Oakland Post, week of January 10 - 16, 2024

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

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Free Thanksgiving dinner at Geoffrey’s Inner Circle, 410 14th St., Oakland. Courtesy of Geoffrey’s.

Open Letter to Mayor Thao: Reject Tidewater Development’s Construction Next to Geoffrey’s Inner Circle

Weekly Edition. Edition. January 10 - 16, 2024

61st Year, No. 2

The Martin Luther King Regional Shoreline Park will be one site for cleanup on Jan. 15. East Bay Regional Parks photo.

Celebrating MLK Holiday Special to The Post on a matter with significant equity in Berkeley, implications. We respectfully request that you It should also be noted that there Oakland vote “No” on the City Council resoOakland Private Industry Council (OPIC) Business Managers Frank Smith, Diane Lewis with OPIC President are dozens of studies indicating that lution regarding Tidewater Franklin Street development due to be scheduled on the Jan. 16 City Council agenda. Tidewater’s proposed development will harm Geoffrey’s Inner Circle through its very construction, in much the same way that another nearby Black business, Uncle Willie’s Original Bar-B-Que and Fish, was devastated by construction of a 27-story hotel tower adjacent to the historic building that housed this venerated Black business. Further, the Planning Commission made many errors in its approval process, including but not limited to the following: 1. Its members acknowledged that they were not even aware that the Black Arts Movement and Business District existed. 2. It ignored the fact that Geoffrey’s was entitled to critical protections as a recognized historic resource. 3. It ignored the fact that Tidewater had not sought permits or permission to alter Mr. Pete’s building, although such alterations are an integral part of Tidewater’s proposal. 4. The Planning Department did not provide, in a timely manner, relevant Public Records Act information requested by the appellant. In addition, the Planning Department staff has refused to meet with Mr. Geoffrey Pete throughout the appeal process. Sadly, it also appears that the City’s own Department of Race and Equity has been bypassed

residential construction like Tidewater’s drives out live entertainment venues. Many cities have laws to regulate such potential conflicts. Geoffrey’s is a critical business to the Oakland community as a whole, and particularly to the African American community. It has been a place of comfort and camaraderie for thousands of people who have listened to music, held celebrations, funeral repasts, and community meetings. And, Pete hosts an incubator program which has provided a haven for business owners who would not have had success if not housed in his building with below market-rate rent and other amenities, thus enabling them to survive in the ever-more costly downtown area. The African American population in Oakland has decreased from 47% in the 1980s to 22% currently. A large part of the reason has been City policies which privilege the desires of wealthy developers over the needs of the Black community. There are questions around housing and other matters which are too lengthy for this letter; we would be happy to discuss all of these with you. We urge you in the strongest terms to support Geoffrey’s and refuse to vote in support of any measure presented to you that would allow Tidewater’s construction next to Geoffrey’s. Signers (partial list): Organizations Continued on page 8

Rendering of Tidewater Capital’s 40-story residential tower at 1431 Franklin Street, next to Geoffrey’s Inner Circle. Courtesy of Tidewater Capital

Will New City Leaders End Oakland’s Long-Time Cozy Relationship with Corporate Developers?

By Ken Epstein

New research, produced by sup-

porters of Geoffrey’s Inner Circle

and the Black Arts Movement and

Business District, has provided powerful evidence against giving a greenlight to Tidewater Capital’s 40-story luxury apartment building at 1431 Franklin St., inches

Officer Tuan Le. Courtesy Photo.

Memorial Service Held in Castro Valley for Oakland Police Officer Killed in the Line of Duty

By Magaly Muñoz

On Wednesday morning, a memorial service was held at 3Crosses Church in Castro Valley to honor the memory of Tuan Le, an Oakland police officer who was tragically

killed in the line of duty on Dec. 29. Le was fatally wounded during an attempted burglary at a cannabis dispensary and was rushed to Highland Hospital where he died of his injuries hours later.

By Clifford L. Williams and Post Staff

For the 10th year in a row, the Anti Police-Terror Project invites Oaklanders to hit the streets for a mass march on Martin Luther King Day. The march will begin at 14th and Broadway in downtown Oakland on Jan. 15 at 11 a.m. The march kicks off a week of action through Jan. 19 to reclaim MLK’s radical legacy! It will be followed by a full week of actions, trainings, teachins, film screenings, and healing workshops in King’s honor as we get ready for another year of solidarity, community and liberation. For more info and a full schedule of events, visit: http://www.antipoliceterrorproject.org/reclaimmlk In East Oakland, the Higher Ground (HG) Neighborhood Development Community Health Center, in alliance with the ROOTS Community Health Clinic, will host its 13th Annual Martin Luther King (MLK) Day of Service at Lodestar Charter School, located at 701 105th Ave., from a 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Oakland residents can sign up for the day’s events from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the ROOTS lot on Edes Avenue and 105th street,” said Continued on page 8 from owner Geoffrey Pete’s historic venue. According to the research, which has been shared with Mayor Sheng Thao, arguments in favor of Tidewater Capital’s proposal seem to be based on inaccurate facts, which some believe have their origin among past mayoral administrations and city administrators, the planning commission and city staff who for years allowed corporate development to ravage Oakland’s diverse communities while trying to convince residents that there is no alternative to gentrification. State does not require project’s approval Some who support allowing Tidewater’s project to be built have maintained that the state would likely revoke Oakland’s affordable housing funds if the city does not approve this high-end real estate Continued on page 8 Family, friends and members of the community, including Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price, gathered at the church to pay tribute to the dedicated and passionate officer they will dearly miss. California Attorney General Rob Bonta spoke about Le’s desire and courage to keep Oakland safe for everyone. “I didn’t have the privilege or the opportunity to personally know Officer Le, but I didn’t have to in order to know that he loved this city, and that this city loved him,” Bonta said. Bonta added that in the wake of the tragedy, many people shared stories about the type of person Le was, describing him as a passionate, bright smiling, cheerful, and dependable individual. He acknowledged that California is in debt to the courageous law enforcement officers who risk their lives to protect Continued on page 8

Raymond Lankford, Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley, Cascos Martial Arts Studio Owner William “Bill” Owens, OPIC Board Members Kitty Epstein and Developer Alan Dones, Oakland City Council Member Kevin Jenkins, and OPIC Business Manager Andrew Rodrigues. Photo by Carla Thomas

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley Gives Small Business a $30,000 Boost

By Carla Thomas

On Jan. 6, Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley (D6) presented a $30,000 check to small business owner William “Bill” Owens, owner of Cascos Martial Arts Studio at 74th and MacArthur in Oakland. Miley, whose business has been facing financial challenges due to COVID Pandemic restrictions, says he was nearing bankruptcy. “This check will go a long way and is greatly appreciated,” he said. For Miley, starting 2024 on a high note was important. “I can’t think of a better way to start the new year,” he said. “Small businesses are vital to our communities and when you help a committed business owner, you help a community. It’s an honor to add value by contributing to a small business that has trained so many young

people, watched them grow up and have viable careers.” OPIC Business Outreach Team Members, Diane Lewis and Frank Smith celebrated the new collaboration with the martial arts studio. “It’s always exciting to launch new programs,” said Lewis. “It’s encouraging to see Black men supporting one another and helping them rise to another level,” said Smith. The check was presented to Owens along with the Oakland Private Equity Council (OPIC). Pastor Raymond Lankford of the Oakland Community Church and president of the (OPIC) was also present. “This is martial arts studio has been a big part of this community and helping support Mr. Owens is a win-win for the community,” said Lankford.

OPIC Board Member Kitty Epstein also praised Owens. “It’s important to support this business and its contribution to the community,” said Epstein. Cascos Martial Arts Studio has been in business for over 50 years. Owens and his wife Mary have taught the community the art of self-defense together. “When Covid happened, we were hit with social distancing regulations in our small space,” explained Owens. “We went from having a couple hundred students to a few.” After the check presentation, Owens invited attendees to see his training in action. For him, teaching the art of self-defense has included naming his moves and techniques after cultural icons like Martin Luther King, Jr. and other activists. Continued on page 8

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Faces Recall Efforts One Year Into Term

led by Brenda Harbin-Forte, a former Alameda County Superior Court judge, who was removed from the Oakland Police Commission by Thao last year in June. Residents have been reported to be “fed up” with Thao’s perceived lack of action in addressing crime

and public safety issues in the city, mainly citing the past year’s events with Oakland Police Department (OPD). The notice of intent that was submitted over the weekend asserts that firing OPDs Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong has led to a spike in violent crimes and has created a public safety crisis that has led to “the city’s reputation as one of the most dangerous in America.” The notice of intent adds that Thao has failed to appoint a new police chief in nearly a year after Armstrong’s dismissal and has also failed to declare a state of emergency in the city which she promised in September to do if a police chief had not been hired by the end of the year. Continued on page 8

West Oakland – a stark reminder of just how cold the night would be for those in the community without shelter. The safe car park has been temporarily closed due to lack of funding, and ICAC needs money to bridge the gap during these cold months until additional financial support from the city kicks in several months from now. To help bridge that gap, ICAC is sponsoring a concert at the Oakland Temple Hill Auditorium at 4780 Lincoln Ave. on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 5 p.m. The whole Bay Area community is invited to join this cause. This special evening of topnotch entertainment will feature Billboard artist Lena Byrd Miles, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, and Destined2Dance. Attendance will help support

the ICAC in their charitable efforts in the community, especially their work to improve community health and safety and to feed and care for those in need of food and shelter. Tickets are $20-35 and are available online at TempleHill.org. At the Safe Car event on Monday, Miles stepped to the mic to share a song with the poignant lyrics, “If I can help somebody, as I travel along, if I can help somebody, with a word or song…my living shall not be in vain.” Miles said she is honored to lend her gift to this effort. “We are to do as much as we can to help the needy and God repays us. And as we give to them it’s as if we are giving unto the Lord.” As the cars began to roll in for the night, warmth began to emerge Continued on page 8

Photo. Screen capture from live feed of Mayor Thao’s State of the City Address, Oct. 17, 2023.

