Blog Layout

Black Caucus and Black Chamber Host Black History Event Recognizing Businesses

Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media • February 18, 2025

(SACRAMENTO) In celebration of Black History Month, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) recognized 16 honorees at the annual Black Business Brunch on Feb. 10 at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento.

The small business owners from every corner of the state were recognized for their entrepreneurship, contributions to their respective communities, and vital roles in improving California's economic landscape.

The proprietors were chosen by members of the CLBC and CBCC. They were honored on the Assembly floor at the State Capitol later that afternoon.

“We gather here today to honor the incredible African American, small business owners of California,” Jay King, President and CEO of CBCC, told California Black Media. “We have to show them some love because they are the heart and soul of our communities. Their tireless work and unwavering dedication show what it means to be leaders”

View more

CLBC members Sen. Laura Richardson (D-Los Angeles), Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles), Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), and Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton) presented awards to respective honorees.


Assemblymembers Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-San Diego), and Mia Bonta (D-Alameda) also paid homage to Black business leaders.

CLBC chair Sen. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) was unable to attend due to a prior commitment. CLBC Vice Chair Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights) spoke on her behalf.

State Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin was one of the guest speakers at the business brunch.  CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

“While we recognize you today, you are recognized in your communities every single day,” Bryan told the honorees. “We need you and we rely on you. You were not just picked at random (to receive this award).”

Featured speakers at the brunch were California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), was also present at the annual brunch.

Omishakin’s message was brief, highlighting ways the state helps support Black small businesses. The Department of Transportation’s (Caltrans) allocates substantial amounts each year to finance construction projects started by state and local governments, public transit agencies and airport authorities.

Omshakin said Caltrans’s most important tool for meeting its commitment to inclusion of minority-owned businesses has been its Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) program. Small businesses must be DBE-certified to receive state funding.

Caltrans ensures that firms competing for state-assisted contracts for these projects are not disadvantaged by unlawful discrimination. In fiscal year 2022-2023, nearly $1 billion was awarded to small businesses in the state. African American small businesses received about $40 million, leaving “money on the table,” Omishakin said.

“That’s hundreds of millions of dollars,” Omishakin said about possible procurement opportunities for Black businesses. “There’s a lot of work still to do, with Caltrans and other places, to make sure that African American and Latino owned firms get more opportunities to get that work.”

CLBC member, Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), was presented with the Chairman’s Award for his significant leadership in fostering economic empowerment and his dedication to his constituents in the 65th Assembly District.

The Legacy and Literacy Leadership Award was bestowed upon Georgia “Mother Rose” Peat West, the founder and owner of Underground Books in Sacramento.

West passed away in December. Her son, Ronnie West, accepted the award on her behalf.

The year’s business honorees were Nelson German (alaMar Kitchen and Bar); Jonathan Kinnard (Coffee del Mondo); Brad Cooper (Coop’s West BBQ); Victor Headley (Every Little Thing Jamaican); Eugene Bennett (Grocery Outlet Bargain Market); Marques McCammon (Karma Automotive); Joseph Cannon (KJ’s Barber and Hair Creationz); and Jauneice Munoz (La Casa Azul Design).

Rounding out the awardees were Malik Muhammad (Malik Books); Aimbrell Shanks (Partytime Machine Rentals), John Cleveland (Post and Beam); Mark Jenkins (Preferred Cremation); Herb Hudson (Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles); Dennis Peterson (That Guy Eye Wear); Eric Calvin (Ultra Unlimited); and Kedrin Johnson (WAYS Home Care and Health Agency).

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” King said. “Your role within this large framework cannot be overstated. Black small businesses bring innovation, creativity, and vital services to every corner of California. Today, we stand together to honor and celebrate you.”


Business Resources

Share This Article

This Couple Launched A Delivery Service To Bring Black Farmers and Food Suppliers To Your Doorstep

By UBJ Staff • March 26, 2025
(ATLANTA) Move over Instacart! In the months following the country’s shutdown due to the pandemic, Rhandi and Jonathan Altidor noticed something was missing in the food delivery market — Black grocers. Their solution? The couple decided to bridge the gap with The Better Buggy , a grocery delivery service for Black-owned farms and food suppliers in their Atlanta community. “I told my husband that it was really frustrating that weren’t able to support Black-owned stores because a lot of the major outlets that offer [grocery delivery] don’t have smaller Black-owned businesses available,” Rhandi told Because of Them We Can. “We are always team ‘buy Black’ whenever we can, whereever we can — why don’t we fill this void that’s out there and help empower these local Black-owned stores and create this service because it wasn’t there.” The two educators, Rhandi a middle school teacher and Jonathan a school counselor in Fulton County Schools, used their downtime to create the business while juggling married life and parenthood. With help from their family and wider community they’ve been able to make inroads in a predominately white market. The Better Buggy offers same-day delivery for fresh produce and everyday essentials, including vegan, organic, and gluten-free options.

