Armello Joseph, Melannie Morales Rebolledo, Elijah Barbee, and Jeremiah Weaver
A group of Oakland Emiliano Zapata Street Academy students visited Okta in San Francisco on Dec. 11. It was a unique, and eyeopening experience.
Oakland Emiliano Zapata Street Academy, a small public alternative high school in Central Oakland, recently celebrated its
50th anniversary. It provides an alternative college prep education, centered around social justice and life experience.
According to Wikipedia, “Okta, Inc. is an American identity and access management company based in San Francisco. It provides cloud software that helps companies manage and secure user authentication into applications, and for developers to build identity controls into applications, websites, web services, and de -
vices.”
None of the students had previously considered working in cybersecurity, but now they have an idea how to enter the industry.
The group met on the fifth floor of Okta’s headquarters at 100 First St. downtown San Francisco and talked with speakers who explained cybersecurity. They mentioned that there are many ways hackers can get your information.
The speakers explained the methods they use in creating their
product to impede hackers’ activitities.
To keep it interactive, the group played a Kahoot type game with prizes that were not revealed until after the game. The students were very competitive - excited while in the lead spots, and disappointed when they didn’t win. Among the prizes were Beats headphones!
The group was treated to lunch, which was followed by a panel discussion with high-ranking
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) introduced her first bill in Congress last week.
“The Assisting Small Businesses Not Fraudsters Act,” aims to reduce fraud in government aid programs for small businesses. The bipartisan legislation, co-sponsored by Small Business Committee Chair Roger Williams (R-TX-25), seeks to ensure that only eligible
small businesses benefit from federal financial support.
The bill amends the Small Business Act to bar individuals and entities convicted of financial fraud — or making false statements related to grants — from receiving non-disasterrelated financial assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA). This includes grants and contracts intended to support small businesses, particularly in the
By Kevin Hicks
The Interfaith Council of Alameda County (ICAC) helped to organize an Ecumenical Breakfast hosted by former U.S. Congresswoman and current Oakland mayoral candidate
Visitors’ Center.
Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12).
Trump Admin Freezing Scholarship Funds for HBCU Ag Majors Sparks Outrage
By Brandon Patterson
Just days after the Trump administration made a funding decision that rattled HBCU leadership and supporters of the institutions, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated that it has reversed course.
On Feb. 20, the USDA announced that it had suspended the 1890 National Scholars Program which supports students at historically Black land-grant universities, or federally funded universities. It was established to increase Black research and education in the agricultural sciences.
After widespread criticism and outrage, including pushback coming from members of Congress, the USDA posted on its website, “The USDA 1890s National Scholars Program application period has been reopened, and applications will be accepted through March 15th,” the USDA posted on its website on Feb. 24.
The day of the suspension, a note on the USDA’s website stated that the program was “suspended pending further review,” though the exact date it was suspended was unclear.
According to the USDA’s website, the scholarship program provided $19.2 million in scholarships to 94 students at 19 schools in 2024, including Alabama A&M University, North Carolina A&T, and Tuskegee University.
Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA to be eligible.
News of the suspension was a blow for land grant universities, many of which, like other HBCUs, are already underfunded compared to larger, predominantly White institutions. Those schools struggle to provide financial aid to their students at the same rates. Ending the program would have also had broader consequences for industry nationwide, some HBCU leaders have argued.
“These students are in high
workforce demand majors such as food science, forestry and other major needs in agriculture,” Shannon Frank Reeves, Vice President of Government Affairs at Alabama A&M University, told Alabama state news site AL.com. Thirtyfive students at AAMU receive scholarships from the USDA program, according to Reeves. “Considering wildfires in California, bird flu in the poultry industry, and 60% of Alabama’s economy being agriculture, these cuts are unexpected and will have a long-term negative impact on Alabama and the agriculture industry across the country.”
Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) also slammed the program’s suspension.
“President Trump repeatedly promised the American people that he would work to lower the costs of living and create greater access to economic opportunity, including for Black communities,” said Rep. Yvette Clark (D-NY), chair of the CBC. But since taking office, she added, the Trump administration “continues to try to take our country backward.”
But it’s not just HBCUs: other institutions that serve minority students, like Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) and tribal colleges are also feeling the impact of the Trump administration’s early moves, Inside Higher Ed reports. The Trump administration cut a Biden initiative extending federal support to HSIs, for example.
“It was the first time in history that the president of the United States recognized formally through executive order the importance of HSIs, for the national interest and economy, the workforce and so forth,” Antonio Flores, president of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, told the news outlet. “Symbolically, it definitely does mean a great deal.”
By Bo Tefu
California Black Media
California’s U.S. Senators, Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, along with Democratic members of the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works (EPW), are demanding answers from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) following the sudden freeze of funding for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program.
This program, authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is designed to accelerate the construction of zero-emission vehicle charging stations across the U.S. It granted California $384 million over five years to expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
California’s plan was approved in September 2023 by the Biden administration, but earlier this month the Trump Administration froze $3 billion allocated to the NEVI program, halting planned construction.
In a letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, Padilla and Schiff expressed concern that the decision undermines years of planning and effort by state transportation departments. They argued that the freeze disregards Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending and threatens the environmental and economic benefits the program was set to deliver.
“Your abrupt cutoff of NEVI funding disregards these efforts and subjects states and their partners to delay, uncertainty, and bureaucratic red tape. It also threat-
at
the
NAACP Image Awards
By Bo Tefu
California Black Media
In a speech at the 56th annu-
al NAACP Image Awards — held Feb. 22 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium — former Vice President Kamala Harris delivered an upbeat speech, reminding the audience that the future of America “is bright and that they hold the power to determine the course of the
country’s future.
In her first major public appearance since she left office, Harris was honored with the NAACP’s prestigious Chairman’s Award.
