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By California Black Media
California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) vice chair Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) introduced new legislation related to reparations to the Senate Committee on Housing on April 2 in Sacramento.
Senate Bill (SB) 1007, “establishes the Homeowner’s Assistance for Descendants of Enslaved Persons Program to make financial aid or assistance available to descendants for the purposes of purchasing, owning, or maintaining a home,” the legislation states.
The Senate Housing Committee advanced the bill with an 8-1 vote. It will be re-referred to the Appropriations Committee for consideration.
Sen. Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) was the only member who voted against the bill.
“SB 1007 is about starting a long process of paying back a debt that
By Magaly Muñoz
In late March, Oakland’s city administration announced the final draft of their Downtown Specific Plan, a blueprint for city improvements and developments over the next 20 years.
The comprehensive 474-page plan lays out policies for downtown developments that will increase economic, social and cultural, and communal opportunities for residents and workers who frequent this essential hub in Oakland.
is not only owed, but that was also promised, and is 160 years overdue, to African Americans,” Bradford told the committee chaired by Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley). “It is the first step in closing the wealth and equity gap created by centuries of slavery and racial discrimination policies.”
The bill aligns with one of the 115 recommendations listed in a two-year study conducted by the California reparations task force, of which Bradford was one of nine members.
Bradford said the report reveals that, in the state of California, a typical Black-owned home is 22% less valuable than a White-owned home.
Various advocacy groups from around the state attended the hearing held at the State Capitol Annex Swing Space. The California Housing Partnership, Bay Area Regional
By Magaly Muñoz
The Port of Oakland Commission voted unanimously to change the name of Metropolitan Oakland International Airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport at a commission meeting Thursday afternoon.
The Port initially announced the name change on March 29, claiming that the change will attract more passengers and enhance the airport’s visibility. They contend that the airport often gets neglected by the public’s lack of knowledge of Oakland’s proximity to San Francisco.
“We want people to know where Oakland is and how beautiful our city is. We want them to
visit, we want them to spend their money, and we want to keep our money in our local economy,” Port Commission President Barbara Leslie said at the meeting.
The commissioners shared anecdotal experiences and research to explain how this new name change will elevate and add to the growth of Oakland, not take away from their Bay Area neighbors.
The Port claimed that local residents had been asking for more options in domestic and international flights, but in order to do that, outside travelers need to be aware of Oakland’s presence first.
Since the announcement of the new name, San Francisco leaders
By Post Staff Orenthal
James
(O.J.) Simpson,
who rose to fame as a college football player who went on to the NFL and parlayed his talents into acting and sportscasting, succumbed to prostate cancer on April 10, his family announced.
Born and raised in San Francisco, the Galileo High School graduate was recruited by the University of Southern California after he was on a winning Junior College AllAmerican team. At USC, he gained wide acclaim as a running back leading to him becoming the No. 1 pick in the AFL-NFL draft in 1969 and joining the Buffalo Bills, where he had
Several departments over the course of eight years developed the plan, with two phases that emphasized a need for community input from local stakeholders, such as leaders and residents, and a focus on the role of social and racial equity in past and future developments.
Throughout the extensive plan, the concept of equity for marginalized communities is embedded
with each goal and priority for the improvements to downtown. It acknowledges that social and racial
By Post Staff
The Oakland Symphony announced Kedrick Armstrong as its next music director.
In addition to conducting the orchestra’s public concerts, Armstrong will also actively participate in the Oakland Symphony’s many education and community engagement programs, designed to inspire a love of music in people of all ages.
Armstrong is the successor to previous music director and Conductor Michael Morgan, who passed away in 2021 after a 30year tenure at the Symphony. Armstrong will open the Oakland Symphony 2024-2025 season
demanded – and received — the largest contract in professional sports history: $650,000 over five years. In 1978, the Bills traded Simpson to his hometown team, the San Francisco 49ers, retiring from the game in 1979.
Simpson’s acting career had begun his pro football career with small parts in 1960s TV (“Dragnet”) before “Roots” and film (“The Klansman,” “The Towering Inferno,” Capricorn One”).
He was also a commentator for “Monday Night Football,” and “The NFL on NBC,” and in the mid-1970s Simpson’s good looks and amiability made him, according to People magazine, “the first Black athlete to become a bona fide lovable media superstar.” The Hertz rent-a-car commercials raised his recognition factor while raising Hertz’s profits by than 50%, making him critical to the company’s bottom line.
It could be said that even more than his success as a football star, the commercials of his running through airports endeared him to the Black community at a time when it was still unusual for a Black person to represent a national, mainstream company.
He remained on the Hertz team into the 1990s while also getting
on October 18.
Armstrong, who is 29 and hails from Georgetown, South Carolina, is currently the creative partner and principal conductor of the Knox-Galesburg Symphony.
The Chicago Tribune has praised Armstrong for his ability to “simply let the score speak for itself.” He enjoys a wide range of repertoire, spanning early music to premiering new works, using his joy and curiosity for all music to cultivate understanding and collaboration within diverse communities.
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the new music director of the
“Where there is no vision, the people perish...” Proverbs 29:18
61st Year, No. 15 Dis A.M.E. Pastor and L.A. Civil Rights Icon Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray Passes ... see page 2 Sister Juanita Matthews, 55 Years with Oakland Public School District ... see page 2 Sacramento Lawmakers Step Up Push for ‘Smart Solutions’ on Crime, Public Safety ... see page 4 Surviving the Earthquake, an Eclipse and ‘Emil Amok’... see page 8
for Descendants of Enslaved Persons to Help Them Purchase, Own, or Maintain a Home O.J. Simpson, 76, Dies of Prostate Cancer Former actor and football star born and raised in S.F.’s Potrero Hill By Barbara Fluhrer Born in Liberty, Missouri, Carl Blake, a virtuoso and respected pianist, made his most recent migration to the East Bay in 1999. One might have seen him performing recently at Noontime Concerts in San Francisco, or at the Piedmont Center for the Arts in Oakland. He is Director of Music at The Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples in San Francisco. He was also co-organizer and collaborative pianist at Herbst Theater for The Majesty of the Spirituals concert in 2022 and has held several church positions in the Bay Area. Blake obtained a Bachelor of Music Degree from Boston University and continued post-baccalaureate studies in Jamaica before earning a Master of Arts in Music at San Jose State University. He was the recipient of two Fulbright residencies in Honduras and completed a third residency at the University of St. Petersburg in Russia. He has a Doctor of Musical Arts Dr. Carl Blake. Photo by Jim Dennis Dean Hector Camacho, candidate Tysha Hayes, and the Reach University Admissions & Partnerships Teams at Jefferson Union High School District. Photo courtesy of Reach University. Publisher’s note: Last week, The Post published a photo showing Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price with Carol Jones, whose son, Patrick DeMarco Scott, was gunned down by an unknown assailant in 2018. The photo was too small for readers to see where the women were and what they were doing. Here we show Price and Jones as they complete a walk in memory of Scott. For more information and to contribute, please contact Carol Jones at 510-978-5517 at morefoundation.help@gmail.com. Courtesy photo. Kedrick Armstrong is the new music director for the Oakland Symphony. Photo credit Scott Chernis. Orenthal James (O.J.) Simpson. Wikipedia photo. Skyline aerial view of the urban core of downtown Oakland, California. Credit to MattGush, iStock. FACES AROUND THE BAY: Dr. Carl Blake, Pianist Port of Oakland Commission Votes to Change Oakland Airport to ‘San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport’ The Oakland Symphony Announced Kedrick Armstrong as its Next Music Director Oakland Finishes Final Draft of Downtown Specific Plan for Potential City Improvements Teacher Mentoring Program Receives James Irvine Leadership Award DA Pamela Price Stands by Mother Who Lost Son to Gun Violence in Oakland in 2018 Port of Oakland commissioners voted unanimously to change the name of the Metropolitan Oakland International Airport to San Francisco Bay Oakland Airport at the Commission meeting on April 11. Courtesy image Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Oakland Post By Magaly Muñoz Leaders at Oakland-based Reach University, Dr. Elizabeth Baham and Héctor Camacho Jr, have been honored with the James Irvine Leadership Award for their work on addressing California’s teacher shortage through job-embedded curriculum and credential programs. With the award, each organization receives a grant of $350,000 and additional resources. Dr. Baham and Mr. Camacho, who have been at Reach for nine years and two years respectively, have been instrumental in attracting and recruiting future educators who otherwise would not have a clear and affordable path into teaching or leadership positions. Established in 2006, Reach University has served as the nation’s
Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood). Photo Courtesy of L.A. Sentinel.