By Magaly Muñoz

A group of Oakland residents, dissatisfied with Mayor Sheng Thao’s approach to combating crime and ensuring public safety, have initiated a recall campaign against her, one year into her term. The recall campaign is being

ICAC to Host Benefit Concert Jan. 20 to Keep Safe Car Park for Unhoused Open

Lena Byrd Miles will perform at a concert to help keep the Safe Car Park open this winter. Courtesy photo. By Debbie Bromley Special to The Post

It was chilly Monday evening at the reopening of the Interfaith Council of Alameda County’s (ICAC) Safe Car Park Program in

THE POST, January 10 - 16, 2024, Page 2

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Controller Malia Cohen: Despite $68 Billion Deficit, California Has Enough Cash to Pay Bills

Lincoln Cunningham Park in Seaside, Calif. Photo courtesy of California Black Media.

Calif. Park Advocates Want More Green Spaces in Black Neighborhoods

By McKenzie Jackson California Black Media

Some advocates say the state is not developing and maintaining community recreational facilities equally. They point out that green spaces in neighborhoods where Black Californians live remain underfunded even though the state has invested billions of dollars over the last decade-anda-half to improve them. “They need to have a system to get money to the Black communities,” said Danny J. Bakewell, Sr., a Los Angeles-based businessman, civil rights activist, and philanthropist. “They will tell you they have a system to make sure it’s not unfair, but the way they do the funding is not fair,” continued Bakewell, the only Black member of the California State Park and Recreation Commission. “Black people are not getting that money.” Bakewell expressed concerns the scoring system employed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP) to determine how funds are distributed does not benefit African American cities and neighborhoods. Defending its operations and

application process, the SPP says giving all Golden State residents access to open outdoor spaces is its main goal. State Parks Deputy Director for Community Engagement Sedrick Mitchell said SPP has, “placed green spaces in places where they weren’t before.” SPP’s grants initiative, according to Mitchell, is the largest parks-related program in California history. It has funded $1.16 billion in construction, expansion, or renovation of 299 parks since 2009. Applications are evaluated in a competitive process. Project approval is determined by a scoring system that awards a maximum of 100 points. SPP says the main qualifying criterion for funding is the ratio of park acreage per 1,000 residents living near the park, the median household income of those residents, and the number of residents living below the poverty line. “If you have zero acres, you are likely to get the most points,” Mitchell explained. “If you have two acres, you are going to get less. The law requires us to look at two things — acres per 1,000 and income,” Bakewell, who has been a parks commissioner for two years, said Seaside, a small Mon-

terey Bay city with a Black mayor and a significant Black population should have received SPP funds. Seaside Recreation Services Director Dan Meewis said the city has decades-old parks with deteriorating sidewalks. “It’s a centralized hub for kids from a variety of neighborhoods,” he explained. “The walking trails throughout the parks are horrendous, tripping hazards.” The city’s two applications for SPP funding, the latest in 2021, were denied. Mitchell says state legislation directed the Parks’ initiative to prioritize funding for the creation of new parks over rehabilitations. Mitchell and his staff met with Bakewell, Meewis, and Seaside Mayor Ian Oglesby to review the city’s denied proposals. Meewis said he wished Seaside would have received guidance on how to improve their bid before their second application was rejected. Mitchell said an area’s racial or ethnic makeup plays no part in how SPP monies are dispersed. Bakewell wants to do more but said the commission he serves on doesn’t have a say in which projects are funded. “Black communities at a minimum need stellar parks and recreation,” said Bakewell.

(File photo) Malia Cohen speaking at Life Changing Ministries in San Bernadino May 15, 2022 Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media

Over the next few months, Californians will spend time processing the details of Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2024-2025 spending plan, which he is expected to present to the Legislature on Jan. 10 in Sacramento. However, reports of the state’s whopping $68 billion budget deficit — as projected by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) — have foreshadowed the Governor’s announcement with uncertainty. Despite anticipation of deep budget cuts, State Controller Malia M. Cohen has expressed confidence that California’s fiscal cash flow is in the position to withstand any financial challenges caused by forecasted economic downturn. “Despite reports from various sources indicating a budgetary deficit of approximately $68 billion, the state’s cash position remains strong, and, absent any unforeseen circumstances, the state has sufficient cash to pay its bills and meet its financial obligations through the end of the fiscal year,” Cohen said in a Dec. 19, 2023, letter. Cohen is responsible for accountability and disbursement of the state’s financial resources. She has independent auditing author-

ity over government agencies that spend state funds. According to the LAO, the budget shortfall increased by $53 billion when compared to the projections used in the development of the current year budget – up from $15 billion when the 2023– 24 Budget was signed in June. The LAO faced challenges in providing budget estimates due to the IRS delaying tax filings until Nov. 16, 2023. Regarding personal income, sales and property tax revenues, the state’s primary revenues, California entered an economic downturn in 2022 that is affecting the budget. On Dec. 15, Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) and Senate Budget Vice Chair Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) wrote a letter to Gov. Newsom, urging him to “act early” to address the state’s worsening fiscal condition. “This budget deficit will impact every California resident and doesn’t matter whether you’re a Republican or Democrat,” Jones stated. “That’s why we must roll up our sleeves and work together to bring spending in line with revenues.” Cohen has been monitoring the state’s financial reports and clarified California is protected by its “rainy day reserves.”

“The state currently has more than $91.4 billion in available borrowable resources, due in large part to the Governor’s and Legislature’s foresight in building prudent rainy-day reserves in the Budget Stabilization Account,” Cohen stated. The budget negotiations will involve new leaders of the Legislature — Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) and incoming Senate President Pro tempore Mike McGuire (D-Santa Rosa). Rivas added California Legislative Black Caucus members Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa and Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) to the Assembly’s budget leadership team in December. Weber will lead Subcommittee 1 on Health while Jackson will guide Subcommittee 2 on Human Services. “While legislators will have difficult choices to make in the new year, I am confident they will be deliberate in addressing the budget challenges before them, and I urge them to protect, to the extent possible, the health and social service programs designed to benefit those who are displaced, without shelter, or otherwise economically disadvantaged,” Cohen stated.

California Concealed-Carry Law Blocked … for the Second Time

Photo courtesy California Black Media.

COVID in California: Numbers of Infections, Hospitalizations Creep Up

By California Black Media Photo: iStock photo image.

By California Black Media Senate Bill (SB) 2, California’s controversial conceal-carry permit law that took effect Jan. 1, has been blocked for a second time now. SB 2 prohibits gun owners from carrying their concealed firearms at most public places and gatherings, including religious institutions, banks, hospitals, parks and other venues. On Jan. 6, a 9th Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a temporary hold on a lower court injunction that blocked the law. This most recent decision upholds a Dec. 20 ruling

issued by U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney that blocked the law. Before that, on Dec. 22, Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta filed an emergency motion appealing Carney’s decision. A three-judge panel of a different 9th Circuit Court Appeal granted Bonta’s request, allowing the law to take effect, at least temporarily. The same day, the law was blocked from taking effect, Gov. Newsom’s office shared the findings of a new survey that reports California’s gun laws are working. Conducted by Everytown

USA, a gun safety advocacy group, the survey ranks California and New York at the top of its list

for having the lowest rates of gun violence.

“We compared gun policy

across the country, scoring every state on the strength of its gun

laws and comparing it with its rate of gun violence,” the introduction to the report reads.

“In states where elected of-

ficials have taken action to pass

gun safety laws, fewer people die by gun violence,” it continues.

Almost a year after California officially ended its State of Emergency declared in response to the outbreak of the Coronavirus in the United States in 2020, COVIDrelated hospitalizations and infections have begun to slightly increase– sometimes in combination with the flu. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for the week ending Dec. 23, there were 3279 coronaviruspositive patients, which was 14% higher than the week before. That spike is the highest recorded over the last 10 months. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC), there are eight California counties are now in its “Medium COVID-19 Hospitalization” category. They are Los Angeles, Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, El Dorado, Butte, Tehama and Glenn counties. Los Angeles County has also reinstated a mask mandate at all license healthcare facilities after the county’s Department of Health reported a 25% increase in hospitalizations. Based on CDPH data for the last week only, those numbers have begun to decline. There were 3,122 new COVID-19 infections across the state for the week ending Jan. 5. The statewide “test positivity” rate for the week ending Jan. 5 was 12.3%, up +0.5% from the week

before. From Oct. 1, 2023. to Dec. 30, 2023, there were 1,296 confirmed COVID-19 related deaths in the state. Over the course of the last week only 1.8% of all deaths were “COVID-coded,” according to the CDPH. Despite the increase in numbers in some places in California, officials say the state’s overall infection and hospitalization rates are lower than last year. Hospitals are also reporting that there are enough beds in ICUs to accommodate the reported upticks. Over the last seven days, there was an average of 1,437.1 ICU hospital beds available across the state, according to the CDPH.