The NAACP Chairman’s Award honors individuals who “excel in public service and leverage their unique platforms to ignite and drive meaningful change.”
“Eternal vigilance is the price of Liberty,” said Harris, who received a standing ovation when she walked on stage. “To stay
By Bo Tefu, California Black Media
Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed three Black judges to Superior Courts across California. The Commission on Judicial Appointments also confirmed a Black Judge, Charles Smiley, that Newsom appointed in November to the state’s Courts of Appeal.
Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, chair of the commission, announced the unanimous confirmation of Judge Charles Smiley to the First Appellate District, Division One, in San Francisco. Smiley, an Alameda County Superior Court judge since 2012, fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Justice Sandra L. Margulies.
Newsom’s judicial appointments last week included seven judges in Los Angeles County and others in Modoc, Riverside, San Diego, San Mateo, Tulare, and Ventura counties. Among them are three Black judges appointed to Superior Courts:
● James Montgomery Jr. (Los Angeles County Superior Court), a former court commissioner and attorney.
●
viously an Alameda County judge and prosecutor.
By Bo Tefu
California
Black Media
Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) has introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 577, legislation designed to protect patients with serious illnesses, such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. The bill aims to ensure that patients can receive essential infusions and prescription drugs directly from their own doctors if
deemed necessary for their wellbeing.
According to Wilson, the bill was written to address hardships experienced by patients who currently have to travel to distant infusion centers or other healthcare facilities for treatments. AB 577 seeks to give physicians the ability to manage and administer these treatments in their own offices.
“It is vital that physicians have
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS/PROPOSALS
The Peralta Community College District (PCCD) is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide Construction Management Services (RFP No. 24-25/15). Proposals are to be submitted electronically (via Planet Bid), until 1:00 PM on March 28, 2025
The Peralta Community College District (“PCCD” or “District”) is seeking Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) from qualified Construction Managers (CMs) to provide as-needed construction management services for the District’s Capital Construction Projects.
A Mandatory Pre-proposal meeting will be held on March 5, 2025 at 11:00 AM. District Service Center Board Room, 333 East 8th Street, Oakland, CA 94606
Copies of the proposal documents may be obtained by clicking on the following link: https://vendors.planetbids.com/portal/71895/bo/bo-search Governing Codes: GC 53068 EC 81641
Publication
February 21, 2025 and February 28, 2025
Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City). File photo.
Photo Courtesy of NAACP Image Awards Facebook Page.
Adult Day Program
Dedicated staff needed to work with individuals with developmental disabilities in communitybased settings, or environments. Qualifications: High school or equivalent. Driver’s license. Dependable and efficient. Background check. Physical exam and TB test. Training available. Decent wages. Please call (510) 690-9570.
OPINION: Your Local Streets Are Safe Compared to the Global Dangers We Are Facing
MacArthur Fellow Dorothy Roberts’ Advocates Restructure of Child Welfare System
erts is excerpted from the MacArthur Fellows web site.
Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty 1997)”, she
state intervention and the results of those interventions.
By Emil Guillermo
Oct. 1, it was noted that eight of the 22 MacArthur fellows were African American. Among the recipients of the so-called ‘genius grants’ are scholars, visual and media artists a poet/writer, historian, and dancer/choreographer who each receive $800,000 over
I know you’re more concerned about crime in Oakland’s Chinatown or the downtown area, or Rockridge or anywhere else local. The BART stations.
And some of you may not be able to point to Ukraine on a map.
But Ukraine is important.
Here’s the bottom line: If the U.S. does right by Ukraine, the world will be safer.
If the U.S. doesn’t do right by Ukraine, crime in the streets will seem petty compared to the real danger we will all be in.
Nuclear danger. That’s why you should be paying attention to how Donald Trump is playing Ukraine these days.
So far, he’s turned Ukraine from an ally into to a punching bag because Trump doesn’t want to play with President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump wants to play with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
At recent talks between the U.S. and Russia, Trump didn’t invite Ukraine and Europe to any of the talks.
Trump instead has insulted Zelensky, calling him a dictator.
a five-year period to spend as they
Their names are Ruha Benja min, Jericho Brown, Tony Cokes, Jennifer L. Morgan, Ebony G. Patterson, Shamel Pitts, Jason Reynolds, and Dorothy Roberts. This is the eighth and last in the series highlighting the Black awardees. The report below on Dorothy Rob-
Trump also said Zelensky’s popularity was in single digits. Again, a lie. It’s more like a 57% approval.
Then Trump insulted Zelensky by calling him a “modestly successful comedian,” despite the fact that Zelensky has taken Russia and Vladmir Putin’s best shots and kept the superpower at bay in a war effort for the last three years.
Trump even said Ukraine was the aggressor. Everyone knows that’s a lie.
Russia has always been the aggressor, invading the sovereign nation, Ukraine.
Now, Trump is bailing out Putin and putting the screws on Ukraine, forcing it to pay back money Trump says is around $350 billion, another overstatement.
The Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a non-profit based in Germany, puts the total U.S. aid to Ukraine at just $120 billion. It’s significantly less than $350 billion.
People also don’t realize, the U.S. is giving Ukraine older cheaper military equipment and technology, yet demands Ukraine pay back multiple times over with their natural resources.
A graduate of Yale University with a law degree from Harvard, Dorothy Roberts is a legal scholar and public policy researcher exposing racial inequities embedded within health and social service systems.
That’s Trump’s bullying nego-
But the U.S. attitude toward Ukraine became very clear this week at the UN.
Sine 2012, she has been a professor of Law and Sociology, and on the faculty in the department of Africana Studies at the University of Pennsylvania.
On the third anniversary of the war, a UN Resolution called for Russia’s withdrawal from the country.
Roberts’s work encompasses reproductive health, bioethics, and child welfare. She sheds light on systemic inequities, amplifies the voices of those directly affected, and boldly calls for wholesale transformation of existing systems.
