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May 12, 2012
| Vol 2, Issue 18
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Take A Fresh Look
at Oakland
News from
Mayor Jean Quan
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Greetings!
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Families march against motels on International Blvd catering to prostitution involving sexually exploited minors in East Lake.
Oakland is definitely on the rise. This week we worked on many issues involving women and their struggles. It seems right to look at the state of women as we celebrate Mothers Day. From the International Women's Court at Laney College to March Against Poverty, there is much to think about and the emerging legislative battles nationally seem more important than ever.
Today Oakland will celebrate Mothers Day with the 59th Annual Mother of the Year Award. The 2012 awardee is Lisa Lemus, educator/mentor, counselor, volunteer and leading park steward at Wood Park. Please join us at 10:30 amat the Morcom Rose Garden to learn more about Lisa and the previous winners, all of whom have left their indelible mark on Oakland.
Congratulations to City Administrator Deanna J. Santana who will be receiving the 3rd annual Powerful Women of the Bay 2012 Award on May 31 at Scott's Seafood Restaurant in Jack London Square. Formerly, the March into Women's History Month Awards, will celebrate the contributions of outstanding women in the Bay Area. The purpose of the awards is to recognize the outstanding achievements of women in their chosen career field.
Also, my thanks to the SF Business Times for listing me to the Most Influential Bay Area Women's List for the second year in a row.
Oakland continues to rise as I see community organizing everywhere. Last weekend hundreds of volunteers worked on wonderful projects in the 100 block area. From these busy gardeners (above) at the former Webster campus to hundreds of volunteers in the Verdese Carter Park neighborhood cleaning and mulching the medians and planting a new school garden (below).
Even Bike to Work Day seemed to take on a new intensity as we broke all records with 17,000 registered participants! I want to thank  my regular riding partners Jose Dorado, Ron Scrivani, and Howard Neal who joined me at Eastmont Police Station for the near 7 mile ride to City Hall. We were guided by the Oakland Yellow Jackets and many others including a two bike cops.
Special thanks to the East Bay Bicyling Coalition for hosting this event and serving us all breakfast! The afterwork party was a lot of fun and a great food scene, too.
Oakland dancers who performed at APCO's fundraiser for me last night.
I have not written about the recall efforts because I have been focused on being Mayor, especially working for create more jobs, reducing crime, and supporting out schools. That takes almost every waking hour. But I wanted to thank the hundreds of people who have volunteered time and money. This week Congresswoman Barbara Lee, the Alameda Building Trades Council and the Fruitvale merchant and professional association APCO joined those who officially oppose the recall.
LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR STATE OF SCHOOLS BREAKFAST, MONDAY, MAY 14TH, 7:30 AM: If you are an Oakland business owner or human resources director, you are invited to a breakfast I am hosting featuring Superintendent Tony Smith and a presentation on the Oakland Education Cabinet which I founded one year ago to build support for our public schools. Tonight Saturday, May 12, 6 pm, is the deadline to register:
http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=h64cesbab&oeidk=a07e5sxzj9oe261047c
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This publication is not produced at public expense.
Want to follow events as they happen?
During the week, I also post to my Facebook page: Facebook.com/jeanquan.
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In the News
| Talking Baseball and Jobs
Jean Quan, Nate Miley
Open Forum, SF Chronicle
May 9, 2012
Lew Wolff and John Fisher Should Sell the A's
Bob Gammon, East Bay Express
May 8, 2012
Recall Effort Appearing to Sputter
Matthew Artz. Oakland Tribune
May 2, 2012
Why You Should Start a Business in Oakland
Jude Stewart, Fast Company
May 2, 2012
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| Discover Oakland |  IN TRANSIT
Paintings by Elizabeth Ennis at LunchStop Cafe
Joseph P. Bort Metro Center
101 Eighth Street, 1st Floor
(at the Lake Merritt BART Station)
Stop by to see the paintings by artist Elizabeth Ennis, sponsored by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Community Arts Program
"One day while taking Bay Area Rapid Transit into San Francisco, I took some photographs. About two years later, they became my inspiration for beginning this series of paintings of people on BART.
My goal is to create an image that momentarily checks our ordinary awareness, arrests time, and causes us to dwell on the world of the painting."
- Elizabeth Ennis
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STATE OF THE CITY REPORT
Good snapshot of economic growth, accomplishments and challenges.
Change will not come if we wait for some other person or for some other time. We are the ones we have been waiting for. Barack Obama |
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1. Discover Oakland This Week
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World Courts of Women on Poverty in the US, Thursday, May 10 - Sunday, May 13, Laney College: Women's Economic Agenda Project (WEAP) and Allies sponsor 4 days of events that will unearth viable solutions to eliminate poverty at its roots. Tribunal Sessions, Round Table Discussions, Art, Music and more. Click here for details.
 Mother of the Year Ceremony, Rose Garden, 700 Jean Street, Saturday, May 12, 10:30-Noon: Enjoy the beautiful roses of this iconic park and share cake and other refreshments as we honor a community heroine.
Rain Barrel Catchment Installation Workshop, Saturday, May 12, 1-5 pm: It will be held in the Oakmore neighborhood on Saturday, May 12, from 1-5 p.m. You can email ingrid@dig.coop or call 459-0584 to receive workshop details. You can sign-up at rainwaterworkshop512.eventbrite.com.
Music: 1968 and Today, Oakland Museum, Saturday, May 12, 1-2 pm: Part of the on-going insights into the 1968 exhibit, this discussion looks at the music of 1968. How does music reflect political and social history? How has the way we listen to and experience music changed since 1968? Explore how music has changed--and remained the same--from 1968 to present day.
