Winter 2021 issue of THE HUB Magazine by THE HUB Magazine

WINTER 2021 | www.sacculturalhub.com

S U R V IVING 2 0 2 0

AMERICA’S FUTURE IS HOPEFUL UNDER

BIDEN-HARRIS

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WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE EXPOSED TO DANGEROUS SECONDHAND SMOKE 1

Visit TobaccoFreeCA.com to learn about California smokefree laws.

Learn about your community’s smokefree policies.

Quick tips for a smokefree life.

SecondhandDangers.org

Contact your local health department to report being exposed or to get assistance on an issue you’re experiencing.

CIGARETTES, HOOKAHS, MARIJUANA, VAPES, CIGARILLOS

Contact your mayor to let them know you want a completely smokefree community.

More ways to smoke = more smoke

Secondhand smoke is more common than you might think. In 2017 only 10% of Californians smoked cigarettes, but over half were exposed to the secondhand harm. And cigarette smoke is just the beginning. Californians face increasing levels of secondhand smoke from vape and marijuana. None of it is harmless.

ALL SECONDHAND SMOKE IS HARMFUL

Just because it doesn’t smell like a cigarette doesn’t mean it’s not a health risk. There’s no such thing as safe secondhand smoke. Here are dangers specific to various smoking products. Vape

Cigarettes

Cigarillos

At least 10 chemicals identified in vape aerosol are on California’s Proposition 65 list of cancer-causing and reproductive toxic chemicals.

Secondhand cigarette smoke Secondhand smoke from cigarillos causes approximately 7,330 deaths contain the same toxic chemicals from lung cancer and 33,950 as cigarette smoke. deaths from heart disease each year in the US.

Hookah Secondhand hookah smoke contains carbon monoxide and other toxic chemicals which can cause lung, bladder, and oral cancer.

PROTECTING YOUR LOVED ONES IN PLACES & SPACES

Know Your Rights & How to Stand Up

Secondhand smoke exposure is rapidly increasing, and it’s up to you to educate yourself on the policies in your community that protect your family. Cities, counties, and tribes enact their own smokefree policies. Local policies can build on statewide smokefree laws, and expand to more places and spaces to protect you and your family.

Marijuana Secondhand marijuana smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing substances and toxic chemicals as secondhand tobacco smoke. In one study, 3 out of 4 kids whose parents smoked marijuana in the house had tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their bloodstream.

Secondhand smoke endangers the health of everyone in its reach, especially kids and pets who lack the ability to change their environments. Kids face greater risk of: Respiratory infections Asthma

CA clean indoor air laws prohibit indoor smoking of:

You can be exposed to secondhand smoke:

Vape Marijuana Cigarillos Cigars Hookah Cigarettes

Indoors - your home, apartment, condo or some workplaces. Outdoors - sidewalks, entryways, parks, trails, restaurant dining patios, festivals, concerts, or other organized events and outdoor worksites.

Babies exposed to secondhand smoke have a higher rate of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Elderly people (as well as all adults) are at risk of: Chronic respiratory symptoms Asthma Heart attacks Weakened health Pets are affected in the following ways: Dogs show more instances of lung and nasal cancer.

This message paid for in partnership with SOL by the Stanislaus County Tobacco Prevention Program. The SOL Project is funded by the California Department of Public Health Tobacco Control Program, under contract #17-10978. (c) 2020 THESOLPROJECT. COM

Children, Elderly People, and Pets

Middle ear infections

When you know what policies are in place, you can stand up and protect yourself and your loved ones.

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PROTECT THE VULNERABLE

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Cats living in homes with smokers have about 3x the risk of developing lymphoma, a cancer with a poor prognosis for survival. Birds develop respiratory problems, such as pneumonia and lung cancer.

FOUNDER’S ROOM | LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

NEW YEAR, FRESH PERSPECTIVE

he new year always presents a fresh perspective on reestablishing vision and setting goals. Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic has followed us into 2021 and surviving 2020 was quite a challenge, making this annual process more important than ever this year. What will you do for recovery, discovery and mobilization in the new year in your home, your lifestyle, your workplace, at your business, and with your family? I know so many of us are displaced when it comes to being out of work – collecting unemployment, experiencing significant drops in business clientele, your businesses closed permanently, possibly facing eviction or homelessness. AND THESE LIFE ALTERING ISSUES REMAIN SO DEVASTATING for Americans who are facing these multiple dilemmas. For some, they create headaches, a great deal of undue stress, night sweats, and thoughts of suicide. I can put on a great front or media face for business and professional purposes, but I am REALLY SAD and UPSET by the upside down wealth inequality, and how some of our Congressional representatives can be so simple minded with their six figure incomes that continued to hit their bank accounts like clock work in all of the months of 2020. And then they discuss how much income we peasants need. It reminds me of the movie The Hunger Games. Anywho, I don’t want to belabor that point, as we now have a new president and new vice president — CONGRATULATIONS, PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN and VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS — so hopefully our economy and stimulus packages will change for the better. Here are some great suggestions for “dos and dont’s” in 2021:

•

Don’t forget your successes of 2020; if you are reading this then you are a survivor of 2020 and that is SUCCESS!!!

• •

Don’t be tone-deaf; be sensitive and have empathy

•

Don’t go all-in on digital; prepare to pivot back to live interaction when possible to meet up with your clients

•

Don’t try to wait out the pandemic; stay mobile in your thinking, problem solving, and prioritize meaningful communication

Don’t let flexibility overwhelm you; your ability to adjust quickly and easily will be essential

•

Do make smarter choices with any financial assistance received

•

Don’t give up; there are many others in the same boat as you

Source: www.tradepressservices.com/2021

Also, as we continue to manage the pandemic, remember to wear your mask, wash your hands, and limit your contact with others. Stay safe, healthy and, as always, BE ENCOURAGED!

True Blessings!

•

Do plan for multiple scenarios; anticipate the worst case and best case scenarios

• • •

Do remember your relationships and support others

Pleshette Robertson

Do take advantage of available resources

CEO and Founder Sac Cultural Hub Media Company and Foundation facebook.com/pleshettemarie

Do realize the importance of asking for help and getting professional advice

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CONTENTS

8 12

22 16

44 CENTERSTAGE

WERE YOU THERE?

MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT, BUT JOE 8 | WEEPING COMES IN THE MORNING…AND HE’S BRINGING

22 | HIGHLIGHTS OF EWOC 2020

KAMALA WITH HIM

DID YOU KNOW?

| DR. JANINE BERA AT WELLSPACE HEALTH

GOREE & THOMPSON REAL ESTATE, INC. 21 | ANNOUNCES EXPANSION BY ADDING A

NEW DIRECTOR OF CALTRANS SEEKS TO HELP 12 | PEOPLE AND TRANSFORM LIVES WITH SEVERAL

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE DIVISION TO THEIR COMPANY

PRIORITIES

30 | Navigating Black California

RULE SERVICES TESTING AND LINKAGE TO 14 | GOLDEN CARE PROJECT (GRS-TLC)

16 | BOLOGNA BETWEEN TWO PIECES OF MARBLED RYE THE “MLK KIDS” DOCU-STORY AND ANNUAL DR. 19 | KING INSPIRATION AWARDS

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Founder’s Room 17 Michael’s Mind’s Eye: Believe It Or Not, There’s A Plus Side To Covid-19

34 Things To Do, Places To Go

34 Advertiser Index

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T H E H UB MAGAZI NE | 5 |

BOOKMARK Sacculturalhub.com Inside every issue of THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine there are things to do, places to go and people to see, with a calendar of events, spotlight and feature articles on major event reviews, career profiles and business services. This magazine celebrates the urban lifestyle of African-Americans living in Northern California.

