Bay Area

“Black Owned” Encourages Participation in Government PPP (Paycheck Protection Program)

Currently the Federal Government is assisting small businesses with PPP grants and Johnson wants to make sure business owners don’t miss a prime opportunity to keep their doors open.

Published

5 years ago

March 10, 2021

Mia Lane

Derreck Johnson, Chicken and Waffles Business Founder cites Vice-President Kamala Harris responsible for making him a better business advisor

One of the missions of Derreck Johnson’s Black Owned Project is sharing information to assure Black business thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. According to the Home of Chicken and Waffles founder Johnson, “I’ve been fortunate to have educated information that saved my enterprises.”

Currently the Federal Government is assisting small businesses with PPP grants and Johnson wants to make sure business owners don’t miss a prime opportunity to keep their doors open.

“I was skeptical of the PPP program at first as the last thing I needed was another loan or another bill to pay. But PPP . . . and allowed [Home of Chicken and Waffles] to pivot to sustain . . . and keep . . . employees employed.”

Johnson’s interest in PPP has a lot to do with the people currently running the Federal Government, President Biden and Vice President Harris. Harris is Johnson’s childhood best friend.

“I have so much more trust now in the Feds now that Kamala is there. She is so efficient, I can’t think of anything Kamala didn’t get involved in that she didn’t make better. When I was having tax issues, knowing how she operates made me check myself and tighten up my game. Her work ethic and tenacity showed me the results of a job well done when you’re willing to roll up your sleeves. After her run for the Attorney General race, we went to Napa and I was lamenting how raggedy my paperwork was. During that trip she inspired me to correct my IRS situation, and tighten up my life personally and in business.”

Johnson cites lingering mistrust but notes the government did what it said it was going to do. “And in return, Chicken and Waffles did what we were supposed to do, the initial money we received was forgiven and now it’s time for round two.”

Johnson recommends business owners align with a community-based bank, stating that from personal experience it doesn’t seem the major banks are the way to go.

“I recommend community banks because you can talk to the decision makers. Community banks like Summit Bank service a lot of black people. They are small and they have done great things for the black community.” Johnson cites Beneficial and Community Bank of the Bay also as potential banks that may assist.

Despite Johnson’s recommendation, he stresses the importance of doing personal research and speaking to other businesses that have received PPP funds. He also worries that some business owners will perceive PPP as free money with no attachments. “When you receive these funds make sure you reinvest to run your business more efficiently, as it will improve your profitability. Most important, if you use funds appropriately, you don’t have to pay it back.

There is a formula for PPP loans based upon payroll and that number indicates the amount business owners can apply for, which makes the process pretty easy. Says Johnson. “If you need help filing 941’s or payroll records in order to qualify, contact Cathy Adams at the Black Chamber of Commerce, she can assist you as the process is automated.”

Mia Lane

Posts by Mia Lane

Up Next

Newsom Calls Out “Naysayers and Doomsdayers” in State of the State Address

Don't Miss

Black Chamber of Commerce Stands in Solidarity With Local Businesses on Diversity, Safety

Mia Lane

Click to comment

Alameda County

Seth Curry Makes Impressive Debut with the Golden State Warriors

Seth looked comfortable in his new uniform, seamlessly fitting into the Warriors’ offensive and defensive system. He finished the night with an impressive 14 points, becoming one of the team’s top scorers for the game. Seth’s points came in a variety of ways – floaters, spot-up three-pointers, mid-range jumpers, and a handful of aggressive drives that kept the Oklahoma City Thunder defense on its heels.

Published

1 week ago

December 4, 2025

Oakland Post

Seth Curry is a point guard on the GSW team.Photo courtesy of the Golden State Warriors.

By Y’Anad Burrell

Tuesday night was anything but ordinary for fans in San Francisco as Seth Curry made his highly anticipated debut as a new member of the Golden State Warriors. Seth didn’t disappoint, delivering a performance that not only showcased his scoring ability but also demonstrated his added value to the team.

At 35, the 12-year NBA veteran on Monday signed a contract to play with the Warriors for the rest of the season.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening came before Seth even scored his first points. As he checked into the game, the Chase Center erupted into applause, with fans rising to their feet to give the newest Warrior a standing ovation.

The crowd’s reaction was a testament not only to Seth’s reputation as a sharpshooter but also to the excitement he brings to the Warriors. It was clear that fans quickly embraced Seth as one of their own, eager to see what he could bring to the team’s championship aspirations.

Warriors’ superstar Steph Curry – Seth’s brother – did not play due to an injury. One could only imagine what it would be like if the Curry brothers were on the court together. Magic in the making.

Seth’s debut proved to be a turning point for the Warriors. Not only did he contribute on the scoreboard, but he also brought a sense of confidence and composure to the floor.

While their loss last night, OKC 124 – GSW 112, Seth’s impact was a game-changer and there’s more yet to come. Beyond statistics, it was clear that Seth’s presence elevated the team’s performance, giving the Warriors a new force as they look to make a deep playoff run.