OMCA, Silk Screening Demonstration, today at 2-3:30 pm, is also part of the 1968 exhibit. Experience printmaking in action-in the middle of OMCA's Great Hall! Learn about screen printing techniques and the thriving Bay Area poster scene with local artists. Take the experience home with you with a custom print. Included with Museum admission.
Oakland Libraries Always Have Something Interesting to Do:
- Play Around with Shakespeare, Saturday, May 12, 2-4:30 pm, Dimond Branch, 3565 Fruitvale Ave: Get ready for the summer Shakespeare festivals and have some fun! Delight in the sound and imagery of Shakespeare's language in a playful, participatory workshop led by Dimond librarian Jane Courant. Jane has 25 years experience as a theater director, actor and teacher. No theater background is necessary, and the workshop is open to adults and teens, ages 13 and up.
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Impossible Dreams with Tim Pratt, May 12, 3-5 pm, Temescal Branch, 5205 Telegraph Ave
East Bay science fiction/fantasy writer Tim Pratt will host a showing of "Impossible Dreams," a short film based on his short story of the same name, directed by Israeli filmmaker Shir Comay. Pratt will introduce his new book "Venom in her Veins" followed by a discussion of Oakland's thriving science fiction literary scene. The event begins a new irregular series of Saturday salons at the Temescal Branch Library, known as "Oakland: Now and Then," surveying the city's cultural environment.
 4th Annual Inner Peace Festival at Lake Merritt, Saturday, May 12, 10 am - 5 pm, Lake Merrritt Pergola: The festival, a collaborative event with many local nonprofits, is offered as a gift to the city each year by The Center of Light, Oakland, a meditation center and spiritual school. For details, Call (510) 710-9000 or email Oakland@InnerPeaceFestival.com .
Give Your Mom the Universe at Chabot Space & Science Center, Sunday, May 13, 11-2 pm: Treat your Mom to a delicious buffet-style brunch at the Skyline Bistro, special kids menu available. Then spend the afternoon exploring our interactive exhibits, watching a show, and looking through our telescopes.
Free Train Rides at the Zoo for Mom's on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13: Take a ride on the Outback Express Adventure Train where you can see wallaroos and emus up close. Spending a day at the Zoo is a great way to celebrate Mother's Day. Bring the whole family to see siamang swing, lemurs leap, and river otters that are incredibly cute.
 Barbara Dane 85th Birthday Concert, Sunday, May 13, 8 pm, Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse, 2020 Addison Street, Berkeley: Oakland has been blessed to have in our midst Dimond resident Barbara Dane, the doyenne of hot jazz, cool blues, traditional folk and hart-hitting songs from all over the world. Come and celebrate this noted Oakland resident's 85th birthday, with special guests Ray Skjelbred and Hot Jazz All-stars,Jesse Cahn, Osamu (Barbara's grandson), Nina and Pablo Menendez (her daughter and son), The Stovall Sisters & more. Honorary 85th Birthday Committee members include James Early, Smithsonian Folklife Center; Bonnie Raitt, musician; Joel Selvin, San Francisco Chronicle; and Chris Strachwitz, Arhoolie Records. Tickets on sale now.
Oakland Celebrates Older American's Day, Wednesday, May 16, Noon - 1 pm, Frank H. Ogawa Plaza: The City of Oakland is home to the most culturally diverse senior residents in Alameda County. The seniors in Oakland choose to live here to access the variety of social, political, cultural and spiritual opportunities. Our Department of Human Services has programs to help seniors live independently in our beautiful city. Come by the Plaza to view performances by Oakland seniors and learn about programs and services for seniors. During May, the City's Senior Centers will have Older Americans Month events and activities. For details, call (510) 238-7298.
 "Bugs Know Best: What insects tell us about the health of Sausal Creek" - Friends of Sausal Creek Member Meeting on their Aquatic Insect Monitoring Program, Wednesday, May 16, 7-9 pm, Dimond Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave: Learn the basics about aquatic biology and biological monitoring and discover the trends in Sausal Creek data. Look at insect larvae under a microscope. All are welcome. Contact (510) 501-3672 or coordinator@sausalcreek.org. Flyer at www.sausalcreek.org/pdf/FOSC_Member_Meeting_Flyer.pdf.
Oakland Greek Festival, Friday, May 18-Sunday, May 20, 4700 Lincoln Avenue: Start the festival season with a real Greek experience right here in Oakland. Fabulous Greek food like Mousaka, Loukoumades Gyro, Lamb and Baklava, Greek dancing and music and crafts. For details, www.oaklandgreekfestival.com.
Oakland East Bay Symphony Season Finale, "Do That Voodoo": Friday, May 18, 8 pm, Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway: Daniel Bernard Roumain blends his Haitian roots with classical and techno textures. Bay Area native and musical prodigy Taylor Eigsti returns home to present the World Premier of a work he's writing for jazz piano and orchestra. And jazz vocalist Paula West will delight us with a set backed by the orchestra. Admission.
Night School Prom at Chabot, a romantic date? Friday, May 18: Did you miss your prom? Did you go to prom and have an amazing time...an awful time? Have you ever wanted another chance to experience the magic? Celebrate prom, science center-style with the grown and geeky! Recycled wrapper corsage making, photo booth memories, café conversations about pheromones (talk with Oakland Zoo experts and meet some of their friends), relationships, sex and attraction, and of course dancing are just a few of the things that will make your night memorable. Did we forget to mention a king and queen will be crowned?! Formal attire not required, but we're sure you'll have more fun decked out in your finest threads
Movies in the Park at Redwood Heights Recreation Center, 3883 Aliso Avenue, at Dusk, Friday, May 18: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and the whole family for these great family favorites: Friday, May 18, Seabiscuit, Friday, May 25th, Footloose. Popcorn and hot chocolate for sale, proceeds support the Redwood Heights Recreation Center scholarship fund.