Northern California’s Most Popular Urban Entertainment Magazine ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY 2006 Mailing Address 7902 Gerber Road, #367 • Sacramento, CA 95828 Ph 916.234.3589 | Fax 866.302.6429 E-mail contact@sacculturalhub.com CHIEF EDITOR, CEO & FOUNDER – SACCULTURALHUB.COM Pleshette Robertson | pleshette@sacculturalhub.com ADVERTISING AND MARKETING TEAM Twlia Laster | 916.662.3502 • twlia@sacculturalhub.com Lesley Leatherwood | 916.838.9267 • leatherwoodmarketing@yahoo.com Michael P. Coleman | 916.715.2996 • mcoleman@sacculturalhub.com NEWS REPORTERS Neketia Henry | Keadrian Belcher-Harris Donna Michele Ramos SUMMER 2020 | www.sacculturalhub.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael P. Coleman | Lesley Leatherwood | Valarie Scruggs Donna Michele Ramos | Cheryl Howard

CENTERSTAGE: BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Vicki Blakley PHOTOGRAPHY Rayford Johnson | 916.868.7048 Khiry Malik | Magiceyephotos.com 916.730.5405 Creative Touch Media Services (CT Media) Robert Briley | 916.579.4555 GRAPHIC DESIGN Heather Niemann | Tingible Design • heather@tingible.com COVER PHOTO: Carolyn Cole / Contributor, Getty Images Circulation THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine has an estimated readership of more than 500,000 African American residents in Northern California. Copies are available at numerous storefront locations and distributed quarterly: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. Advertising THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine offers affordable rates to meet your business needs and marketing budget. Ads are due 45 days prior to the next issue. Call (916) 234-3589 or e-mail contact@ sacculturalhub.com. Letters to the Editor Letters should include the writer’s full name, address and telephone number. Letters may be edited for space, clarity or style. Name and address may be withheld upon

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MEET NEW YORK CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

HAKEEM S.

JEFFRIES

Connect with African American professionals and families! Share your services, products and events with Sacculturalhub. com and THE HUB Magazine ... your leading source of EXCITEMENT and Urban Entertainment News in Northern California. Contact us: contact@sacculturalhub.com or 916-234-3589

request. Mail to: THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine, 7902 Gerber Road, #367, Sacramento, CA 95828. THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine is printed quarterly in the United States. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the magazine. THE HUB: The Urban Entertainment and Lifestyle Magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions in regard to content of ads in which events were cancelled or rescheduled, or phones that have changed abruptly.

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T H E â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;H UB MAGAZI NE | 7 |

WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT, BUT JOE COMES IN THE MORNING…AND HE’S BRINGING KAMALA WITH HIM By Freelance Writer, Michael P Coleman

ivil unrest. Unwarranted aggression from law enforcement directed towards black men. COVID-19. With all of that going on, it seems odd to write that things are looking up…but they are. I’ll paraphrase scripture to drive my point home: weeping may endure for a night, but Joe comes in the morning! This January, our long national presidential nightmare will end when President Elect Joseph Biden is sworn into office. Biden’s known for gaffs behind the mic — whether live or not! — and he may not be the candidate that everyone wanted.

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CENTERSTAGE But he’s a damn sight better than Donald Trump, who as I write this is still contesting the results of the election, like a little kid who’d lost a game and couldn’t admit defeat.

Tyler Gordon, a 14 year old artist from San Jose. He’d painted a portrait of her, and his tweet about his work had gone viral. But who knew that it had gone THAT viral!

Sadly, that’s not a bad analogy. Sometimes, I think that the last four years have been a game to Trump. But the game’s over. We won the battle for the soul of the nation when we elected Biden and Harris. Throughout the campaign, Biden spoke passionately about his ability to reach across the aisle and form alliances with people with whom he’d disagreed. But rarely have I seen someone walk the talk as Biden did when he named Senator Kamala Harris as his running mate.

“I was overwhelmed with the magnificence and your artistry,” Vice President-elect Harris told Gordon by phone. “You really have a gift — my goodness! I was so touched to see [your HARRIS IS MAKING portrait]. It’s a very special thing to be HISTORY AS THE FIRST an artist like you are. People you’ll WOMAN, THE FIRST BLACK never meet will be touched by the PERSON, AND THE FIRST ASIAN work you do.” PERSON TO BE ELECTED VICE PRESIDENT. TO THAT I CAN ONLY SAY THIS: IT’S ABOUT TIME!

Harris had been Biden’s chief opponent during the early stages of the Democratic primaries. I’m sure you remember that “I was that little girl” moment when Harris challenged Biden’s record on busing back in the 1970s. That was the moment that my support for Harris as the presidential nominee waned. It’s politics, I know, but I thought that was a cheap shot. Biden went on to secure the nomination, but their relationship, even having been preceded by Harris’s friendship with Biden’s son Beau, was left strained.

The young artist will never forget that phone call. Harris is a class act.

And THAT IS something we haven’t been able to say about the upper echelons of our government in quite some time. It’s been four years, to be exact.

The co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund, Latosha Brown, said it best recently, upon reflecting on 2020. “If America is ever to live up to its ideals, we must have the courage to build a new nation: one where all citizens are accorded their full rights and are able to realize their full potential,” Brown said. “Until then, the revolution will be live — and in color.”

Which is why I had to give it to Biden for choosing Harris as his running mate. She was, quite frankly, the best person for the job…and the nation agreed with me, to the tune of over seven million votes. And I don’t remember the last time a presidential candidate offered the VP position to his chief rival. Hell, President Obama didn’t do that for Hilary Clinton in ’08! Secretary of State, sure. But not VP.

Our new president and vice president, and the cabinet that Biden is announcing at press time, certainly seem to be pointing in that direction. Biden just nominated Pete Buttigieg as his new Transportation Secretary. If confirmed, he’ll be the first openly gay cabinet member in our nation’s history. He’ll also be a part of the most racially diverse cabinet in our nation’s history.

Harris is making history as the first woman, the first black person, and the first asian person to be elected vice president. To that I can only say this: IT’S ABOUT TIME! Harris showed her mettle when she went toe-to-toe with Mike Pence during their televised debate. I’m surprised that “I’m speaking” didn’t become a national catchphrase.