Financial Assistance Bill
The Rev. Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray, former pastor of First African
REST IN PEACE: A.M.E. Pastor and L.A. Civil Rights Icon Cecil ‘Chip’ Murray Passess
By California Black Media
The Rev. Dr. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray, former pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church (FAME) in Los Angeles, died of natural causes April 6 at his Windsor Hills Home. He was 94.
“Today, we lost a giant.
Reverend Dr. Cecil Murray dedicated his life to service, community, and putting God first in all things. I had the absolute honor of working with him, worshiping with him, and seeking his counsel,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass of the dynamic religious leader whose ministry inspired and attracted millionaires as well as former gang bangers and people dealing with substance use disorder (SUD).
Murray oversaw the growth of FAME’s congregation from 250 members to 18,000.
“My heart is with the First AME congregation and community today as we reflect on a legacy that changed this city forever,” Bass continued.
Murray served as Senior Minister at FAME, the oldest Black congregation in the city, for 27 years. During that time, various dignitaries visited and he built strong relationships with political and civic leaders in the city and across the state, as well as a number of Hollywood figures.
Several national political leaders also visited with Murray and his congregation at FAME, including Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton.
Murray, a Florida native and U.S. Air Force vet, attended Florida A&M University, where he majored in history, worked on the school newspaper and pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He later attended Claremont School of Theology in Los Angeles County, where he earned his doctorate in Divinity.
Murray is survived by his son Drew. His wife Bernadine, who was a committed member of the A.M.E. church and the daughter of his childhood pastor, died in 2013.
Vivian Coit, 98 Celebrating A Life Well Lived
Sept. 15, 1925 ~ March 30, 2024
By Antoinette Porter
Vivian Coit, a proud Dallas, Texas native made her way to the great state of California in 1943. She was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother.
In her 98 years, she had various jobs - San Francisco Naval Shipyard, elevator operator, housekeeping, a salesclerk, and supervisor for the United States Postal Service. After 27 years of service with the United States Postal Service, she retired with numerous commendations. She was a lifetime member of the National Council of Negro Women. and a devoted member of the Washington/Lincoln Alumni Association of Dallas, Texas.
On April 20 at 10 a.m., a life well-lived will be celebrated at Beebe Memorial Cathedral CME Church, 3900 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA under the leadership of Rev. Antoine Shyne.
Call for Nominations: The 2024 California Diversity Awards
Hayward Tri-City Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Under the Leadership of April Lampkin, Celebrated Its 20th Annual Scholarship Fundraiser in Grand Style
At Casa Real Ruby Hill Winery, Music at The Vineyard, With Special Guest Artist Lenny Williams
WOMEN IMPACTING THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY:
Sister Juanita Matthews
55 Years with Oakland Public School District
Teacher, Mother, Community Outreach Champion, and Child of God By California Black Media Organizers of the California Diversity Awards are now accepting nominations for its 2024 ceremony, which will be held June 27 at the Kimpton Sawyer Hotel in Sacramento. Hosted by the CalAsian Chamber of Commerce, the California African American Chamber of Commerce and the California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the awards ceremony “recognizes committed corporations, public officials, and nonprofits that are moving the dial in creating a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable California.”
“Awardees are recognized at an invite-only luncheon with California’s business, political, and community leaders,” according to a joint press release from the three chambers of commerce.
The deadline for accepting nominations is Monday, April 15, 2024, at 11:59 PST.
By Antoinette Porter
Juanita Matthews, better known as “Sister Teacher,” is a walking Bible scholar. She moved to California from the great state of Arkansas in 1971.
Sister Teacher has a passion for teaching. She has been a member of Bible Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church since 1971. She followed her passion for teaching, and in 1977 became the lead teacher for Adult Class #6. Her motto still today is “Once My Student, Always My Student.”
Beyond her remarkable love for the Lord, Sister Teacher has showcased her love for teaching by working for the Oakland Unified School District for 55 years, all but four of those years spent at
Emerson Elementary and Child Development School. She truly cares about her students, making sure they have the tools/supplies needed to learn either at OUSD or Bible Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church.
She’s also had a “Clothes Closet Ministry” for 51 years, making sure her students have sufficient clothing for school. The Clothes Closet Ministry extends past her students, she has been clothing the community for over 50 years as well.
She loves the Lord and is a servant on a mission. She is a loving mother to two beautiful children, Sandra and Andre. This is the impact this woman of God has on her church and the community.
Calendar of Events — April and May
April
Finding Financial Freedom
Berkeley Bay Area Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Special Guest Speakers: ~ Hilary Byrde, Harold Lowe and Verleanna Green, Esq., LLM
RSVP at https//bit.ly/48S25EM , Tarea Hall Pittman, South Library Branch, 1901 Russell Street, Berkeley
April 14, 2024 – 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
April 27, 2024 – 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
“No Boundaries in Mental Health” Grand Worthy Matron’s Special Project – North Golden State Grand Chapter – Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Rite of Adoption, State of California Radisson Oakland Airport, 8400 Edes Avenue, Oakland
April 28, 2024 – 1 p.m.
The World of Fashion ~ A Fashion Show & Luncheon Scholarship Fundraiser
Presented by: Allen Temple Baptist Church, Business & Professional Women’s Society
Allen Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center, 8501 International Blvd., Oakland
For more information: (510) 544-8910 or Allen-Temple.org
May 4, 2024 – 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Pre-Mother’s Day Concert & Health Symposium
Presented by I’m Every Woman Productions
Empress Theatre, 330 Virginia Street, Vallejo
Corporate nominees must have “demonstrated a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) through impactful actions that create advancement opportunities for diverse communities in California.”
Other criteria include the organization’s or individual’s commitment to philanthropy, community engagement and promoting diversity in leadership, procurement and among employees.
To submit nominations, visit CaDiversityAwards.com.
In 2023, the awardees included California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, the Banc of California, and the California Farmworker Foundation. Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate Tara Lynn Gray and T-Mobile Corporation were the recipients in 2022. Public officials who are nominated must be an active elected or appointed “state official who is currently serving California and have demonstrated their commitment to improving the quality of life within diverse communities through focused, innovative, and inclusive initiatives and policies.”
Black Mothers Matter, Presented by Coco Coalition 1955 Broadway Street, Oakland RSVP at www.cococoalition.org
April 17, 2024 – 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Special book signing with Dr. William Darity, Jr. and Ms. Kirsten Mullen, authors of From Here to Equality
Berkeley School of Theology and the Center for Truth, Racial Healing, and Restorative Justice Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church, 3534 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland
Copies of the book are available for pre-order, or you may bring your own.
