or badge 3. Served in Korea between 30 June 1949 until present, or earned Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay as evidenced by your DD Form 214.

4. Overseas service in hostile areas.

If eligible, Post 2727 will pay the membership fee for the pt 2 years of your membership.

For more eligibility details and to apply, please contact one of the following individuals: Arthur Butler, 253-3438554, Aumont Phipps

Special to the Post

The Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series presents a conversation with Virtual Murrell on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 7 p.m. in the Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale Student Lounge at Merritt College in Oakland.

Murrell is a former member of the Black Panther Party, a dynamic leader, political figure, advisor and author who has been active for six decades organizing and helping protect and preserve democracy.

He has been celebrated by Black Panther Party members and founders for his organizing skills and compelling public speaking talent.

Murrell began his life’s work as an organizer while a student at Merritt College in the 1960s and his book, “In Pursuit of America’s Promise: Memoirs of a Black Panther,” has recently been published.

The event is co-produced by the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Center and the Peralta Community College District. To reserve free tickets, call the Freedom Center office at (510) 434-3988.

“Virtual Murrell has been a personal friend of me and my family since 1962,” Bobby Seale has written. “He and I were the leaders and founders of one of the first Black student activist organizations in the country. Moreover, we also cofounded one of the first Black history and Black Studies programs. It could not have been done without the leadership abilities and roles of Virtual Murrell.”

Rodney Carlisle, professor emeritus, Rutgers University, wrote in the forward to Murrell’s book, “This memoir is a remarkable achievement for several reasons. It is a fascinating first-person account by an African American leader and political figure whose personal career and observations span the decades from the 1960s to the first decade of the 21st century. As a young student leader at Merritt College in Oakland, California, Virtual Murrell knew and worked with Bobby Seale and Huey Newton, and others associated with the formation of the Black Panther Party.

“Later, as a political adviser and activist, he worked with a wide variety of Black leaders in the Demo-

cratic Party, throughout the state of California, and in Washington D.C. with a long career spanning the 20th century and the first years of the 21st century. For readers familiar or unfamiliar with the story of ‘Black Radicalism’ as well as the more centrist positions of Black leadership in those decades, his book provides an intimate first-hand account.

“More broadly, however, Murrell’s comments on the situation of African Americans in the late 20th century and early 21st century will be interesting not only to contemporary readers who seek to understand the interplay of race issues and politics, but as an historical document for later generations. Rather than presenting these complex issues ‘from the outside’ as a sociologist or a historian, the issues and developments are described by an active, perceptive, and interesting participant.”

About the Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series and the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Center The Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series promotes an ample exchange of ideas to help inspire and move forward new leadership and servantship. The Lecture Series is a longstanding public forum that invites civic leaders from all sectors to respond to Dr. King’s still-pressing question, “Where do we go from here: chaos or community?”

Broad East Bay audiences of all ages are exposed to some of our nation’s most courageous and exemplary civil and human rights figures, engaging in creative solutions and challenges to some of the most perplexing issues facing our communities today: economic inequity, voter disenfranchisement, systemic racism, violence in schools and neighborhoods, police brutality, and the contradictions and ramifications of extreme poverty.

Lectures are organized by the youth and staff at the Freedom Center, with a focus on promoting ideas and actions rooted in principles of nonviolence, and lessons from some of our nation’s most significant civil rights struggles.

Civic engagement at the Martin Luther King Jr Freedom Center brings together individuals and organizations of diverse ages, races and socioeconomic backgrounds, working side-by-side for a healthy democracy.

The Freedom Center brings best practices from the nation’s Civil Rights Movement to the forefront in community education, training, and practice, building strong community partnerships with proven results.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that XL Construction Corporation will accept bids for award of contract for the following public work: XL Construction Corp, Project Number 4668 PCCD - Berkeley City College: West 2118 Milvia Street, Berkeley, CA The project consists of a new building, an instructional and administrative facility consisting of 59,561 gross square feet and 6 stories. We are seeking bids for the following scopes of work: Core and Site Trades: Elevators, Earthwork and Grading, Deep Piers and Shoring, Surveying, Site Utilities, Site Concrete, Topping Slab and Concrete Polishing, Structural Concrete, Misc. Metals, Roofing, Waterproofing, Flashing, Masonry, Landscaping, Fencing.

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The bid period is September 5, 2023, through October 3, 2023.