The United States joined Putin’s Russia, Xi’s China, and Kim’s North Korea to vote against it.
On the other side were all the allies, and NATO countries. The United States was voting with the “bad guys.”
Roberts’s early work focused on Black women’s reproductive rights and their fight for reproductive justice. In “Killing the Black
Preposterous? It’s happening now as Trump realigns with Putin and the other despots. It’s shameful and un-American.
It also spells the end of the socalled “Pax Americana” vision of the world that drove U.S. foreign policy since the end of WWII. That’s where Ukraine and NATO could depend on the U.S. for its national security against Russia.
Countries around the world are going to have to arm up with the weapons that speak to power. It means nuclear proliferation may be inevitable among all countries, not just the superpowers.
Local crime is real, no doubt. But the world’s safety just took a real turn for the worst with all the moves on Ukraine enacted by your president, Mr. Donald Trump.
About the Author
Emil Amok Guillermo is an award-winning journalist and commentator. See his micro-talk show on YouTube, Patreon, and Substack.
nied agency to Black women and
This work prompted Roberts to examine the treatment of children of color in the U.S. child welfare
Sylvia Montgomery
By
Personal image development refers to the process of improv-
tions, Roberts has concluded that the current child welfare system is in fact a system of family policing with alarmingly unequal practices and outcomes. Her 2001 book, “Shattered Bonds: The Color of Child Welfare,” details the outsized role that race and class play in determining who is subject to
Through interviews with Chicago mothers who had interacted with Child Protective Services (CPS), Roberts shows that institutions regularly punish the effects of poverty as neglect.
CPS disproportionately investigates Black and Indigenous families, especially if they are lowincome, and children from these families are much more likely than white children to be removed from their families after CPS referral.
In “Torn Apart: How the Child Welfare System Destroys Black Families—and How Abolition Can Build a Safer World (2022),” Roberts traces the historical, cultural, and political forces driving the racial and class imbalance in child welfare interventions.
ing and refining how you present yourself to the world. It encompasses appearance, body language, communication skills, and overall personal branding. The goal is to create a positive and lasting impression that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. This involves aspects such as grooming, dressing appropriately, developing confidence, enhancing social skills, and maintaining a strong online presence. By investing in personal image development, individuals can boost their self-esteem, improve relationships, and increase opportunities for success in various areas of life.
I have been a Personal Development Expert for over 35 years and can confirm that your first impression is ultimately what will stand out most in the memories of
These include stereotypes about Black parents as negligent, devaluation of Black family bonds, and stigmatization of parenting practices that fall outside a narrow set of norms.
She also shows that blaming marginalized individuals for structural problems, while ignoring the historical roots of economic and social inequality, fails families and communities.
Roberts argues that the engrained oppressive features of the current system render it beyond repair. She calls for creating an entirely new approach focused on supporting families rather than punishing them.
Her support for dismantling the current system of child welfare is unsettling to some, but her provocation inspires many to think more critically about its poor track record and harmful design.
people you meet. Think about it, regardless of the surrounding environment when meeting someone for the first time, you automatically formulate a “first impression” of the person. Good or bad, right or wrong, as humans we are rarely open minded during an initial interaction. We often “size up” the person’s character, personality and even sensibilities within moments of meeting them. In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive world, personal image development has become an essential aspect of success, both personally and professionally. How we present ourselves influences how others perceive us, impacting relationships, career opportunities, and self-confidence. For example, in the first 5-7 seconds of meeting a prospec-
By uncovering the complex forces underlying social systems and institutions, and uplifting the experiences of people caught up in them, Roberts creates opportunities to imagine and build more equitable and responsive ways to ensure child and family safety.
iStock
Sylvia Montgomery. Photo Courtesy of Sylvia Montgomery.
Public Notices, Classifieds & Business
By Dr. John E. Warren Publisher San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper
It appears that the leadership of MSNBC has taken
COMMENTARY: MSNBC’s Ethnic Cleansing
the Trump Kool Aide resulting in its move to either purge and or realign people of color as it separates from NBC. The firing of Joy Reid and Katie Phang while consolidating three of the remaining Black hosts into a panel presentation in the time slot of Joy Reid and the addition of an hour, apparently are supposed to soften the blow as to what is really taking place. So, if one stops watching the time slot that Joy Reid
was in, then you help MSNBC move toward eliminating the three Blacks on the panel filling Joy’s time slot. Perhaps, the most important thing we can do for Joy Reid is to help her get a Podcast going just as Don Lemon did and encourage sponsorship support so that those we spend money with will want to spend money with such a program for Joy. We can not afford to waste time arguing with these rac-
ist elements of a racist system. We must instead use our money, time, and talents to finance alternatives that serve both our collective and those who share our views and circumstances. But notice how the new independent MSNBC is handling people of color. Jose Diaz is fired while a Latina woman is moved to prime time. Sounds familiar. Sounds like what just happened to the Joy Reid program and its replacement with
the three-person panel of color. It’s interesting that Joy was making three million a year compared to Rachel’s reduced salary of $25 million for the next five years. Clearly, Rachel could afford to speak out and her doing so in support of her friend and colleague, Joy Reid, is appreciated. Perhaps someone should suggest that Joy Reid bring her business and followers to the Black Press which already airs
a daily radio program with tremendous potential if the right people talk with each other. Let us not forget that the Black press is still one of the most “Trusted Messengers” in this country, and one of the oldest, lest we forget we are celebrating 198 years of service. With this Administration in the White House and its Agents of Destruction on the loose, this is truly the time to circle our wagons of information and options starting with the “SBC” (selective buying campaign) aimed at withholding our dollars from those corporations Continued on page 7
Dr. John E. Warren. Courtesy photo.
Patient Protection Bill ...