 7th Annual Walk to End Poverty, Saturday, May 19, 9 am-1 pm, Lake Merritt Bandstand, 666 Bellevue Avenue: One third of Oakland's children live in poverty, many of our seniors do, too. The first 500 people will receive free lunch and a free t-shirt. Come enjoy a free community fair, children's activities and live entertainment. For more information, call 238-2326 or visit OaklandCAP.org.
 Friends of Joaquin Miller Park Annual Meeting, Saturday, May 19, 10-11 am, Bayview Picnic Area in the Meadow near the Ranger Station: As a Council Member, our office worked with a dedicated group of Joaquin Miller Park enthusiasts to make improvements to this 500-acre natural wonder in the city. They are now called The Friends of Joaquin Miller Park and you are invited to their annual meeting to hear about last year's efforts and plans for the coming year. If you hike, run, bike, walk your dog or ride your horse in the Park, you benefit from FJMP's efforts. Please consider joining. Annual dues are $25. More information at www.fojmp.org.
Fire Station 18 Open House, 5008 Bancroft Ave, Saturday, May 19, 11 am-3 pm: Chief Reid has been leading this on-going series of Open House events at the City's fire houses. I take special pride in getting this Melrose district fire house rebuilt, it was the oldest fire house with inadequate facilities for fire fighters and too small to house modern fire engines. This event which is a collaborative effort with community partners will focus on fire safety, education, mentorship and is a great opportunity to open the fire station to the citizens of Oakland. Firefighters will be on hand to perform Blood Pressure Screening, and provide information on fire safety and the Fire Department's Youth Mentorship program.
National Safe Boating Week Boating Open House on Lake Merritt, Saturday, May 19, 11am - 5pm: Join us at Lake Merritt to learn about Boating Safety and enjoy free boat rentals to celebrate National Safe Boating Week! All ages and abilities welcomed! www.sailoakland.com
 Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival, Saturday, May 19, 11 am-7 pm, San Antonio Park, 18th Avenue and Foothill Blvd.: Celebrating Jazz with live performances, dance, food and art. Free Admission. For details, go to www.eastsideartsalliance.com.
>> The appreciative audience in 2010.
Auditions for Sobrante's Got Talent, Saturday, May 19, Noon - 2 pm, Madison Middle School: Do you have a special talent? If so, now is your time to shine! The Sobrante Park Resident Action Council and the Alameda County Public Health Department present the 2nd Annual Sobrante's Got Talent on June 23. $200 grant prize in each of four categories: Singing, Dancing, Other and Family. Contact Allen at (510) 636-4111 or email sobranteparktalentshow@gmail.com.
MISSSEY Presents 2012 Inspire Change Gala, Featuring Women Inspiring Change in the Movement to End Trafficking & Exploitation, Saturday, May 19, 5-11 pm, The Terrace Room at the Lake Merritt Hotel, 1800 Madison Street: 2012 honorees are Carissa Phelps, attorney, MBA, youth advocate and survivor of commercial sexual exploitation; and Withelma Ortiz-Macey, Glamour Magazine's 2011 Woman of the Year. All proceeds go directly into MISSEY's activities and service to empower survivors and END the commercial sexual exploitation of children! Buy tickets here.
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2. 16th Annual East Bay Affordable Housing Week- May 6 - 15
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Affordable Housing: Building a MovementMy children have often described Oakland as a "real" City-- a place where people of all incomes as well as cultures live, work and play. Our City has made a commitment to ensure that people who work in Oakland can live in Oakland, by establishing policies that support affordable housing. We join the East Bay Housing Organization (EBHO) in celebrating several exciting new affordable housing communities in Oakland. You can learn about how affordable housing can make Oakland's neighborhoods more sustainable and vibrant. East Bay Housing Organizations' (EBHO) 16th Annual Affordable Housing Week, May 6 to 15, includes 19 events showcasing the best of today's affordable housing. Visit www.EBHO.org for details on our 8 events in Oakland, including:- Lion Creek Crossings Celebration - Join EBALDC and Council President Larry Reid to tour brand new homes for families, park improvements and a restored creek that will enhance the Lion Creek Crossings community. Wednesday, May 16 at 11 am at 6951 Lion Way.
- Cathedral Gardens Groundbreaking - Join Mayor Quan to celebrate the vision for new family apartments by EAH Housing in partnership with the Oakland Housing Authority and the Diocese of Oakland. Thursday, May 17 at 10 am at 638 21st Street.
- Supportive Housing Hard-Hat Tour - See a new community for low-income families take shape along the San Pablo Corridor with East Bay Community Recovery Project. Thursday, May 17 at Noon, 2551 San Pablo Avenue.
- Valdez Plaza Grand Re-Opening - Mayor Quan and others will take a tour of Satellite Housing's newly rehabbed, green apartment community for seniors in the Broadway Auto Row area. Thursday, May 17 at 2 pm at 280 28th Street.
- The Nexus Between Affordable Housing and Healthy Housing - Learn about the connections between quality, affordable housing and public health. Sponsored by the Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. Friday, May 18 at 10:30 am at City Hall Hearing Room 3.