Congratulations, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. We have your backs, and you have our prayers. Let’s get this country back on track! n As a kid, Michael P Coleman used to talk to strangers and get punished. Today, the freelance writer talks to strangers and gets published! Connect with him at MichaelPColeman.com.

She’s shown her character on a number of occasions, perhaps most notably when she called W I NT ER 2 0 2 1

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CENTERSTAGE

SERVING THE COMMUNITY: DR. JANINE BERA AT WELLSPACE HEALTH by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D Howard

n the true essence of what it means to say, “Giving back to the community”, Dr. Janine Bera, Chief Medical Officer for WellSpace Health, has undoubtedly been giving back to the Sacramento region, her home for the past 25 years. Dr. Bera was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. It was in Southern California where she met and married husband, U.S. Congressman Dr. Amerish “Ami” Bera. They added to their union a daughter, Sydra. Inspired and in love, she subsequently attended UC Irvine in preparation for medical school. “I became a doctor because I wanted to further serve my community and my husband who was a resident physician at the time was having more fun at his job than I was having at mine,” she said with amusement. The couple settled in Sacramento, California. She graduated from UC Davis Medical School in 1999. Dr. Bera began her career as a primary care physician in Internal Medicine for Kaiser Permanente. She spoke highly of her 15-year experience with Kaiser. She became an outstanding leader among her fellow physicians, initiating and heading programs for patients and colleagues. After leaving Kaiser, Dr. Bera knew she wanted to work in a greater capacity for her community. She knew she had an even greater calling as a physician when she made her transition to WellSpace Health. WellSpace offers immediate health care services in medical, dental and mental health. “At WellSpace our motto is ‘We See You’. This means that at our health centers we provide care for the underserved, people experiencing homelessness, and or for those who have problems with drugs and alcohol,” said Dr. Bera. The clinic has treated well over 100,000 patients in three counties. There are 19 health centers and 12 ancillary behavior health sites. Health care is also provided for those who have recently been incarcerated.

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The Sacramento homeless are of great concern to Dr. Bera and WellSpace Health. The clinic will attend to many of their health needs and will treat outlying mental and addictive conditions that can ultimately affect their health. WellSpace will also disperse street registered nurses to reach, treat and care for those who may not otherwise walk into a clinic. Dr. Bera is most proud of the women’s health program which is under the direction of Drs. Nathan Allen and Melissa Hill. Health care providers within the women’s health program provide prenatal care and have delivered multitudes of babies through Sutter hospital and Dignity Health. Statistically and historically in Sacramento County there has been a high infant mortality rate. Just as unfortunate are premature births and low birth rates among blacks. According to a Sacramento County First 5 Sacramento report, infants under the age of 1 have died at much higher rates compared to the overall County infant rate inclusive of all races. Astoundingly, there has been over a 45% decrease in black infant deaths in Sacramento County. Dr. Bera would attest to the efforts of WellSpace Health, their health partners and the women’s health program. “Our goal is to do our part in the community to reduce black infant mortality in the community. We have a program called A.N.K.H (Assuring Neonatal Kinship

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CENTERSTAGE & Health). We offer culturally sensitive care to all and especially for black women that can feel comfortable and get the care that is specific to their needs,” said Dr. Bera. WellSpace offers continuity of care for all their patients, whether it be medical, dental, mental health, or treatment and recovery for addictions. As with all life across the nation, COVID has caused insurmountable problems for homeless communities and the economically challenged members of society. Dr. Bera with WellSpace commit to opening doors to healthcare for those who would normally be denied receiving. COVID has closed many doors, yet the doors of the clinic have never closed. Physical office visits have been greatly reduced; however, the success of WellSpace Telehealth services has allowed the patient and any of the facilities’ providers to conduct professional virtual medical visits. WellSpace has been a significant care center in Sacramento for 40 years. Dr. Bera has been an intricate part Sacramento’s medical community for more than 2 decades. Dr. Bera may not have had to reinvent the wheel for the myriad of services offered at WellSpace, but she is an innovator. She has already made her mark being there only 3 ½ years. She has been a welcomed and vital addition to this very prominent health sanctuary. She literally enjoys what she does and has even likened writing policies and programs to a hobby. Dr. Janine Bera will continue to write policies and programs to provide a full spectrum of care for all people of all ages, their economic status, and or homelessness.n www.wellspacehealth.org

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CENTERSTAGE: BLACK MEN IN LEADERSHIP

MEET NEW YORK CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

HAKEEM S.

JEFFRIES

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CENTERSTAGE

NEW DIRECTOR OF CALTRANS SEEKS TO HELP PEOPLE AND TRANSFORM LIVES WITH SEVERAL PRIORITIES by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D Howard

ate to bed, early to rise, Toks Omishakin, Director of Caltrans, hits the ground running each morning as he sets the bar even higher. It has been close to a year since he arrived in Sacramento. “The transition has been great, but not without challenges and I expected those to be there,” he said.

opportunity to do in service is to influence and change lives,” he said.

Omishakin is absolutely no stranger to the transportation industry. He came to California from Nashville, TN, where he spent nearly two decades working in different levels of transportation. He worked in city government for 10 years and another eight in state government before landing with Caltrans. Omishakin said that one very positive part of his transition has been the people in Sacramento and how welcoming they have been. He mentioned that this is especially true about his team at Caltrans. A day may begin with Omishakin taking a Sacramento Regional Transit light-rail train into work. “I’ve tried to truly live with the key messages that we as a department are sending out,” he said. “It’s good to try a multitude of transportation options to get to whatever destination you’re trying to reach.”

Omishakin’s duties for Caltrans represent a continuation from the foundation that was made by the 32 directors who came before him. He sees his role as like running a relay – the baton has been passed to him. When asked about his vision for Caltrans, Omishakin says he will take one year at a time. His first year I’VE TRIED TO TRULY has been spent building a team and setting a LIVE WITH THE KEY long-term vision. The second year will focus on executing the department’s strategies MESSAGES THAT WE AS A while remaining flexible to identify new DEPARTMENT ARE SENDING priorities.

OUT,” HE SAID. “IT’S GOOD TO TRY A MULTITUDE OF TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS TO GET TO WHATEVER DESTINATION YOU’RE TRYING TO REACH.

For his first 10 months in California, Omishakin was without a car, so he utilized every means of transportation that he could to work, grocery shop, and even attend church on Sundays. “If I am going to be leading the Department of Transportation, then I should be exploring the transportation opportunities that the city and state offers and (personally) seeing how functional and safe it is,” he said.

Omishakin believes it is important to take some time, what he has coined “desk time,” after long days that can include at least 10 meetings, to reflect on other aspects of his life and to take a break from all the press. “When you are called to service it is an absolute honor, because what you are having the

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California’s economy, the fifth-largest in the world, is what it is because of the Caltrans system, Omishakin believes. Some people might think Caltrans is just about building roads and infrastructures, he said, but the department also helps people and has transformed lives.