Continued from page 2
the ability to manage and administer treatments within their own offices, especially for those who are medically frail or have a history of allergic reactions,” said Wilson regarding the bill.
The bill has garnered support from various medical organizations, including the California Rheumatology Alliance and oncology associations. Dr. Millie Das, president of the Association of Northern California Oncologists, and Dr. Ashkan Lashkari, president of the Medical Oncology Association of Southern California, expressed strong support for the legislation. They emphasized that the bill would help protect oncology care from unnecessary interference by pharmaceuti-
EV Funding Set for California ...
Continued from page 2
ens the jobs, innovation, and environmental benefits that this program was ready and authorized to deliver through implementation,” the senators wrote in a letter to the president.
The NEVI program aims to make electric vehicles more accessible by installing charging stations every 50 miles along major travel corridors, promoting clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The Senators requested that the funding freeze be immediately reversed
cal benefit managers (PBMs) and insurance companies.
“Protecting the doctor-patient relationship in oncology is crucial to saving lives,” the association wrote in a statement supporting the new law.
Samy Metyas, President of the California Rheumatology Alliance, echoed this sentiment, stressing that treatment decisions should be made solely between a patient and their healthcare provider, free from the influence of insurance or profit-driven interests.
If passed, AB 577 will prevent health plans, PBMs, and insurers from imposing restrictive policies that limit a physician’s ability to administer treatments within their own practice, thereby improving access and care for vulnerable patients across the state.
and demanded answers on the legal grounds for the decision. They also called for the release of documents related to discussions involving the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and other key figures.
The freeze could delay critical infrastructure projects and disrupt the transition to zero-emission vehicles, particularly in rural areas, where access to charging stations is limited. The Senators’ letter was signed by several other lawmakers, including Senators Sheldon (D-RI) Whitehouse, Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Bernie Sanders (D-VT).
Personal Image Development ...
tive employer you will positively or negatively impress them. Your appearance, actions and communication skills will be knowingly or unknowingly assessed and will typically be given a fair amount of weight compared to your work experience. It’s roughly a 40/60% measurement, respectively. The mind will not forget what was initially seen and heard.
In addition to this scenario, there are other benefits to developing your personal image or brand.
1. Boosts Self-Confidence
A well-developed personal image enhances self-confidence. When you feel good about how you present yourself, you naturally exude a positive aura.
bility and trust.
4. Enhances Social Relationships
People are naturally drawn to individuals who appear confident. By improving your personal image, you can build stronger connections and create meaningful relationships in both personal and professional settings.
5. Encourages Personal Growth
Kamala Harris Speaks at the NAACP Image Awards ...
Continued from page 2
alert, to seek the truth, and to actively participate in the fight for America’s future.
Harris said the NAACP came into being at a time America struggled with greed, bitterness and hatred.
Developing your image often requires self-reflection and self-improvement. This process fosters personal growth, helping you recognize strengths and areas for enhancement. As you refine your image, you cultivate discipline, self-awareness, and a proactive mindset.
“Those who forged the NAACP, those who carried its legacy forward, had no illusions about the forces they were up against — no illusions about how stony the road would be,” Harris continued.
“Some look at this moment and rightly feel the weight of history.
MSNBC’s Ethnic Cleansing ... Continued from page 4
2. Improves Communication Skills
A strong personal image is not just about looks; it also includes effective communication. Good posture, eye contact, and clear speech enhances your ability to express ideas convincingly with confidence and authority.
3. Strengthens Personal Branding
Your personal image is a key component of your personal brand. A consistent and polished image helps you stand out in your field, creating a unique and memorable presence. Whether in person or on social media, a well-crafted personal brand fosters credi-
About the Author Sylvia Montgomery provides total personal image development services, which include group workshops and one on one sessions. To learn more, please visit me online: www.bestimpressionsids.com or email me, bestimpressions47@gmail.com. I work with teens and adults interested in projecting their best selves and fine tuning their total personal brand.
Continued from page 6
that are canceling DEI and other elements of fairness and equality based on ability and not color.
We have seen nations engage in efforts to remove whole groups of people based on religion or ethnicity. We have called such efforts by others “Ethnic Cleansing.” Now we see the beginning of targeting people in this great nation
NOTICE INVITING BIDS
Some see the flames on our horizons, the rising waters in our cities, the shadows gathering over our democracy, and ask, ‘What do we do now?’ But we know exactly what to do, because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
Ending on an optimistic note, Harris said she has no illusions about the challenges ahead.
“This chapter of our American story, this chapter will be written not simply by whoever occupies the Oval Office — nor by the wealthiest among us,” she said. “The American story will be written by you, written by us — by we the people. Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States.”
for removing not only from this country with deportations but also from positions of visibility and authority, such as the firing of the Black Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, apparently just because of the color of his skin.
Yes, the firing at MSNBC clearly comes from the same cup the Administration is serving in its campaign against DEI and Affirmative Action.
Just like the Trump Administration’s agenda, it looks like “Ethnic Cleansing.”
The Peralta Community College District is calling for sealed Bids to be delivered to the Purchasing Department electronically (via Vendor Registry), until 1:00 P.M, on March 18, 2025.
Bid No.: 24-25/14 Merritt College New Child Development Center FF&E
The District is seeking competitive bids to supply furniture, fixtures and equipment for the Merritt College New Landscape Horticulture Complex to design, deliver, install and project management services for the specific FF&E items that will be priced out.
Copies of the proposal documents may be obtained by clicking on the following link: https://vendors.planetbids.com/portal/71895/bo/bo-search or, by contacting the Peralta Community College District, Purchasing Department, 333 8th Avenue, Oakland, California, 94606, Office Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (510)466-7200.
Governing Codes: GC 53068, EC 81641
Publication Dates: February 21, 2025 and February 28, 2025
Financial Considerations for Multigenerational Households
For many Black, Hispanic and Latino families, as well as other cultures, multigenerational living is a cherished aspect of home life. It can also be good for your family’s overall wellbeing.
Research indicates there can be financial benefits to multigenerational living, and when executed intentionally, having multiple family members under the same roof can potentially help improve health outcomes, reduce loneliness for older adults and bolster educational outcomes for children.
While multigenerational living has many positives, it also comes with a unique set of financial matters and planning needs. From saving and budgeting to dividing costs and estate planning, navigating the financial landscape of a multigenerational home calls for foresight and strategy.
Below are some financial considerations for people living in multigenerational households
and those considering moving in with family members.
Helping to build family wealth
In a 2022 study, the Pew Research Center found people in multigenerational households were less likely to live in poverty, and some multigenerational households had more earners than the non-multigenerational households, which can help provide a safety net in case someone loses a job. It can also encourage homeownership — 14% of all home buyers in the study said their purchase was motivated by a desire to accommodate multiple generations in their family.
Having diverse financial needs
Savings and budgeting plans can be more complicated because of the wide range of ages among family members. Seniors might require more for health care and retirement, for example, while children can bring daycare and tuition costs. Be flexible with your planning to accommodate differ-
ent saving and budgeting needs and set short- and long-term goals for your savings with all generations in mind.
Expenses should be handled with fairness and equity
Multigenerational households have to ensure fairness by dividing costs such as mortgage or rent, utilities, groceries and household expenses based on each member’s financial capacity and usage. A sense of transparency can be maintained among family members by openly discussing financial contributions and expenses.
Find balance between cultural values and financial health
Cultural traditions and familial structures can also play a significant role in money management, and it’s important to consider how multigenerational living can impact family wealth. Cultural heritage can shape financial attitudes and practices within multigenerational households, including sav-
ing habits, investment strategies and perceptions of wealth. Understanding how your cultural values connect to your beliefs and practices related to money can be essential for effective financial management within diverse family structures.
Communication is key to managing conflict and disagreement
The more people living in a home, the more likely they’ll face conflicting financial priorities. Navigating disagreements over spending habits and adapting to changing income levels or unexpected expenses are necessary to maintain financial stability in multigenerational households.
Future planning is vital
Estate plans should be tailored to accommodate the financial needs and goals of each generation within the household and strategies should be developed for transferring ownership of businesses or properties to ensure
1. AARP, “Multigenerational living.” (2024). 2. The demographics of multigenerational households.” (March 2022).
continuity and preserve the family’s legacy. Make sure to compile essential legal documents — including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives — to outline the distribution of assets and clarify end-of-life wishes.
The bottom line
Multigenerational households can foster financial harmony and wellbeing by accounting for their individual financial goals and their shared responsibilities. Family members should be clear about plans, needs and expectations to promote financial stability and satisfaction for all. Communicating about these issues early can help avoid tension later on.
By addressing these considerations holistically and prioritizing open discussion and collaboration, multigenerational households can build a solid financial foundation, helping them achieve prosperity and security for their family members now and in the future. Read more about financial considerations for multigenerational households here on chase. com/theknow.
Soul and R&B Fans Mourn Loss of Jerry Butler, Roberta Flack and Gwen McCrae
It also came just days after three-time Grammy nominee and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer Jerry Butler, a premier soul singer of the 1960s, died at 85.
By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire
Roberta Flack, the Grammywinning singer and pianist whose smooth vocals and intimate style made her a defining artist of the 1970s, died Monday at her home surrounded by family. She was 88. Her publicist, Elaine Schock, confirmed the news in a statement. Flack revealed in 2022 that she had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which had taken away her ability to sing.
Her death came just one day after the passing of soul-funk singer Gwen McCrae, who died Sunday at 81. McCrae, best known for hits like “Rockin’ Chair” and “Funky Sensation,” was celebrated for her enduring influence on soul and disco music.
Jerry Butler, The Iceman Known as “Ice Man,” because he eschewed much of the melodramatic gestures of doo-wop on stage, Butler had numerous hits including “For Your Precious Love,” “Only the Strong Survive,” and “Make It Easy on Yourself.”
That cool voice emerged in the 1950s when he was the lead singer of The Impressions, which included Curtis Mayfield, who would become known for the soundtrack to the controversial Blaxploitation film “Superfly.”
In later life, Butler entered politics, receiving a masters’ degree in political science and then running for office. He won one of 17 seats on the Cook County Board of Commissioners in 1985 and served uninterrupted until he re-
tired in 2018.
Butler’s niece, Yolanda Goff, told The Associated Press that Butler died of Parkinson’s disease at his home in Chicago.
Roberta Flack: A Life in Music
Born Roberta Cleopatra Flack on Feb. 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, she was raised in Arlington, Virginia, where her musical roots were cultivated at the Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Flack began piano lessons at age 9 and earned a full scholarship to Howard University at 15. She initially studied piano before switching to voice. She graduated at 19 and later taught music and English in North Carolina after her father’s death.
In Washington, D.C., Flack balanced teaching with nightclub performances, captivating audiences at local venues like Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill. Her breakthrough came when jazz pianist Les McCann discovered her and arranged an audition with Atlantic Records. Her 1969 debut album “First Take” initially received little attention until Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” Released as a single in 1972, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks and earned Flack her first Grammy award for Record of the Year. Flack’s success soared with her 1973 recording of “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” which be-
came her signature hit. The song spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned her two Grammys: Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. With the win, Flack became the first artist to earn consecutive Record of the Year awards. Her partnership with Donny Hathaway produced hits like “Where Is the Love,” which won a Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group. She continued her chart success with “Feel Like Makin’ Love” in 1974, making her the first female vocalist to top the Hot 100 in three consecutive years. Flack’s later collaborations with Peabo Bryson and Maxi Priest yielded popular tracks like “Tonight I Celebrate My Love” and “Set the Night to Music.”