Register at tinyurl.com/BSTCenterTRHRJ.
April 18, 2024 – 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Inaugural Lecture for the Center for Truth, Racial Healing, and Restorative Justice.
Special guest speakers Dr. William Darity, Jr. and Ms. Kirsten Mullen, authors of From Here to Equality
Berkeley School of Theology, 2606 Dwight Way, Berkeley Register at tinyurl.com/BSTCenterTRHRJ.
April 20, 2024 – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Sowing Seeds For Success
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) EXP Oakland Bay Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Invites Youth Uprising members and Bay Area students to engage in the HBCU experience. Financial aid assistance, live DJ, and tailgating Youth Uprising, 8711 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland obal.vpprograms@gmail.com
RSVP at https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/ empresstheatre/7268/event/1371559 |
May 9, 2024 – 6 p.m.
Lend A Hand Foundation, 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Stay in School & Joy of Giving Program
Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive, Oakland
Buy Tickets & Show Your Support: https://paybee.io/inperson-event/lendahand/5
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May 26, 2024 – 12 p.m.
25th Anniversary Stone Soul Concert
Special Guest Artists ~ El Debarge, Montell Jordan, Big Daddy Kane, Keith Sweat and Charlie Wilson
Toyota Pavilion at Concord, 2000 Kirker Pass Road, Concord
For more information and tickets: StoneSoulConcert.com
Northern California Chapter Gospel Music Workshop of America ~ Choir Events
April 13, 2024 – 11 a.m.
Imani Groce Memorial Service
Emmanuel Baptist Church, 467 N. White Road, San Jose
April 20, 2024 – 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
“Choirs United”
Parks Chapel AME Church, 476 – 34th Street, Oakland
April 21, 2024 – 5 p.m.
3rd Sunday Night Concert
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 831 So. 43rd Street, Richmond
April 27, 2024 – 1 p.m.
Reverend Kermit Dearman 1st Year Anniversary Star Bethel Baptist Church, 5800 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland
postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 2
Methodist Episcopal Church (FAME) in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of USC Center for Religion and Civic Culture
Lenny Williams. Courtesy photo. Lenny Williams dancing with April V. Lampkin. Courtesy photo.
Scholarship recipients Jared Henry will attend USC or UC Berkeley and major in Economics; Esaias Goodwin will attend North Carolina AT&T; Francisco Ornelas will attend UC Santa Cruz and major in Political Science; Sophia Kyama will attend California State University East Bay and major in Biological Science; Arianna Jackson will attend San Jose State University, to major in journalism and marketing; Justin Martin will attend University of Nevada and major in International Business with a minor in Sustainability, and Christian Ratliff will attend Louisiana State University and major in Business Management.
Outreach/Events Director
Top row l-r: Scholarship recipients Jared Henry, Esaias Goodwin, Francisco Ornelas, Sophia Kyama, Arianna Jackson, Justin Martin, and Christian Ratliff. Bottom row l-r: April V. Lampkin, President HTCAC with Scholarship Committee members, Gesita Tafese, Lyneice Mackey, Dr. Tasha Dean, Regina Harris-Nau, Alanda Johnson and Diana Bell. Courtesy photo.
Vivian Colt. Courtesy
photo.
Antoinette Porter, Church
anticipate featuring your church’s “Good News” community
of
I look forward to hearing from you!
I eagerly
events and calendar
events. Please feel free to contact me at aporter@postnewsgroup.com or with any “Good News” submissions.
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THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 3 postnewsgroup.com
Expert Advice: How to Protect Yourself From Bias and Backlash at Work
By Edward Henderson, California Black Media
As reports of antisemitic and Islamophobic threats and acts of hate and violence increase in California and across the country, the California Commission on the State of Hate (Commission) and California Civil Rights Department (CRD) continue to encourage Californians to take advantage of anti-hate resources available statewide, including the California vs Hate hotline and website.
“The Commission on the State
said after introducing SB 1248.
The bill stipulates that schools must implement safety measures which include monitoring weather forecasts, postponing or relocating outdoor activities during hazardous conditions, and ensuring students have proper hydration and access to shade. It also requires schools to establish clear communication plans to keep parents, teachers, and students informed about potential weather hazards.
Supporters of the bill include the Robinson family, advocate Christina Laster, Bold Enterprises LLC, California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute, Familias Empoderadas del Valle Central National Action Network, The Black Student Advocate, and the Ventura County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
Thanking Hurtado for introducing this crucial legislation, Weber said, “The story of Yahushua Robinson last year was heartbreaking. We have protections for farm workers and other industries in the case of extreme weather, now climate change is forcing us to also extend similar protections to students at school.”
of Hate stands united in shared humanity with the people of California in denouncing violence and hate,” said Commission Chair Russell Roybal in a statement.
“We recognize what is happening in the Middle East has devastated communities in California. Unfortunately, when these horrific events occur, instances of hate tend to rise as well. No person, whether they are Jewish, Muslim, Palestinian, Israeli, or perceived as members of any of these groups, should be subject to prejudice or violence,” he added.
“If you experience or witness hate in California, we encourage you to contact CA vs Hate to report the incident and get connected to support and resources.”
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination in all aspects of employment,
Continued
tion as a solution.”
McKinnor, Smallwood-Cuevas, a coalition of advocates, addiction treatment experts, and Yurok Tribal leaders joined Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), and Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (DColton) at the press conference organized to promote legislative solutions that ensure safety and justice.
Organizers say #SmartSolutions is an intersectional campaign that combats criminalization and mass incarceration by pushing for the redirection of state resources to fund housing, health care, schools, services for victims, and programs that reduce recidivism and promote accountability, beyond incarceration.
By Antonio Ray Harvey, California Black Media
Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) and Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights), both members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), have joined other lawmakers and criminal justice reform advocates to address public safety in the state.
On April 2, CLBC members gathered outside the State Capitol
for the unveiling of the #SmartSolutions Public Safety Policy Platform, a package of 30 bills that addresses the top concerns of retailers, retail workers, the fentanyl crisis, and support for victims and survivors of crime.
“Instead of being tough on crime, we need to be smart on crime,” Smallwood said at the press briefing. “I am not saying that we’re not going to be holding folks accountable for the actions that they take. But we will not rely on incarcera-
Opponents of the bills proposed in the #SmartSolutions campaign say their colleagues who support reform-focused strategies are looking the other way on crime and encouraging lawlessness.
For example, Assemblymembers Wendy Carillo (D-Boyle Heights), Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) and Mike Gipson (D-Carson) are supporting Assembly Bill (AB) 1990, legislation that would allow a peace officer to arrest shoplifters without a warrant or without witnessing the theft.
postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 4 The importance of teaching Black History all year! Enroll in the Black History Professional Development Class Just Imagine Books & Services, LLC & Just Imagine KidZ Multiculturan Children’s Bookstore, Richmond, CA, 94801 | 510-422-5304 Black History CAN and SHOULD be taught all year! tamarashiloh@gmail.com * http://www.tamarashiloh.com Purchase your copy of The Bundle TODAY!! Sacramento Lawmakers Step Up Push for ‘Smart Solutions’ on Crime, Public Safety
Tina McKinnor
Assemblymember
(D-Inglewood), second right, and Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton), right, have introduced bills that would protect victims, reduce recidivism, and treat substanceuse disorders. CBM photos by Antonio Ray Harvey.
Yahushua Nyerere Robinson (Courtesy Photo)
on page 6
Photo: iStock photo image.