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postnewsgroup.com THE POST, March Aug. 10-16, 2022, Page 66 THE POST, 16-22,, 2022, Page THE POST, January 10 - 16, 2024, Page 4

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

Representatives Lee,Month: García Introduce BillGroup Prohibiting Rental The Monkeypox Health Crisis: How California Is Responding Women’s History California Honors Leaders, Discusses Priorities Sec. of State Weber to Appeal

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could generate hundreds of millions of dollars to “low billions of the county’s response is that Among Black Californians, By Tanu Henry, THE POST, Aug. 26-Sept. 1, 2015, Page 5 government also declared postnewsgroup.com POST, July 2019, Page www.postnewsgroup.com By Charlene Muhammad, to Black24-30, in California dollars” inwomen revenue every year. 5 “fireside chat” to take THE a broadretired California Assemblythere have been 129 cases re- we did not have enough cases California Black Media monkeypox a national public California Black Media the topic is ‘Black er look at aging and elder care andIftoday member and a commissioner measure’s I want sponsors them to ported so far, accounting for at thatthetime. health emergency. Courtesy of Women Aging With ofDignity the Black community. on the California Commission causes unless the tenant per- in meet allthat the Secretary State’s know that response will about 11% of all confirmed As the monkeypox virus “We are prepared to take Rep. 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February to the International understanding inspires us A Safe Place seeks break when working with families BTQ community stigvaccines, andrisk outand into our mune systems, children under sued by Newsom’s office Activists, a San Diego-based out-of-state studentsfighting either on a Rev.resources Ron Linzie ited, in families putand at of ing land the treatment lateare 70’s early “Our goal isAnalyst’s to talk about with passionate brought their perspectives to- tisan By California Black Media Legislative Office foreclosures during this public African American Museum desire to build the cycle of domestic and famexperiencing violence in the Continued on page states. matization,” Newsom added. 8 years of age, people with a advocacy group, called on reach,” the governor said Aug. collective response efforts. for-credit Brother or audit basis. In both8 missing rent or forgoing food on health crisis. But nearly a third 80’s. the issues thatitsare important gether last month in a virtual (LAO) released analysis of the (IAAM), which is set to open bridges of ily violence by providing bathome. T o place a Legal Ad As of Aug. to 2, the state had Aragón cooperation echoed the instead goverSan Diego County officials to 1theThe astable. he declared a state The state remainsorfocused on history of eczema, and people A proposal establish the ACWe Mob a people gangof (510) can’twas allow 541-9650 Rev. Dr. cases, tuition would be charged. of U.S. residents are renters -in 2021 on the former Gadsof walls of segregation.” tered women and their children Domestic violence is the measure that will create the UCO By Sean Ryan lion jobs and nearly doubled contact T onya Peacock: distributed nearly 1,713 treatnor’s statement. who are pregnant or breastrelease demographic data on emergency in California. slowing the spread of the virus that thestreets AC Transit Lowery at (510) 766- leading cause of injury to with to berode on the in thebuses. middle Jasper University of California Online den’s Wharf in Charleston, in the communities I represent “All ofteam the cost to becommitcovered safecourses shelter and Phone: (510) 272-4747 growth—and without it, ment an institution administered and resourc168 IV as “Our is isalso feeding may be more likely monkeypox cases there. by California Department in impacted communities, ad- GDP They were also friends and as- 5404 or Michelle Murray aka of The a public health crisis – that’s South Carolina. in Chicago the ratio is much (UCO) as its own semi-autones, and to prevent violence women between the ages of Brother Fax: (510) 743-4178 Congresswoman Barbara student tuition would have neared adie,” doubleof tecovirimat to health the “The ted to reducing stigmarevenue among to get seriously ill or the doses governor has declared of Public Health has “Niecey” ministering the limited num- we University of California (UC). through Presents sociates with the(CDPH) Broadway at (510) 472-5255. why I worked with Rep. Garcia higher. Working-class people, 15-44. through outreach and educaMore thanCompared one million Email: tonya_peaomous institution may appear Lee, Chair of the House Approdigit recession. to centers in various locations CDC reports. a state of emergency as of last begun to collect and report ber of vaccine doses we have, Hustlers. Former AC Mob For thoseBaptist who wish to suffer con- San In a letter to Attorney General generated by the new university,” Amos Brown (left), pastor of Third Church, Francisco and witness president the NAACP, San Francisco toRev. introduce the Rental Evicimmigrants, and renters children each year the oftion. cock@dailyjournal.com priations Subcommittee on State previous economic recoveries, Continued on page 8 across the state. According to the governight and constituents deserve racial and other demographic and raising awareness about on the Nov. 5, 2024, ballot as an members hold top social sertribute food or funds to support President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Russell M. Nelson at the 110th annual branch greets in its letter to Bontion Moratorium Act. This im- disproportionately from eco- brutal victimization of a parRob Bonta, the LAO said creat- wrote the LAO Since 1976, A Safe Place Brother All other classifieds conand Foreign Operations, issued this past year’s has also been far So far, CDPH has received nor’s office, CDPH has taken People to knowHenry the truth about this vidata, tracking howensures the disease prevention measures acvice positions today. efforts ofAssociation their streetand minisnational convention ofthat the the National theent Advancement of Colored (NAACP) Sunday “initiated constitutional amendportant legislation Brandon George White inexposes 1900. ta. “The measure is not intended offered aBy 24-hour crisisin ing attact the handsin ofterms an intimate the virtual university nomic recessions like theforone the POST: Phone the following statement on groups March more equitable ofexpand prog- has a little over 109,000 mona number of steps to rus in our region,” said Harris is impacting various cess to treatment,” Aragón The Family Reunion will tries, send donations to Urojas Detroit. Photo courtesy of The Salt Lake Tribune. renters in the Bay Area and the this country will likely be fac- partner. (510) 287-8200 Patterson White, who represented North Carline, emergency 20-bed shelJesus isPresents the Way ment.” any direct fiscal impact on state toatsome financial costs to have Fax 11, marking one food, year since the Community against child poverty, keypox vaccines — of comwhich the access to vaccinations andfood the ter, feature music, spoken speaking aHouse’s press conference. across the state. said, before Services’ adding that Cali- ress corponation cannot be evicted from olina, was the only Black a children’s program, The faith environment can ing, and they need the financial The president of the Church (510) 287-8247 for each other. We don’t even They have customized the Sunday. “May we go forward Last week, the state’s nonparand risks initially, but California state or local governments.” American Rescue Act of Grace Church of Richmond has several insecurity, and unemployment word, a Governor’s kid zonePlan and guest 51,000 counseling, dosesThe have been dis- lawmaker state has and launched a public in- munity “My office led time. this argument office, 1271 Washingtonto be Thehomes state of rate fornia is “well-positioned” their during the COVSenate support a safe natural place to at the Democrat rooms for rent, including it’s church. Sanctusecurity billwith would provide, Presents of Jesus Christ oflaw: Latter-day have Suite to this agree other for Church’s self-reliance services doing our best health to exemplify Email: 2021 was signed into speakers. low-income communities and tributed Ave., 452, Saneach Leandro, to local depart-

Evictions During COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Ruling Allowing Asm. Fong Latter-day Saints AC President Russell NelsonAwarded Speaks at NAACP’s Convention in Detroit A SafeM.Place $180,000 Grant from Broadway Hustlers, Mob’s PILGRIM CHURCH HAYWARD to Run for Two Seats 5th Annual Family Reunion The Blue Shield of California Foundation Will Launch Faith and Domestic Violence Project