Omishakin spoke of the department’s priorities in this brief outline:

The top priority is safety. Omishakin shared a shocking statistic: every year, 3,600 deaths are related to people using transportation in California. That adds up to around 10 fatalities per day, and it is estimated that three of those 10 are vulnerable victims, which is to say pedestrians or bicyclists.

The second priority is modality. That is how the department sees building a transportation system that offers choices and connections for all Californians and for those who visit or travel through the state. Omishakin lists efficiency as the third priority. Caltrans has an annual budget of about $15.5 billion. “We can’t rest on our

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CENTERSTAGE laurels with that money,” the director said. “It’s incumbent on us to try and identify, along the way, as many efficiencies as possible—including the methods by which we carry out our projects and how we conduct our work inside the department.” Legislation now requires that Caltrans must identify $100 million in efficiency savings every year. Omishakin pointed out, however, that California Gov. Gavin Newsom has called on the department to double its annual efficiency savings to $200 million. Caltrans’ fourth priority is innovation. “I think California is the innovative capital of the world,” Omishakin said, adding that Caltrans is known nationally as being very innovative. More can be done, Omishakin said, including a push to create an atmosphere that is more supportive of risk-taking and one that embraces missteps as well. Finally, Caltrans’ fifth priority is partnerships. Omishakin said his department cannot accomplish any of its goals without engaging in a in a meaningful way with communities. The recent 2020 Presidential election has yielded Omishakin’s most prestigious and impressive accomplishment to date. Toks Omishakin has been named to President-Elect Biden’s Transportation Transition Team! Yes! What an outstanding acknowledgement Mr. Omishakin! That and all of Omishakin’s efforts and those of his department may not necessarily meet all of California’s transportation challenges, but this Caltrans Director wants Californians to know that the department cares. Toks Omishakin is highly confident in all that he has set forth to accomplish with Caltrans. He seeks to guide the department and this nation to the highest level, and he believes he has the team and the vision to do just that. n

https://dot.ca.gov/

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA USA - 4 JAN 2020: Row of ride sharing electric scooters parked on street in Gaslamp Quarter. Rental dockless public bikes, eco transport in city. Rent kick cycle with mobile app.

COMING SOON SPRING 2021!

Pleshette’s STORY, My Business Guide/ Tips for women of color!

Women with Ambition are Trendsetters in Business:

THE HUB’s Toolkit for Women of Color Launching and Managing Your Business

by Pleshette Marie Robertson

And receive the e-book at a discount for 1.99 and/ or the paperback for $10.99 at sacculturalhub.com/order-pleshette-my-story T H E H UB M AGAZI NE | 1 3 |

CENTERSTAGE

GOLDEN RULE SERVICES TESTING AND LINKAGE TO CARE PROJECT (GRS-TLC) by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D Howard

larmundo Sullivan is the Founder and Executive Director of Golden Rule Services (GRS) in Sacramento, CA. GRS offers a variety of HIV, STD and Hepatitis C testing, counseling and outreach services to the LGBT and people of color communities. GRS’s motto speaks volumes of who they are. “Treat others the way you want to be treated, but even better!” THE HUB: Who is Clarmundo Sullivan? SULLIVAN: I am an Afro-Latino same gender-loving male born and raised in Sacramento. I have a BSW from San Francisco State and a master’s in education from UC Davis. Growing up in Sacramento was a challenge because of the intersectionality of growing up with three minority statuses. I have 30 years work experience addressing health inequities experienced by people of color in Sacramento. THE HUB: How did Golden Rule Services come about? SULLIVAN: I started GRS because of how frustrated I was with culturally incompetent service providers in Sacramento. This frustration was not just my experience, but the experience of my peers. Another reason was because of the disproportionate rates within health, education, employment, criminal justice disparities and statistics affecting people of color in Sacramento County. I was inspired to do something about health disparities after reading in 1990 the California Legislative Black Caucus’s The African American Male, an Endangered Species report. That report highlighted disparities prior to starting GRS. Originally, in our first year we started out focusing on juvenile justice activities to try to prevent juvenile males from entering jail or juvenile hall. We offered, with schools, court ordered life skills counseling in anger management for first time juvenile offenders.

SULLIVAN: For 20 years, GRS in partnership with the Sacramento County Health Department, has been providing free rapid HIV, STD, and Hepatitis C prevention, testing and outreach services. For people who are HIV negative, we provide free rapid HIV testing, STD testing, rapid HCV testing, PrEP assistance, clean syringe access, and condom distribution. For HIV positive clients, we provide STD screening, HCV testing, and nonmedical case management services to ensure they have access to medical services. THE HUB: You were in the first two years of the clinic. What caused the program to quickly evolve? SULLIVAN: Our first programmatic focus was on first-time juvenile offenders. However, in early 2001, we changed our programmatic focus to HIV prevention. GRS approached the Sacramento County and asked why was there a lack of HIV prevention services targeting the Black community when the rates were so high? This inquiry ultimately resulted in a small $5000 to conduct a needs assessment regarding HIV in the Black community. THE HUB: Why do you feel your program was so essential? Why is it particularly essential in the African Community? SULLIVAN: In the beginning, culturally competent HIV prevention programs for African Americans really didn’t exist, especially for black women, young people, and gay males in the midst of an HIV epidemic! Our rates of HIV, at that time, were at much higher rates than other racial/ethnic groups. The programs that did exist were not culturally competent. We understand our communities better, so we began the services that we have now.

THE HUB: Your program has completely changed since then. When and what brought about the change?

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CENTERSTAGE THE HUB: Congratulations on an upcoming 20-year anniversary, what would be a milestone during changes in past 20 years?

THE HUB: What affect, if any, has COVID had on the functions of the clinic? SULLIVAN: In response to COVID-19 we started distributing PPE (personal protective equipment) to our clients. To address those not comfortable leaving their homes for services, GRS is launching telehealth services and home-based HIV and STD testing and condom delivery. Our telehealth services will instruct clients on how to self-administer HIV and STD tests. For those who are comfortable coming to our clinic, they are pre-screened for COVID-19 and administered a temperature check before obtaining services on site. They are provided hand sanitizer, masks and gloves each visit.

SULLIVAN: “Not only does GRS serve people who are HIV negative, but we can provide non-medical case management for people who are living with HIV. We do this through the Ryan White program (a federally funded program that provides HIV care and support services for lowincome people living with HIV). That is a huge milestone! It took us 20 years to obtain Ryan White funding.” THE HUB: What are you hoping to further accomplish with GRS? SULLIVAN: GRS is currently working on a plan with the California State Office of AIDS to eliminate the HIV epidemic in California. One strategy in the plan is to increase HIV testing in vulnerable communities which would include African Americans. Approximately 15% of them don’t even know they have it. Secondly, we enroll people into the PrEP (preexposure prophylaxis, the pill) program. PrEP is 99% effective in preventing HIV. We also educate people about Undetectable = Untransmittable. If people living with HIV take their HIV medications and get to undetectable status, it is impossible to infect others

THE HUB: Is the location of your clinic deliberate? SULLIVAN: In the past 20 years GRS has moved three times in three different communities. We have strategically re-located, not only to communities with people of color, but to underserved communities such as Oak Park, Midtown, and South Sacramento. We use epidemiology reports to show us where the most HIV and STD cases were reported by zip codes. We are currently located at 4433 Florin Rd #860, Sacramento, CA 95823.