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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 Paul Cobb - Publisher Brenda Hudson - Business Manager Wanda Ravernell - Sr. Assoc. Editor Ken Epstein — Writer and Editor Maxine Ussery - COO Jack Naidu - Production Manager Conway Jones - Editor, Capitol Post 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. THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 5 postnewsgroup.com
authored AB 1772 and introduced it in January. The legislation proposes sterner penalties for retail theft, particularly for repeat offenders.
The #SmartSolutions campaign is co-sponsored by Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Smart Justice California, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) California Action, Californians for Safety and Justice, and Californians United for
a Responsible Budget (CURB).
Smallwood recently introduced two bills she hopes will provide solutions to the escalating retail theft problem in the state. Senate Bill (SB) 1446 addresses theft, technology and job security in retail establishments and aims to minimize workplace violence, according to supporters. SB 1282 requires counties to expand the use of a diversion program for theft cases.
“Restorative Justice is the essential pillar of making our criminal justice system more fair, just, and equitable,” McKinnor said.
“Restorative justice recognizes the trauma of victims and preparatory of crimes and provides a construc-
tive space for victims to find healing.”
Dr. Amiee Moulin, founder of the California Bridge program and chief of the Division of Addiction Medicine at the University of California (UC) Medical Center, said drug “addiction and overdose” are taking a toll on patients, families and the community.
“I believe that California’s proposed legislation focused on expanding access to treatment is a crucial step towards saving lives,” Moulin said. “By removing barriers to care and embracing evidencedbased strategies we can provide patients the support they need to heal and recover.”
Assemblymember James Ramos (D-Highland)
postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 6 ‘Smart Solutions’ on Crime and Public Safety...
31 Affordable Rental Units Available at 78 Johnson Street, San Francisco, CA 94130. 21 onebedrooms, 2 two-bedrooms, 4 three-bedrooms and 4 four-bedrooms are available Rents range from $1,613 - $3073 per month. Households must earn no more than the Maximum Annual Income below: AMI 1Person 2Person 3Person 4Person 5Person 6Person 7Person 8Person 60% $60500 $69200 $77800 NA NA NA NA NA 65% NA $74950 $84300 $93650 $101150 NA NA NA 70% NA NA NA $100850 $108950 $117000 $125100 $133150 75% $75650 $86500 $97300 NA NA NA NA NA 80 % NA $92250 $103750 $115300 $124500 NA NA NA 85% NA NA $110250 $122500 $132300 $142100 $151900 $161650 Applications and information can be found on DAHLIA - San Francisco Housing Portal at housing. sfgov.org. Applications are due by 5pm on May 1, 2024. Please call our information line at 415287-0642 for more information. Units available through the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development and are subject to monitoring and other restrictions. Visit sf.gov/mohcd for program information.
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Protect Yourself from Bias and Backlash ...
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including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoffs, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition of employment. This prohibition extends to discrimination based on religion, national origin, and race.
One form is the adverse treatment of an individual based on their actual or perceived religious practices or membership in a particular racial or national origin group.
Interrupt Early Workplace culture largely is determined by what is or isn’t allowed to occur. If people are lax in responding to bigotry, then bigotry prevails.
Use or Establish Policies
Call upon existing policies to address bigoted language or behavior. Work with your personnel director or human resources department to create new policies and procedures, as needed. Also ask your company to provide anti-bias training.
Go Up the Ladder
If behavior persists, take your complaints up the management ladder. Find allies in upper management and call on them to help create and maintain an office
Another form is adverse treatment based on the assumption that the individual holds certain beliefs because of their religion, national origin, or race. There can also be adverse treatment due to the individual’s actual or perceived association with, or relationship to, a person of a particular religion, national origin, or race. The UCLA Center for Equity and Inclusion recommends four tactics to respond to workplace bias or hate.
environment free of bias and bigotry.
Band Together
Like-minded colleagues also may form an alliance and then ask the colleague or supervisor to change his or her tone or behavior.
CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time. Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911. For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.
LAO Releases Report on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in California Child Welfare System
By Edward Henderson, California Black Media Racial inequalities in California’s child welfare
system disproportionately impact poor Black and Native American children, according to a report released April 3 by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO).
The report, which was presented to the Assembly Subcommittee No. 2 on Human Services — chaired by Assemblymember Corey Jackson (DMoreno Valley) — states that the proportion of low-income Black and Native American children in foster care is four times larger than other racial
and ethnic groups in the state. Half of the children from each racial group has experienced some level of child welfare involvement before reaching legal age. Jackson is a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus.
“Racial and ethnic disproportionality and dispar-ities are present within initial allegations and persist at all levels of the system — becoming the most pronounced
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AC Transit bus stops throughout Oakland.
Pre-Proposal Meeting (Voluntary): Thursday, April 18, 2024 – 11:00 AM (Pacific) https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZjgzM2Q4MjQtOTdlMS00NT QyLTgxOGYtNTI2NWE0M2E1ZDRm%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2298 9a2180-6fbc-47f1-8032-1a9ee969c58d%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%227319fef6-e833-45aaabb3-50f90424d5fc%22%7d
Meeting ID: 246 401 484 425
Passcode: P3SeFQ
Proposal Submittal Deadline: Tuesday, April 30, 2024, by 2:00 P.M. via iSupplier.
Reminders:
• All who wish to participate in this RFP must register (at least 5 days prior
postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 7
CITY OF OAKLAND REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL QUALIFICATIONS (RFP) FOR BUS SHELTER CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Contract Terms: TBD Terms: 1 Year Project Description: This RFP is issued by the City of Oakland, Department of Transportation – Parking & Mobility Division to solicit proposals for cleaning and optional maintenance of approximately one hundred ten bus shelters supporting
to submittal due date) through iSupplier at (https://www.oaklandca.gov/services/register-withisupplier) to avoid last minute submittal complications and receive addenda/updates on this RFP. For additional help registering and submitting your proposal to iSupplier please watch the user guide videos at (https://www.oaklandca.gov/documents/ isupplier-user-guides). Receipt of a confirmation email indicates that a proposal was successfully submitted. • Did not receive an invitation? Start Early with iSupplier registration. Upon completion of registration, send an email to iSupplier@oaklandca.gov listing “RFP for Bus Shelter Cleaning & Maintenance” as the subject and request an invitation to the RFP. The Contract Analyst will add your business to the RFP invitation. • The following policies apply to this RFP: Equal Benefits • 0% L/SLBE • Living Wage • Campaign Reform Act • Professional Services Local Hire • Prompt Payment • Arizona Boycott • Dispute Disclosure • Border Wall Prohibition • Sanctuary City Contracting and Investment Ordinance. For Answers to Questions: 1 For project-related questions contact the Project Manager Shahla Azimi by phone at 510 407-8336 or via email at skazimi@oaklandca.gov 2 For iSupplier related questions contact iSupplier@oaklandca.gov Asha Reed, City Clerk and Clerk of the City Council, (Friday, April 12, 2024) The City Council reserves the right to reject all proposals.
Photo: iStock photo image.
OPINION
By Emil Guillermo
I’m a Northern Californian in New York City for the next few weeks, doing my one-man show, “Emil Amok, Lost NPR Host, Wiley Filipino, Vegan Transdad.” I must like performing in the wake of Mother Nature.
Last Friday, a 4.8 magnitude earthquake shook New York City, reported as the “biggest earthquake with an epicenter in the NYC area since 1884” when a 5.2 quake hit. A bit bigger. The last quake similar to Friday’s was a 4.9 in 1783.
Alexander Hamilton felt it — 241 years ago.
That’s why New Yorkers were freaking out on Friday. They were in the room where it happens.
And it just doesn’t happen that often.
Beyoncé singing country music happens more frequently.
When I felt New York shake last week, it reminded me of a time in a San Francisco TV newsroom when editors fretted about a lack of news an hour before showtime.
Then the office carpeting moved for a good 10 seconds, and the news gods gave us our lead story.
On Friday when it happened in NYC, I noticed the lines in the carpeting in my room wiggling. But I
thought it was from a raucous hotel worker vacuuming nearby.
I didn’t even think earthquake. In New York?
I just went about my business as if nothing had happened. After living near fault lines all my life, I was taking things for granted.
Considering the age of structures in New York, I should have been even more concerned about falling objects inside (shelves, stuff on walls) and outside buildings (signs, scaffolding), fire hazards from possible gas leaks, and then I should have looked for others on my floor and in the hotel lobby to confirm or aid or tell stories.
Of course, as a Californian who has lived through and covered quakes in the 4 to 6 magnitude range, I tried to calm down any traumatized New Yorker I encountered by taking full responsibility for bringing in the quake from the Bay Area.
I reassured them things would be all right, and then let them know that 4.8s are nothing.
And then I invited them to my consoling post-Earthquake performance of “Emil Amok, Lost NPR Host…”
It was the night of the eclipse.
ECLIPSING THE ECLIPSE
In New York City, the eclipse was about 90% visible. Good enough for me. Though a full solar
eclipse is a celestial rarity, blockages of any sort aren’t generally celebrated. My one-man play is about growing up with the eclipsed history of American Filipinos and how I struggle to unblock all that.
For example, did you know the first Filipinos actually arrived to what is now California in 1587? That’s 33 years before the Pilgrims arrived in America on the other coast, but few know the Filipino history which has been totally eclipsed.
I was in Battery Park sitting on a bench and there was a sense of community as people all came to look up. A young woman sitting next to me had a filter for a cell phone camera. We began talking and she let me use it. That filter enabled me to take a picture of the main event with my iPhone.
For helping me see, I invited her and her boyfriend to come see my show.
Coincidentally, she was from Plymouth, Massachusetts, near the rock that says the year the Pilgrims landed in 1620.
In my show she learned the truth. The Pilgrims were second.
History unblocked. But it took a solar eclipse.
Next one in 2044? We have a lot more unblocking to do.
If you’re in New York come see my show, Sat. April 13, 5:20 p.m. Eastern; Fri. April 19, 8:10 p.m. Eastern; and Sun. April 21 5:20 p.m. Eastern. You can also livestream the show. Get tickets at www.amok. com/tickets About the Author Emil
Guillermo is a journalist and commentator. He does a minitalk show on YouTube.com/@emilamok1. postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 8 BUILD SKILLS I HELP OTHERS I EARN MONEY APPLY TODAY! Scan to learn more! Surviving the Earthquake, an Eclipse and ‘Emil Amok’ Book Review: Books for Poetry Month by Various Authors c.2023, 2024, Various Publishers Photo: iStock photo. By Terri Schlichenmeyer On your hands, you have lots of time. You can make a song, or you can make a rhyme. Make a long story, make a short one, write what you like, make it simple and fun. Writing poetry uses your imagination: you play with words, paint a picture. There’s no intimidation. Creating poetry can be a breeze, or just reach for and read books exactly like these... Picture books for the littles are a great way to introduce your 3-to7year-old to poetry because simple stories lend themselves to gentle rhymes and lessons. “See You on the Other Side” by Rachel Montez Minor, illustrated by Mariyah Rahman (Crown, $18.99) is a rhyming book about love and loss, but it’s not as sad as you might think. In this book, several young children learn that losing someone beloved is not a forever thing, that it is very sad but it’s not scary because their loved one is always just a thought away. Young readers who’ve recently experienced the death of a parent, grandparent, sibling, or friend will be comforted by the rhyme here, but don’t dismiss the words. Adults who’ve recently lost a loved one will find helpful, comforting words here, too. Flitting from here to there and back again, author Alice Notley moves through phases of her life, locations, and her diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in her latest poetry collection, “Being Reflected Upon” (Penguin, $20.00). From 2000 to 2017, Notley lived in Paris where she wrestled with breast cancer. That, and her life abroad, are reflected in the poetry here; she also takes readers on a poetic journey on other adventures and to other places she lived and visited. This book has a random feel that entices readers to skip around and dive in anywhere. Fans of Notley will appreciate her new-age approach to her works; new fans will enjoy digging into her thoughts and visions through poems. Bonus: at least one of the poems may make you laugh. If you’re a reader who’s willCourtesy photo. Continued on page 9
COMMENTARY
By Assemblymember Tina McKinnor Special to California Black Media Partners
Organized retail theft is a significant issue that impacts both consumers and businesses. While it is crucial to address theft and protect businesses from losses, we should also be mindful of safeguarding individuals’ constitutional rights, particularly the right to due process.
AB 1990 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo, also known as the STOP Act, raises concerns about the balance between addressing theft effectively and ensuring civil liberties are upheld. This bill allows law enforcement officers to make warrantless arrests for shoplifting offenses not witnessed by the officer, as long as there is reasonable cause to believe the individual committed the crime. This bill has a dangerous potential for overreach and infringes on civil liberties, particularly the right to due process.
While the stated intention behind the STOP Act is to combat organized retail theft and protect businesses, there are valid concerns that this bill is an overreach and that existing law works, if properly enforced by our partners in law enforcement. A petty theft involving property stolen valued at $950 or less may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor (called a wobbler) if the offender has the following prior convictions: 1) at least on prior petty or theft-related conviction for which a term of imprisonment was served, and 2) a prior conviction for a serious or violent offense, for any registerable sex offense, or for embezzlement from a dependent adult or anyone over the age of 65. A misdemeanor
can result in a sentence of up to one year in jail, whereas a felon can mean incarceration for 16 months, two years or three years. Let’s look at shoplifting in California. It occurs when a suspect enters a store, while that establishment is open, intending to steal property worth less than $950. The crime is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in the county jail.
Granting officers the authority to arrest individuals based on reasonable cause, without witnessing the crime firsthand, can lead to negative consequences and possible violations of individual rights. Probable cause is the legal standard by which police authorities have reason to obtain a warrant for the arrest of a suspected criminal and for the courts to issue a search warrant. A grand jury uses the probable cause standard to determine whether or not to issue a criminal indictment. The principle behind the probable cause standard is to limit the power of authorities to conduct unlawful search and seizure of a person or its property, and to promote formal, forensic procedures for gathering lawful evidence for the prosecution of the arrested criminal. Reasonable cause does not require any of this due process and only requires that an officer reasonably believes that a crime has been committed. It is essential to find a middle ground that effectively addresses organized retail theft without compromising the fundamental rights of individuals. California’s current laws, including the use of witness statements and surveillance evidence are sufficient for addressing suspected shoplifting and organized retail theft. California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently prosecuted
Michelle Mack, a suspected organized smash and grab ringleader who paid twelve women to travel around California and commit over $8 million in retail theft at 21 different stores. AG Bonta used California’s current laws to have the suspect arrested and brought to justice.
The State of California is also making significant investments to address retail theft. Just this past year California invested an additional $267 million to combat organized retail theft. It has been less than a year and our law enforcement partners should have the opportunity to address this recent spike in retail theft crime.
Los Angeles County recently applied for and received a grant for the State of California for $15.6 million dollars to address retail theft enforcement. LA District Attorney George Gascon also recently formed an organized retail task force that partners with LA County Sheriff’s Department, Glendale, Beverly Hills, Burbank, Torrance and Santa Monica Police Departments to integrate their response to retail theft across the region. These collaborative efforts, such as those seen in initiatives like the organized retail task force in LA County, demonstrate the importance of a united approach to tackling theft while maintaining a balance between enforcement and civil liberties.