- Appreciation Fair for Rental Property Owners - Visit vendors and attend workshops at this day-long resource fair for rental owners and property managers who provide affordable housing. Sponsored by Oakland Housing Authority and Eden I&R. Saturday, May 19 from 10 am - 4 pm at City Hall.
- Tour Affordable Housing-By Bicycle! Celebrating Bike to Work Month and Affordable Housing Week, take a pedal-powered view of some of Oakland's most intriguing developments. Sunday, May 20 at 10 am, starting at the Oakland Museum
MOST EVENTS AND FREE AND ALL ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO RSVP FOR ANY EVENT, VISIT WWW.EBHO.ORG
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3. City News
| Public Works Kicks Off Annual Pothole Blitz, April 30-June 22: To keep the City's vehicular and pedestrian traffic safe, PWA will conduct an 8-week Pothole Blitz, extending the effort by four weeks more than last year. Each week, the Blitz will relocate to another Council district in the City, starting on Broadway near Manila and Taft Avenues. Late year, the City filled 3,230 potholes citywide during the Blitz. Crews expect to repair more than 3,500 this year. The focus will be on traffic corridors, schools, hospitals, high traffic pedestrian areas and problem streets. Where necessary and feasible, the repairs will focus on long-lasting solutions to recurring potholes instead of short-term patches. Potholes are a never ending battle because repairing them is just a Band Aid fix to our City's old streets.Oakland's finances are so limited that roadways that should be repaved very 30 years are now scheduled to be repaved every 80 years. Call 510-615-5566 to report your least favorite pothole, or use the online form at www.OaklandPW.com or SeeClickFix, the new mobile app. You can also email pwacallcenter@oaklandnet.com.
Government of Kuwait to Meet with Public Works Agency Staff on May 11: Representatives from the Government of Kuwait will be meeting with Public Works Agency staff from to see a demonstration of Cityworks, the work management system used to handle the intake of citizen requests. Oakland is on the forefront of offering the public a variety of ways to send in their requests, all of which link to Cityworks. As noted above, the public file requests by:
Public Library Launched "Discover and Go" Service on May 1: "Discover and Go" makes free passes to museums and other cultural institutions available to library card holders. Visit
http://discover.oaklandlibrary.org/ and follow a few simple steps to procure a pass. Participating partners currently include: Aquarium of the Bay, Asian Art Museum, Bay Area Discovery Museum, Bedford Gallery, California Academy of Sciences, California Historical Society, California Shakespeare Theater, Cartoon Art Museum, Charles M. Schulz Museum, The Contemporary Jewish Museum, Exploratorium, GLBT History Museum, The Lawrence Hall of Science, Lindsay Wildlife Museum, The Marine Mammal Center, Museum of Children's Art, Museum of Craft and Folk Art, Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD), Napa Valley Museum, Oakland Aviation Museum, Oakland Museum of California, Pacific Pinball Museum, Peralta Hacienda Historical Park, Saint Mary's College Museum of Art, San Jose Museum of Art, USS Hornet Museum, Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum and the Yerba Buena Center for the Art.
Tool Lending Library Announces Longer Check-Out Times and Other Changes, Temescal Branch Library, 5205 Telegraph Avenue: Not only can you check out tools for free, you now can check them out for up to four days. The longer check-out times will help even out the flow of tools in and out of the system. Additionally, The Tool Lending Library is making changes to its holds system with the addition of new software. A hold on a tool will last until the same time the next "business day." Please note that the Tool Lending Library is closed on Thursdays. For a list of tools, hours, rules and regulations, guidelines, and information on registration, please visi twww.oaklandlibrary.org/Branches/temtll.htm.
Seeking Commissioner for Civil Service Board. This board oversees the City's civil service system and the Personnel Manual, hears employee appeals, investigates personnel matters and makes recommendations to the City Administrator on related matters. If you have an interest in governmental process and employee issues, please send a letter outlining your interest and qualifications and resume to Richard Cowan in the Mayor's Office at rcowan@oaklandnet.com.
1000 Summer Jobs for Oakland Youth: Last year with only two months' notice Congress cut the Mayors Summer Jobs Programs. For decades Oakland received funding to employ about 500 low income youth each summer. The President allowed us to double the number in 2010 because of the recession, then Congress brought it to zero in 2011. We scrambled last year and between the City and County came up with about 400 internships focusing on foster youth and private employers answered my call with about 200 more. This year we are aiming for 1000 jobs. I hope to hire at least half from the 100 block area. We need your help. A summer internship costs $1500-2000 per student to underwrite. If you can hire a student or are willing to take a student for the Mayor's Summer Jobs Program, contact John Bailey, Executive Director of the Workforce Investment Board, at (510) 238-6440. Cultural funding Program Applications Now Online, Deadline May 25: Applications for FY 2012-13 Cultural Funding Program are now available on line for the following grant categories: Art in the Schools, Individual Arts Project, Organization Project and Organizational Assistance. Organizational Assistance Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent to apply by May 4. Contact Steven Huss, Cultural Arts Manager, at (510) 238-4949.  Job Opportunities with Measure Y: The City is currently recruiting for two positions within the Department of Human Resources: a part time Program Analyst II (selective certification-violence prevention) and a Health & Human Services Program Planner (selective certification-violence prevention). Closing dates are 4/24 and 4/25 respectively. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/oaklandca/default.cfm or call (510) 238-3112 for information.