THE HUB: You mentioned some reasons why you started GRS. What was the real concept behind the name?

THE HUB: GRS has had many accomplishments since its inception 20 years ago. Can you tell us about accomplishments that you are most proud of? SULLIVAN: Well, for one we have kept our doors open for the past 20 years! As a small, minority-based non-profit organization, it’s a huge accomplishment. Two, we have saved thousands of lives. We have documented testimonials of patients who have remained HIV negative because of GRS. Let me tell you something really important, “Black lives have always mattered at GRS!” Thirdly, and this demonstrates GRS’s level of commitment, we have provided services to our clients for years without funding! It’s not about funding, it’s about the needs and that is the Black experience. Income and transportation should never be a barrier to obtaining needed services

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SULLIVAN: I know how it feels to be treated different. I know because I’m a minority. I told my mom if ever I become a success, I don’t want anyone else to feel that way. So, it became my golden rule, because I was treated less than. Sullivan states that if you want to help him and Golden Rule Services, they are looking for donations, volunteers, and board members. n

Contact (916) 427-4653 or visit www.goldenruleservicesacramento.org

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BOLOGNA BETWEEN TWO PIECES OF MARBLED RYE! by Contributing Writer, Dr. Monica Crooks

ell isn’t it amazing that we have had the first Black President of the USA, arguably the most noble, moral, upstanding, elegant, highly educated, Constitutional Scholar ever to fill that role. He would have done great things had envy, jealousy, hatred, partisanship and flagrant racism not gotten immediately in his way. Obama was followed by the most unqualified, immoral, obnoxious, arrogant, ignorant…there are not enough negative superlatives to describe the madness of Chump. And now as President elect we have the other half of the Obama team plus the first female VP; first Black VP; first Asian VP! Historic is an understatement! We need to dissect what this is saying. For one, our country needs us! Strong, resilient, beautiful, brilliant Black people! Secondly, it says that 74 million, mostly white people, feel they are losing something they feel is uniquely and fundamentally theirs. FOX’s propaganda narrative, “The Browning of America,” has stoked irrational fear that “Brown-skinned” people are going to usurp the power position in America away from “White-skinned” people. Well let us remember that this land ultimately belongs to the “Red-skinned” people. ALL the rest of us had our ancestral beginnings somewhere else. But that is water under the bridge. It is high time for us ALL to stop thinking of ourselves in terms of where our ancestors came from, and embrace the fact that we are ALL from here! This continent. This country. This nation. Our nationality is US American. That’s it! (Read Isabel Wilkerson’s CASTE. Understand the cloth that the USA is woven from.) Together we must fight against the widening wealth divide. Make sure your children learn a trade that cannot be taken over by artificial intelligence/robots, which will be the next wave of job loss in this country. Make sure your children excel in high tech skills, computer science, engineering, math, proper, wellspoken English. Teach them the importance of proud, elegant, confident posture, gracious, intelligent presentation, eye contact and hopefully soon again…a firm handshake.

years throughout the collective American continents. We alone were stripped literally of everything: clothing, name, family, language, culture, religion, cuisine. We alone were trafficked in every sense of the horrid term…rape, abuse, forced labor, cruel sport, discrimination, and debasement in every way. Yet we survived and we thrive in anything and everything we put our minds to. OUR culture is AMERICAN culture; because WE created whatever we call “culture” right here on THIS continent with no possible knowledge of what culture our ancestors came from. Americans of African descent continually contribute to American culture in art, music, dance, fashion, hair style, language and general BADASS gravitas. Rock, Blues, Jazz, Funk, RAP, HipHop, Gospel; Break Dancing are worldwide and African American in origin. This is our homeland now. Our ancestors built it, fought, struggled, were tortured and died for it. We have a right to be here. And again our country needs us. We have been selfsufficient before in the past. (Look up Black Wall Street.) We can do it again. Support Black-Owned businesses. Be helpful to one another. Be appreciative of our non-Black supporters who want to see success and justice for all. Unite with them. They are our allies; our brothers and sisters regardless of ethnicity. Be cautious however. Chump has vastly emboldened those who wish us harm. Do not trust easily or too quickly. Travel in groups. There have been a number of lynchings of late that have been passed off as suicides, but no Black man or teen is going to hang himself from a damn tree. That is nonsense! There are wolves in sheep’s clothing. White Supremacists no longer hide themselves behind hoods and sheets. They wear suits and ties. Most of us can’t leave the US and live anywhere else easily. We must defend our homeland. Biden and Harris will need help from all of us. Let’s work together to make this country what it professes to be. United we stand. Divided we all fall! n

Of all the others who found their way here, we, people of African ethnicity whose family history is multi-generationally of the Americas, are the most truly American. Why do I say that? Because our ancestors were human trafficked for 246 | 1 6 | T H E H U B MA G A Z I N E

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Dr. Monica Crooks, DDS drmonicacrooks@gmail.com 916) 922-2027 www.facebook.com/drmonicacrooks www.drmonicacrooks.com

IN EVERY ISSUE | MICHAEL’S MIND’S EYE

BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THERE’S A PLUS SIDE TO COVID-19 By Contributing Writer, Michael P Coleman Yes, I write my own headlines. No, I’m not losing my mind. Yet. Hear me out. The coronavirus isn’t so novel anymore. It was new when it hit us early last year. If you were like me, you thought we’d hunker down, wear our masks, keep our distance, wash our hands, and have that puppy behind us by Memorial Day. Instead, at press time, we’re mourning the deaths of over 300,000 Americans. Almost 17 million people have contracted the virus, and just today, over 1,500 Americans have died. Those numbers could bring even the most optimistic of us down, as will the inability for family and friends to gather safely any time soon. Luckily, I saw the dark cloud coming last spring, and decided to look for the good in a world that has kept me, a lifetime extrovert, largely shut in for the better part of the year. While I’m in no way suggesting that impacted families should have an easy time with things (my own niece contracted the virus last fall, and scared us all to death), I do think that there’s strength in reshaping the narrative, and not letting COVID-19 run the show. For example, instead of bemoaning the fact that movie theaters had been shuttered, thereby denying me from a beloved, twice monthly pastime, I decided to bank the $200 that my family had been spending at the movies each month. Just before Christmas, I took the $1,500 or so I’d saved and had a new flatscreen installed in my great room. CineMike Theatre is now open for business, and the Super Bowl is going to look GREAT on it! And it wasn’t just my movie tab that was shrinking last spring. I quickly surmised that with the bars closed, my cancelled weekly Friday evening happy hour and