Chairwoman Barbara Lee Notes Anniversary of American Rescue Plan

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ALLEN

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

ALLEN Rooms for Rent Jackson

formation campaign, mostly emergency follows similar tackle the outbreak. community education address family violence and re-be groups, ID-19 pandemic. must acena bi-parSaints Russell M.WeNelson re- CA immediately.” to Although love each other. If we have materials and programs to the twoacross greatpassed commandments For taken information, call Rev. communities of color. 94577. ments the state. relying on webinars and town tions in San Francisco, monkeypox is ads@postnewsgroup.com and outreach, as well as a Teen lated issues, including children sure that everyone has access to tisan bill minded those assembled for Thehope Rental Moratoany ofEviction reclaiming the hall most effective for the initia— to love God and lovecrimieach Ron “aka” Poison at OneLinzie year ago today, President With that said,toto we still have a Violence meetings get informaNew York City, and Illinois. not considered deadly, the Prevention Program. that are exposed violence in quality housing no matter their nalizing lynching at the federal the 110th annual national congoodwill and sense of humantive. of His children. Biden signed the Res- disease can be fatal for some long way toAs go all of there these tionhome. about monkeypox out isOn July 23, theAmerican World Health Carolyn Russell, whothehas aon result, isto level financial situation.” thisinweek, sending bill vention of the National Asso- ity for which we yearn, it must the The two organizations also Arm arm and shoulder to cue Plan (ARP) into law followsues. Too many still lack access to served people across the state. Organization declared moncategories of people, accordCongresswoman as executive director a great need to strengthen the “No one should lose their begin with each of us, one per- came together on Temple to President Biden’s desk after ciation for the Advancement shoulder, may we strive to lift ing passage by Congress, cata- ing to Barbara health care to live a “CDPH isthey alsoneed expanding keypox a “public emerpublic health Lee authori- the home during thehealth COVID-19 House approved bill of Colored People (NAACP) son at a time. Square last May to all the our brothers and sistersthe everypulting a historic recovery that fulfilling life.options. MillionsAccess of call Ameritreatment to gency.” Symptoms of months, the disease Sunday inwhich Detroit that Idifferpandemic is why intro- ties. January. The way Emmett Till Over the past 18 the people, organizations and Oakland, gov- in New Hope Baptist Church, CA where, in every we can. has led need to one ofundermine the are struggling to put food on the last of 2021. the antiviral prescription drug On Aug. the strongest federal — lesions andhalf blisters — For can cans ences not4, so- during duced the Rental Eviction MorAnti-Lynching Act, named for First (the executive ernments to work together towho This never be the NewPresidency Hope Baptist Church of Oakland, CAamid seeks a Senior Pastor will world provide Spirit-directed, periods of economic growth in a 10619 McArthur Blvd., Oakland, CA will 510 689-9544 the table rising costs, from thousands of families in our comciety’s shared humanity. administration of the church) atorium Act, to prohibit evicting the 14-year-old Chicago boy achieve greater civility and rasame.” California Secretary of State Shirley Weber. Officialleadership photo. visionary forthe ourdifchurch; and possesses excellent in thebyareas of preaching, century. housing toskills the this money meant “Weduring are allthis connected, and munity, “Acrisis church driven Christ has made its partnership with the cialongoing harmony. renters crisis. Famiwhose brutal MisEarlier this murder year, thein Church nal District, who will now have in voter confusion and the disenBy California Black Media Many Americans had been recent spike in gas prices to the ference between having childcare should havecatalyze five plus teaching, counseling and congregational leadership development. Candidates we are have a God-given responLast July,focused Elder Jack N. Gehonored the NAACP’s comlies hurting -- they are wor- the NAACP a high priority. sissippi in 1955 helped the onchildcare. the kingdom” left toafend for themselves during franchisement ofhave votersfood if Fong is ever-growing cost of or not, having healthy on the the opportunity to select the canyears Pastoral experience (preferably Senior Pastor), be licensed and ordained by a recognized sibility to help make life better The groups met severrard spoke at the NAACP’s mitment to advance equality In statement, California Secried about their jobs, health, and Civil Rights Movement, allows a one the worst publicus,” health and table the racial and genor not, having aW secure place elected for both forofthose around NE E Poffices ROand GAnd R A Schoice didate ofM their in the March Ordination Committee have apervasive Bachelor Degree from accredited Bible College alLicense times to pursue joint educa109th annual convention inan crime and justice in society. childcare and deserve thePresicer- ultimately to be prosecuted as a lynchretary of State Shirley Weber said economic crisesM. in Nelson history. The der inequities laid bare by COto live or not. Sunday school 9 :00 am dent Russell said tion efforts in Chicago and San but does not retain one,’ and that it San Antonio, Texas. “I’m honored to have The including seminary. Email a cover letter, biography, resume and ministerial license(s) to 5th election,” Fong celebrated in a tainty that they won’t be kicked ing if a victim is killed or injured Our Specialty is: "No Income she will appeal a California SuARP expanded access to vaccines VID are deeper than ever. Through my Covid Commuduring a nine-minute evening Francisco and employment “I pray that we may inChurch of Jesus Christ of LatSunday Worship 10:00 am common sense to find thePrograms" Qualification for to the curb and left homeless if ‘defies nhbcpastoralsearch@gmail.com on or before April 2, 2020. For additional information see a as the result of a hateplease crime with statement. perior Court decision that allows and testing; provided economic IUnits, urge Americans lookdear at ter-day Saints stand in unity Care Act,in weHouston delivered speech. don’t be nity initiatives and call“pastor”. each to other Non -also Owner SFR's, 2-creasingly 4Family 5+ they can’t“We make theirhave rent,”tosaid sentence of up to 30 years in prison. law a candidate to run forunder ourpermits website nhbcoakland.org the heading No phone calls please. Bible Study Wednesday 7:00 pm Weber says as Rescue California’s relief keptAssemblymember millions outlove of vital alikethat or look alike to have what the American Plan with the NAACP to advance funding to support commu- Buildings, Republican Charlotte. friends,” Nelson concluded Unit Apartment The Senate passed the bill unanitwo offices during the same elecSenior Pastor Prayer Service Thursday poverty; prevented a catastrophic “Chief Election Officer,” she has 6:00pm and did in just a single year as a tesnity-based efforts to hire and moVince Fong (R-Bakersfield) to Mixed Use and Commercial mously, though three Republican Phyllis Scott L.C. Fuller Jr. wave ofseats evictions and foreclo- tion.” the transformative im- 8:30 am Sunday a duty totoprotect the votes of Calirun• for in the United States bilize community outreach work- tament members of the House — from 0 DOWN VA/USDA/FHA is running for workers, the seat pact governmentOwner/ Broker sures; helped small businesses ers,Fong can have when community health fornians. Georgia, Kentucky, and Texas — Congress and the California StateOakland, •10619 580 FICO PROGRAMS DREPresiMcArthur Blvd., CA 689-9544 currently held 510 by his one-time and schools stay afloat; and made I thank social support specialists, and it prioritizes people.CA voted against it. “As such, my office will apLegislature at the same in the others #01Democratic 201700 • JUMBO LOANS TOin $5the MILLION critical investments expanto increase boss,byformer U.S. vaccine House ofaccess Rep- dent Biden and my “Atime church driven Christ The bill’s passage by Congress peal this ruling in an effort enNMLS#358884 March primary election.Statement sion of2024 health careLoans/P&L coverage and for fortotheir the hardest-hit highest• Bank Statement Loans resentatives Speakerand Kevin Mc- colleagues in Congress marks the end of hundreds of failed focused on the kingdom” sure that voters in futureand elections reducing costs for millions. steadfast leadership look communities highstrongly with the risk Carthy (D-CA-20).through He is also inMortgage •“IPRIOR BK or disagree SHORT SALE attempts to pass anti-lynching leg24-7 Loans In my district in California’s forward to continuing to work totouch, on-the-ground outreach to will not become disenfranchised, outcome of this case, and I am • Borrowers with LOW or NO FICO’s the race to retain his current seat islation over more than a century. 1556 Drivefor #271 East Bay, concerned the ARP has about been transgether to deliver the American educate and assist individuals in Fitzgerald Sunday school 9 :00 am be left without representation, or • Borrower s w/Work Permits, Non gravely the- Resident Congress failed to pass such legisin the Assembly representing the formative, especially its expan- getting people.” the information they need Pinole, Alien OKWorship CA 94564 Sunday 10:00 am consequences of today’s ruling,” 32nd District, which covers parts become subject to other unfore- lation more than 200 times over the sion the Child TaxDEVELOPMENT’s Credit. Fam- about vaccinations. Sean Ryan is a member of • of Financing in NEW 510-757-3659 Mobile Family Bible Study Wednesdayof Kern 7:00 and pm Tulare seen negative consequences that last 122 years, according to USA Weber said. “I do agree, however, counties. ilies in my district alone received Congresswoman Barbara Efax Lee’s Looking back on its impact, • FIRST TIME BUYERS SPECIALIST 510-200-9714 Office - 877-247-7009 Today. A expressed Next Level Church Ministering would relations erode confidence in our with theindividual Court’s conSenior Pastorfor media ruling is a victory Prayer Service Thursday 6:00pm 74,000 payments for office. we “Today’s nowand have analyses showing The first piece of anti-lynching • PRIVATE and HARD MONEY…10 Day Closings www.24-7mtgloans.com Phyllis themillion Spirit Excellence acern total of this close to in $160 the in Scott 4 mil- elections,” she said. the voters of theresulted 20th Congressiothat ruling ‘may result of that Sunday 8:30 amARP legislation was introduced by Rep. Rev. J. L. Porter, Senior Pastor/Teacher

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Tree of Life Empowerment Ministries

“YOUR LENDER OF CHOICE”

during COVID we needed Sen. Cory Bookerthat and Republican more demographic and Senator Tim Scott, bothdata, of whom are Black, introduced the legislation together this time around. “Although no legislation will reverse the pain and fear felt by those victims, their loved ones, and Black communities, this legislation is a necessary step America must take to heal from the racialized violence that has permeated its history,” Booker said in a statement on March 7. Rep. Bobby Rush, who represents part of Chicago, where Till lived before he was

ary rents negotiable. Call for more information at (510) 499-2838.