Bids are due October 3 at 2pm.

Optional pre-bid conference on September 7, 2023 at 2pm PDT. Please log into the Webex meeting: https://xlconstruction.webex. com/xlconstruction/j.php?MTID=m249dbc85d89bd336ebefd12f8c dca915 All bid document distribution and proposal submittals will be conducted electronically via Building Connected. Starting 9/5, the project will become available to view in our Building Connected Public Plan Room here: https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5 430e7ae5cdc2e0300dd7c7e Work to be completed according to all applicable building and administrative codes, and the following: • • • •

Prevailing Wage and Certified Payroll Project This project has SLBE participation goal of 25%, SLBE bidders will be prioritized.

Subcontractor must be registered with Department of Industrial Relations & have DIR number All labor to comply with Project Labor Agreement (PLA)

All subcontractors wishing to bid on this project must be prequalified with XL Construction. To request a prequalification package, please email prequal@xlconstruction.com. Prequalification must be completed by the time bids are due, the prequalification process takes approximately 3 weeks. Please include “Berkeley City College - West #4668” in the subject line of your email.

This project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations.

Please email Kristina Lee klee@xlconstruction.com with any questions.

postnewsgroup.com

THE POST, September 6 - 12, 2023, Page 7

OPINION: How We Can Protect Our Communities from COVID After the Pandemic

Rev. J. Edgar Boyd. File photo.

By Rev. Edgar Boyd California Black Media Every Sunday, I look out at the faces of my congregation, and I am grateful that we have overcome the many challenges we have faced over the past few years. At the same time, I am also reminded of all the beautiful souls we have lost to COVID-19. The pandemic has upended the lives of many in our community, and the residual effects are still being felt.

As pastor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles (FAME), the oldest African American church in the city, I have always strived to lead my members to health and prosperity.

But nothing could have prepared us for the challenges of the pandemic, which affected every aspect of our church -- from how we conducted services to how we communed with people.

But the church leadership and I knew it was our calling to take on

COVID-19 and protect our flock.

Over the years, we have continued to learn and evolve our approaches to address the overall health, social and educational needs of our parishioners and the larger South LA community.

Although we have made it through the most difficult period of the pandemic, COVID-19 remains a threat to our loved ones, especially Black communities in California who have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.

According to the Los Angeles County Public Health Department, Black residents in Los Angeles County were twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 as white residents, and one-and-ahalf times more likely to die from the virus. These disparities are unacceptable, and we must work to reduce them.

Now, with COVID-19 vaccines and treatments widely available, we have the tools we need to protect ourselves and our loved

ones from serious illnesses and deaths. We can return to doing the things and seeing the people we love.

Our initial focus was to prevent COVID-19 exposure, but sometimes this was not always possible.

Now, we are shifting priorities to making sure our members know what to do if they test positive.

Although they are free, widely available, and effective, COVID-19 medications have been relatively unknown within my community. We are starting to integrate initiatives to raise awareness around COVID-19 medications into our other long-standing programs to support our community members who test positive.

Scientific evidence shows that when COVID-19 medications are taken within the first week of testing positive, they can prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death by half or more. Timing is crucial as most of the medications must be taken within the first five days to be effective.

To address these issues, we have had to overcome many barriers, one of the biggest being my community’s mistrust of the medical system due to generations of racism and mistreatment. We have worked hard to educate about COVID-19 safety and rebuild trust in the medical system.

We have also partnered with other trusted entities and organizations like the University of Southern California and Jewish congregations to share resources, materials, and knowledge to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. We have made it a priority to educate those close to us about the resources and tools available to stay safe and protect ourselves, including

Rising temperatures mean rising risks for Black Californians.

Be ready with an extreme heat plan: Stay aware of heat illness.

Common symptoms include muscle cramps, headache, and nausea.

Stay cool and comfortable.

Know the location of your nearest air-conditioned space or cooling center and how to find transportation.

Stay connected with loved ones.

Check in on family, friends, and neighbors on hot days.

vaccines and treatments.

The good news is that we know

what works. Our church is hosting

teachable Thursdays that highlight

influential medical professionals to discuss vaccination benefits, side effects, and other important

information about COVID-19.

Additionally, we opened a wellness center to create a welcoming

and trusting environment for those in the community, operated by community members to provide

necessary services that address COVID-19, such as vaccinations, testing, and education around COVID-19 medications.

We invite and welcome all

Angelenos who have questions or

need support to come and access these services.

Overcoming challenges that

Black communities here in Los Angeles and throughout Califor-

nia have faced due to COVID-19

has not been easy. However, through hard work, listening to our community, and the power of prayer, we have found ways to win

over the virus. After all, prayers are powerful, but even more so when

paired with COVID-19 medications.

To learn more about COV-

ID-19 medications, visit YouCanBeatIt.org.

About the Author

The Rev. Edgar Boyd is pas-

tor of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles

(FAME), the oldest African Ameri-

can church in the city. Under his

leadership, FAME is working to address the health, social and educational needs of parishioners and the surrounding community.

“All families, students, and workers deserve the freedom to succeed: to build real-life skills and pursue careers — including those that don’t require college degrees,” said Newsom. Photo: Instagram @gavinnewsom

Gov. Newsom’s New Executive Order Opens Pathway to State Jobs, Higher Pay

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. and Edward Henderson California Black Media On Aug. 31, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order to improve access to higher-paying and more fulfilling careers for students and workers.

The executive order launches the development of a new Master Plan on Career Education designed to prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, including jobs that don’t require college degrees. Additionally, the executive order directs the state to take further steps to reduce other barriers to state employment.

“All families, students, and workers deserve the freedom to succeed: to build real-life skills and pursue careers — including those that don’t require college degrees,” said Newsom. “California is leveraging billions of dollars in investments to prepare students and workers for good-

paying, long-lasting, and fulfilling careers.”

The Master Plan on Career Education aims to create career pathways; prioritize hands-on learning and real-life skills; and advance universal access and affordability for all Californians through streamlined collaboration and partnership between government and the private sector.

The executive order also builds on California’s effort to improve the state’s hiring process. Recognizing that many state jobs do not require four-year college degrees for success in a position, the governor’s executive order directs the California Human Resources Department (CalHR) to evaluate whether a college degree is needed for a particular position whenever its classification is reviewed.

CalHR is currently engaged in outreach efforts to help more Californians access state employment.

BE A PART OF AC TRANSIT HISTORY AC Transit will transition from its current five-ward election system to an all-new seven-ward system. You can help draw the new boundaries.

To learn more about public hearings, workshops, and other information, scan the QR Code or visit ACTransit.org/Redistricting.

AC Transit hará la transición de su sistema electoral actual de cinco distritos a un nuevo sistema de siete distritos. Puede ayudar a trazar los nuevos límites.

For general questions or to request language assistance, contact (510) 891-7201.

PUBLIC HEARINGS Virtual via Zoom & in person at 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland September 6 at 6 p.m.

September 13 at 6 p.m.

Learn how to stay safer from extreme heat at

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS September 7 at 6:30 p.m. — Zoom September 11 at 6:30 p.m. — Zoom September 14 at 6:30 p.m.

— 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland

2023 Page 8 THE POST, September 6 - 12,, 2023,

NAACP 10-Point Plan ...

to encourage neighbors to devise methods for reporting crimes and suspicious behavContinued from page 1 iors tor and protect businesses and While we recognize that the neighborhoods above-suggested goals will not 6. Re-institute community policing. Emphasize foot patrols. cure all of Oakland’s problems, we Support Neighborhood Watch do, however, believe they provide objective measurable steps that programs 7. Secure ongoing support from if implemented will substantially CHP for patrolling Oakland’s enhance our public safety. Therefore, we call upon the Mayor, City highways 8. Secure support from the Alam- Council, and the voters of Oakland eda County Sheriff’s Office to to not only embrace these sugassist the Oakland Police De- gested goals but to formulate other measures that will advance our partment 9. Utilize civilian staffing, where public safety.

Cynthia Adams President of appropriate, so sworn officers can focus on city safety matters the Oakland Branch NAACP (510) 10. Institute a city-wide campaign 279-3300

Congresswoman Lee ...

Continued from page 1 •

Nations is one of the best tools we

have to do so. I look forward to representing our diverse Congress

and continuing to support diplo-

macy and international peace at

•

UNGA.”

President Biden also nominated

the following individuals to serve as US representatives to UNGA: •

Congressman

French

Hill,

Nominee for Representative of the United States to the 78th Session of the General Assem-

Sandré Swanson ...

•

bly of the United Nations Janet Keller, Nominee for Representative of the United States to the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Calvin Smyre, Nominee for Representative of the United States to the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Jeffrey Worthe, Nominee for Representative of the United States to the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations

Swanson also chaired the Alameda County Retirement Continued from page 1 Board protecting seniors’ pen“I’m running to address these sions and was chair of the Oakissues,” he said. “I have the exland Civil Service Commisperience, and I am qualified, sion, making sure people got a and I can make a difference – to fair break on public jobs. solve the homeless problem and Swanson began his career eliminate this crime wave.” as a young activist, meeting Already, his campaign has and working with Lee during been endorsed by the CaliforCongresswoman Shirley Chnia School Employees Associaisholm’s Democratic presidention, the State Treasurer Fiona tial campaign in California in Ma, and State Superintendent 1972, and he chaired Lionel of Public Instruction Tony Wilson’s successful campaign Thurmond. for Oakland mayor in 1977.

As a former member of the He said he is a strong candistate Assembly, Swanson has date because he has a considerleft an impressive legacy. He able base of support in the East played a major role in bringing back local control to the Oak- Bay district because, while he land Unified School District af- was in office, he helped retirter six years under state receiv- ees receive their Social Secuership that had disempowered rity and worked to help homethe Board of Education and owners who were in danger of losing their homes because of disenfranchised voters.

He also led the effort in the predatory loans. “My legislaState Legislature to jail human tive office saved hundreds of traffickers and decriminalize homes,” he said.

Swanson pointed out that their young victims.

He said, “I went to the po- currently there are no African lice department and said, ‘you Americans representing Northguys are arresting 12-year-olds ern California in the State Senand 14-year-olds, and you treat ate.

Swanson said one of his most them like criminals.’ They said, ‘what choice do we have? We exciting memories was coordineed a law.’ We wrote a law, so nating Nelson Mandela’s histhey have a diversion program, toric visit to Oakland in 1990. and the children are not treated Swanson organized the celebration that brought 60,000 like criminals but victims.”

Besides serving in the As- people to the Oakland Colisesembly, Swanson worked for um to hear Mandela speak folfive years as Chief of Staff for lowing his release from prison Congresswoman Barbara Lee South Africa.

Swanson and his wife have after serving as legislative aide, district director and senior pol- four adult children, five grandicy advisor for 25 years for Ron children and two great-grandDellums, a human rights leader children.

For more information about and the first African American man in Northern California to Swanson and his campaign, go be elected to Congress. to www.sandreswanson.net

Meet D.A. Pamela Price at Town Hall, Sept. 13

Faith in Action East Bay and the Interfaith Coalition for Justice in our Jails are co-sponsoring a hybrid Town Hall meeting featuring Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. on Wednesday, Sept. 13, from 6:30-8 p.m.

The in-person meeting will be held at Niles Discovery Church, 36600 Niles Blvd. in Fremont. Registration is available at tinyurl.com/SeptTHDA, where participants are encouraged to suggest questions to ask the D.A. The event will be offered in Spanish, Cantonese or ASL if requested and will be moderated by Yoel Haile, director of the criminal justice program at the ACLU of Northern California.

postnewsgroup.com

Black Repertory Group ...

litigation because they have not paid certain fees and maintained the building.”

Continued from page 1 When asked if he was aware the city had not paid $25,000 a Berkeley Repertory in 2001 reyear for 23 years for mainteceived $4 million from the city nance, Bartlett says he had heard to build their theater, which they that but was not fully aware of sold back to the city and the city the situation and understood that even help them build an artist-into be an issue in the litigation. residence facility. In contrast our American playwright, novtheater survives through sheer elist and poet Ishmael Reed, a grit and sacrifice.”

Black Rep board member says, Mona, who is Sean’s mother, “the city bends over backwards frequently uses her Social Security check to pay theater expens- for white theater groups while es, and Sean works two jobs and we get nothing. They even cut says he contributes a portion of our free lunch program.

“We were feeding kids lunch his wages toward theater operaand snacks, a federal program tions.

After explaining the large that paid the city $25 for each scope of plans for reparations, lunch. They cut us saying we Bartlett responded to questions didn’t meet census requirements about Black Rep. “There are and that if our kids wanted food plans that the theater will re- they’d have to go to Strawberry main a Black theater, we’re just Canyon, miles away from us. If not sure about the current own- that isn’t systemic racism, I don’t ers with whom we’re currently in know what is.”

From left to right: Oakland Soul players Aliyah Jones, Kaytlin Brinkman, Cecilia Gee, Maleni Morales, and Sam Tran. Photo courtesy of Oakland Soul.

Oakland Has Plans to Bring Roots and Soul Soccer to the Oakland Coliseum Area

By Post Staff

The Oakland City Council’s Community and Economic Development (CED) Committee on Sept. 12 at 1:30 p.m. will discuss a resolution authorizing an Agreement with Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Club and Alameda County to lease land in the Coliseum area for the teams to play soccer games, welcoming thousands of fans to these locally oriented and growing teams.

The proposal would then go to the full City Council to authorize Alameda County and the Roots and Soul Soccer Sports Club to work out the details of the use of the property, known as the Malibu Lot, allowing the soccer club to return to Oakland and build a facility to play in the Coliseum Area.

During the proposed term of the lease, which is for up to 10 years, the facility would function as the home field for the Oakland

Roots men’s and Oakland Soul women’s soccer teams.

“We are excited to have the Oakland Roots and Soul plan for a strong future in Oakland and appreciate their commitment to the community,” said Vice-Mayor Rebecca Kaplan, who also serves as the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Authority (OACCA) Board chair.

“Having soccer in the Coliseum area aligns with our goals to keep this centrally located area vibrant,” she said.

Previously, Roots/Soul soccer entered into an agreement with the African American Sports and Entertainment Group (AASEG) to work together to enhance the future of the coliseum area.

AASEG has been selected by the Oakland City Council to lead the long-term development of the Coliseum property, with jobs, housing, commercial development, sports, and entertainment.

Alameda County D.A. Pamela Price Sues Livermore-Based Firm

Special to The Post

On Sept. 1, the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office obtained a temporary restraining order against a Livermore-based flavored tobacco company, Apollo Future Technology, which does business as Apollo E-cigs.

The District Attorney’s lawsuit seeks to shut down what it alleges is a massive illegal flavored-tobacco and syntheticcannabis operation that poses a grave threat to the children of Alameda County and unlawfully competes with the legal, licensed cannabis industry.

The Court’s temporary restraining order, issued after briefing and legal argument, bars Apollo Future Technology from selling flavored tobacco products or synthetic cannabis products locally and online pending the resolution of a preliminary injunction hearing, which the Court set for Sept. 21 at 9 a.m.

This lawsuit is the result of a multi-agency investigation conducted by the D.A., the Livermore Police Department, California’s Department of Public Health, and California’s Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

As the allegations set forth in the District Attorney’s public court filings state, defendants used the Livermore warehouse as their base of operations to sell banned, flavored tobacco prod-

ucts — predominantly “vapes” and “vape juice” — to individuals under the age of 21.

The District Attorney’s lawsuit also alleges that Apollo sold products through its websites without verifying the purchasers’ ages as required by law, illegally shipped its flavored tobacco products through the U.S. Postal Service without complying with California’s delivery requirements and manufactured and sold thousands of synthetic cannabis products in packaging that falsely claimed the products were legal, natural industrial hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC. “I want to thank the City of Livermore and our State partners on this investigation,” said Price. “In Alameda County, nobody is above the law and the rules that apply for small mom and pop businesses must apply to larger operations like Apollo.

I also acknowledge the parent groups and grassroots organizations that have made tremendous progress over the past decade to keep products like these out of the hands of our children. My Administration is committed to prosecuting violators of these laws.”

Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District Trustee Kristie Wang is a co-founder of Flavors Addict Kids-Livermore, which advocated for the July 18, 2019, passage of City of Livermore’s restrictions on the sale of

Verdese Carter Park Gang Violence Forces Kids’ Football Team to Find New Site to Play

Shortly after a shooting at Verdese Carter Park, the East Bay Dragon community football team, learn that they will not be practicing there anymore because of the danger. Photo by Daryle Allums.

By Tanya Dennis

Gang violence is raging in Deep East Oakland, also known as “Bossland,” where gun shots are heard daily, and recently, youth and the East Bay Panthers football team had to duck and cover twice in one month at Verdese Carter Park at 9600 Bancroft Ave. The Park has become the epicenter of violent activity despite a police station embedded there.

Jacob Davis, coach of the East Bay Panthers says, he will no longer bring his team to the park after shooting incidents on Aug. 24 and Aug. 29 where kids ages 5 -14 were caught in gang crossfire and had to take cover.

Tamu Lopez, treasurer of The East Bay Panthers, and accountant for Adamika Village#stopk illingourkidsmovement has two children on the team, Micah Lopez, 10, and Caleb Lopez, 14. Lopez says “My children are traumatized. My youngest, Micah, has had several nightmares since the violent encounters and neither of my sons want to play football anymore. Both are afraid to go to any park and want to leave Oakland.”

Davis notes that his team is a safety net, sometimes the only source of food for the kids, when they don’t have access to school meals or school activities.

“For many, belonging to the East Bay Panthers is their only positive outlet. We thought we’d be safe in the park because, until now, we thought Verdese Carter Park was a neutral zone for the gangs, but no longer. The police don’t respond, they don’t come here after 4 p.m. and we practice from 5:30 to 7.”

The Panthers are not the only group of children who are in danger. “We have five organizations that need to practice where they are safe: The East Bay Warriors, 510 Legacy, Bay Area Lions, Oakland Dynamite and the East Bay Panthers for our girls and boys ages 5 – 14.”

Representing Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, Pati Navalta responded that the Oakland Police Department (OPD) recognizes the uptick in violent crime and gun violence. “The Department is dedicated to utilizing all available resources to focus on individuals committing violent crimes, and we have increased our presence in areas experiencing this uptick. We are also collaborating with our neighboring law enforcement partners to address the recent surge,” Navalta

said.

District Attorney Pamela Price responded, “The District Attorney’s office does not control or regulate the Oakland Police Department however, we are committed to prosecuting gang members and others who cause death or injury in our community to the full extent of the law.”

Davis said the immediate safety solution is that Oakland Unified School District allow teams to practice on their fields.

“The problem currently is OUSD charges a fee to utilize the fields that we cannot afford.”

When asked if Oakland Unified would consider this proposal, John Sasaki, director of Communications promised to investigate the feasibility of Davis’ proposal.

Adamika Village #stopkillingourkidsmovement believe they have the solution to ending gang violence at Verdese Carter.

CEO Daryle Allums says.

“Adamika Village hosts Town Night events funded by the Department of Violence Prevention and prior to, during, and a month after our last town night, crime and violence plummets.

That’s because Adamika Village brings a different type of energy and people feel it! We bring love, hope, gifts, money, testing for COVID and flu, food, entertainment, and a kid zone. We provide a safe place; we are out here actively making a difference!”

Give Adamika Village the park for one year, before the city starts remodeling, Allums said, and “we will create ongoing ‘Town Nights’ with education, cooking programs that provide food to eat while they learn good nutrition. We’ll get Alcohol Anonymous out here to intervene in the drug culture and we’ll invite the Black Muslims to speak on health, lifestyle and self-control.”

When questioned about the cost Allums responded, “As we organize in the streets, we need people to organize behind the desk. Our Black girls are being kidnapped, our elder women are getting robbed, our people have stopped coming out.

“Let Adamika rebuild what has been lost. The soil at the park is corrupted. It’s contaminated with community violence, it’s toxic. Adamika will shift that energy so we can heal our people who are addicted to violence, who know nothing else.”

flavored tobacco products and e-cigarettes.

“As a mom and school board member, I have seen first-hand the harms caused by flavored tobacco products and electronic vape devices. These companies will not stop making money off the backs of our youth until we enforce our laws and punish those who break them,” said Wang.

Livermore Valley Chamber of Commerce Interim CEO and President Sherri Souza said the organization represents “hardworking, law-abiding business owners including those within the cannabis and tobacco industries. When large companies blatantly disregard the health and well-being of our youth and don’t play by the same rules, small business owners simply can’t compete.”

Livermore Police Chief Jeramy Young said he appreciated the hard work from his detectives and thanked the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, the California Department of Public Health Food and Drug Branch, the Alameda County District Attorney Office’s Inspector and the City Attorney’s Office for their help in this case.

“We understand the importance of state and local laws to protect our youth from the illegal sale of tobacco products,” Young said. “We hope these enforcement operations will prevent future violations of the law.”

This story came from the public information office of Alameda County District attorney Pamela Price.