As we move forward, it is essential for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, businesses and communities to work together in finding solutions that effectively address organized retail theft without encroaching on individual rights. Ongoing evaluation and a commitment to thoughtful consideration will be crucial in navigating this challenge and fostering a safe and prosperous environment for all. Balancing the scales of justice to protect businesses while upholding civil liberties demands a comprehensive and conscientious approach from all stakeholders involved.
I am confident we can find that balance.
About the Author Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) represents the 61st District in Los Angeles County, which includes parts of the South Bay, Inglewood, Hawthorne and Lawndale.
BART to Retire Legacy Trains in Public Ceremony April 20
By Tamara Shiloh
Matthew Henson, a trailblazing explorer who overcame countless obstacles to leave an incredible mark on history. Born on August 8, 1866, in Charles County, Maryland, his journey is a testament to the power of determination and the spirit of adventure.
Henson’s life began amidst the backdrop of post-Civil War America, where opportunities for African Americans were scarce. From a young age, he possessed an insatiable curiosity about the world beyond his small town. At the age of 12, he embarked on a journey that would change the course of his life forever when he joined a merchant ship as a cabin boy.
His most famous expedition was his journey to the Arctic with renowned explorer Robert E. Peary. In 1887, Henson joined Peary’s crew as a seaman and quickly proved himself to be invaluable with his skills as a navigator and craftsman. Over the course of several expeditions, Matthew endured extreme cold, treacherous terrain, and grueling conditions as he and Peary sought to reach the elusive North Pole. In 1908–09, Peary set out on his eighth attempt to reach the North Pole. It was a big expedition, with Peary planning to leave supplies along the way. When he and Henson boarded their ship, the Roosevelt, leaving Greenland on August 18, 1909, they were joined by a large group. This included
22 Inuit men, 17 Inuit women, 10 children, 246 dogs, 70 tons of whale meat, blubber from 50 walruses, hunting gear, and tons of coal.
In February, Henson and Peary left their anchored ship at Ellesmere Island’s Cape Sheridan, along with the Inuit men and 130 dogs. They worked together to set up a trail and supplies along the way to the Pole.
Peary picked Henson and four Inuit people to join him in the final push to the Pole. However, before they reached their destination, Peary couldn’t walk anymore and had to ride in a dog sled. He sent Henson ahead to scout the way. In a later interview with a newspaper, Henson recalled being in the lead and realizing they had gone too far. The group turned back, and Henson noticed his footprints helped guide them to their destination. At that location, Henson planted the American flag.
Henson’s legacy extends far beyond his expeditions to the Arctic. He shattered racial barriers in the world of exploration and inspired countless individuals, regardless of race, to dream big and pursue their passions. In 1937, he was finally recognized for his achievements when he was inducted into The Explorers Club, an organization dedicated to promoting scientific exploration and field research.
Matthew Henson died in the Bronx, New York, on March 9, 1955, at the age of 88.
The disparities have persisted over the last decade across the state, the LAO found, adding that Black children living in poverty are more likely to enter foster care. State data shows that there is a correlation between poverty and foster placement in each county.
“Throughout all levels of the child welfare system, families experiencing poverty are more likely to come to the attention of and be impacted by the child welfare system,” stated the report.
Overall, the report revealed that more than half of the families affected by the state child welfare system earn $1,000 per month, significantly less than the national average of $5,000 a month.
The financial disparities highlighted in the LAO report align with existing research indicating that poverty is among the main factors contributing to the likelihood of child maltreatment. State anti-poverty programs include cash aid, childcare subsidies, supportive housing, and nutrition assistance.
Books for Poetry Month
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ing to look into the future, “Colorfast” by Rose McLarney (Penguin, $20.00) will be a book you’ll return to time and again. This, the author’s fourth collection, is filled with vivid poems of graying and fading, but also of bright shades, small things, women’s lives yesterday and today, McLarney’s Southern childhood, and the things she recalls about her childhood. The poems inside this book are like sitting on a front porch in a wooden rocking chair: they’re comfortable, inviting, and they tell a story that readers will love discovering.
If these books aren’t enough, or if you’re looking for something different, silly, or classic, then head to your favorite bookstore or library. The ladies and gentlemen there will help you figure out exactly what you need, and they can introduce you to the kind of poetry that makes you laugh, makes you cry, entices a child, inspires you, gives you comfort, or makes you want to write your own poems. Isn’t it time to enjoy a rhyme?
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initial service BART provided when it opened Sept. 11, 1972.
“It’s a 45-minute trip that travels along approximately 24 miles of the original section of tracks,” BART officials said.
At 1 p.m., the public
Multiple legacy trains will run for the event, and all will make station stops and may turn around at Bay Fair depending on the number of attendees waiting to ride. Regular fares will apply.
“These train cars are part of the history of the Bay Area,” said Bob Powers, BART general manager. “While we are excited to modernize the system, we recognize the profound cultural
importance of these cars, and we want to celebrate their rich history and give them a proper send off.”
BART is now running train cars from its Fleet of the Future project.
Those nostalgic for the older trains will be able to view three of them soon at Western Railway Museum in Suisun City.
A handful of other legacy cars will be transferred to be repurposed for short-term rentals, entertainment venues, and training facilities, according to BART. Most of the legacy cars have been recycled.
postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, Page 9 30 I 12 B 46 G 75 O BYA GYM 1255 Allston Way Berkeley, CA 94702 Participants must be over 18 years old to play JOIN US EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY DOORS OPEN AT 1PM GAMES START BY 2PM Berkeley Youth Alternatives Presents weekend Invest in our children invest in our future We will only accept Debit and Credit cards for purchases No cash transactions allowed Payments via Visa Gift Cards Payouts per game $50+, up to $500 byaonline org 510 845-9010 Finding the Right Balance: Addressing Organized Retail Theft While Upholding Civil Liberties Matthew Henson: Explorer Extraordinaire
Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood)
Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood)
for youth in care,” the report states.
California
Welfare System
Child
Richmond Standard Bay Area Rapid Transit’s final dispatch of legacy trains will take place on Saturday, April 20, and will be accompanied by
retirement ceremony and a final legacy ride.
a
is invited to celebrate the last run of BART’s legacy trains during a ceremony that will take place in the free area of the plaza at MacArthur Station in Oakland.
legacy
Fremont Station,
Following the ceremony, the public is invited to board a
train and ride from MacArthur to
mirroring the
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go forward, they would “take all appropriate measures to defend its right to use this accurate geographic identifier.”
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California, the American Civil Liberties Union of California, and California Community Builders all voiced their support of the bill. strongly opposed the suggestion for a change, the City Attorney going as far as threatening legal action.
SF City Attorney David Chiu announced Monday that his team sent a letter to the Port of Oakland, writing that if Oakland goes forward with the name change, the city will go forward with a lawsuit to prevent the use of their trademarked name.
San Francisco owns U.S. federal trademark registrations for the marks “San Francisco International Airport”, the letter says.
Chiu further claimed that the name change will only cause confusion and chaos for travelers who are used to seeing the San Francisco name in the SFO trademark.
“We want to see the entire Bay Area thrive as a tourist destination and expand our offerings to visitors, but this proposal is not a legal or practical way to go about it. If Oakland moves forward with this proposal, San Francisco will pursue legal action to prevent misuse of our trademark,” Chiu said.
SF Mayor London Breed joined Chiu’s letter, stating that Oakland does not need to add the internationally popular city to its brand in order to grow its services.