Jesus is the Way Jesus Rush, is thewho WayrepRep. Bobby resents the Chicago district where Emmett Till lived, and Los Angeles Rep. Karen Bass with a photo of Emmett Till speaking before the House passed the bill last month. Photo courtesy of Rush press office. To read the full story, go to postnewsgroup.com

Tree of Life Empowerment Ministries

Destiny Christian Fellowship

Destiny Christian Fellowship 3601 Cutting Blvd,

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

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

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

Send your church notes, stories and events to Post News Group, Email at ads@postnewsgroup.com The importance of teaching Black History all year! Enroll in the Black History Professional DevelopmentReverend Class Joe L. Just Imagine Books & Services, LLC & Smith, Pastor

Just Imagine KidZ Multiculturan Children’s Bookstore, Richmond, CA, 94801 | 510-422-5304 5717Black Foothill Blvd, 94605all year! History CAN Oakland, and SHOULDCA be taught 510-569-7814 * 510-568-4408 fax tamarashiloh@gmail.com * http://www.tamarashiloh.com Purchase your copy of The Bundle A church that prays together, stays TODAY!! together.

Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church

BibleWay Missionary Baptist Church 1077 13th St., Richmond, CA 94801

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

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

CHURCH OF ALL FAITHS

Wednesday 7:30 pm…...Choir Rehearsal

Nathan P. Whittom Sr., Pastor

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

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

Weekly Services

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

Free Food Giveaway Every Saturday 12 noon-4 pm

Sunday: Early Morning Worship ......................8:00 a.m. Sunday School .....................................................9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship ................................ 11:00 a.m. Wednesday: Bible Study .....................................7:00 p.m. Saturday: Prayer Hour..................................... 11:00 a.m.

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

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

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

"

"

"

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

" "

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

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THE POST, January 10 - 16, 2024, Page 5

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Health, Education, Reparations and Budget Deficit Among Top Black Caucus 2024 Priorities 1111 Broadway, Suite 800, Oakland, CA 94607 (510) 208-7400 • www.alamedactc.org

Request for Proposals (RFP) for East Bay Greenway Multimodal Phase 1 – North Segment Project San Leandro – Broadmoor Boulevard to E. 14th Street Construction Management Services (RFP No. R24-0004) The Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC) is seeking proposals for a contract to commence services on August 1, 2024, or as indicated in the RFP and/or appropriate addenda. Key Dates: -

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Mandatory Online Pre-proposal conference: January 24, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time (PT) Proposal due date: February 15, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PT

This RFP has a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise contract goal of 21.0%. All RFP documents are available Procurement Portal at https:// alamedactc.bonfirehub.com. All questions regarding this RFP must be submitted via the Procurement Portal, no later than 3:00 p.m. PT on January 30, 2024. Submittals must be made in accordance with the instructions in the RFP. Any contract awarded must be in compliance with the local, state, and/or federal requirements.

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City), Chair of the CLBC. Photo: California Black Media.. By Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media Closing out their 2023 activities and previewing what they intend to focus on this year, members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) met with Black news media outlets from different parts of the state. During the meeting, held late last month, the lawmakers shared some of their top priorities for the 2024 legislative session, which began Jan. 3. Issues members stated are their primary concerns for the next legislative session fall into several categories, including health, education, public safety, social services, homelessness, affordable housing, and economics. CLBC is planning to bring immediate attention on creating legislation around the 100-plus recommendations the California Reparations Task Force panel presented to the Legislature in June of last year. Assemblymember Lori A. Wilson (D-Suisun City), Chair of the CLBC, said, because so many of the caucus members have been appointed committee chairs by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas

(D-Hollister), she expects they will leverage their positions to meet the group’s goals over the course of the next year. “It is a pleasure to be in this space where we have a record number of members of the Black Caucus being chairs of key leadership committees as well in the area of budget,” said Wilson. “Traditionally, what happens is when our members are serving as chairs, they also serve budget subcommittees. All members are essentially sitting on budget subcommittees for the upcoming new year,” she continued. Seven of the 12 members of the CLBC joined Wilson in attending the virtual news briefing facilitated by California Black Media (CBM). They included Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) and Assemblymembers Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley); Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood); Mike Gipson (D-Carson); Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), Reggie JonesSawyer (D – Los Angeles) and Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento). The other five members were unable to attend the briefing due to holiday season obligations, Wilson said. “I think it’s going to be an op-

portunity that other Black caucuses have never had before,” said Jackson. “So, I am looking forward to working with the speaker and Chair Wilson to get these things done.” Wilson said all the members of the CLBC are “excited” and “look forward to stepping” into their roles. Jackson says he is excited to be working on issues affecting aging adults in California. A recurring concern for members as they discussed the issues important to them is the state’s $68 billion budget deficit that the nonpartisan Legislative Accounting Office (LAO) projected last month. Other pressing issues for members are early education, afterschool programs, childcare for African American parents, criminal justice reform, and finding solutions to end mass incarceration. “As a group, this is not the last time (CLBC will meet with the Black Press). We know that the work you do is important, people laud us always for the work that we do, but you really are on the front lines of our communities,” Wilson told the Black news publishers and reporters.

Book Review: “Who Got Game? Basketball” Photo courtesy of UC Berkeley News.

Taxes on Sugar-Sweetened Drinks Drive Decline in Consumption

By Elise Proulx UC Berkeley News

A new study by researchers at UC Berkeley—including those at UC Berkeley School of Public Health and the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics—and elsewhere shows that after excise taxes were placed on sugary beverages, purchases declined dramatically and steadily across five American cities. Although other studies have evaluated the impact of beverage excise taxes—taxes on a per ounce basis–in a single city, this is one of the first that estimates the impact of local excise taxes on purchases and prices of sugar-sweetened beverages across multiple large cities. The cities included Boulder, Philadelphia, Oakland, Seattle, and San Francisco, all of which implemented taxes between Jan. 1, 2017, and Jan. 1, 2018. Sugar-sweetened beverages— such as sodas, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sweet-

ened coffee drinks—are the leading source of added sugars in the American diet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They are associated with serious negative health outcomes, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, kidney disease, non-alcoholic liver disease, gum disease, tooth decay, and other conditions. Taxes on these types of beverages are promoted as a key policy to hold beverage companies accountable for and reduce the health harms associated with their products, but comprehensive analyses of such taxes have been difficult due to the absence of sufficiently large samples of data and methodological limitations. “Estimating a more general, more accurate impact of local sugar-sweetened beverage taxes in the U.S. provides greater insight into the overall effectiveness of these taxes,” said study lead author, Scott Kaplan, who is an economics professor at the United States Naval Academy.

Kaplan received his PhD from the UC Berkeley Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics in 2021. “This study may better inform the potential effectiveness of SSB taxes at the state or federal level.” This new study builds on an earlier study that looked only at data from the city of Oakland. The new study found that retail prices of sugar-sweetened beverages increased by 33.1% over the two years following tax implementation in each city studied, and that there was a corresponding decrease in purchases of 33% over the same timeframe. The price increase and purchase decreases appeared immediately after the taxes were implemented and continued to be sustained months later. At the same time, there was no evidence that consumers were traveling to bordering areas without sweetened beverage taxes to make purchases there. This study’s findings suggest Continued on page 7

“Who Got Game? Basketball” Book Cover Courtesy of Workman Publishing c.2024. “Who Got Game? Basketball” Author Derrick Barnes Courtesy of EyeSun Photography (Charlotte NC) By Terri Schlichenmeyer

A little less than two feet. That’s how far you can get your two feet off the floor if you’re an average kid doing an average vertical jump. Not quite twenty-four inches, but don’t worry: the taller you grow, the higher you could be able to jump. Practice some, dribble a little, shoot more three-pointers, and you might jump right into a book like “Who Got Game? Basketball” by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Jez Tuya. Here we are, football season’s almost over, and your mind has turned to other things – namely, hoops set high over your head, and a round bouncy basketball. Kids like you who “got game” have had it for more than a century. Yes, the game of basketball was created by Dr. James Naismith in 1891 in Massachusetts. In the years since, basketball has changed a lot, thanks to what

Derrick Barnes calls “pioneers.” Julius “Dr. J” Erving improved the dunk. Before that, in 1950, the NBA first allowed Black basketball players on the teams. There have been super-tall players (Manute Bol and Gheorghe Muregan were both seven feet, seven tall) and smaller bballers – five-three Muggsy Bogues had a vertical jump of nearly four feet! – and just two years after the game was invented, America had its first women’s team. A lot of off-court people poured themselves into the game, too. Barnes writes, for example, about Pat Summitt, hoopster, leader, and “one of the greatest coaches in all of sports history.” Her record of 1,098 wins ranks her at first-place in coaching women’s basketball, and as the coach with the second-most wins overall. You can probably guess that in a book about buckets, there are bucketfuls of stats. Barnes includes

a list of NBA players who jumped to a team right out of high school. He writes about the greatest basketball park ever, he explains why winners cut down the net, how Title IX changed the game, why backboards rarely break into a zillion pieces anymore, high scores, bad injuries, “hoops movies,” and where in the world you can pick up a game today. So, your 9-to-13-year-old loves basketball so much that they dribble a ball in their sleep? They think their favorite jersey is church wear? Then you’ll be the hero of the day when you bring home “Who Got Game? Basketball.” But first, there’s one big thing you need to know: this is not a howto book. There aren’t any instructions inside here, no rules or plays to follow. Instead, author Derrick Barnes makes young b-ballers happy by sharing little-known info about the game they love so much, short lists, great stories about great players, wins and losses, and phrases they should know to talk the talk. All this knowledge is supported by colorful illustrations by Jez Tuya that kids will enjoy alongside the facts. This book is for die-hard young b-ballers, but don’t be surprised if an adult finds a thing or two to learn here. “Who Got Game? Basketball” is a book any fan will want to jump on. “Who Got Game? Basketball” by Derrick Barnes, Illustrated by Jez Tuya, c.2023, Workman Publishing, $16.99, 172 pages.

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THE POST, January 10 - 16, 2024, Page 7

Friendlier Prison Guards? Why Gavin Newsom’s Advisers Want Them at San Quentin

A sign marking an entrance to San Quentin State prison. San Quentin is one of the most famous prisons in America and is home to California’s death row for male inmates. iStock photo by Wellesenterprises. By Nigel Duara CalMatters Converting a state prison into a rehabilitative center, as the Newsom administration seeks to do with San Quentin, means changing how guards do their jobs. Instead of shying away from “overfamiliarity” with incarcerated people, prison guards should ask them about their families or favorite NFL teams. Instead of only reporting offenses, guards should note positive change in inmates. Instead of adopting a militarized footing against prisoners, guards should meet them in a common area to eat or watch movies. Those are some of the recommendations from an advisory panel overseeing the conversion of San Quentin into what Gov. Gavin Newsom called a “model rehabilitation center.” A 156-page report released Monday by the San Quentin Transformation Advisory Council also calls for an end to double-person cells, and better housing for guards who stay on the prison campus in Marin County to avoid long commutes. The report’s recommendations are not required to be adopted by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. One of the biggest changes recommended would be retraining prison guards as “community correctional officers.” In their new role, prison guards hired for this job would be retrained to understand the traumatic life experiences common to incarcerated people, substance abuse disorders, mental illness, and anger management. Guards with welding, plumbing or carpentry experience would be able to do vocational training in those subjects. Eventually, the community correctional officers would become part of an inmate’s rehabilitation team. The report quoted an unnamed correction department official as saying: “We train staff like they are going to war. We’re not going to war. We have to change the train-

ing.” San Quentin houses about 3,300 of California’s more than 90,000 inmates. In March, Newsom pledged to transform the prison into a rehabilitation hub. He has marked four other state prisons for closure since he took office in 2019, a trend enabled by California’s falling population of state prison inmates. Newsom looks to Norway on Prison Policy The plan for San Quentin is modeled on prisons in Scandinavian countries, including Norway, which significantly decreased its rate of prisoners being convicted of crimes after release from 60%70% in the 1980s to about 20% today when it began to allow prisoners more freedom and focused its prisons on rehabilitation. In those prisons, incarcerated people can wear their own clothes, cook their own food and have relative freedom of movement within the prison walls. That model has taken root in states as disparate as deep-blue Connecticut and deepred North Dakota. California prison officials took a tour of Norwegian facilities in 2019 and said they came away impressed. The group included leaders from the union that represents state prison guards, the California Correctional Peace Officers Association. Newsom estimated it would cost $380 million to remodel the prison as a rehabilitation campus. The new report from his advisory committee urges the administration to look for ways to reduce that expense. Though California lawmakers have mentioned the prison programs in Norway and North Dakota as successful systems to replicate, it’s unclear exactly what California’s model will look like. That’s something the Legislative Analyst’s Office pointed out in a report last year, shortly after Newsom announced the conversion plan for San Quentin. “While the administration has articulated some broad approaches

to pursuing the goals of the California Model, such as ‘becoming a trauma-informed organization,’ it has not identified any clear changes to policy, practice, or prison environments it deems necessary to achieve the goals,” the report’s author, Caitlin O’Neil, wrote in May. San Quentin Already Home to Rehab Programs San Quentin, California’s oldest prison, has a lengthy list of maintenance needs that totaled more than $1.6 billion in 2021. But it also has an award-winning prison newspaper, the inmate-hosted podcast Ear Hustle and a program in which inmates can earn an associate’s degree in general studies after completing 20 classes. Keith Brown, who served time at California State Prison, Corcoran, and is still incarcerated at San Quentin, told CalMatters in July that the experience in San Quentin was notably better. Corcoran “didn’t have any programs, really, and it (got) real hot there,” Brown said. “Here it’s a little bit better. Asked the principal to take (a) class, and he got me right in.” The advisory report notes that San Quentin is a desirable location for inmates, with a waiting list that sometimes stretches for years, so the prison should take as many inmates as it can. But San Quentin also has major renovation needs, and the cost just to bring it up to code is prohibitive. The only way to do that, according to the report, is to reduce the number of inmates at San Quentin. The complications go further still — California elected officials have shown a distaste for more prison spending while the prison population drops and would prefer to spend that money on community-oriented solutions, but cutting money to the prisons means fewer programs and worse living conditions. “There is no magic wand that can resolve all of these tensions,” the advisory group wrote in the report. “Policymakers will be grappling with these tradeoffs.”

transit agency. BART is also now allowing bikes on all train cars except for the first car. Bikes were previously banned from the first three cars during commute times. Ten years ago, BART ended a ban on bikes on the transit system during the commute hours. Over the last decade, the transit agency noted the growing popularity of

larger, heavier bicycles. “Carrying bikes up and down stairwells can be difficult and not all bikes fit in our elevators,” said BART Director Rebecca Saltzman. “Updating our rules will make BART easier to use for cyclists and families bringing bikes on the train. Bikes play an important role in getting people out of their cars and on public transit and these updated rules encourage environmentally friendly multimodal travel options.” BART encouraged riders to use their best judgment when using escalators. The transit agency released a new video detailing safety tips for bringing bikes on escalators in the system. BART offers this Elevator Dimension Guide to provide cyclists with dimensions of each elevator in the system, including measurements of the door, width, length, and diagonal space across the floor.

Claudine Gay giving remarks following her inauguration as the 30th President of Harvard University on September 29, 2023. Charlotte Hysen/Governor’s Press Office.

Opinion: Why the Fall of Claudine Gay Matters

By Emil Guillermo

If you’re a person of color, it’s hard not to feel the pain of Claudine Gay. As an Asian American alumnus of Harvard, it hurts even more. Being a BIPOC person with a Harvard degree has always made you a target in a competitive world. The racist assumptions never fade. Why are you here? Because of your race? Your gender? Surely, it’s not your talent or qualifications. And if you’re a “first” in your position among Whites, as Gay was Harvard’s first African American president, and only the second female, you might already feel like an imposter. You muster up a sense of resilience, only to be constantly beaten up by political bullies who question your very existence. That’s the real shame about the saga of the fallen ex-Harvard president. Consider that the most damning comments as this story unfolded came from rabid followers of Donald Trump, the twice-impeached, four-time criminally indicted man who wants to be a president again. One of his lawyers, Alan Dershowitz, an emeritus Harvard Law professor, was a loud voice on cable TV calling Gay a DEI hire. For the uninitiated, DEI is “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” the established catchall phrase for race matters in the academic and corporate worlds. It is the new focus of the second

coming of the affirmative action battle, which despite the SCOTUS ruling last year isn’t quite dead enough for some. But then, the anti-civil rights folks never give up trying to unbend the bending arc of justice. And so, right-wing opponents of DEI saw Gay, beginning with her less than fiery congressional hearing comments, as a gift to their cause. Gay was a pushover for attack dogs like Dershowitz, who demonized her — not for her milquetoast “depends on the context” comments, but for what she stood for and represented: DEI. “That’s how she became president,” Dershowitz commented one night on cable. “She is the symbol of DEI, and the symbol has failed.” And what of the moral failings of Trump, the man DEI attackers love? They bash Gay and embrace Trump, the man who was so unqualified to lead the United States as president, who had never held public office, who lied or misled in his public statements thousands of times that he made presidential fact-checking a cottage industry. Now, he’s under criminal indictment on 90-plus felony counts, and the prohibitive favorite to be the Republican nominee for president. The only way that can be understood is that he is the extreme beneficiary of White affirmative action. And what of the thousands of lies Trump has told? His defenders will say at least it’s not plagiarism, which is, after all, a common practice among politicians and corporate execs who have ghostwriters

and speechwriters. Saying others’ words and passing them off as your own? The plagiarism Gay was accused of was determined by Harvard to be minor and not a violation of research misconduct. She was not an outright liar like Trump. She was allowed to make some minor corrections. Still, her right-wing critics made it the moral cause for her demise. Imagine: They allow for the lies of the Republican front-runner and Gay is a president no more? There’s your damning double standard. Instead of supporting her, Harvard buckled. What happened at Harvard could easily happen at any college and university in the nation. Anywhere. Harvard, as a private institution with its large $60 billion endowment, had the ability to set an example for higher ed and stand by its president. What does that say about Harvard’s dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion? For the right people only? Gay simply was not to be Harvard’s DEI hill to die on. And as a person of color, I immediately felt what Gay must have felt. Where was the support? Who had Gay’s back? Not the university. About the Author Emil Guillermo is a journalist and commentator. See his microtalk shows on YouTube.com@ emilamok1 Contact him at emil@ amok.com

Bikes Now Allowed on BART Escalators

Photo courtesy of BART.

