Events

Marcus Books Hosts Producer-Writer DeVon Franklin

Published

8 years ago

October 23, 2017

Oakland’s Marcus Bookstore was filled to capacity on September 16th as excited guests waited in line to purchase best-selling author, DeVon Franklin’s latest book, “The Hollywood Commandments.” Subtitled “A Spiritual Guide to Secular Success,” the NY Times best-selling author penned strategies he’s learned and applied throughout his career and faith-filled life as a devoted Christian.

Franklin, an established Hollywood executive and native of Oakland was met with a combination of fans, old friends, family and church members. Franklin says he was raised in the church and throughout his journey he learned how to balance his professional life with his Christianity.

“I was inspired to write the book because I wanted people to know that you can still hold onto your faith and beliefs and be successful in my industry and anything you put your mind to,” said Franklin. “You don’t have to compromise who you are,” he said.

In blueprint fashion, Franklin outlines 10 rules to live by in the secular industry while maintaining your faith and beliefs. Subjects covered in the book include; identifying your talent and propelling your career, overcoming fear, gaining confidence and negotiating the life and career you deserve.

While addressing the audience, Franklin shared his enthusiasm for life, devotion to wife, actress Meagan Good and commitment to keeping a Sabbath day throughout his busy life.

As a sought after preacher, motivational speaker and success coach, Franklin says the book expressed his desire to help others reach their highest potential. “Many people told me I could not maintain my faith and still be a success in Hollywood, but I want people to know, God is bigger than Hollywood and your prayers don’t stop at the gates of Hollywood.”

Staying humble, trusting ones instincts and avoiding getting stuck in the past are other traits Franklin suggests. “For starters don’t just stop with prayer, take action after you pray.” Franklin also discussed the power of negotiation. “You don’t get what you are worth, you get what you negotiate,” he said.

Using his wife as an example, Franklin discussed the power of preparation, “so you are ready for all the opportunities that God has for you.”

Franklin shared that his wife, Meagan Good, sought action roles but was not working out at the gym to get in shape. When Franklin prompted her to work out and the studios saw her transformation, the action role opportunities began to flow.

“Because my wife prepared and did not just wish for a particular role, she will star in the up-coming television re-imagining of the iconic Foxy Brown for Hulu,” he said.

As a studio executive at Sony’s Columbia Tristar Pictures, Franklin became one of the highest- ranking African-American executives in the Hollywood prior to launching his own production company Franklin Entertainment. Franklin’s list of blockbuster films includes, “The Karate Kid,” “The Pursuit of Happyness,” and “Jumping the Broom.” Franklin is best known for “Heaven is for Real” produced on a $12 million budget and grossing over $100 million worldwide.

He also produced the hit inspirational film “Miracles from Heaven,” starring Jennifer Garner and Queen Latifah. Franklin will make his animation debut this fall, with “The Star.” Franklin is also working on the remake of the classic 1975 film Cooley High; the high-profile reboot of the “He-Man” and “Masters of the Universe” franchise; and a pair of inspirational true stories The Impossible and The Boy Who Knew Too Much, which he’ll produce through his newly signed multi-year deal with 20th Century Fox.

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Activism

Newsom, Pelosi Welcome Election of First American Pope; Call for Unity and Compassion

“In his first address, he reminded us that God loves each and every person,” said Newsom. “We trust that he will shepherd us through the best of the Church’s teachings: to respect human dignity, care for the poor, and wish for the common good of us all.” Newsom also expressed hope that the pontiff’s leadership would serve as a unifying force in a time of global instability.

Published

3 days ago

May 19, 2025

Oakland Post

Pope Leo XIV. Screenshot.

By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom on May 8 issued a statement congratulating Pope Leo XIV on his historic election as the first American to lead the Catholic Church.

The announcement has drawn widespread reaction from U.S. leaders, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who called the moment spiritually significant and aligned with the values of service and social justice.

In their statement, the Newsoms expressed hope that the newly elected pope would guide the Church with a focus on compassion, dignity, and care for the most vulnerable. Newsom said he and the First Partner joined others around the world in celebrating the milestone and were encouraged by the pope’s first message.

Newsom also expressed hope that the pontiff’s leadership would serve as a unifying force in a time of global instability.

“May he remind us that our better angels are not far away — they’re always within us, waiting to be heard,” he said.

Pelosi, a devout Catholic, also welcomed the pope’s election and noted his symbolic connection to earlier church leaders who championed workers’ rights and social equality.