“[Oakland] is rich in culture and wonderful people and has its own unique identity. It does not need the name San Francisco as part of its airport to stand out,” Breed wrote.
The Port defended its proposed actions, saying that if the vote did
“The proposed name modification will clarify, not confuse. The new name identifies where OAK is actually located, which is on the San Francisco Bay,” a spokesperson said on behalf of the Port.
Support for the name change extends beyond the Port. Several regional leaders, airlines and community members have come out in support of the name change, including Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao.
“This adjustment isn’t just about signage—it’s about inviting travelers to discover all that Oakland and the region have to offer. From our local dining scene to unique shopping spots and cozy hotels, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s work together to ensure that Oakland Airport continues to serve as a welcoming gateway for visitors and a source of pride for our community,” Thao said.
Because of public outcry amongst residents and leaders in Oakland and San Francisco before and during the Commission meeting, the Board decided to extend the second reading for the proposed name change from the end of April to the first meeting in May.
This decision will allow commissioners to connect with community groups and leaders over their concerns for the change. The Port Commission is scheduled to hold a second reading of the proposed name change on May 9.
State Controller Malia Cohen Keynote Speaker at S.F. Wealth Conference
By Carla Thomas California State Controller Ma
lia Cohen delivered the keynote speech to over 50 business women at the Black Wealth Brunch held on March 28 at the War Memorial and Performing Arts Center at 301 Van Ness Ave. in San Francisco.
The Enterprising Women Networking SF Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) hosted the Green Room event to launch its platform designed to close the racial wealth gap in Black and Brown communities.
“Our goal is to educate Black and Brown families in the masses about financial wellness, wealth building, and how to protect and preserve wealth,” said ABWA San Francisco Chapter President LaRonda Smith.
ABWA’s mission is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support, and national recognition.
“This day is about recognizing influential women, hearing from an accomplished woman as our keynote speaker and allowing women to come together as powerful people,” said ABWA SF Chapter Vice President Velma Landers.
More than 60 attendees dined on the culinary delights of Chef Sharon Lee of The Spot catering, which included a full soul food brunch of skewered shrimp, chicken, blackened salmon, and mac and cheese. Cohen discussed the many economic disparities women and people of color face. From pay equity to financial literacy, Cohen shared not only statistics, but was excited about a new solution in motion which entailed partnering with Californians for Financial Education.
“I want everyone to reach their full potential,” she said. “Just a few weeks ago in Sacramento, I part-
Oakland Symphony,” Armstrong said. “As a Black conductor, I find it humbling to stand on the shoulders of both Michael Morgan and Calvin Simmons,” the most recent and the first African American music directors of the Symphony, respectively.
Armstrong led three programs at the Symphony between 2022 and early 2024, which showcased his broad knowledge of the classical repertoire and enthusiasm for spotlighting diverse voices.
On his Oakland Symphony subscription debut on Feb. 16, Armstrong led the world premiere
of “Here I Stand: Paul Robeson,” an oratorio by Carlos Simon on a libretto by Dan Harder, commissioned by the Oakland Symphony. Armstrong was selected unanimously by the Oakland Symphony’s board of directors and musicians after an extensive two-year search
“The search committee was overwhelmed by Kedrick’s scholarship and curiosity about all kinds of music, from classical and jazz to gospel and hip-hop,” said. Dr. Mieko Hatano, executive director of the Oakland Symphony. “We are thrilled to have him join us at the Oakland Symphony.”
Teacher Mentoring Program ...
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first and only accredited nonprofit university, dedicated to advancing undergraduate and graduate degrees and credentials.
“To be recognized for this work so publicly, has given me more strength to keep [fighting] because it’s a lot of work. I’m super honored and appreciative of [the James Irvine Foundation] for giving me this new burst of energy because it’s a tough field,” Camacho said. Baham echoed Camacho’s sentiments and is grateful that the work they are doing is being recognized by a larger audience.
“It’s an acknowledgement of the work that I’ve put in and it’s an acknowledgement that teachers matter, that education matters. I think that at the end of the day, people see both Hector and I representing Reach University and they walk away with a sense of teaching matters,” Baham said.
The university primarily partners with K-12 school districts to provide potential teacher candidates who specialize in subjects such as liberal arts, math, science of reading, and computer science.
Camacho, dean of Admissions and SVP of Workforce Development, praised the university’s methodology in allowing candidates already employed in school either part or full time, as a teacheraides or paraprofessionals, to earn college credit while mastering the art of teaching.
demic Officer, stated the importance of having educators of color in classrooms because it not only allows for students of color to see themselves in authority positions, but also integrates what the world looks like for those who are not surrounded by diversity in their everyday lives.
She added that diversity at all levels of academia results in success and encouragement for everyone to strive for more.
“It’s important for [students] to see us occupying spaces where they will want to see themselves,” Baham said.
Reach students are taught in group setting classrooms twice a week and through one-on-one mentoring to better assist with individual needs. This approach allows students to network with other classmates to problem-solve similar obstacles and receive personalized coaching to refine their teaching skills.
With job-embedded curriculum being the set form of learning for Reach, many of the students have a clearer transition from degree to career pipeline. Eighty-four percent of California alumni are still in the classroom five years after completing the graduate program and nearly 91% are still working in a school.
Health and Inequities Initiative, Coalition for A Just and Equitable California, Disability Rights of
Draft of Downtown Specific Plan
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barriers are preventing these communities from thriving on an equal playing field.
The authors identified six key disparities, or ‘equity indicators’, that set the baseline for how success will be measured for the improvements. These indicators include the burden of housing costs, homelessness, displacement, disconnected youth, unemployment rate and median income.
The plan is also broken up into chapters, each describing a major issue or topic that is plaguing downtown residents and workers, such as mobility, culture preservation, community health and sustainability, and land use and urban design.
Within each chapter, the authors dedicate a section to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for the various areas of interest, illustrating how disparities and inequities increased before and after the disease’s peak.
Two major issues highlighted in the plan are economic opportunity and housing and homelessness. Both of these issues have been aggravated by the pandemic and require substantial support and resources to move forward.
Many reports coming out of the commercial and residential districts downtown have blamed the rise in crime and cost of living as reasons for leaving Oakland for other cities or closing down indefinitely.
The plan attributes rising rents of both residential and commercial properties to the displacement of local businesses and entrepreneurs. Downtown also has an imbalance in the jobs to housing ratio, which limits access to jobs as commuting distances increase.
at 6.7%, and for the Black population it was even higher at 10.4%.
The proposed solutions for the lack of economic prosperity include providing assistance to local businesses owned by people of color, reinforcing downtown as the ‘place to be’ for nightlife entertainment, and building businesses closer to public transit.
The addition of over 18.3 million (m) sq. ft. of new commercial space, 1.3m sq. ft. of new institutional space, and 500,000 sq. ft. of new industrial space, could potentially create almost 57,000 jobs downtown.
Housing and homelessness, issues closely tied to economic prosperity, are top concerns for Oakland residents. High rents have led to displacement and homelessness for those unable to keep up with the rising costs of the Bay Area.
Over 5,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness in Oakland, according to 2022 Point In Time data. Sixty percent of this population is Black despite only making up nearly 20% of the total city population.
The plan explains that by adding nearly 29,000 new homes and expanding affordable housing units across the city by 2040, this would help alleviate the stress of obtaining and affording a home.
Strategies proposed to tackle the housing and homelessness crisis include increasing renter protections, providing additional shelters and services for homeless residents, and promoting homeownership in downtown with first-time buyer assistance and proactive assistance to vulnerable homeowners.
nered with an organization, Californians for Financial Education.