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4. Safe and Healthy Oakland
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 CORE Boot Camp--July 21, 28 and 29: Too busy during the week to take part in the typical five-week series? CORE basic training is now available in a condensed three-day weekend format.CORE classes educate and empower citizens through lessons on personal preparedness, neighborhood organization and by providing hands-on tools for emergency response. CORE Boot Camp participants receive a certificate of completion, CORE ID card, hardhat and vest. Each session takes place at the Oakland Fire Department Training Division at 250 Victory Court. Saturday, July 21, 9 am-2:30 pm, CORE I and CORE II; Saturday, July 28 9 am-5 pm; CORE III (Emergency Response Hands-on Training- Day 1); Sunday, July 29, 9 am-5 pm, Emergency Response Hands-on Training - Day 2). Advance registration is required. Sign up early--class size is limited. Contact core@oaklandnet.com or call (510) 238-6351.
 Take a Survey: Chief Howard Jordan has invited the community to take part in a survey designed to gain feedback on what the Police Department can do to improve its service to the community. The community is asked to provide suggestions, recommendations, and ideas that will grow into something that other cities will look to model. You can view the video here or take the online survey at www.oaklandpolice.com.
City Launches Gun Tip Hotline (510) 517-8739. All Calls Considered Confidential if Caller Wishes to Remain Anonymous: In collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Oakland Police Department has established a gun tip line. Citizens are asked to place calls to address the illegal possession and use of firearms within our community. Calls made to the tip line will be considered confidential if the caller wishes to remain anonymous. ATF will make available up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for firearm related homicides or other violence.
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5. The 25% Shopping Solution--Great Gift Shopping- Part I
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Looking for that something special for your mother, father, graduate or wedding couple? Check out these local boutique stores for the unusual and memorable. Corazon del Pueblo
4814 International Blvd Oakland, CA 94601 www.corazondelpueblo.com/ This Fruitvale store feels like a Latin American museum. A stop here is a must for Dia de los Muertos, but the art, paper goods, and other items make it a real possibility year round for unusual gifts at a wide spectrum of prices. 
Pot-Pourri 4100 Redwood Road Oakland, CA 94619 (510) 531-1503 www.pot-pourri.com Nestled inside the Safeway shopping center off Redwood Road, once you find this treasure, you won't forget it! The shop is large (two levels!) and filled with unique gift items like blown art glass, pottery, handmade jewerly and wooden and metal creations, all by American Craft artists.  Pelago
6134 Medau Pl Oakland (Montclair District) (510) 339-7090 www.pelagogifts.com There's something for everyone in this delightful store in Montclair. It's hard to go there and buy gifts for someone else (free gift wrapping!) and not find something for yourself. The inventory changes often thanks to the talented eyes of co-owners, Bill and Mark.  Who's Your Betty?
5517 College Avenue Oakland, CA 94618-1538 (510) 597-9897 www.stitchesforbitches.com Head into "Who's Your Betty" and you'll see the owner's visionary, fun-loving and quirky gift selections. From jewelry to purses, this is a fun shop to check out when trying to find that perfect gift! Can't make it to Europe this summer? Well then, head over to Entrez Open House for a fabulous selection of European brands and sleek designs. Marie, the French owner, brings in European items that will compliment any home. Be sure to ask about the conversational French speaking classes held inside the store each month.  Entrez Open House
1645 Telegraph Avenue Oakland CA 94612 (510) 268-9101 www.entrezopenhouse.com Can't make it to Europe this summer? Well then, head over to Entrez Open House for a fabulous selection of European brands and sleek designs. Marie, the French owner, brings in European items that will compliment any home. Be sure to ask about the conversational French speaking classes held inside the store each month.  Rockridge Home 5418 College Ave.
Oakland, CA 94618 (510)420-1928 www.rockridgehome.com/
A local, eco-friendly source for fun, fabulous and functional home, kitchen and gift items. A locally-owned, certified green business.  Urban Indigo 3339 Lakeshore Avenue Oakland, CA 94610-23045 (510) 419-0451 www.urbanindigo.com This narrow Grand Avenue store is filled to the brim with fun gift items for all ages! The merchandise is displayed so well that you'll get lot looking at all the great housewares, jewelry, cards, bags,etc. Folks Art 4168 Piedmont Avenue Oakland, CA 94611 (510) 653-5448 www.folksart.com If you haven't walked into Folks Art on Piedmont Avenue, you're missing out. While you might head there to buy a gift for someone, beware, you might just come away with a little something, too. Their large selection of earrings are wonderful along with other unique gift ideas, including clocks, jewelry boxes and vases.
More shops to visit next week. Email your favorites to Sue Piper at spiper@oaklandnet.com
Check out other local stores. Every time you shop in Oakland you are supporting local business and local sales tax revenue. Visit the Oakland Grown website for referrals to independent and locally owned retail stores.
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6. Mark Your Calendar for Upcoming Events
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MAYFund Raiser Celebrating Youth Uprising's 7 Years of Supporting Oakland Youth, Thursday, May 17, 5:30-7:30 pm, Youth Uprising, 8711 MacArthur Blvd., East Oakland: Childcare and refreshments provided. Buy $70 tickets or call (510) 777-9909 ext. 105 for additional information or to reserve childcare. 60th Anniversary Celebration for East Bay Agency for Children, Satu rday, May 19, 6:30 pm. Uptown Body & Fender, 401 26th Street, Oakland: Grab a poodle skirt or James Dean leather jacket and travel back to the 1950's when EBAC began. Enjoy a fun and lively party including yummy food, delicious drinks, silent and live auction and special recognition of their special 60th Anniversary Honorees: Marlis Branaka, the Hughes Family, David La Piana, and Kaiser Permanente. VIP Reception at 5 pm across the street at Warehouse 416. Click here for ticket and sponsorship information. Pickin' on the Potomac, 2012 Bluegrass Concert Series, Premier, Sunday, May 20 7:30-9:30 pm, Dockside on board the Presidential Yacht Potomac. Wild Blue and Doctor Elmo kick off the series. $25 per person, $150 for the series of seven concerts. Reservations and information, call (510) 627-1215 or go to www.ticketweb.com. All proceeds support the Potomac's educational programs for children.  Winners of 2012 Inspire Contests Announced, Sunday, May 20, 3 pm, Oakland Digital, 1224 Harrison Street: For the past six weeks, aspiring designers from educational institutions in Oakland (Laney) and Hayward (CSUEB) have been participating in Oakland Digital's Inspire Program. The Program inspires civic pride through design while building professional and life skills essential to job functioning. Winning entries are posted on billboards throughout the city. RSVP at http://2012inspire.eventbrite.com/ <<previous winning design by Eric Weldon.
 FREE Oakland Youth Orchestra (OYO) Spring Concert, Sunday, May 20, 4 pm, Scottish Rite Auditorium, 1547 Lakeshore Drive: Under the direction of Principal Conductor Bryan Nies, OYO will present the final concert of the 2011-12 Season. Program will include Leonard Bernstein's Overture to Candide and Saint-Saens Cello Concerto No. 1 featuring a solo performance by Jiho Choi, winner of the OYO 2011-12 Concerto Competition. The Oakland Symphony Chorus will join OYO for Ralph Vaughan Williams' Dona Nobis Pacem. OSC Music Director Dr. Lynne Morrow and the chorus will also offer the West Coast Premiere of a new work by Dr. Andre J. Thomas, Someday is Today, a piece for voice and piano commissioned by a consortium of choruses this year.
KQED News and The Bay Citizen Media Meet Up, Monday, May 21, 6-9 pm, Actual Cafe 6334 San Pablo Avenue: Nobody knows the community and the challenges it faces better than you and your neighbors. But getting the media to pay attention to your community's needs during an election year can be difficult. KQED News and The Bay Citizen want to make sure your voice is heard above the sound bites and din of the horse race. Their meet up in Oakland will be an informal get-together in which you can share your concerns about and talk about ways we can improve our coverage of the Bay Area and the election. Details at: www.kqed.org/community/opennews.jsp. 6th Annual Indie Awards Celebrate Oakland's Revolutionary Businesses & Artists, Thursday, May 31, 5:30 pm, Kaiser Center 300 Lakeside Drive: Established in 2006, the 6th Annual Oakland Indie Awards will feature a full evening packed with activities celebrating Oakland's local businesses, artists and artisans. The signature awards ceremony will be hosted by local business leader Glynn Washington and Oakland community leaders. There will be attractions to keep participants engaged the entire evening. A celebration with live drumming performances, art curated by the Joyce Gordon Gallery, a do-it-yourself cupcake bar, People's Bazaar marketplace, custom T-shirt screen printing, Polaroid photo booth, live mural, auction and live DJ music by the Oakland Faders will follow the 2012 awards ceremony. Over 600 nominations were received in the categories: Oakland Soul, Ripple Effect, Innovative Newbie, Greenie, Socially-Responsible Rockstar and Pillar. Some of the 2012 Oakland nominees include: Spoiled Boutique, Beer Revolution, American Steel Studios, Best Music Co., Ecologic Brands, Sarabek Images, popuphood and many more. For details, visit www.oaklandindieawards.com. JUNE 100% Strong Peace Walk & Resource Fair, Saturday, June 2, 10 am - 4 pm: 100 Women Against Violence and Mesengers4Change sponsor a peace walk starting in East and West Oakland at 10 am and ending at De La Fuente Plaza in he Fruitvale where there will be entertainment, and a resource fair. From the East side, meet at 100th Avenue/International Blvd. before 10 am. From the West Side, meet at Oakland City Hall before 10 am. First 100 Oakland residents participating in the Gun Buy Back will receive a $100 gift card! No questions asked. For more information, contact Jennifer Argueta at (510) 238-2056 or visit www.messengers4change.org.  East Bay Open Studios, June 2-3, 11 am - 6 pm and June 9 & 10, 11 am- 6 pm: During the first two weekends in June, and throughout the year by appointment, East Bay Open Studios connects the public with over 400 artists in 14 cities in the East Bay. Since 1979, this event remains the largest art event in the region and draws an annual audience over 50,000! Download your Directory with maps here.
 Movies in the Park at Redwood Heights Recreation Center, 3883 Aliso Avenue, at Dusk: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and the whole family for these great family favorites: Friday, June 8th, Chicken Little, Friday, June 22nd, Puss In Boots. Popcorn and hot chocolate for sale, proceeds support the Redwood Heights Recreation Center scholarship fund.  Blues Benefit Concert at Yoshi's In Support of the East Oakland Boxing Association, Tuesday, June 12, 8 pm, 510 Embarcadero West at Jack London Square: On June 12 2012 at Yoshi's Oakland an extraordinary event will take place for an extraordinary organization- The East Oakland Boxing Assn. or EOBA.ORG-a vital community resource mainly reliant on our contributions, that is constantly giving back to a neighborhood in need of assistance. EOBA has been a non-profit in East Oakland for over 25 years and is more pressed to the limit now for a struggling community then any time in recent years. This is our way to give back by supporting their cause. $30. For details, click here. (Above left: Mark Hummel, Nick Gravenities and Steve Freund are among the artists performing at the benefit concert.)
 Once Upon A Time--adults only costume party at Children's Fairyland, Thursday, June 7, 6:30-9:30 pm: Last year Children's Fairyland welcomed over 500 guests, and raised over $67,000 for their renowned storybook theme park, which celebrates imagination and literacy. With a theme of "Pure Imagination," guests came dressed in fairytale and storybook attire, and were treated to performances, food and drink from local restaurants and wineries, and a silent auction. You don't want to miss out on this magical experience! Details and tickets at fairyland.org/support_fairyland/annual_gala_dinner.htm
3rd Annual Oakland Rising's Young Progressive's Party and Townie Awards, Wednesday, June 20, 5:30-8 pm, Lake Chalet, 1520 Lakeside Drive: Nearly 4 years ago, Oakland Rising emerged into Oakland's social justice and electoral organizing landscape to align leaders and organizations for a broader vision of Oakland's progressive future. Attend their annual "Young Progressives Party" to learn more about social justice victories for Oakland communities, meet the leaders behind them , and hear about the most progressive fights for Oakland in 2012. For details and to purchase tickets, go to www.firstgiving/oaklandrising/young-progressives-party-2012. Auditions for Sobrante's Got Talent, Saturday, June 23, 3 - 5 pm, Madison Middle School Auditorium: The Sobrante Park Resident Action Council and the Alameda County Public Health Department present the 2nd Annual Sobrante's Got Talent on June 23. $200 grant prize in each of four categories: Singing, Dancing, Other and Family. Contact Allen at (510) 636-4111 or email sobranteparktalentshow@gmail.com. JULYMovies in the Park at Redwood Heights: The Sand Lot on Friday, July 14; Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler on Friday,July 27, 3883 Aliso Avenue: All movies being at dusk. Please note that the times change in the Spring, summer and fall, Be sure to dress warm, bring a lawn chair, and/or blanket. Red Boy Pizza Fundraiser-- Eat in or take out dinners to raise money for the Center. Present the Red Boy Flyer and the Center will receive 15%. Call (510) 482-7827. 50th Reunion, Oakland Tech/Skyline High, July 27-29:The details of the Oakland Technical High School / Skyline High School dual 50th class reunions for the Classes of 1962 are now available. The date is July 27-29th, 2012 and the location is the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, located at 200 Marina Blvd in Berkeley (where the phone number is 1-510-548-7920). A link to the reunion Web site is: http://oaklandtech.com/staff/blog/2012/02/28/class-of-1962-50th-reunion More information and an online registration packet are available from Kathy (White) Ryan at email address: jkryan15@comcast.net or from Cindi (Schloming) Wolfe at email address: mtnviewoma@aol.com
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7. Celebrate Oakland--Spring/Summer/Fall Street Fairs
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JUNE
Jack's Night Market Celebrating Oakland's First Fridays, Friday, June 1, 6 - 10 pm, Jack London Square: Enjoy a captivating evening filled with merriment and verve with Oakland crafts, artisans and de4singers, local producers, vegetables, fruits, performance art and quirky performers. Ride the free B Shuttle from the Uptown to Jack London Square. www.jacklondonsquare.com
Montclair Village Food Tour, Monday, June 4, 11 am - 12:30 pm: Join food author Serena Bartlett on a food-centric walking tour through Montclair Village.$45. Sign up here.
Dimond Night Out, Tuesday, June 5, 6-8:30 pm, Dimond District: Neighbors and visitors are invited to take a leisurely stroll around the Dimond Business District to taste their way through a selection of treats offered by participating restaurants and merchants. This is the first "Dimond Night Out" and promises to be a pleasant evening that will include tasty food samples, music, a jumpy-house for children, and even goody bags for pets.A Dimond Night Out Passport can be purchased for $20. This Passport is the evening's guide, with a map of all participating merchants, and the ticket to the special treats each merchant is providing. For more information, call Kelly's Corner at (510) 531-6810 or stop by one of the local merchants. Check out www.shopdimond.com.
Pacific Fine Arts Sidewalk Festival, Friday, June 22-Sunday, June 24, Montclair Village, 10 am - 6 pm: More than 80 artists from the Bay Area and beyond will be displaying their wares against the scenic backdrop of Montclair and the Oakland Hills. Details at www.pacificfinearts.com.
100 yea rs of Alameda County Fair, Centennial Parade, Saturday, June 23, 9:30 am, Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton: On Saturday, June 23, thousands of people from throughout Alameda County and the Bay Area will watch the fun, color and excitement of the Centennial Parade, to honor the second 100 years of the annual Alameda County Fair. The 2012 Alameda County Fair runs from Wednesday, June 20 through Sunday, July 8. There's always lots to see and do--pre-engineering students from Oakland Tech are featured in the drafting contest. www.alamedacountyfair.com/ for details. JULY4th of July Festival of Family Fun Celebration, Jack London Square, Wednesday July 4, 11 am -4 pm: Celebrate July 4th with the entire famly in a celebration of family fun and games! (No fireworks planned.) www.jacklondonsquare.com Temescal Street Fair, Saturday, July 8, Noon - 6 pm: After last year's success, the Temescal Street Fair settles into its new July date. Details at www.temescaldistrict.org.
Waterfront Flicks "We Bought a Zoo", Thursday, July 12, market Lawn, Jack London Square at sundown: Enjoy outdoor movies on the beautiful waterfront. Grab dinner at any Jack London Square restaurant or pack a picnic. Movies begin at sundown but the fun begins earlier with trivia questions and prizes as well as beer (New Belgium) with proceeds to Eat Bay Bike Coalition. www.jacklondonsquare.com
National Parks and Recreation Month Open House, Studio One, 365-45th Street, Friday, July 13, 6 pm: Join the Office of Parks & Recreation for a Studio One open house featuring Circus Bella. www.oaklandnet.com/parks.