almost every Sunday afternoon cocktail in downtown Sacramento were showing up in my bank account. Also, I was eating out far less, since take out has never really been my thing. Even after restaurants opened up for dining (being shut down again just two weeks before Christmas), I decided not to be one of the first to head back out to them. Frankly, I was enjoying cooking more from home. And I was really enjoying the extra cash in my checking account each month. My coffers were also being bolstered by the gym membership that I wasn’t spending. Instead of saving that, too, I decided to escalate the payment of a few bills. I paid off a car last summer, a few months early. With that windfall and the money saved from my restaurant bar and gym tabs, I paid off all credit card debt just before Christmas. Happy Holidays, indeed! I’ve always tried to find the good in even the worst of situations, and needless to say, it’s been more difficult that ever during the last year. In lieu of a New Years resolution that you’ll probably abort anyway, I challenge you to find something good in this COVID situation, instead of wallowing in it. It won’t be the easiest thing you’ve ever done, but when we all emerge from this season, it may well be one of the best decisions you ever made. Now that the coronavirus has improved my financial situation, and while we’re continuing our social distancing and mask wearing, awaiting the vaccine and the eventual return to something that resembles a life we called “normal,” I’m going to try to whittle off the rest of my COVID belly before next summer. Wish me luck! If COVID can give me that elusive six pack, that’ll be another “plus” to this virus! n Michael P Coleman is a Sacramento-based freelance writer who, as a kid, used to talk to strangers and get punished. Today, he talks to strangers and gets PUBLISHED. Connect with him at MichaelPColeman.com.

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CENTERSTAGE

THE “MLK KIDS” DOCU-STORY AND ANNUAL DR. KING INSPIRATION AWARDS by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D Howard

r. Rick Warren has been the most innovative figure in Sacramento for more than three decades. His resume is quite impressive with being the Founder of the Sacramento Black Expo, which is getting ready for their 33rd Annual. He has founded the Black Sports Hall of Fame, the Minorities in Real Estate Expo, the Black Music Awards since 1999 and there are chapters in Atlanta, Houston, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and the Bay Area. He was the former editor for the Sacramento Observer for 25 years. He worked at the Sun Reporter in San Francisco and he was an editor and news reporter for the Voice in Oakland, California. Each year Sacramento has had the pleasure of attending the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King on a grand scale at the Capital Christian Center. However, yes, you already know, COVID-19 has once again disrupted an important gathering such as this. Nevertheless, Dr. Warren said with conviction, “COVID-19 can keep us from being together, but it can’t stop us from coming together.”

Warren. “MLK Kids, Turning Tragedy into Triumph” it will be a 2-hour film telling the stories of young people who are making the dream of MLK a reality despite obstacles and challenges. The film is guaranteed to be a very inspirational and a heartfelt journey for kids dedicating their lives to realizing the dream of Dr. King. Sacramento State University and the Port of Stockton are the sponsors for these productions. Immediately following this film will be another project of Dr. Warren in which he wrote, directed and produced. “MLK Inspiration Awards!” Local talent, celebrities, music, special performances, guest speakers, and the night’s honorees of the MLK Inspirational Awards. Both events will be broadcast and airing on an On-Stage Network, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, and LG TV platforms. Warren is anticipating that there will be a potential of over 300 million viewers from across the nation.

Among the honorees will be County of Sacramento Supervisors Phil Serna and Patrick Kennedy. The two supported that racism is a public health threat. There will be many other significant Warren is the writer, producer, and figures who have done above and director of this year’s celebratory beyond to contribute to the betterment national televised events in honor of our people, our communities, and our WE HAVE TO CONTINUE of MLK. There is nothing that world. The award show will entertain, TO CELEBRATE THE LEGACY should impede the celebration educate, inspire, and there will be OF GREAT LEADERS AND of one of history’s greatest major companies offering information RECOGNIZE THE PEOPLE WHO figures in our nation. “We have for career opportunities. This is a show ARE DOING SO MANY GREAT to continue to celebrate the you don’t want to miss. THINGS, SO WE HAD TO FIGURE legacy of great leaders and OUT A WAY TO MAKE SURE recognize the people who are Mr. Rick Warren is a visionary, and THAT WE DON’T STOP WHAT doing so many great things, so these projects will prove that he has not WE ARE DOING. we had to figure out a way to lost his vision for Sacramento and the make sure that we don’t stop what people of this great city. At the end of our we are doing,” Warren said. interview, I mentioned to him that he has the same name as the famous pastor Rick The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Warren the megachurch Saddleback Church. Dr. Tribute Inspiration Awards & featuring The Warren’s response to that. “He took my name, he took “MLK” Kids will be available on the OnStage Plus my fame, but I didn’t teach him the game.” n Network beginning January 20 at 6 pm and available for viewing until March 10, 2021. This incredible event For more info call (916) 477-0157 will feature interviews, Dr. King footage, performances and more to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.Prelude and the first event will be aired 4:00 PM Pacific Time. It is a Docu-story, written and directed by W I NT ER 2 0 2 1

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DID YOU KNOW?

GOREE & THOMPSON REAL ESTATE, INC. ANNOUNCES EXPANSION BY ADDING A COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE DIVISION TO THEIR COMPANY by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D. Howard

EO/ Broker/Founder of Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., Zoritha Thompson, is officially announcing a brand new Commercial Real Estate Division to the successful Corporate Real Estate business. “I’ve always wanted to do Commercial Real Estate but never really had the time because you do have to learn and study. COVID actually gave me the time to really sit down and delve into it,” said Thompson. The Commercial Division was launched on October 1st, 2020. The company has already listed (1) Land listing (approx. 9 acres), coming soon will be with three (3) commercial lots, more land/ lots and a commercial business listing coming up soon. It has been a much-anticipated venture for Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., Thompson added, “Throughout the years I’ve always had people and clients asking me to do Commercial Real Estate. The new division will be another umbrella of sorts, allowing the company to be more of a one-stop shop for Realty needs. It will also open more doors for Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., creating opportunities for more listings in business sectors, making more connections networking in the Sacramento business community and surrounding areas, and networking with local bankers or individuals who own numerous buildings. For 29 years Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., has specialized in listing, negotiating, and selling Corporate owned properties, or also known as REO’s (bank foreclosures). They have listed and sold properties for major Corporations like Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD, the Veterans Administration, and various other institutions. With the new Commercial Division Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc, to start, will specialize in Small Apartment Complexes with 5 to 25 units, Commercial Buildings and Land.