“We gathered 990 signatures and submitted it to the [California] Secretary of State to get an initiative on the ballot that guarantees personal finance courses for every public school kid in the state of California.
“Every California student deserves an equal opportunity to learn about filing taxes, interest rates, budgets, and understanding the impact of credit scores. The way we begin to do that is to teach it,” Cohen said.
By equipping students with information, Cohen hopes to close the financial wealth gap, and give everyone an opportunity to reach their full financial potential. “They have to first be equipped with the information and education is the key. Then all we need are opportunities to step into spaces and places of power.”
Cohen went on to share that in her own upbringing, she was not guided on financial principles that could jump start her finances. “Communities of color don’t have the same information and I don’t know about you, but I did not grow up listening to my parents discussing their assets, their investments, and diversifying their portfolio. This is the kind of nomenclature and language we are trying to introduce to our future generations so we can pivot from a life of poverty so we can pivot away and never return to poverty.”
Cohen urged audience members to pass the initiative on the November 2024 ballot. “When we come together as women, uplift women, and support women, we all win. By networking and learning together, we can continue to build generational wealth,” said Landers. “Passing a powerful initiative will ensure the next generation of California students will be empowered to make more informed financial decisions, decisions that will last them a lifetime.”
Camacho highlighted the challenges that many face when seeking higher education, such as taking a break from school to work and afford their degree or going directly into college and amassing large amounts of debt to solely focus on their studies.
“Let’s honor and recognize the work that they’re doing in the schools right now. Give them some college credit and then give them the other coursework they need to finish it because we know you shouldn’t have to choose anymore,” Camacho said.
Students at Reach University are paid to earn a degree, and undergraduates take on zero student debt. After grants and institutional scholarships, the out-of-pocket contribution for all full-time undergraduate candidates is $900 per year, or $75 per month, with no student debt, according to Reach officials.
Half of the program candidates are made up of people of color, matching the demographics of the schools they are working in. The large majority are also first-generation college students and some from low-income backgrounds.
Baham, Provost & Chief Aca-
Tysha Hayes, a Reach student, works as a bus driver for Jefferson Union High School District and part-time in the classroom as a part of her degree program. She entered the university in fall 2023 and is hoping to graduate by 2027.
Hayes shared that the non-traditional learning aspect of Reach is what drew her to enroll, as she herself has had an unconventional journey from being a bus driver for 27 years to pursuing a career in education.
The job allows Hayes to be involved in her students’ lives in a more personal way. She explained that her face is the first and last one they see on their way back and forth to school, often prompting them to share their classroom frustrations and struggles with her.
“The bus has been my classroom with the students, so I get the best of both worlds. I get to see them in different elements throughout the whole day,” Hayes said.
Post-graduation, Hayes intends to work in health and wellness so that she can help guide and assist students who are feeling overwhelmed or unmotivated in their education to work through their struggles and strive for more.
Hayes says although she got a late start in life, the prospect of building interpersonal relationships with her students in and out-
Faces Around the Bay ...
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from Cornell University.
At age 19, Blake, then an undergraduate piano major at Boston University, was “discovered” by Impresario Dr. W. Hazaiah Williams, who is the founder and director of Today’s Artists/Four Seasons Arts.
Other concerns for the local economy are barriers to employment opportunities for workers of color, non-English speakers, and those with limited access to transportation. As stated in the plan, downtown also has a lack of vacancies near public transit hubs, such as BART, bus stops or ferry terminals, which could save workers money and time for their commutes into the city.
According to the downtown plan, the average unemployment rate for the white population was 5.9%, but the Asian population was
The plan acknowledges that the implementation of changes and developments amongst the several concerns outlined in the document will take time, both in short and long term periods.
To better explain how and when each project will be addressed over the course of the next two decades, a detailed 123-page graph shows which agencies, potential funding sources, and costs come with the goals.
The Oakland Planning Commission and Landmarks Preservation Advisory Board will each hold public hearings regarding the final draft of the Downtown Plan in May and June.
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income endorsing Pioneer Chicken, Honey Baked Ham and Calistoga water company products and running O.J. Simpson Enterprises, which owned hotels and restaurants.
He married childhood sweetheart Marguerite Whitley when he was 19 and became the father of three children. Before he divorced in 1979, he met waitress and beauty queen Nicole Brown, who he would marry in 1985. A stormy relationship before, during and after their marriage ended, it would lead to a highway car chase as police sought to arrest Simpson for the murder by stabbing of Brown and her friend Ron Goldman in 1994.
The pursuit, arrest, and trial of Simpson were among the most widely publicized events in American history, Wikipedia reported.
Characterized as the “Trial of the Century,” he was acquitted by a jury in 1995 but found liable in the amount of $33 million in a civil action filed by the victims’ families three years later.
fall from grace that was extraordinary and well-deserved, absolutely self-induced, and a man that would never be seen the same again,” she added.
“OJ Simpson played an important role in exposing the racial divisions in America,” attorney Alan Dershowitz, an adviser on Simpson’s legal “dream team” told the Associated Press by telephone. “His trial also exposed police corruption among some officials in the Los Angeles Police Department. He will leave a mixed legacy. Great athlete. Many people think he was guilty. Some think he was innocent.”
“Cookie and I are praying for O.J. Simpson’s children ... and his grandchildren following his passing. I know this is a difficult time,” Magic Johnson said on X.
Williams honored Blake by awarding him the first Marian Anderson Young Artist Award. Anderson personally presented the award at the Masonic Auditorium in S.F. Subsequently, Blake was presented by Dr. Williams in his San Francisco debut at The Herbst Theatre. Williams subsidized a year of study abroad for Blake at the Paris Conservatory of Music. Additionally, Williams sponsored Blake’s New York Weill Hall debut, where he has performed twice since. Blake performed several times at the Yachats Music Festival in Oregon.
Simpson would be ensnared in the criminal justice system 12 years later when he was arrested after forcing his way into a Las Vegas hotel room to recover sports memorabilia he believed belonged to him.
In 2008, he received a sentence of 33 years and was paroled nine years later in 2017.
When his death was announced, Simpson’s accomplishments and downfalls were acknowledged.
“I feel that the system failed Nicole Brown Simpson and failed battered women everywhere,” attorney Gloria Allred, who once represented Nicole’s family, told ABC News. “I don’t mourn for O.J. Simpson. I do mourn for Nicole Brown Simpson and her family, and they should be remembered.” Simpson was diagnosed with prostate cancer about a year ago and was undergoing chemotherapy treatment, according to Pro Football Hall of Fame President Jim Porter. He died in his Las Vegas, Nevada, home with his family at his side.
Blake continues to perform nationally and abroad. His hobbies are reading, baking and travel. He says, “I’m still pumping ivories, as Belgian pianist Jeanne Stark described the disciplined practice of concert piano.”
Sports analyst Christine Brennan said: “… Even if you didn’t love football, you knew O.J. because of his ability to transcend sports and of course become the businessman and the pitchman that he was. “And then the trial, and the civil trial, the civil case he lost, and the
He is survived by four children: Arnelle and Jason from his first marriage and Sydney and Justin from his second marriage. He was predeceased by his son, Aaren, who drowned in a family swimming pool in 1979.
Sources for this report include Wikipedia, ABC News, Associated Press, and X. postnewsgroup.com THE POST, April 10 - 16, 2024, Page 10
Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport ... Financial Assistance Bill ... Kedrick Armstrong ...
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American Business Women’s Association Vice President Velma Landers, left, with California State Controller Malia Cohen (center), and ABWA President LaRonda Smith at the Enterprising Women Networking SF Chapter of the ABWA at the Black Wealth Brunch.