Throughout her career, Flack advocated for artist rights and founded the Roberta Flack School of Music, providing free music education to underprivileged youth. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999 and performed for Nelson Mandela that same year. Flack is survived by her son, musician Bernard Wright.
Gwen McCrae: Soul and Disco Legacy
Gwen McCrae, celebrated for her rich voice and lasting impact on the disco and soul music scenes, died Sunday at 81. A statement from her official brand account called her passing “more bad news” for the music world
early success with “Lead Me On.” In 1972, she released “Always on My Mind,” a song later popularized by artists including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and the Pet Shop Boys.
Her
and acknowledged how fans “are still jamming to ‘Rockin’ Chair’ all these years later.”
Born Gwen Mosley in Pensacola, Florida, McCrae achieved
Sponsored by JPMorganChase
Photo provided by JPMorgan Chase.
Roberta Flack. Photo: John Mathew Smith & www. celebrity-photos.com. Caption: Jerry Butler. Instagram photo.
Gwen McCrae. Facebook photo.
Black Joy Parade Announces 2025 Icons Among Us Honorees Launches Fifth Anniversary Gallery Show at Joyce
Gordon Gallery in Oakland
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Photography courtesy of Comcast
As part of the successful 2025 Black Joy Parade that took place on Sunday, Feb.23, Black Joy Parade announced the 2025 Icons Among Us honorees, along with the launch of a commemorative fifth anniversary gallery show at Joyce Gordon Gallery, with support from Comcast. This year’s honorees are Joyce Gordon, founder of Joyce Gordon Gallery; Tyrone Stevenson Jr. (Baybe Champ), founder and CEO of the Original Scraper Bike Team; and Gigi R. Crowder, CEO of NAMI Contra Costa.
Founded in 2017 by Elisha Greenwell and Amber Lester, the Black Joy Parade has become a significant community event that attracts visitors and boosts Oakland’s economy. Introduced in 2020, the Icons Among Us award seeks to celebrate the movement beyond the parade and festival and recognize community-nominated local activists and leaders dedicated to uplifting the community. Each recipient receives a $5,000 contribution to donate to a non-profit of their choice; since its launch in 2020, 15 individuals have been honored with this recognition.
“We often wait until our heroes have passed away to honor and celebrate them, but these heroes are here, and they have been doing the work,” said Black Joy Parade Founder and CEO, Elisha Greenwell. “Let’s stop waiting and give them their flowers now.”
As part of Icons Among Us, YouthBeat students receive a grant to create short documentary-style videos of the Icons. YouthBeat educates, empowers, and employs Oakland youth to help them achieve their dreams and succeed in school, career, and life.
“Each year, YouthBeat provides more than 450 Oakland students with free digital media training and access to quality career opportunities. Through our social enterprise, we help organizations use video to amplify and tell stories,” said Jalil Butron, YouthBeat Creative Director. “Each project creates economic opportunity in Oakland and uplifts students’ diverse voices, talents, and perspectives.”
This year, to celebrate the fifth anniversary of Icons Among Us, Black Joy Parade will also kick off a photo show at Joyce
Gordon Gallery, located at 406 14th St. in Oakland. The exhibition will feature photography by renowned San Francisco photographer Susan Brown, as well as portraits of all 15 recipients of the Icons Among Us award. It will open to the public through Feb.28.
“It is an honor to capture the essence and spirit of these remarkable community leaders through my lens,” said Susan Brown, Bay Area-based photographer and community leader. “Each portrait tells a story of resilience, dedication, and the profound impact these individuals have on the Bay Area. I am grateful the Black Joy Parade and its partners for providing a platform to celebrate and uplift these Icons Among Us.”
Meet the 2025 Icons Among Us
Joyce Gordon is a key figure in Oakland’s arts communi-
ty and the founder of Joyce Gordon Gallery, which has supported Black artists and fostered artistic dialogue for over 20 years. Born in Louisiana and raised in Berkeley, she was inspired by the artistic circles of her youth. After studying at the California College of the Arts, she opened her gallery in downtown Oakland, aiming to create an inclusive space for Black artists.
The gallery has showcased works by notable artists like Raymond Saunders and Jacob Lawrence, and has become a community hub for schools, nonprofits, and activists. In 2018, she founded the Oakland Youth Art Explosion (OYAE) to provide arts access to underserved youth. Through her nonprofit, the Joyce Gordon Foundation of the Arts, she continues to support young artists and foster community connections.
Gordon’s influence extends beyond her gallery, making her a mentor and advocate for Black artists and the broader community.
Oakland native Tyrone Stevenson Jr. (Baybe Champ) is the founder and CEO of the Original Scraper Bike Team, a nonprofit empowering underserved youth through biking, education, and creative self-expression. A Cal State East Bay graduate with a degree in Nonprofit Management, Champ began the team at age 16, driven by a passion to give back to his community. Recognized as a Jefferson Awards Globe Changer in 2011, he is expanding Scraper Bikes nationally while also promoting health and wellness initiatives and youth entrepreneurship.
Gigi R. Crowder is a proud Native of Oakland and the CEO of NAMI Contra Costa. She is the Founder of Black Minds Matter 2! and the 40 Voices Campaigns. Gigi is an Elder in her church and is a dedicated mental health advocate who champions utilizing community-defined and faithbased strategies and approaches to improve behavioral health outcomes for African Americans. She is unapologetic about where she focuses her attention and deems Black People as the most harmed due to systemic racism. In 2022, she founded and led the highly successful 40 Voices Campaign, declaring a call to action pushing Contra Costa County to fund an African American Holistic Wellness and Resource Hub.
Current and former Icons Among Us at the 2025 Icons Among Us Media Preview, where they received a proclamation from the interim Mayor of Oakland, Kevin Jenkins. From left to right: Interim Mayor of Oakland, Kevin Jenkins, with current and former Icons: Joyce Gordon, LaNiece Jones, Gigi Crowder, Tyrone (Baybe Champ) Stevenson Jr., Jameelah Hanif, Donald Frazier, Dr. Angela Wellman, Adamaka Ajaelo, and Government Affairs Director for Comcast, Ken Maxey.
From left to right: Tyrone Stevenson Jr. (Baybe Champ), Gigi R. Crowder, Elisha Greenwell, Joyce Gordon and Jacob Mitchell at the Black Joy Parade Stage during the 2025 Black Joy Parade.
Tyrone Stevenson Jr. (Baybe Champ) next to his photo. Portraits of the current and former Icons Among Us will be displayed at Joyce Gordon Gallery through Feb. 28.
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der San Leandro Police Officers
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries: ‘Donald Trump is Not
By Roy D. Wilson, Ed.D.
On Feb. 21, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries spoke at the 32nd lecture of the Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series held at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts.
Jeffries was joined by several other leaders, including interim Oakland Mayor Kevin Jenkins, Merritt College President David Johnson, Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), former Oakland Mayor and California State Assemblymember Elihu Harris and former U.S, Congresswoman Barbara Lee.
Jeffries and Lee held a dynamic and wide-ranging conversation outlining the Democratic Caucus strategy for protecting democracy. Jeffries put forth, “It’s clear to me that the flood of extremism and the parade of the horrible represents both who they are, and an intentional strategy to try to disorient, discourage and disillusion all of us and the American people. They want us to step back, but we will fight back. The one thing I will say at the top is Donald Trump is not a king, and we will never bend the knee.”
The theater was packed, and the audience was enthusiastic, vocal, and energized, indicating their appreciation for Jeffries’ comments and the conversation
a King’
among the event’s headliners.
Concluding his remarks, Jeffries gave instructions to all, “We are encouraging folks to gather people in their communities — even if it’s just a handful, to talk about your reaction, your feelings to what’s unfolding, because in doing that we strengthen each other. Create living room conversations, or coffee shop conversations, and, of course, town hall meetings. You can organize on your block, in your neighborhood, in your building. And all of that will be important as we collectively get this country to a better place.”
After the lecture, in the lobby, attendees stayed for some time talking to each other, hugging, and smiling.
Johna Pecot, a participant, said, “I haven’t been this inspired and happy since before the election.”
Jeffries recently authored an acclaimed book that outlines a pathway toward democracy. Titled the “The ABC’s of Democracy,” the book was on sale, and guests bought hundreds of copies, selling out Jeffries’ stock at the event.
You can purchase your copy online at https://www.amazon. com/ABCs-Democracy-HakeemJeffries/dp/1538770369.
Pastor Ken Chambers, founding president of the ICAC and senior pastor of West Side Missionary Baptist Church underscored the power of unity in addressing Oakland’s challenges.
“When we come together — leaders, community members, and the faith
Community — we can create real change. Collaboration is the key to building a stronger, more vibrant Oakland for everyone. Working together works.”
The breakfast concluded with a collective prayer, symbolizing the shared hope and dedication to a brighter future for Oakland.
Oakland Emiliano Zapata Street Academy Students ...
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The group played another interactive game — this time with three prizes for the winners — another set of Beats headphones and JBL headphones. Students locked in and tried their hardest to win the popular prizes. The activity leader answered the final three questions in under a second each. Winning the Beats headphones was a highlight of the day.
The group went on a tour of the buildings. Students saw that the workplace can also be fun. Employees can have fun after they have worked and during rest periods.
In general, the aesthetic of the space was great. We liked how the space was decorated — the 13th floor was San Francisco-themed. There were pictures of landmarks and the names of the streets in the city. Different meeting rooms were named after places in San Francisco, like Pier 39.
The architecture was unique - the hallway curved around the
floor. There were amazing views, including one from an outdoor rooftop greenspace. There was a mini golf course and a hidden room that was accessed by pushing a book to open the door. They had a speakeasy room, a coffee bar, a movie theater and more. The organization was getting ready for their holiday party during our December visit, adding festive touches everywhere.
The field trip provided a unique future career option for the students.
The students greatly appreciated the time the hosts and chaperones put in, and the information they learned. Students who attended were Zion Wordofa, Melanie Morales Rebolledo, Yessica Mendez Vargas, Nico Guilbranson; Jeremiah Weaver, Armello Joesph, Lamar Blake, and Treasure Helaire.
Teachers who facilitated the experience were Gennaro Vallant, Jaron Epstein, Mitzila Valdez, and Madie Weiland. Anyone interested in enrolling a student at the Street Academy can call 510-874-3630.
ICAC Joins Oakland Ballers’ ‘Ballunteer’ Day Helping Those in Need
By Kevin Hicks Special to The Post
The Oakland Ballers joined forces with the Interfaith Council of Alameda County (ICAC) for Ballunteer Day, a powerful day of service dedicated to supporting the West Oakland community.
On Saturday, Feb. 22, more than 40 dedicated Ballunteers gathered at the ICAC Hub, located at West Side Missionary Baptist Church, to distribute nutritious produce and canned goods to hundreds of community members in partnership with Helping Others Win.
In addition to food distribution, volunteers worked diligently to clean and prepare trailers that will soon become safe homes for
individuals currently enrolled in the ICAC Safe Car Park Program, providing a secure, overnight space for those living in their vehicles.
The Ballunteer program is a community-driven initiative of Oakland Ballers fans committed to supporting and empowering local nonprofits through collective action.
Whether by providing handson assistance at events, offering professional expertise, or dedicating time to meaningful projects, Ballunteers help drive real change where it is needed most.