The Richmond Standard

As of Jan. 1, bikes are allowed on most of the escalators throughout BART, a new rule change that aims to make it easier for cyclists to board trains. Bikes will only remain banned from BART’s 10 narrow escalators located at the 19th Street Oakland, Antioch and Oakland Airport Connector stations, according to the

U.S. university presidents Claudine Gay, Elizabeth Magill and Sally Kornbluth on 2023 Congress Hearing on Antisemitism. Photo: United States House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Taxes on SugarSweetened Drinks

Continued from page 6

that “these taxes are quite effective in terms of health outcomes and societal cost-savings,” said Kaplan. He hopes this may lead to similar policy action in other locations across the country, and at the state and national levels, as was done with tobacco taxes. A previous study co-authored by Dr. Kristine A. Madsen of UC

Berkeley School of Public Health showed that tax revenue from sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) excise in seven cities were used to support initiatives to improve community health, develop human and community capital, and advance equity. Authors include: Scott Kaplan, US Naval Academy; Justin S. White, Boston University School of Public Health, Kristine A. Madsen and Sofia B. Villas-Boas, UC Berkeley; Sanjay Basu, University of Toronto;

Dean Schillinger, UCSF This work was supported by grants from the National Institute on Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (R01 DK116852 and 2P30 DK092924), The California Endowment, the UCSF Diabetes Family Fund, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (U18DP006526).

nuary 10 - 16, 2024, 2024 Page 8 THE POST, January

Memorial Service for Oakland Police Officer ...

Continued from page 1 and serve their communities. Hundreds of people filled the seats and waited outside 3Crosses to pay their respects to the family and friends of Le. Several people, including the Interim Police Chief of OPD and Le’s family, spoke during the service. Interim Chief Darren Allison choked up with tears while sharing the time he spent knowing Le during his service at the police department. He recalled the day that Le graduated from the police academy in February of 2020, where he nervously pinned a badge on the new officer who had long aspired to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps to become a police officer. “As I successfully pinned his badge, I remember the newly minted Oakland police officer Tuan Le and his broad smile as he beamed with pride in achieving his lifelong dream,” Allison said. Allison shared that he had begun reflecting on the difficulties and sacrifices inherent in their job b, as many do when faced with tragedies like e, asking himself “If this is how it ends, why do we answer the call?” He acknowledged that while the job isn’t glamorous, officers like Le knew that the community depended on him to keep the chaos at bay and that the job was a calling only few would understand. The sacrifice that Le made will be immortal and he will be deeply missed. Le was born to a single mother in

Saigon, Vietnam before immigrating at seven years old to Oakland. He graduated from Oakland High School and received his bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University. He worked at OPD for four years before his untimely passing. His cousin, Jennifer Ky, tearfully shared a childhood story of young Le before he moved to the U.S., where he asked his mother to buy him an apple and his mother’s hesitancy because of how tight their finances were at the time. She ultimately decided to buy it for Le, knowing it would be the last time he would be in Vietnam. Le, who Ky jokingly said had never been shy about eating even at seven years old, chose to wait and share the apple with his two cousins who he’d been living with as a farewell gesture before leaving for a new country. “This was the kind of person Tuan was at seven years old and at 36 years old,” Ky said through her tears. “From childhood to now, we will always remember Tuan for his willingness to share his time, making the effort to bring us together.” The speeches were followed by a flag and badge ceremony presentation for his wife and mother, with a final radio call shortly afterwards. The memorial service ended with a procession of officers, guests and family lined up outside the church to follow Le’s casket to his final resting place after a flyover tribute.

Continued from page 1 from all the service being rendered, making the chilly evening more bearable. The portable trailer from WeHope was standing ready to offer showers, laundry facilities and a caseworker. Paul Bains, CEO of Project WeHope and pastor of St. Samuel Church of God in Christ commented, “WE ALL help make this happen, as it truly does take a village to positively impact a community!” LaMel A. Smith, director of the nonprofit Helping Others Win was also on hand. Smith helps provide a food distribution service at the site that serves about 3,000 people per week. Dr. Kenneth Anderson William, pastor of Temple Baptist Church, added, “It was with joy to see families living in their cars return back to a Safe Car parking site. Safe car parking is needed in every city to provide resources for more sites.” Dr. Michelle Myles Chambers, assistant pastor of West Side Missionary Baptist Church and director of the San Francisco Foundation’s

FAITHS program, has been there from the beginning. “The San Francisco Foundation was excited to be on the ground floor with ICAC,” she said. “We’re all in on housing and fully support innovative supportive housing models.” ICAC is grateful to the Walter and Elise Haas Fund and the Kapor Center for funding support, along with The San Francisco Foundation for supporting the reopening. Other supporters attending were Natalie Walker of WeHope, Lena Byrd Miles’ manager Tina Carter, representatives from the office of Oakland City Council members Rebecca Kaplan and Nikki Fortunato Bas, and CBS News reporter Itay Hod. As Dr. Ken Chambers, founding president of the ICAC and pastor of West Side M.B.C. and often reminds us, “Working together works!” Attending a concert is an easy way to show support for these efforts. Debbie Bromley is the Oakland Temple Hill communication co-director of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Continued from page 1 “Lives have been lost, property destroyed, businesses have shut down, and fear and collective trauma are daily occurrences for Oaklander,” the letter states. “ We, the concerned citizens, therefore demand your recall for the sake of our city’s future.” Armstrong was dismissed in February by Thao over allegations of mishandling officer misconduct cases. In December, the Police Commission submitted his name to Thao to be considered for reinstatement to the position along with two other candidates but the mayor rejected all three candidates and asked the commission to propose new ones delaying hiring a chief until March. According to end of year OPD reports, all crime increased by 17% from 2022 to 2023; violent crime rose by 21%; robbery by 38%; burglary by 23%; and motor vehicle theft by 45%. Soon after firing the chief, Thao and her administration also failed to submit an application for crime fighting funds that would’ve given Oakland an estimated $15 million for additional police patrols, squad cars, and automated license plate readers to track down suspected perpetrators of crime. Thao acknowledged these mistakes in her State of the City address in October, saying that “the buck stops with me” and that her main objective as mayor is to ensure public safety in the community. In response to the recall efforts, Thao said she wants people to come together and fight for the

city they love. “I have the best job in the world. That’s because every day I have a chance to fight for a safer, more affordable, and more prosperous Oakland,” Thao said in a statement. “I ask all Oaklanders to help me achieve that vision with hope and collaboration and push aside fear and division.” Her chief of staff, Leigh Hanson, also issued a statement against those attempting to recall the mayor. “This recall effort is led by losers. Men who ran against her for mayor and lost. I know for a fact that if Mayor Thao had lost the election, she would have conceded gracefully and found a legitimate job that contributed to moving our community forward,” Hanson said. Hanson added that she believes the Oakland community is “smarter than this” and “will resist the urge to be distracted by a desperate attempt for relevance.” In an unrelated note, Thao is not the only elected official in the Bay Area facing a recall campaign. Alameda District Attorney Pamela Price is also under scrutiny, with recall organizers accusing her of being “soft on crime” as theft, robberies and shoplifting have increased over the last year. Organizers have 160 days to gather signatures from 10%, or about 25,000, registered voters in Oakland to get the recall onto the ballot.

ICAC to Host Benefit Concert Jan. 20 ...

Mayor Faces Recall Efforts ...

postnewsgroup.com

Cozy Relationship with Corporate Developers ...

Continued from page 1 project. However, this interpretation does not seem to be based on an accurate reading of the law. The state’s “Prohousing Designation Program is what is believed by city officials to prevent Oakland from denying new residential development at the risk of losing their designation” and related funding, according to the research document. The new research has found instead that “Oakland’s housing element is considered to be in ‘full compliance’ with state law, (and) the city no longer has to worry about losing important revenue, such as the Prohousing Designation Program or triggering rules that could have limited its ability to regulate development.” The mission statement of the state pro-housing program says it is not designed to force cities to build more high-end housing but is meant to pressure cities and counties that are not building sufficient housing for very low and extremely low-income families. The goal is “creating more affordable homes in places that historically or currently exclude households earning lower incomes and households of color,” the mission statement of the state’s program said. “This (Tidewater) proposal isn’t remotely connected” to a lowincome development and therefore would not be impacted by state regulations protecting low-income projects, says the new research. City failed to seek historical preservation funds The second major point is that Oakland, unlike neighboring cities, has failed to apply for funding that would have protected its national resource buildings and districts from luxury developers like Tidewater. Geoffrey Pete’s building at 410 14th St. is a Registered National Resource Building on the State of California Register as well as a contributing building to the Historic Downtown Oakland District on the State of California Register and the National Department of Interior historic registers. If Oakland had applied for available grants from the state’s Office of Historic Preservation, it could have received millions of dollars. For example, the city and county of San Francisco applied and received millions of dollars more than six times since 2012. “The City of Oakland has never even applied for this grant once,” the research said. “Our neighboring and surrounding cities in San Francisco, Berkeley and Richmond have all applied and been awarded. Just not Oakland.” “If Oakland had applied and received these funds, then Geoffrey’s Inner Circle, a National Registered Resource Building, would have been protected. There would be zero conversation with Tidewater Capital. This situation would not exist.” Because the Black Arts Movement & Business District is a registered cultural district, Tidewater Capital’s proposal is in a geographic area with cultural affiliations, and the proposed development will in fact cause harm to a cultural resource, Geoffrey’s Inner Circle. Project designed for luxury housing The third major point in the re-