Agents and have been with the company for 15 years or more. Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., is raising up two fresh millennial Agents, Terrelle Keys, a Superstar Millennial, and Darius Graham an up and coming Millennial. Then, Thompson is bringing up the next generation in the family business, the highly efficient administrative assistant and her niece, Tiana Lewis. Zoritha Thompson would be remiss to not acknowledge a company legend. She gives posthumous tribute to her late beloved business partner and friend, Carolyn Jean Goree. Goree, who was the Broker of Record before Thompson took over the helm, was also one of the founding members of the Sacramento Realtist Association. Goree passed away 2 years after the perfect pair founded the company in 1996. Thompson is confident that Goree truly passed down the mantle of success. n Goree & Thompson has closed over 2500 transactions for their Corporate Clients alone. They are staffed to handle a large volume of properties. They have an assistant who is licensed and Buyer’s agents that handle buyers calls. They love working with First Time Buyers, Move-up Buyers and Sellers. community involvement and civic activity is the key to the success of their staff, they devote a good deal of time to charity and civic organizations. Their Sales team is committed to providing outstanding customer service to their clients though their integrity and professionalism. https:// goreeandthompson.com

An engine is an integral part of any motor vehicle, so in the same sense, there are powerhouses behind the scenes at Goree & Thompson Real Estate, Inc., Thompson credits much of the success for her business to her Office Manager and her Sister, Juanita Lewis. Lewis has been a valuable asset to the company from Day 1 and has been the consummate professional. “She keeps it all together,” stated Thompson. Darlene Johnson, Milic Dockery and Jimmy Guzman are Senior W I NT ER 2 0 2 1

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2020 EWOC Honorees on Sept 29th for the EWOC Excellence Awards Dinner Ceremony at Seasons 52 in Sacramento were featured with profile article in the Fall 2020 issue of THE HUB Magazine. From top left to right: Melissa Muganzo Murphy, Kolieka Seigle, Lynette Hall, Michelle Crisp, Rosario Rodriguez, Alana Smith, Dr. Gina Warren, Michelle Martin-Neal. From bottom left to right: Diana Cron White, Simone Thomas, Nkiruka Ohaegbu, Evelyn Turner, Whitney Smith, Ana Quinonez.

HIGHLIGHTS OF EWOC

DAY 1 Highlights of presenters via Zoom and Facebook Live:

2020

by Contributing Writer, Cheryl D Howard

OVID-19 came like a thief in the night and practically knocked out our ability to touch, feel, and hug our neighbors, friends and community members at the many gatherings and conferences held annually. However, the Sac Cultural Hub Media Foundation found ways, like many others, to successfully connect at a social distance and present one of the staple and most valued community programs: the 12th Annual EWOC 2020 virtual conference.

The 3-day Virtual Exceptional Women of Color (EWOC) Expo and Awards Summit included several workshops, seminars and keynote presentations and award presentations which was held Oct 1-3, 2020 (www.ewocawards.com). | 2 2 | T H E H U B MA G A Z I N E

Reverend Tamie Denyse, Co-founder, and President of Carrie’s TOUCH opened the Summit with a phenomenal story of being a breast cancer survivor (in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month). Her personal journey has been an inspiration to multitudes of black women along the way. Although black women have suffered on almost every level, it is a belief that black women are the strongest human beings alive. She emphasized the importance of loving ourselves. “You cannot survive through this thing called life without self-love,” said Rev. Denyse. She left us with a powerful affirmation in which she recommends that we, as women of color, should say daily, “I am love, I am lovely, I am lovable, I give love, I receive love, I thank God for love.” A pre-recorded video performance of a “The Hundreds Unit” dance, led by Founder Venetia James, was shown in virtual play format. Their message in dance and fitness tells a continued story about the resilience of black women. Physical health is also vital for women of color to be spiritually sound mind, body, and soul. Maya Brooks, was the optimum choice to show attendees how to create a one-page business plan. She is a Product Manager for IFUNDWOMEN.com, a startup funding marketplace for women-led businesses. Cassandra Cummings, Founder of Stocks & Stilettos, has an online community of over 50,000 investors. In less than 2 years, world-wide, she has inspired to invest over 10 million

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WERE YOU THERE? | HIGHLIGHTS OF EWOC 2020 dollars in assets. She chatted FB live with Tea Talk Tuesday Co-Hosts, Jessica Whatley and Neketia Henry and spoke to our viewers about “Let’s Talk Money: Sisterhood Finance & Investment”. Ms. Cummings has been clever in persuading women all over the world and inspiring them to not be afraid to invest into the stock market. African Americans have been more consumer centric, however, “When buying stocks, you are buying into a company. You are becoming part owner.” she said. Stocks & Stilettos society can teach you how to invest without a lot of money. Women within Stocks & Stilettos has an “each one, teach one,” concept and are more community oriented rather than competitive. A great take-away from this is that women of color need to know, “It’s a new day, women of color, you can be investors!” Wendy Raquel Robinson gave the keynote presentation. She is an NAACP Image Award recipient for Best Actress, a philanthropist, business owner and Creative Director of Amazing Grace Conservatory in Los Angeles, California. Her opening remarks were energizing and inspiring for our viewers. Wendy spoke with great pride and joy about Amazing Grace where she loves working with her students. She is living out her dream and she tells all, “If you have a dream, follow it all the way through.” The integrity in working with them is far greater than any back pats or kudos she can get in the entertainment industry. “Never compromise who you are for a paycheck. Integrity is everything.” she said with conviction.

DAY 2 Highlights of presenters via Zoom and Facebook Live: Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley was recognized as the EWOC 2020 Political Champion - Women to Watch who revealed in a video - confession of sorts, a secret, her version of a “Nappily” story - resonating with hundreds of our viewers. Congresswoman Pressley suffers from Alopecia Areata, an extreme and irreversible hair loss. She admitted to the shame she felt personally, publicly, culturally, and she hid this shame politically. Well, the veil has been lifted. Congressman Pressley today, stands tall and strong, feeling free in her current state of being bald. Her message is supreme as she in full support of the Crown Act and the Black Lives Matter campaigns. She is resilient and she is our EWOC 2020 Political Champion. “Young Women of Color in Hollywood and New Age Cinema” was presented by a vibrant talented young woman, Ms. Christina Elmore from Sacramento. She is currently appearing in the BET series, “Twenties” and she has a recurring role in an HBO series, “Insecure”. She made her very first feature film role in the critically acclaimed film, “Fruitvale Station.” with Michael B. Jordon.

financial barriers, or for the unfortunate, yet realistic, racial inequities in the business. The panel shared some barrier breaking information and homeownership is not such a distant goal after all. The gap between blacks and whites owning homes has not been closed, as it should be, since 1934.

DAY 3 Highlights of presenters via Zoom and Facebook Live: Viewers were presented with the guest panel on “Money, Voting Power, and the 2020 Census – Our Count” that included Moderator Kula Koenig, an Activist and Director of Impact at United Way of California Capital Region; Loreen Pryor, California State Assembly and President of Black Youth Leadership Project;and Kim Mims an ADOS (African Descendants of Slavery) Activist, Access Sacramento Board – Vice Chair. Joy Ofodu who is an Associate and Brand Marketing Manager at Instagram & SF-based Portraiture shared “Why Telling Our Story is So Powerful for Black Americans.” Ms. Ofodu has made it one of her life’s brand to help other women of color realize their stories and how to tell them. At the young age of 23, Ms. Ofodu realized her purpose (take note) when she first saw a problem that she wanted to solve. Viewers were very impressed with “Rebuilding and Restarting Your Business,” presented by the young, gifted and educated Ms. Kezia Williams, CEO & Founder of Black Upstart, a national initiative that train African American entrepreneurs to start successful and profitable businesses. She also created #MyBlackReceipt campaign, a way to have data to reflect trends in spending and support of black-owned businesses. Ms. Williams continues to think outside the box, and when she does, it’s a win-win for African Americans. It has been documented that black people spend in excess of 1.3 trillion dollars as consumers. With the aid of #MyBlackReceipt and educating blacks, she has the intention to channel those dollars to black owned businesses, thus recycling the wealth within our own communities. Kezia told us how to start your business by taking yourself through an ideation process. Viewers were presented with the panel guests who spoke on “Racial Inequities: How Do We Get the World to Care About our Black Women and Black Girls?” A panel featuring Moderator Rolanda Allaha Wilkins, Founder & Director of Earth Mama Healing; Dr. Kristee Haggins, an African centered Psychologist & Professor; Alondra L. Thompson, Behavioral Director for One Community Health; and Domonique Poydras, Founder & Executive Director of the Hope Foundation.