Annual Dimond Improvement Association Picnic,Sunday, July 15 11 am, Dimond Park: Bring your own picnic lunch and then stay for Circus Bella, Women's Will presenting Shakespeare, arts & crafts and free swimming in Lions Pool. For details, contact Michelle Doppolt at (510) 867-0672. AUGUST Art & Soul, Saturday, August 4, 2 pm to midnight and Sunday, August 5, Noon - 6 pm : Two sensational days of music, crafts and food! Join us for the 12th annual festival featuring top national and Bay Area bands, all-new art component, tasty eats from all over the globe and expanded Family Fun Zone! www.artandsouloakland.com
Waterfront FLicks, Moneyball, Thursday, August 9, sundown at Market Lawn, Jack London Square: Bring a picnic dinner or eat at one of the many Jack London Square restaurants. Purchase New Belgium beer, proceeds to East Bay Bike Coalition. www.jacklondonsquare.com
Laurel Street Fair, Saturday, August 11, 11 am-6 pm, MacArthur Blvd. between 35th and 38th Street: Food, music and fun in the Laurel District. A family-oriented event that showcases amazing music and dance stage, huge kids land, creative crafts and merchandise, info booths, an impressive variety of food vendors and a spotlight on health and wellness. Sponsored by the Laurel District Association. www.laureldistrictassociation.org. PedalFest, Saturday, August 18, 11 am-8 pm, Jack London Square: Throughout Jack London Square in collaboration with the East Bay Bicycle Coaltion (EBBC) and Bay Area Bikes, this amazing family festival celebrates all things bicycles! Live music, bike demos, stunts, pedal powered stage, rides, art and food. www.pedalfestjacklondon.com.Waterfront Flicks, Princess Bride, Thursday, August 23, sundown, Market Lawn, Jack London Square: Bring the family and enjoy a great movie on the waterfront. www.Jacklondonsquare.comChinatown Street Fest, Saturday, August 25 and Sunday, August 26, 7th to 11th Street and Broadway to Harrison: Now in its 23rd year, enjoy Chinatown's unique ambiance, many restaraunts and colorful shops. Celebrating the Year of the Dragon along 8 city blocks with continuous live entertaniment on two stages, 250 vendor booths, community information, food, kdis' carnival and hands-on crafts for the whole family. Sponsored by the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce. www.oaklandchinatownchamber.org/events/streetfest.html. SEPTEMBER
 3rd Annual Oakland Pride, Sunday, September 2, Uptown Oakland/20th and Franklin Street: One of the most diverse pride celebrations in the country and the second largest pride in Northern California. This year's them "It's a Celebration" celebrates the accomplishments of the community in Oakland and across the world.. www.oaklandpride.orgFall Boat Show,Thursday September 13 through Tuesday, September 18, Jack London Square: Annual Northern California Fall Boat Show features nearly 100 yachts power and sail. www.ncma.com
Taste of Temescal, Tuesday, September 18, 6- 8:30 pm: The fourth annual grazefest on Telegraph Avenue between 43rd and 51st Streets. Tickets are $30, proceeds benefit local schools and nonprofits. www.temescaldistrict.org. Eat Real Fest, Friday, September 21, 3- 9 pm, Saturday September 22 and Sunday, September 23, 11 am - 9 pm, Jack London Square: Eat Real combines a state fair, a street-food festival, and a block party to create a celebration of food food. Attendance is free, all food costs $5 and less, and all food incorporates regionally -sourced, fabulous and sustainably-produced ingredients. www.eatrealfest.com. Eighth Annual Major Motion Cycling Club, Oakland Grand Prix, Sunday September 23, 8 am - 4 pm, Snow Park, 20th & Harrison: The strongest, most dynamic criterium racing event of the year. Bringin an unprecednted level of professional and amateur cyclists, the race will reach thousands of enthusiasts at this top-caliber event, and the finish of the Northern California/Nevada Criterium for 2012. www.majormotioncyclingclubnorcal.terapad.com Sundays in the Redwoods, Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park, Sunday, September 23 1- 6 pm. Tickets $10. sundaysintheredwoods.com/Sundays in the Redwoods, Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park,Sunday, September 30, 1-6 pm.Tickets $10. sundaysintheredwoods.com/
OCTOBER
 Black Cowboy Parade, Saturday, October 6, 10 am to 4 pm. Broadway to DeFremery Park. www.blackcowboyassociation.org/annualparade.html. Dia de los Muertos, Fruitvale BART Station, 10 - 5 pm 5th Annual Oaktoberfest, Saturday, October 6, 11 am- 6 pm, in the Dimond: Oakland's family friendly craft beer festival. www.oaktoberfest.org.
Out & About in Rockridge, Sunday, October 7, Noon - 6 pm: Picnic in the Street & Chef Stage, Food Courts, Oaklandish Harvest Hoedown, 57th Street Gallery Stage, Musically Minded academy stage, Wellness Area, Kids' Court and Claremont Middle School State, Artisan Alley . rockridgeoutandabout.com/ Sundays in the Redwoods, Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park, Sunday, October 7, 1- 6 pm: Tickets $10. sundaysintheredwoods.com/Pacific Fine Arts Festival, Saturday, October 13 and Sunday, October 14, 10 am - 6 pm, Montclair Village: A great place to shop for one-of-a-kind hand-crafted jewelry, art and crafts. www.pacificfinearts.comSundays in the Redwoods, Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park, Sunday, October 14, 1- 6 pm: Tickets $10. sundaysintheredwoods.com/
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