“It is heartening that His Holiness continued the blessing that Pope Francis gave on Easter Sunday: ‘God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail,’” said Pelosi.

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Activism

California Observes Third Annual Black Health Advocacy Week

On May 4, 2023, the California Assembly unanimously passed ACR 53, enacting BHEAW every first week of May. “The life expectancy at birth for Black Californians is 76.2 years of age, which is five years shorter than the state average and the lowest life expectancy of all racial and ethnic groups in California,” said Weber in a statement.

Published

4 days ago

May 19, 2025

Oakland Post

Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson. File photo.

By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

California’s third annual Black Health Equity Advocacy Week (BHEAW), observed from May 5-9, reaffirmed the commitment of the state and advocates to address systemic health disparities affecting Black communities.

Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-San Diego), who is a medical doctor and chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), authored the resolution that created BHEAW — the first statewide initiative of its kind focused on advancing Black health equity.

On May 4, 2023, the California Assembly unanimously passed ACR 53, enacting BHEAW every first week of May.

“The life expectancy at birth for Black Californians is 76.2 years of age, which is five years shorter than the state average and the lowest life expectancy of all racial and ethnic groups in California,” said Weber in a statement.

“This disparity is a stark reminder of the systemic and institutional factors that contribute to health inequities in communities of color,” she added.

The California Black Health Network (CBHN) led this year’s events, combining advocacy, training, and public engagement to amplify the urgency of closing health gaps for Black Californians.

The theme of this year’s observance was “We’ve Got the Power.”

“CBHN is calling on our community to step up, speak out, and get involved. Increasing the participation of Black Californians in policymaking — across the health industry and public sector — is one of the most powerful ways we can drive change and save lives,” reads a message from the organization promoting this year’s BHEAW.

“Policy change is within your power and this week we’re in Sacramento with our Health Equity Advocacy Training (HEAT) Program Cohort 3 to uplift issues impacting our community and advocate to help shape the policies and programs that will improve the health of current and future generations of Black Californians,” the message continued.

Focused on public awareness and information, this year’s BHEAW included a social media campaign, a rally and training program with vital information on medical conditions that have a disproportionate impact on Black Californians, including maternal mortality, mental health, diabetes, cancer and more.

For more information on the resolution or to join the movement, visit CBHN’s official site, www.cablackhealthnetwork.org.

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Barbara Lee

WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries Kick Off Season with Community Programs in Oakland

“The Golden State Valkyries are more than a team—they’re a movement,” said Oakland Interim-Mayor Kevin Jenkins. “Their touchdown in Oakland marks a new era of opportunity, inspiration, and equity in sports. This partnership reflects our city’s deep commitment to uplifting women, investing in youth, and building a community where every dream has a place to grow. We’re proud to welcome the Valkyries to The Town.”

Published

4 days ago

May 18, 2025

Oakland Post

The Valkyries came to Oakland City Hall with a “Hoopbus.” Present were (from left to right): City Councilmembers Noel Gallo, Rebecca Kaplan, Zac Unger and Rowena Brown; Oakland Mayor-elect Barbara Lee, Valkyries President Jess Smith, a Valkyries team representative and Deputy Mayor LaNiece Jones. Photo courtesy Rebecca Kaplan’s office.

Team installs new nets at playgrounds, holds flag-raisings at City Halls in Oakland and S.F.

Special to The Post

The Golden State Valkyries brought the excitement of their inaugural season to every corner of the Bay Area with a full slate of community celebrations leading up to their historic home-opener against the Los Angeles Sparks at the Chase Center in San Francisco on Friday.

The week featured flag-raising ceremonies at city halls in Oakland and San Francisco, three “Violet Net” installation days at Oakland parks to encourage basketball play, fun “Hoopbus” takeovers at multiple schools presented by Kaiser Permanente, and player appearances.

In total, 90 violet nets were installed on 45 basketball courts across 34 public parks throughout Oakland this week. A list of the parks receiving violet nets can be found at Valkyries.com.

About the Golden State Valkyries

The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA affiliate of the seven-time NBA Champion Golden State Warriors, were announced as the 13th WNBA franchise on Oct. 5, 2023. According to Norse mythology, Valkyries are a host of warrior women who are fearless and unwavering – flying through air and sea alike.

This brand is Golden State’s modern interpretation of Valkyries: strong, bold, and fierce. Tipping off during the 2025 WNBA season, the team is headquartered in Oakland and will play home games at Chase Center in San Francisco. For Golden State Valkyries’ assets, including team logos, visit valkyries.com.