Dressed in their signature Oakland Ballers gear, the volunteers embodied the spirit of teamwork and service, working side by side with ICAC and Helping Others
Win to uplift the community.
“The Ballers are a communityfirst organization,” said Laura Geist, general manager of the Oakland Ballers. “We want the Oakland community to come out, watch the Ballers play baseball, and be part of something bigger than the game.”
The efforts of the Ballunteers will directly support ICAC’s plan to create a trailer village at the ICAC Hub in West Oakland and additional sites in East Oakland.
Developer Randy Williamson is collaborating with ICAC to lead a transitional affordable housing initiative, providing a crucial pathway for unhoused individuals to find stability and rebuild their lives.
As the day wrapped up, Bal-
lunteers and community members took a moment to reflect on their shared mission. Leaders from ICAC and Helping Others Win spoke about the power of unity and service, encouraging continued participation in volunteer efforts, donations, and advocacy.
“Together, we are stronger,” said Pastor Ken Chambers of West Side Missionary Baptist Church and founding president of ICAC. “Let’s keep this momentum going and make a difference—one act of kindness at a time. Working together works!”
To learn more about ICAC visit interfaithAC.org. Join the upcoming ICAC meeting on March 13 from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Oakland Temple Visitors Center, 4766 Lincoln Ave., Oakland, CA 94602.
Blake Staniford, Quinton May, and Austin Lovel by allegedly firing at them with a semiautomatic weapon while the officers were engaged in the performance of their duties. The complaint also alleges that the defendant used his 2021 Toyota Tacoma as a deadly weapon.
Melendez was driving a vehicle that matched the description of one reportedly used as a weapon during a domestic violence incident in a Walmart parking lot in San Leandro.
Prosecutors charged Melendez with three counts of attempted murder of a peace officer, three counts of assault on a peace officer with a semiautomatic firearm, one count of possession of a firearm by a felon with priors, unlawful fire-
arm activity, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon and three counts of child abuse. The charges include a gun use enhancement and an additional enhancement for two strikes (one prior) at the time of the shooting.
“The crimes that are alleged here are very serious,” said D.A. Jones Dickson. “My office has zero tolerance for gun violence. The whole community is at risk when a gun is used in any crime. Public safety is a priority for this office as well as our community.”
Reynaldo Melendez is scheduled to appear for a plea hearing on March 3 in Department 112 at the Wiley E. Manuel Superior Courthouse in Oakland. If convicted of all charges and sentenced, Mr. Melendez faces more than 50 years to life in prison.
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wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Simon addressed growing concern over fraud in the SBA’s pandemic relief programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) as she emphasized the bill’s importance.
"While small businesses faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, some exploited vital resources meant for struggling businesses," said
Simon.
“My bill ensures that those who have exploited the system will not be able to take advantage of future opportunities,” she added.
The bill is part of Simon’s broader effort to provide longterm support to small businesses across her district, which includes Oakland and other parts of Alameda County.
James Hemings: The Slave Chef Who Revolutionized American Cuisine
By Tamara Shiloh
James Hemings was a culinary innovator whose influence on American cuisine runs deeper than most people realize. Born into slavery in 1765 in Virginia, he was the older brother of Sally Hemings and was owned by Thomas Jefferson. Although overlooked for generations, Hemings played an important role in introducing French culinary techniques to America — techniques that continue to shape the nation’s food traditions today.
At just 19 years old, Hemings was selected by Jefferson, then serving as the U.S. Minister to France, to train as a chef in Paris.
In 1784, he embarked on a journey that would not only refine his skills but also expose him to a level of culinary artistry few in America had ever experienced. Under the guidance of master chefs, he learned the foundations of classic French cuisine — sauces, pastries, and the precision of fine dining. He also became fluent in the French language and culture, gaining a rare level of independence for an enslaved man.
While in France, Hemings was technically free because slavery had been abolished there. He could have stayed and built a life for himself. But, instead, he negotiated a bargain with Jefferson: in exchange for training another chef to take his place, he would be granted his legal freedom upon their return to America.
In 1789, Hemings returned to Monticello, where he revolutionized the dining experience. His mastery of French cooking techniques blended with the ingredi-
ents and foods of the American South, creating a fusion that remains a cornerstone of American cuisine.
Perhaps his most enduring contribution is the popularization of macaroni and cheese, a dish he adapted from the French “macaroni pie” and introduced to Jefferson’s table. His repertoire also included crème Brulé, French-style whipped potatoes, and ice cream — dishes that would later become symbols of elite American dining. Hemings’ talent extended beyond Monticello. He cooked in Jefferson’s Philadelphia residence while Jefferson served as Secretary of State, exposing a broader audience to his refined culinary style. His influence rippled outward, determining how food was prepared and enjoyed in early America.
True to his promise, Jefferson granted Hemings his freedom in 1796 after he trained his younger brother, Peter Hemings, to take over the kitchen. As a free man, Hemings worked as a chef in Philadelphia and Baltimore, earning wages for his expertise. But despite his newfound independence, his later years were marked by struggles, and in 1801, he died under mysterious circumstances — his death officially ruled a suicide. Although his life was tragically short, Hemings was more than just a cook — he was a culinary artist who helped define American cuisine at its roots. Today, as historians uncover more about the contributions of enslaved chefs, his name is finally gaining the recognition it deserves.
Alameda County District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson. Courtesy photo.
From left to right: Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), former U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8) at the Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series held Feb. 21 at the Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts. Photos by Linda Parker Pennington, a board member on the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce.
Elder Larry Childs, Director of Oakland Temple Visitor’s Center; Barbara Lee, Rev. Ken Chambers, President of the Interfaith Council of Alameda County. Photo by Kevin Hicks.
About 40 ‘Ballunteers’ came to West Side Missionary Baptist Church in West Oakland to distribute food to the needy and help some trailer owners clean them up. Photo by Kevin Hicks.