The Summit ended with viewers watching the video of the Viewers were presented with a panel of powerhouses speaking actual EWOC Excellence Awards Ceremony (took place on on the topic of “Building Black Homeownership Bridges.” Tues-9/29/2020) recognizing 18 women and 6 students with Zoritha Thompson, a CEO and Broker herself moderated the scholarship awards.n discussion with three of the sharpest women in the areas of To see photos from the awards ceremony, go to: http://www. Housing Finance and Real Estate. Monica Hill is a CEO/Broker, sacculturalhub.com/photo-galleries/photo-gallery Keisha Mathews is a CEO/Broker, and Ashley Garner is an Outreach Coordinator for CalHFA (A state funded agency). Photocredits: Rayford Johnson – 916.868.7048 Homeownership has seemingly been a hinderance among the African American community, if not for lack of knowledge, W I NT ER 2 0 2 1 T H E H UB M AGAZI NE | 2 3 |

WERE YOU THERE? | HIGHLIGHTS OF EWOC 2020

WHAT YOU MISSED AT THE EWOC 2020 VIRTUAL SUMMIT The Fabulous 3–day Speaker Line–up from October 1-3, 2020

YOUTH/YOUNG WOMEN’S SUMMIT Keynote Speaker | Get Inspired here! Friday 10/2

NUMI

(Naomi Campbell) Computer Science Graduate & Singer-Songwriter-Producer born and raised in the Bay Area

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WERE YOU THERE? | HIGHLIGHTS OF EWOC 2020

EWOC CHAMPION - WOMAN TO WATCH POLITICAL LEADERSHIP

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley U.S. Representative for Massachusetts’s 7th congressional district

BE BOLD, BE COURAGEOUS, BE EXCEPTIONAL The Sac Cultural Hub Media Foundation THANKS all of our corporate sponsors, community and media partners, donors along with the City of Sacramento Office of Arts and Culture with a special grant in support of the EWOC 2020 Virtual Summit program.

Y-EWOC Scholarship Recipients awarded $500 each

JOAN YANG Freshman at Missouri State University (was a senior at Encina Fundamental High School-2019)

ELIA ALLEN Freshman at a HBCU University- Benedict College (was the BSU President and senior at El Camino Fundamental High School-2019)

JENNY HERNANDEZ Senior at Encina Fundamental High School-2021 Graduate (college choice undecided-would like to be a Pediatric or Prenatal Nurse)

KELYCE RICHARDSON Senior at El Camino Fundamental High School - 2021 Graduate (anticipate attending Sacramento State University)

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MARTHA WILSON Senior at Laguna Creek High School (After high school she plans to attend college to pursue business.)

BRIANNA WHITE Senior at San Jose State University (anticipated graduation 2021)

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SAVE THE DATE! Big Day of Giving

THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2021 Building a strong community of leaders by EDUCATING, PROMOTING, and INSPIRING individuals to pursue their personal, academic, and business goals.

www.sacculturalhub.com/media-foundation | 2 6 | T H E â&#x20AC;&#x2C6;H U B MA G A Z I N E

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CURRY PASTE 1 Red bell pepper, ribs and seeds removed, coarsely chopped 2 Red thai chiles or 1 small red fresno chile, seeds removed if desired, coarsely chopped 1 Lemongrass stalk, bottom third only, tough outer layers removed, finely chopped 4 Garlic cloves, smashed 1 4” Piece ginger, peeled, finely grated 2 Tbsp. Smoked paprika 2 Tsp. Ground coriander 1 Tsp. Ground cumin 1 Tsp. Ground turmeric Kosher salt

Shrimp and Cabbage Curry From BON APPÉTIT A winter curry is a one-stop-shop for comfort and flavor. You can turn the heat level up or down based on your preference, but best not to skip the key accessories: lots of herbs and lime. Readymade red curry pastes are available, but making your own paste allows you to perfectly calibrate the heat according to your taste. To make this dish vegetarian, skip the shrimp and add cubed pumpkin or squash instead.

ASSEMBLY 3 Tbsp. (Or more) virgin coconut oil ½ Medium head of green cabbage, cut into 4 wedges through root end 1 13.5-Oz. Can unsweetened coconut milk Kosher salt 1 Lb. Large shrimp, shelled, deveined 4 Scallions, chopped 2 Tsp. Finely grated lime zest 2 Tbsp. Fresh lime juice Small handful of torn tender herbs (such as cilantro, basil, and/or mint) Lime wedges (for serving)

PREPARATION Curry paste Blend red bell pepper, chiles, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and a couple of big pinches of salt in a blender until a smooth paste forms. Assembly Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high. Cook cabbage until deeply browned on both cut sides, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. If pot looks dry, add another 1 tbsp. Oil. Add curry paste to pot (still over medium-high heat) and cook, stirring often, until paste is slightly darkened in color and beginning to stick to bottom of pot, about 5 minutes. Pour coconut milk and 2 cups water into pot and reduce heat to medium; season with salt. Cook, scraping up any curry paste stuck to pot until flavors come together and curry is slightly thickened, 10–12 minutes. While the curry is cooking, coarsely chop cabbage. Season shrimp with salt and add to curry. Cook, stirring, until shrimp are just cooked through, about 3 minutes. Remove pot from heat; stir in cabbage, scallions, and lime zest and juice. Divide curry among bowls and top with herbs. Serve with lime wedges. 4 servings. © 2021 Condé nast. Source: www.Bonappetit.Com/recipe/shrimp-and-cabbage-curry

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Articles inside

GOREE & THOMPSON REAL ESTATE, INC. ANNOUNCES EXPANSION BY ADDING A COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE DIVISION TO THEIR COMPANY

DR. JANINE BERA AT WELLSPACE HEALTH

THE “MLK KIDS” DOCU-STORY AND ANNUAL DR. KING INSPIRATION AWARDS

BOLOGNA BETWEEN TWO PIECES OF MARBLED RYE

GOLDEN RULE SERVICES TESTING AND LINKAGE TO CARE PROJECT (GRS-TLC

WEEPING MAY ENDURE FOR A NIGHT, BUT JOE COMES IN THE MORNING…AND HE’S BRINGING KAMALA WITH HIM