search holds that, while the project’s backers claim that many units would be reserved for very lowincome residents, the city’s staff report says that only 38 units (10%) out of a total of 381 units would be reserved for low-income residents. Further, there is evidence that none of the units would be available to those whose incomes do not put them among the affluent. The City of Oakland considers “low-income” to be $112,150 a year for a family of four. What this means is MOST Oakland families do not earn enough to live in the Tidewater Capital’s building. Current data shows that median income for a family of four in Oakland is $85,628, well below the $112,150 that is considered low-income by the city’s unusual standard. The research shows that the planning commission and city staff’s systematic bias toward high end development has resulted in massive overbuilding of market rate housing, while the city is way behind its goals to build affordable housing. City statistics show that between 2015 and 2022, the city pledged to build 14,765 units at various income levels. In fact, the city created many more — 18,880 units. Of these, they had pledged to build 4,134 units for residents at the lowest income levels but failed to reach their goal by 1,776 units. Yet at the same, time, the city built 16,522 high end units, though officials had only pledged 10,631 units for affluent tenants. “The Oakland Planning Commission catered to developers, such as Tidewater Capital, who solely created luxury housing, so aggressively that they overshot their obligation by 5,891 extra and unnecessary (luxury) units approved,” according to Geoffrey’s supporters’ research. “Yet low-income housing goals are nearly two thousand units in arrears with no clear remedy or solution at hand,” the research said. “For the eighth year in a row, Oakland’s Housing Element progress report shows that while the city has permitted an abundance of market rate housing, we are not building enough affordable homes,” said Jeff Levin of East Bay Housing Organizations (EBHO), quoted in Oaklandside. “The trend in Oakland has been to build high-end units that attract new, higher-income residents,” doing little for low-income residents and Oakland natives, he said. Project does not fit the landscape Finally, the real facts show that Tidewater’s market-rate luxury skyscraper, doggedly supported by city staff, does not fit the landscape, dramatically overshadowing surrounding buildings in the downtown Black Arts Movement and Business District. Tidewater’s design would become the tallest building in Oakland at 413 feet tall (40 stories), taller than the Atlas building at 400 feet, which was built several years ago directly across the street from Geoffrey’s. The Post gave council members supporting the Tidewater project an opportunity to be interviewed for this article.

Continued from page 1 Owens says he bridged the innate rhythms and movements of African American culture with the techniques of Asian martial arts. However, upon traveling the world, Owens noticed many of the moves were less fluid. “Often the moves are more frigid, and our influence has added more fluid movements,” said Owens as he moved, mimicking some boxing movements and fancy footwork. “We want to ensure Owens is in business for years to come,” said Pastor Raymond Lankford, presi-

dent of the Oakland Private Industry Council. Owens also demonstrated how women and the elderly can protect themselves from theft, injury, or even being trafficked. 2022 statistics noted that of the 1500 people reported missing, over half were African American. “We have to teach our young people these techniques. We can all support small businesses and expand services throughout the community,” added Owens who plans to add a mobile service to his business.

Nate Miley Gives Small Businesses $30K Boost ...

Celebrating MLK Holiday ...

Continued from page 1 Amber Blackwell, executive director of Higher Ground. After signing in, participants go to one of several places to fulfill the mission of the MLK holiday, which is to serve in some form as a volunteer form 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Projects throughout the day will include maintenance of the Brookfield Greenway; MLK Shoreline Clean Up; Sobrante Park Neighborhood Clean Up; Edes Block Party Cleanup, and the Lionel Wilson Charter School Cleanup. Community-based organizations, sororities, fraternities, children, students, and residents of Oakland and the greater Bay Area will all join the efforts. This year, Higher Ground added ‘Better Neighborhood, Same Neighbors’ to their partnership list to spread the word about the dynamic work the East Oakland Neighborhood Initiative has been doing. “We are proud to be adding the Scraper bike team and Kikaboni cycling service to the mix this year, as we have joined along with Bay Area Air Quality Districts efforts to change the way we think about transportation within our city,” added Blackwell. ‘Scraper’ is an urban bicycling program that host bike rides for kids, Blackwell said. The Kikaboni Cycling Service provides education on bike mechanics and bike safety for youth and adults. This year, activities to celebrate the life of Dr. King at the Lodestar Campus will include resource vendors, a food truck, a HG peer workforce development snack stand, and First Tee Golf area for participants to try some strokes with a golf club. Khariyyah Shabazz of Khariyyah Speaks will serve as MC. Khariyyah Speaks is a public speaker platform that provides tangible solutions to community issues on a neighborhood level. “We believe that whether you’re a resident, community-based organization, small business or large corporation, you play a role in impacting the neighborhoods you serve,” said Shabazz. For the past five years, ROOTS has been a valued partner, along with the Alameda County Department of Public Health, to sponsor HG’s MLK Day of Service. If you would like to volunteer, go to Eventbrite and type in Higher Ground MLK service day. For more information on the MLK Day of Service, contact Higher Ground at 510-230-5120 or www.highergroundndc.com. African American Museum and Library AAMLO will host its free annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Film Festival on Monday Jan. 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. This year’s featured films are: 10:30 am - 11:30 am

The Youngest Marcher (KidFriendly) Audrey Faye Hendricks was confident and bold and brave as can be, and hers is the remarkable and inspiring story of one child’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. John Lewis: Good Trouble “This intimate account of legendary U.S. Representative John Lewis’s life and legacy takes us through his more than 60 years of activism—from the bold teenager on the front lines of the Civil Rights movement to the legislative powerhouse he is today.” 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Let Freedom Sing: How Music Inspired the Civil Rights Movement “From the Civil Rights era to Watergate, the most striking moments in 20th-century American history were accompanied by an amazing soundtrack of artists whose work reflected and commented on those turbulent times.” 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm Adam Clayton Powell “Documents the life and career of civil rights leader Adam Clayton Powell from his time as a pastor in Harlem’s Abyssinian Baptist Church to his political climb and eventual ruin.” 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. Kaepernick & America “The documentary explores the intersection between Colin Kaepernick’s anthem protests and the reactions they spurred in the United States, revealing unique insights into America’s ongoing racial turmoil.” ALSO: 12 noon - 3 p.m. Children’s Story Time & Activities Hosted by AAQGO & AAMLO Celebrating MLK Day - Kid Friendly Learn about Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a Civil Rights Movement icon through activities such as performing songs, story time, and interpreting story quilts. Sitting is limited RSVP to reserve your spot. Call 510-637-0200 Other MLK Day of Service Activities Oakland is celebrating MLK Day of Service by hosting cleaning and greening events across the city. Pitch in as individuals and households in your local neighborhood to clean up, and pledge to be Oaktown PROUD! If you are interested, click the link above to participate in or register a site near you. You can also take part through our 40 Days of Service at Home Actions, from January 15 to February 24, 2024! Go to https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/mlk-40-daysof-service-at-home-actions Scroll down to register (necessary) and learn more Online sources contributed to this report.

Reject Tidewater Development’s Construction ... Continued from page 1

Black Women Organized for Political Action, Oakland Berkeley Chapter Oakland East Bay Democratic Club Block by Block Organizing Network John George Democratic Club, Steering Committee Niagara Movement Democratic Club Everett and Jones Bar-B-Que Uncle Willie’s Bar-b-Que and Fish Joyce Gordon Gallery Pastors: Pastor Phyllis Scott, president, Pastors of Oakland Rev. Dr. Lawrence Van Hook, Community Church Rev. Dr. Jasper Lowery, International Outreach Ministries Pastor Cornell Wheeler, Greater Whittington Temple, COGIC Rev. Dr. Joe Smith, Good Hope MBC Bishop Brandon Rheems, Center of Hope Community Church Pastor Daniel Stevens, GreaterNew Life COGIC Pastor Joseph Thomas, New Hope COGIC Bishop Joseph Nobles, Dancey Memorial COGIC Pastor Edwin Brown, Market Street Seventh Day Adventist Bishop J.E. Watkins, Jack London Square Chapel COGIC Rev. Kenneth Anderson, Williams Chapel MBC Rev. Germaine Anderson, People’s MBC Bishop Marcel Robinson, Perfecting Ministries Pastor K J Williams, New

Beginnings Church Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Captain, Glad Tidings Bishop George Matthews, Genesis Worship Center Rev. Dr. David Franklin, Wings of Love SDA Church Bishop Anthony Willis, Lily of the Valley Christian Center Bishop L E Franklin, Starlight Cathedral Rev. Dr. Sylvester Rutledge, North Oakland MBC Pastor Raymond Lankford, MSW, Voices of Hope Community Church Minister Candi Thornton, Arsola House Ministries Rev. Dr. Joseph Jones, Alpha and Omega Ministries Superintendent Dan Phillips, Greater Grace Temple, COGIC Individuals: Walter Riley, Attorney at Law Corrina Gould, Tribal chair of Confederated Villages of Lisjan/ Ohlone Zach Norris, Open Society Foundation Fellow Raymond Bobbitt, Business Doug Blacksher Terryn Niles Buxton, business Lauren Cherry, School Administrator Allene Warren Nirali Jani, PhD, Professor of Education Frankie Ramos, PhD, community organizer Henry Hitz, Educator Sheryl Walton, Community Organizer Vincent Tolliver, Musician Eleanor Stovall, Educator Kitty Kelly Epstein, PhD, Professor