The Heart of Inglewood: Yolanda Davidson Honored as a Woman of Excellence in Community Service

By LaTania • March 25, 2025
(INGLEWOOD) Inglewood, California, is a city steeped in culture, resilience, and history. At the heart of this vibrant community stands Yolanda Davidson, an Inglewood native whose life and work embody the spirit of advocacy, service, and unwavering dedication. Born at Centinela Hospital and a proud alumna of Parent Elementary, Morningside High School, and California National University, Yolanda’s roots in Inglewood run deep. Her education also includes completing the prestigious Congressional Black Caucus Institute in 2022 and the California Black Women’s Empowerment and Leadership Program at Cal State Dominguez. These experiences shaped Yolanda into a dynamic community advocate, empowering her with the tools to lead and inspire change. For over 25 years, Yolanda has tirelessly championed causes that matter most to the people of Inglewood. Her advocacy spans across generations, supporting students, elderly residents, and families affected by tragedy. When the Inglewood Unified School District threatened to close Warren Lane Elementary, Yolanda stood shoulder-to-shoulder with parents and children, fighting to preserve the school’s legacy. When four young lives were tragically lost on Park Avenue, Yolanda humanized the victims, supported grieving families, and joined their fight for justice. Yolanda’s influence extends far beyond activism. She regularly attends city meetings, providing vital input on Inglewood’s major projects, while maintaining strong ties with the senior community. Through initiatives like breakfast gatherings at Osage Senior Villas and hosting a Winter Wonderland event , Yolanda ensures that Inglewood’s senior residents feel valued and connected. Her commitment to preserving Inglewood’s rich culture is unwavering. Whether she’s advocating for small businesses impacted by stadium construction, cheering on student athletes, or simply showing up as a volunteer when needed, Yolanda’s deep love for her hometown shines through. Yolanda Davidson exemplifies what it means to be a community leader. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, unity, and hope. As Inglewood evolves, Yolanda remains a steadfast reminder that its vibrant culture and strong sense of community will always endure.

The Sound of Success: Primah’s Mission to Empower Artists and Redefine Music in Media

By LaTania Smith • March 25, 2025
(INGLEWOOD) Inglewood native Primah is a creative force whose soulful voice, songwriting talents, and entrepreneurial spirit are leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. As a singer, songwriter, and co-founder of the Sounds You Need Collective (S.Y.N. Collective) , Primah is helping to redefine how music is used in media while empowering artists to embrace their creativity and business potential. Primah’s journey in music began with her signature sound—a soulful blend of melodic R&B and the gritty energy of today’s hip-hop. Her ability to craft witty, heartfelt lyrics paired with funky beats has made her a sought-after songwriter. Her songs have been featured in popular shows like All American and Issa Rae’s Rap Sh!t , as well as in the globally renowned video game Fortnite . In 2021, Primah took her passion for music to new heights by co-founding the S.Y.N. Collective , an Inglewood-based music licensing agency and independent music publisher. Under her leadership, the S.Y.N. Collective has grown to represent over 90 artists and more than 3,000 songs , achieving 100 placements in television, podcasts, video games, and advertisements. Their work has been featured on platforms such as Facebook Meta Campaigns, the CW, NFL, HBO, CBS, and Netflix , bringing their music to millions of listeners worldwide. Primah’s commitment to empowering artists extends beyond licensing. In 2024, she opened the Duality Production House , an audio recording studio and content space in Inglewood designed to bring artists together, foster collaboration, and teach entrepreneurial skills. The studio has become a hub for creativity, providing artists with a space to grow their craft while learning how to navigate the business side of the industry. Primah is passionate about the power of music in media and its capacity to transform visual content emotionally and globally. Whether it’s penning a heartfelt song, championing the work of emerging artists, or creating spaces for collaboration and growth, Primah’s work is a testament to her dedication to the artistry and business of music.
Show More
Share by: