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| March 4, 2013 | Vol 3, Issue 9 |
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Take A Fresh Look
at Oakland
News from Mayor Jean Quan & Friends |
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Greetings!
Young muralist, Nate1, at First Friday.
THANK YOU FOR FIRST FRIDAY COLLABORATION
Over the last month my staff and I worked closely with the members of the Art Murmur, First Friday Street Festival, Councilmember McElhaney, merchants and police, to plan last week's First Friday. It was not easy and took nearly a dozen meetings but it was a chance to look at a wide range of issues. By most accounts things went well on Friday:
- About 12,000 strolled Telegraph and more visitors to the galleries were reported.
- Artists and performers developed works against violence which had wide participation.
- Many residents wore the "Respect Our City" t-shirts, including about 30 volunteer community monitors.
- The smaller footprint allowed police and security to spend more time walking the area rather than directing traffic.
- Alcohol laws were more strictly enforced.
- Two moments of silence for victims of violence around the world and in Oakland were held.
- Crowds moved off the street at the earlier closing time into bars, cafes and clubs without a problem.
 First Fridays/Art Murmur grew over the last 6 years reaching up to 20,000 in the warm months without a major incident. As it grew we adjusted to meet the challenges of success. When the shooting occurred nearly an hour after February's First Friday/Art Murmur some rushed to say we should end it. The local media, which does not usually cover what is probably one of the most diverse regular gatherings of people in the Bay Area, was out in force.
 The art scene and increased night life in Downtown/ Uptown Oakland is continuing to thrive. On Friday the community made a strong statement that we value this event that brings Oakland and the Bay Area together across income, race, and cultural lines in a monthly celebration. There is still much work to do to build a sustainable event but we can do it.
 A moment of silence was observed at the 9 pm closing around this mandala of flowers. Photo by Shannon Currier.
STATE OF THE CITY: OAKLAND CONTINUES TO RISE BUT WE NEED EVERYONE TO PARTICIPATE
On Wednesday I delivered the State of the City address to almost 300 in a full Council Chambers. KTOP - TV10 will replay the address on Thursday, March 7th at 6 pm, and the full written report will be published later this month. MISS THE STATE OF THE CITY? Watch it on-line here. (l-r) City Attorney Barbara Parker, Council members Lynette Gibson McElhaney, Noel Gallo, Pat Kernighan, Dan Kalb and Libby Schaff at the State of the City address. Tribune photoIn the State of the City I tried to present a balanced view of Oakland's accomplishments over the last two years and of the challenges ahead. I started with the challenges: public safety and the upcoming budget planning. Then outlined the encouraging signs: the growing economy, national accolades and major projects on the horizon. I ended with the challenge to ask each Oaklander to become part of the process and to be part of the solution. The cost of 200 more police and the media: One of the City's goals is to add 200 more officers. What I laid out Wednesday is the complete baseline cost. I noted that night that one of the local papers criticized the City for "not balancing our 5 year budget." What we put out in December was a 5 year projection, NOT a BUDGET. The projection was to show that if we do not make adjustments and grow our economy significantly more than now projected, we will be out of balance again. I think we are trying to be transparent.  Then on Wednesday I put out that we estimated it will cost $73 million to recruit, train, and pay 200 new officers. Several of the main print reporters immediately jumped on that one point, basically accusing us of using too high of a number. They said that at current costs the salary of 200 officers would be $40 million. True, but the costs of the extensive recruiting and screening, academies, 6 month field training, cars, and equipment is another $33 million for 200 officers. Even though I stayed for the reception long afterwards NOT ONE of them asked me or my staff why I used that figure so I could explain. They ran with story that we were wrong and it was followed by other media. I usually don't fight the errors or what I think is unfair in media coverage. But as we come into the budget debate about something this important, it is critical that we have an honest discussion about what the city's resources are, our priorities as a community, and what we are willing to pay. We will do our best to put out as much information as we can. FRAZIER NAMED AS OPD COMPLIANCE OFFICER
 Yesterday after a near 3 month process federal Judge Henderson named Thomas Frazier as the City's Compliance Officer in the 10 year old civil rights case against the Oakland Police Department (OPD). In the aftermath of the October 25, 2011, Occupy demonstration, it was clear that the City could do better in handling large demonstrations. I asked at that time for an independent investigation; the City hired Tom Frazier, the former Baltimore commissioner and former deputy chief in San Jose. His report found the OPD was understaffed, needed better trained command, and made nearly 80 recommendations. While he was here he helped us retrain officers and worked with the command staff to change and update policies. By the time his report was released, about three quarters of the tasks were completed or underway. Demonstrations over the last year seem to have been handled better.
We have been asking for a compliance officer who will be here on a day-to-day basis as we work through the remaining tasks with the Federal Court.
Yesterday the Chief, the City Administrator and I released this statement:
"We believe we can work well in collaboration with Mr. Frazier to accelerate our efforts to reach full compliance with the outstanding reform tasks. Everyone involved in this case is working toward the same goals: enhanced constitutional policing and strengthened relationships between our police and our communities."
Student Job Fair at Lockwood Gardens
2000 SUMMER JOBS FOR YOUTH
After decades of funding the Mayor's Summer Jobs Programs, Congress cut the program just months before the summer of 2011, my first year as Mayor. We scrambled and asked other agencies and employers to join in with us to create jobs especially for kids from low income neighborhoods. We were able to pull together about 600 jobs, a few more than the federal program. Last year we created about 1000 jobs; half of the jobs went to the 100 block neighborhoods. We noticed that violence leveled off during those weeks. This year our goal is 2000 jobs, equal to the number of applications that we received. We want to build links between summer jobs and on-going internships and where possible with a pipeline to permanent jobs. We believe this can help reduce short term violence and begin to address the roots of violence. We need you help to reach this goal. If you can donate to sponsor a job, offer a job, take a student (we pay the stipend), or let us know about job opportunities...please contact us. We've been getting lots of information and event listings for summer (and regular) jobs, especially for young people, but also for adults. So we've put everything in it's own section to make it easy for you. Click here to jump to the section.
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, WOMEN'S HISTORY
On February 28th, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The newest version of VAWA, which includes increased protections for teens, LGBT women, and those living on Native American reservations, will be in effect until 2018. VAWA provides new tools for law enforcement and prosecutors to hold abusers and rapists accountable, while also providing increased resources for their victims. This law is a large step towards becoming a society where girls and women are liberated from the fear of domestic violence.
In 1994, then-Senator Joe Biden (D-DE) drafted this landmark legislation. Since then, reports of domestic violence have gone down by 64%. The National Domestic Violence Hotline, created by the first version of VAWA, has received over 2 million calls for help. What has increased, however, is teen dating violence. This is particularly important for girls because they are most at-risk to experience the horrors of dating violence and rape. Last year, our ACT teens (Advocating Change Together, a Girls, Inc. program) even created additional policy recommendations as well as a video surrounding teen dating violence and abuse. VAWA will certainly complement our work preventing violence among girls.
This month is Women's History Month and we have listed some events in #3 including "The Status of Women in the World" Wednesday, Mar 13, 6-7:30pm, Oakland City Hall, 1 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Hearing Room 2. Presented by the League of Women Voters of Oakland, includes a report on the UN Commission on Status of Women. For more info: www.lwvoakland.org or 834-7640
APOLOGIES
As you may have noticed, last week we listed an event, Workshop Weekend, that had among other classes, a workshop on learning how to pick locks. The listing was not intentional, had we noticed it, both my editor and I would have cut it out.
At a time when the entire city is dealing with public safety issues on a daily basis, it was an unfortunate oversight on our parts. We sincerely apologize to our readers and to all of Oakland.
Over the last ten years we have published about 500 weekly newsletters with few problems. We think the newsletter helps build and bridge community. I always say that I feel like I introduce much of Oakland to itself...its many beautiful and diverse communities. We have over 10,000 subscribers. We do not use city resources, I raise the funds myself. Much of the information for the newsletter is sent to us by community organizations and we simply cut and paste it. I often only have time to write in two or three sections and don't have time to read everything myself. We will take more time and care in the future.
As part of our apology we will do our best to increase workshops put on by the police and community councils like these:
Residential Burglary Workshop
Wednesday, March 6, 7pm, St. Lawrence O'Toole Church, 3725 High St.
Learn how to "target harden" your home. Learn about security systems and hardware that can make your home harder to burgle. This meeting is co-produced by NCPCs 22Y (Bret Harte/Joaquin Miller) and 25X(Laurel/Redwood/Leona Heights), but is open to all. Representatives from Reed Brothers and ADT Security, and ACE Hardware will present.
A MOMENT IN HISTORY
On Thursday, I had the great honor to give the "Key" to the city to the great BB King, King of the Blues. The 87 year old icon still plays the guitar like no other and performs about 100 concerts a year. The sold-out Fox Theater approved and gave him a standing ovation that brought tears to his eyes. The moment reminded me of Oakland's history as the West Coast Capital of the Blues. We should be thankful for the many performers who live in our city and the great venues like the Fox, Yoshi.s, and other clubs that bring living legends like BB King to perform here.
Peace!
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Mayor Jean Quan
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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/mayorjeanquan.
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Growing Our Economy
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A Successful 3rd Annual Restaurant Week,
by the numbers
"Leave your heart anywhere...but eat in Oakland."
Boston Globe
The restaurant industry is part of the Oakland renaissance story. It is part of why we have a steadily increasing number of visitors to the city. The Restaurant Association and Oakland Convention & Visitors Bureau have worked together with the city to raise the profile of our eating scene which many professional critics say is the best in the Bay Area.
During Restaurant Week many Oakland restaurants served fixed price dinners which gave diners real value as an enticement to try them out. Here's the results.
Record number of participating restaurants: 46
Media Coverage: Oakland Restaurant Week garnered more than 30 unique press articles, including clips in Sunset Magazine, Zagat.com, and the San Francisco Chronicle
Web Analytics: 113,148 Page views; 2,331 diners made online reservations
Consumer Survey
- 62% respondents reported an "Excellent" experience, 99% of respondents reported an overall experience of "Satisfactory" or better.
- Chop Bar was the most-attended restaurant (others popular choices were were Hopscotch, B-Side BBQ, Nido, Bocanova, Pican, Lake Chalet, and Plum Bar)
- 46% attended Oakland Restaurant Week for the first time
- 83% of diners were from Oakland, 17% were from other cities
Restaurant Survey
- 55% of Restaurants were participating for the first time
- Of the restaurants who had previously participated, 67% saw an increase in attendance over previous years, and none saw a decrease
- Restaurants saw an average increase in business of 19.3% during ORW
- 95% of participants plan to participate again, 5% most likely
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| SPOTLIGHT on Oakland |
Everything Rtystk extended in honor of Women's History Month
Last month we highlighted a local artist's exhibit, "Everything Rtystk" here in this section.
Nationally recognized artist, Rtystk (pronounced artistic) announced that his exhibit has been extended for the month of March in honor of Women's History Month. Rtystk shares his entire collection of original paintings, limited edition prints and "Everything Rtystk" exhibit at J. Posh Design Studio.
Rtystk is an Oakland-based artist who is widely known for humorous cartoon figures, and more recently, brightly scribbled mixed-media paintings.
J. Posh Design Studio
3824 Telegraph Avenue
Open Mon - Sat
11am-7pm
and by appointment
922.1447
www.rtystkblogspot.com
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1. DISCOVER OAKLAND -- Activities This Week
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COMMUNITY MEETINGS
Keep Oakland Firesafe 2013 Community Meeting, Monday, March 4, 7pm, Highlands Country Club, 110 Hiller Drive. 
 When property owners in the fire-prone Oakland Hills voted to assess themselves $65 a year and form Oakland's Wildfire Prevention Assessment District (WPAD), they also voted for a 10-year Sunset. That means that the WPAD must be renewed before it sunsets on January 20, 2014. Come talk about how the WPAD has reduced the risk of wildfires in Oakland and what it will take to renew the special assessment so that Oakland can continue to have a stable source of funds for wildfire prevention education and to keep up with vegetation management on city properties in the hills.The City's website has a great 7-minute video that describes the work of the WPAD.
For more info:
Public Safety Meetings Continue This Week
In March, the City continues the series of community meetings we launched last month with Strategic Policy Partnership seeking input from neighborhoods across the city on public safety priorities. 5 more meetings are being held. This input will be incorporated in to two action plans currently being developed:- a short-term strategy to have an immediate, high impact on crime trends and
- a long-term, citywide strategy to sustain reduced levels of crime.
Strategic Policy Partnership is a consulting team composed of nationally recognized police experts who will be facilitating the meetings attended by Chief Howard Jordan, Mayor Quan, City Administrator Deanna Santanna, City Council Members and the Oakland Police Command staff.
MEETINGS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK: (To see list of other scheduled meetings, go to #3)
- Wednesday, March 6, 6-9pm, Council Chambers, Oakland City Hall, 1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza. Hosted by the Community Policing Advisory Board in coordination with the Measure Y Oversight Committee. Chinese interpretation available.
- Saturday, March 9, 10am-1pm, (Police District 3) West Oakland Middle School, 991 14th Street
Jazz Search West 2013, March - April 2013
Jazz Search West provides exposure and visibility to emerging artists, along with performance opportunities for promising Jazz talent in the Bay Area. Four Competitions will be held over consecutive weeks in March.
- Tuesday, March 5, Yoshi's Lounge - San Francisco, 7-10pm
- Saturday, March 16, The Sound Room - Oakland, 7-10pm
- Monday, March 18, Duende - Oakland, 7-10pm
- Sunday, March 24, The Jazz School - Berkeley, 3-6pm
Contestants perform at the venue of their choice in front of a panel of Bay Area jazz professional judges, and a welcoming, supportive live audience.
Jazz Search West judges provide valuable feedback to each contestant. Four finalists are chosen from each week's competition to move on to the Semi-Finals. Eight finalists will ultimately perform at the public Grand Finale at Piedmont Piano Co. here in Oakland. 3 top winners will win valuable prizes designed to enhance their musical careers. For more info, click here .
- Semi-Finals, Tuesday, April 2, NEW SFJAZZCenter, San Francisco
- Grand Finale, Saturday, April 13, Piedmont Piano Company, Oakland
Inversion: A Disobedient Circus,
March 9-24th, Saturdays 4pm & 8pm, Sundays 1pm & 5pm, Kinetic Arts Center, 785 7th St.
The Circus Spire Youth Troupe is back for their annual show! All ages welcome!
Piedmont Piano Company Concert Series, 1728 San Pablo Ave
Located in the Uptown, half a block from the Fox Theater, Piedmont Piano Company doesn't just sell beautiful, high-end pianos. Every month, they present music from local and international musicians.
Costs vary, but typically range from $15 to $25. For more info: www.piedmontpiano.com
- March 8-10, 8 pm - Kitka Women's Vocal Ensemble: New Folksongs from Within
Friday Nights at the Oakland Museum with Off the Grid Food Trucks, every Friday, 5- 9pm.
Join OMCA and Off the Grid Food trucks on 10th Street every Friday for a family-friendly take on a festive night market. Savor California beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages around the Koi Pond at the Blue Oak caf� pop-up. Enjoy half-price admission, live music, extended OMCA Store hours, open studios with the Customizers-in-Residence from the we/customize exhibition, and much more. Bring the whole family to OMCA for a sampling of the best in Bay Area curbside cuisine!
COST: Half-price gallery admission for adults; ages 18 and under are free. Admission for Members is always free. Cash bar. Prices vary for Off the Grid food trucks. Event parking is available at the Museum for a $5 flat fee after 5 pm. For more info click here
 Marcus Foster Education Fund 40th Anniversary Open House, Thursday, March 7, 6-9pm, 8301 Edgewater Dr.
The Marcus Foster Education Fund has been supporting the Oakland Public Schools for over 40 years. If you have been considering establishing a scholarship in the name of a loved one or for a specific student field of study, this is the group for you. Come and learn about new grant in "Legacy of service, creating a blueprint for the future." Food, music, and more. To RSVP: 654-5335 or www.mfefopenhouse.eventbrite.com For more info: 777-1600 or www.marcusfoster.org
Cracking the Codes: the System of Racial Inequity, Saturday, March 9, 1-4pm, Eastside Cultural Arts and Media Center, 2277 International Blvd. 
Youth are encouraged to attend. Seating is limited. Presented by PUEBLO and World Trust. Dr. Shakti Butler is a multiracial African-American woman (African, Arawak Indian, and Russian-Jewish). She is the producer and director of groundbreaking documentaries including The Way Home, Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible, and Light in the Shadows. Her latest film Cracking the Codes: The System of Racial Inequity uses story, theater, and music to illuminate the larger frame of structural/systemic racial inequity. Admission is free. For more info and tickets click here..
2nd Fridays Performing Arts Social, Every 2nd Friday, 7-10pm, Mosswood Rec Center, 3612 Webster St,
Engage and share in music, dance and poetry geared to those 16 and up.
FOR ADULTS
Oakland Speakers Series 2012/2013,
1st Tuesdays, 8pm (doors open at 7pm), Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway
The Oakland Speakers Series provides an open, unbiased forum for the exchange of ideas and the intellectual enrichment of the community. Speakers are chosen on the basis of their extraordinary achievements and unique expertise in their particular field of endeavor. The Series is available by subscription only. Single tickets are not available. For more info: 650-343-8001 or www.speakerseries.net
- Zanny Minton Beddoes - Tuesday, March 5
- Dr. Sanjay Gupta - Tuesday, April 2
Tyke Explorers Workshop at Chabot Space & Science Center, Tuesdays, 10am, 12:30pm, or 3pm. Chabot Space &
Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd.
For ages 2.5-5 years. Expand your preschooler's universe by enrolling in our Tyke Explorers Program. Kids get to bring a special grown-up to share in the excitement of science and space. Classes are a combination of instructor-led lessons and self-guided, hands-on experimentation and exploration.
The Living Earth - Tuesday, March 5: Hairy Mammals
Cost: Guests: $12 / $10 each additional child; Members: $9 / $5 each additional child
Advanced registration is required. Call Charlette Lim Yankowitz at 336-7381 to register.
For more info click here
 FAIRYLAND
March 9 & 10, 11am, 2pm, 4pm Puppet Show: The Enchanted Well
Beware the Bogart, a mischievous Scottish imp that likes to live in a well and echo people who talk into it.
Blake Maxam,
 ZooKids Programs for March
ZooKids classes are a great way for children age 4-5 to have a fun and educational adventure at the zoo. Each program includes a mini zoo tour, craft, games, animal close-up, and snack.
ART
Mills College Music Now: Signal Flow Music & Sound Festival 2013, Monday March 4 thru Sunday, March 7, Mills College campus, 5000 MacArthur Blvd.
The Mills College Music Department and the Center for Contemporary Music present Signal Flow, an annual spring festival showcasing new student works in music and sound art.
Thursday, March 7 to Sunday, March 10; 8pm (4pm on Sunday)
Monday, March 4 to Sunday, March 10
Installations (running all day) Lisser Hall
From now through May with different types of events each month. Inspired by maker culture, we/customize, an experimental, participatory, process-oriented outreach project and exhibition, takes the Oakland Museum of California outside its walls.
Customizer-in-Residence Open Studio Series, Fridays 5-8pm, Saturdays & Sundays 1-4pm.
Catch Bay Area hackers, makers, and DIYers in action as part of the we/customize Customizer-in-Residence series. Watch the process of expert customizers and participate in transforming objects with clothing mash-ups, toy hacking, music remixing, and more! Visit the open studio to customize something different every week, then see your finished work featured on Flickr and wecustomize.org
Other Exhibits:
- What's Happening, Sacramento? Now thru March 24.
- Playing with Fire: Artists of the California Studio Glass Movement, thru March 24.
- California Photography - Beth Yarnelle Edwards: Suburban Dreams, thru June 30.
AT OUR PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Many library events are recurring. Some are highlighted here temporarily, but be sure to check the last section (RECURRING EVENTS) for events no longer listed in this section and click here for a link to all library events.
An Evening with Maria Nieto, Tuesday, March 5, 6:30pm, Piedmont Avenue Branch.
Author will read from her novel Pig Behind the Bear.
Encuentros: Youth Speaks Poetry Workshops, Tuesday, March 5 & 12, 4 pm, C�sar E. Ch�vez Branch. A workshop for teen writers.
Our Family Coalition - Welcoming Schools, Tuesday, March 5, 6pm, C�sar E. Ch�vez Branch. An LGBT-inclusive approach to K-5 education.
Your Toddler's Language Development, Wednesday, March 6, 10:30am, Temescal Branch. Join Madeline Riley, child care referral agency Bananas' expert on brain and language development, for pointers on how to help babies both grow strong and healthy brains and learn how to understand and be understood.
Mural workshop, Thursdays, 3:30-5pm, 81st Street Branch. Join acclaimed muralist Lisa Nowlain in creating a mural for the 81st Avenue TeenZone.
Computer Help, Saturdays, 10am-1pm, Elmhurst Branch. A computer tutor will help you with basic computer tasks during your hour online. Sign-up to use one of the Elmhurst Branch computers during these hours, and she'll be available to assist you.
The following exhibits run all month unless otherwise noted:
- The Waters of Oakland -- A historical exhibit about Lake Merritt and its related waterways. Main Library, 2nd Floor.
- Library Artists, Performers & Writers Go Public! -- March 3 - 29, Rockridge Branch, 2nd Floor Gallery.
- Honoring Past Artists: Breathing Life in Oakland's History
- An Exhibit of Works by Richard Blakely, March 2 - 29, Lakeview Branch.
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2. March is Women's History Month
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Friday, March 15, 2013, 3-7 pm 
If you are not a member of the Oakland Museum, this is a good time to consider joining. Not only will you be able to attend at the great events including Off the Grid every Friday, but you can attend special member events like this. Oakland artist and Mills College professor Hung Liu opens her first comprehensive survey of her work featuring about 80 paintings and personal materials such as sketch books, informal painting studies from public and private collections around the world, and photographs. Meet the artist. Live music, giveaways, and specials from the Blue Oak Cafe. Bring your membership card! http://museumca.org/event/member-preview-summoning-ghosts-art-hung-liu
Mountain View Cemetary Women's Walking Tour, Saturday, March 23, 10am:
Women's Tour Free docent led tour by Michael Colbruno and Jane Leroe. Walking this beautiful park/cemetery is always enjoyable, but the stories by the docents about the famous residents here are always interesting. Julia Morgan, Delilah Beasley, Ina Coolbrith, Jane Sather, and Ida Jackson are just a few historic figures buried here. Don't know who they are? If you don't, take the tour, visit Michael's great blog.
Women's History Month Trivia Night, Saturday, March 23, 6 pm, a benefit for BAWAR (Bay Area Women Against Rape), Oakland Peace Center, 111 Fairmount Ave: A fun way to learn about women's contributions to art, science, medicine, politics and other areas. $15/person or $60 for a team of five. http://womenstrivianight.tumblr.com/�
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3. CITY NEWS
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UPCOMING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
City Council meetings are typically held the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month (assuming no holidays interfere). The public part of the meeting starts at 6:30pm. Here is the schedule for the next few months:
- March 5 and 19
- April 2 and 16 and 30
GOOD THINGS HAPPENING IN OAKLAND
Public Library Begins 2nd Annual Youth Poet Laureate Competition
The Oakland Public Library, in partnership with Youth Speaks, is revving up to name another citywide Youth Poet Laureate. This year's contest will get underway March 1st and conclude in August when the city crowns its second Youth Poet Laureate. In addition to the honor of serving as Youth Poet Laureate, the contest winner will win a $5,000 scholarship and gain invaluable experience and exposure through public speaking engagements and publishing and media opportunities.
Applications will be accepted from Friday, March 1 until 5pm, Friday, April 19. Applicants must be between 13 and 18 and reside or attend school in Oakland. Finalists will be announced in early June; winners in August. The competition will be judged by local leaders and celebrity authors.
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Stephanie Yun, current Youth Poet Laureate
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Last year's winner, Stephanie Yun of Montclair, has made more than a dozen public appearances inher first 6 months as laureate, including performances at Oakland City Hall, Alameda County Juvenile Hall, the America's Children Holiday Parade, and the African American Museum and Library at Oakland, where she took the stage just before Governor Jerry Brown. In September, Stephanie was invited to perform alongside California's State Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera at Brava Theatre in San Francisco. She is currently working to develop a community service project as part of her tenure. Updates about her work can be found at www.facebook.com/StephanieYunPoet.
For more info and to apply, click here or contact Amy Sonnie, Teen Outreach Librarian, 238-7233 or [email protected]
RECOGNIZING OUR OWN
Oakland Un1te to be Featured on MTV 
On Monday, March 4, the season 2 premiere of MTV's "World of Jenks" will feature the story of 21-year-old Oakland dancer D-Real, as well as the Department of Human Service's (DHS's) Oakland Unite and Messengers4Change programs. Stay tuned for more details following the premiere. In the meantime, check out the trailer here.
For more info: Jennifer Argueta, Program Analyst, 238-2056 or [email protected]
 APWA Recognizes Four More Public Works Employees
On February 28, the American Public Works Association (APWA) designated four more Oakland Public Works Agency employees as Public Works Leadership Fellows (PWLFs) by the APWA Donald C. Stone Center for Leadership Excellence in Public Works. The employees are Brain Carthan, Allen Law, Gilbert Hayes and Maaza Mekuria. This designation recognizes the recipients' accomplishments in public works and their contributions to the profession throughout their careers. Currently, there are 229 total PWLFs who mentor other public works professionals.
For more info: Kristine Shaff, Public Information Officer, 238-2966 or [email protected]
TAX HELP
Public Library's Tax Assistance Program Through April 15
On Tuesday, February 5, the Tax Assistance Program began at the Oakland Public Library. The program concludes Monday, April 15. Tax help, provided by AARP volunteers, is available at 5 library locations:
- Dimond Branch
- Main Library
- Golden Gate Branch
- C�sar E. Ch�vez Branch
- Eastmont Branch
For more info and a detailed schedule click here or contact the Main Library Information Desk, 238-3134
CITY BOARDS and COMMISSIONS
Boards and Commissions are a wonderful way for residents to participate in city government, and currently we are recruiting for several openings.
Due to the term limits that pertain to most Boards and Commissions, vacancies in nearly all of them are continuously occurring. If you are interested in being considered for any of these Boards and Commissions, please send a letter of interest and your resume to Richard Cowan at [email protected]
BACK TO TOP
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3. Community Policing: Townhall Meetings Set on Public Safety
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COMMUNITY MEETINGS THIS WEEK
Short-term Strategies, Long-Term Solutions: Improving Public Safety in Oakland
In March, the City is hosting a series of community meetings seeking input from neighborhoods across the city on public safety priorities.
This input will be incorporated into two action plans currently being developed by Strategic Policy Partnership for the Oakland Police Department (OPD):
- a short-term strategy to have an immediate, high impact on crime trends and
- a long-term, citywide strategy to sustain reduced levels of crime.
Strategic Policy Partnership is a consulting team of the nation's best minds in policing, with proven track records in achieving major reductions in crime. The meetings will be structured to foster active, engaging dialogue between the consulting team, City leaders, and the Oakland community. Meetings will be attended by Mayor Jean Quan, City Administrator Deanna J. Santana, City Councilmembers, Police Chief Howard Jordan, and members of the OPD Command Staff.
Remaining Meetings scheduled to date:
Wednesday, March 20, 6-9pm, (Police District 5) Castlemont High School, 8601 MacArthur Boulevard
Saturday, March 23, 10am-1pm, (Police District 1) Location to be announced
April, exact date and location to be announced (Police District 4)
Meetings are open to everyone, regardless of where in Oakland you live. A map of Oakland's police districts, beats, and Council districts can be reviewed here. Additional meetings may be added in the future.
Please visit www.engageoakland.com to submit suggestions or ideas on how to improve public safety in Oakland, or submit suggestions, ideas and comments by email to [email protected] .
For more info: Joe DeVries, Neighborhood Services Manager, 238-3083
CeaseFire Oakland/LifeLines to Healing -- Walk our neighborhoods
The City of Oakland and local faith-based organizations are continuing their neighborhood Night Walks on Fridays from 6:30 to 9pm -- just one of the ways that community members can get involved in Operation Ceasefire. These walks are organized by residents and faith leaders in areas where Ceasefire is focused. Volunteers are trained in advance of the Night Walk and are accompanied by other volunteers for the duration of the walk. The purpose of the Night Walk is to reach out to communities affected by violence. The message the program tries to convey is: "We love you and we want you to be alive and free." 
Join neighbors on one or more of these walks:
Friday, March 8, 6:30-9pm - At Thy Word - 8915 International Blvd
Friday, March 15, 6:30-9pm - Allen Temple - 8501 International Blvd
Friday, March 29 22, 6:30-9pm - First Mt. Sinai MBC - 1970 86th Avenue
For more info: 639-1440 or [email protected] Residential Burglary Workshop Wednesday, March 6, 7pm, Lawrence O'Toole Church, 3725 High St. Learn how to "target harden" your home. Learn about security systems and hardware that can make your home harder to burgle. This meeting is co-produced by NCPCs 22Y (Bret Harte/Joaquin Miller) and 25X(Laurel/Redwood/Leona Heights), but is open to all. Representatives from Reed Brothers and ADT Security, and ACE Hardware will present.
POLICE ACADEMY NEWS
OPD Graduates One Academy, Seeks Candidates for Next
On Friday, March 22, the current recruit academy for the Oakland Police Department (OPD) anticipates graduating 45 officers. The next OPD recruit academy starts on Monday, March 25, with 55 police officer trainee positions. Of those slots, 43 have been filled. Individuals interested in participating in the next recruit academy are asked to visit http://opdjobs.com/how-to-apply.asp. One more academy is scheduled to begin on September 30 with 55 recruit positions.
For more info: Public Information Officer Johnna Watson, 238-7230 or [email protected]
HOW YOU CAN HELP OPD
Many Arrests Are Made Each Week Because Citizens Report Suspicious Activity
Please remember to be alert and report suspicious activity to the police:
777-3333 OPD non-emergency number
This number should be used to report any suspicious behavior and suspicious vehicles parked or driving in your neighborhood or area of business. Callers can opt not to provide their name and number and remain anonymous. Please include any descriptive details that could be helpful. Jot down the date, time and location you saw the vehicle or suspicious person. Each time this information is reported, it is used in the investigative process.
911 for life threatening emergencies
777-3211 emergency when calling from your cell phone
Descriptions Are Important 
When reporting suspicious vehicles, try to include:
- license plate number (even if just partial)
- make and model
- number of doors
- color
When reporting suspicious individuals, try to describe:
- gender
- approximate age
- approximate weight and height
- hair color/style
- clothing
- distinguishing marks (i.e., tattoos, facial hair, clothing color including shoes)
In general, follow your gut instinct: if you believe something is suspicious call the non-emergency number and report it.
Do not place yourself in danger. Stay safe and report the suspicious behavior; let OPD follow up on the information.
Use Nixle Tip Watch to send an anonymous tip in 1 of 3 ways:
- Text TIP OAKLANDPD to 888777 from your cell phone
- Call the toll-free tip hotline at 855-TIPS-247 (855-847-7247)
- Respond to OPD's Nixle messages
To view the Nixle message, click here.
Nixle -- stay informed of events, news, and announcements
If you have not already done so, please sign up for NIXLE to receive OPD alerts, advisories, and community messages. You can sign up for your beat to receive updates from OPD.
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4. GREENING Oakland: Sign Up for Earth Day Now
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THIS WEEK
Work with Friends of Sausal Creek
Here are this weekend's volunteer options, but check their calendar for more details and other upcoming activities, too.
For more info generally (including minor waivers): www.sausalcreek.org
Monterey Redwoods Restoration, Saturday, March 9, 9:30am-12pm, Monterey Redwoods Worksite. Help restore redwood understory along Palo Seco Creek, a tributary to Sausal Creek. You'll be working to remove invasive ivy and blackberry. Wear layers, bring water, and wear sturdy shoes as you'll be hiking upslope to the worksite. They will provide tools, gloves, instructions, and snacks. Minors need a signed waiver to participate.
Click here for directions and a map.
For more info or to RSVP: Megan at [email protected]
Plant Propagation, Saturday, March 9, 1:30-4:30pm, Joaquin Miller Plant Nursery.
An afternoon of native plant propagation and nursery maintenance. Activities include sowing,  transplanting, cuttings, and weeding. Bring layers and water; they provide tools, gloves, instruction, and snack. Drop-ins welcome. Minors need a guardian to sign a waiver. You are welcome to attend all or part of this event. The closest address is the ranger station at 3594 Sanborn Rd, Oakland, 94602
Click here for directions and a map.
For more info or to RSVP: Megan at [email protected]
Bridgeview Trail Restoration, Sunday, March 10, 10am- 2pm, Bridgeview Trail, end of Bridgeview Drive.
Help restore native plant communities along this beautiful trail! Volunteers will learn how to identify and remove invasive ivy in areas that FOSC is working to restore. The Friends of Sausal Creek will provide tools, gloves, and instruction. Please be prepared to hike approximately 1/2 mile to the project site. Bring water, sun protection, close-toed shoes, and wear long sleeves and long pants. Minors need to bring a signed waiver to participate (available at www.sausalcreek.org ).
Directions: From Hwy. 13 exit Park Blvd. and head towards the bay (west). From Park Blvd., make a left on Leimert Boulevard, southeastward, across the bridge. At the first stop sign, bear left, staying on Leimert. Go one block, turn left onto Bridgeview. It dead-ends at the trailhead.
For more info: Kathleen Harris, 415-377-5576 or [email protected] or FOSC Restoration Manager Megan Hess, [email protected] .
Seed Exchange, Saturday, March 9, 11:30am-1:30pm, Dimond Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave.
It's time for spring planting! Come out and meet your neighbors and other gardeners and share seeds from last season's crop. For more info: Rebekah Eppley, Librarian, 482-7844 or [email protected]
UPCOMING
 Register for Oakland Earth Day 2013!
Saturday, April 20, 9 am-Noon:
We anticipate beautification at 100 sites throughout Oakland! Interested in becoming a Site Coordinator? Please complete the Site Coordinator Registration Form by March 15, 2013. You may submit the form online (below), or download the Site Coordinator Registration Form
to submit via email, fax, or mail. We look forward to seeing you there!
Watershed Workshop, Sunday, March 17, 10am-12noon, Redwood Heights Recreation Center, 3883 Aliso Ave.
Learn the essentials of onsite storm water management from conception to construction at this free workshop offering a comprehensive overview of Low Impact Design (LID), and how to incorporate this form of landscaping on your own property. LID uses nature as a model for managing rainfall with runoff prevention and mitigation strategies, as well as treatment controls to remove pollutants.
To attend the workshop, register here.
For more info, click here.
 Oakland Measure DD Community Coalition Meeting, Monday, March 18, 7:10pm, Lakeside Park Garden Center, 666 Bellevue Ave. The Measure DD Community Coalition meets bi-monthly to continue dialogue between the City of Oakland and interested members of the community on how this bond measure will be implemented. Funded projects include parks, trails, bridges, a recreation center and an arts center, land acquisition, and creek restoration. Though these projects are being phased in over a number of years, many are already complete and many others are in progress. For more info, click here.
Gardening for Native Bees, Wednesday, March 20, 7pm, Dimond Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave.
Come catch the buzz on native bees from Celeste Ets-Hokin, native bee garden designer for the  Gardens at Lake Merritt. Celeste will present wonderful images of native bees and discuss the importance of these pollinators, introduce native bee ecology and life cycles, give tips on species identification, and discuss plantings to encourage native bees. For more info: 510-501-3672 or www.sausalcreek.org
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5. SAFE & HEALTHY Oakland
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BRINGING DISASTER PREPAREDNESS TO ALL OAKLANDERS
Communities and Partners that Learn, Lead, Lift
Learn, Lead, Lift (LLL) is a disaster justice pilot project led by the City of Oakland Fire Department's Emergency Management Services Division (EMSD) that strives for the sustainable engagement and integration of ALL neighborhoods in emergency planning, preparedness, and mitigation efforts regardless of social, cultural, religious, and economic  status. Oakland has been very successful in organizing more stable neighborhoods for disaster preparation, but where we have new immigrant populations, families with less resources and changing populations it is more difficult.
This project seeks to foster a new conversations and a culture of preparedness starting in the communities of Havenscourt, Elmhurst and Acorn with expansion to Sobrante Park, San Antonio and Fruitvale . Click here to jump to the full report.
EMSD is actively looking for community organizations and agencies that serve the target areas to partner in these ambitious efforts.
Collaboration with community partners will allow for the wider representation of the voice, needs, and issues. We hope participants will:
- Advocate for the full inclusion of community members served by your organization
- Network at Learn, Lead, Lift Mixers with organizations and community leaders from other sectors
- Shape the events so they reflect the needs of your community
- Receive staff-specific training geared towards building organizational resiliency
- Access City resource support during emergencies IF you designate your agency as a shelter or distribution site
- Have direct access a range of local social service, public safety, and health-specific resources
If you would like to collaborate with Oakland EMSD and join the project, you can sign-up at:
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| 6. JOBS and BUSINESS Opportunities | |
Editor's Note: We've been getting so many items about summer jobs and job search assistance, that it seems appropriate to give the topic it's own section for those who want to know all about it. Here you go. It is the Mayor's goal to provide at least 2000 jobs this summer for Oakland Youth, half of them in our low income neighborhoods. If you can provide a job, support a position ($1500/student), or provide and internship/work opportunity in a non-profit organization (we pay the student)...please contact us.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Ready, Set, Connect! 
Youth Job Training Program Coming to the Oakland Public Library (OPL), March thru June, Main Library, 125 14th St.
OPL is partnering with Community Technology Network to offer the Ready, Set, Connect! (RSC!) work force development program to Oakland youth. The program will provide free technology and leadership job training to 50 youth, ages 16 to 24, from low-income communities. A special effort will be made to attract students from bilingual families, as a way to help bridge the technology gap.
Youth will learn how to use graphic and web technologies, as well as social media and graphic design tools. They will be trained in professional etiquette and cultural sensitivity and receive mentoring from employees of technology companies. Dell is providing technology for the program. Youth will also receive mentoring in creating their resumes, job search and interviewing.
Once youth have completed the training, they will gain work experience and hone their job skills by assisting patrons with computer and Internet inquiries at the Main Library and library branch computer labs, teaching basic computer and internet classes in the Library, and by leading program outreach efforts.
Apply by Friday, March 8 here.
For more info: Sharon McKellar, OPL Community Relations Director, 38-3513 or
click here
Opportunity for Summer Youth Positions to work with Playwright and Actress Anna Deveare Smith
Deadline: Monday, March 11 
Click here for application
Two youth researchers (one from an urban area and one from a rural area), age 18-24, are needed
to support all aspects of California research for the School-to-Prison Pipeline Project led by award-winning playwright, actress and educator Anna Deveare Smith.
Training will take place in late June. This position will be for the month of July with the possibility of extending into August. There will be some travel within California. Candidates must be able to travel via airplane and possess a driver's license. This is a paid position.
For more info:
Betty Yu, Center for Media Justice, Media Action Grassroots Network (MAG-Net), 698-3800 x404
INSPIRE Oakland 2013 Design Contest 
Deadline: March 29, 6pm
INSPIRE is Oakland Digital's workforce development program that provides professional development for community college and state-level students pursuing a career in the competitive graphic design job market.
The ultimate goal of Inspire Oakland 2013 is to promote a positive image of Oakland that unites and inspires its diverse population, while encouraging designers to use their talents to promote the city they love.
Each year, they ask graphic design students to create a billboard design that answers the question, "What about your city inspires you?" Three talented students will see their designs featured on commercial billboards throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, receive paid internship opportunities, and learn the career-related tools needed to find appropriate employment.
For more info:
 Parks & Rec is Hiring through Monday, March 18
The City's Office of Parks and Recreation will be accepting applications for:
Applications are accepted only online here.
Late applications will not be accepted.
For those without a computer, there are computer work stations available at any Public Library and at the Department of Human Resources Management offices, 150 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, 2nd floor, during regular business hours.
For more info: Cookie Robles-Wong, Recreation Supervisor, [email protected] or 238-7275
Department of Human Resources Position
The Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) anticipates posting a job announcement for Receptionist to the City Auditor. For updated information on City jobs, please visit the DHRM website. This Employment Information page also contains information on minimum qualifications of specific job classifications, how to apply for a job on-line and how to submit a job interest card for positions not currently posted.
For more info: DHRM Receptionist, 238-3112
MORE JOB SEARCH IDEAS Job On! Secrets to Job Search Success, in March, Dimond branch library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave. Presented by teacher, librarian, and small business owner Nancy Rhoda. Please pre-register for the event. To register: 482-7844. For more info: Rebekah Eppley, Librarian, 482-7844 or [email protected] - Prepare to Get the Job You Want, Tuesday, March 5, 5:30-8pm
- The Nitty Gritty of Job Searching, Part 1, Tuesday, March 19, 5:30-8pm
- The Nitty Gritty of Job Searching, Part 2, Tuesday, March 26, 5:30-8pm
- How to Rock Your Interview, Friday, March 29, 1-3:30pm
Start Your Own Business Seminar Series, Tuesdays & Wednesdays in February and March, at the Main Library (125 14th St.) and the Dimond Branch (3565 Fruitvale Ave). Presented by Alameda County Small Business Development Center, this program series guides you through the necessary steps for starting your own business. The remaining event is:- Wednesday, March 13, 5:30-7:30pm, Main Library -- Developing a Website for Your Business
For more info and to register: Rebekah Eppley, 482-7844 or [email protected]
ICA Business Growth Strategy Series 
Consecutive Thursdays, from April 5 thru May 31, 7:30-9am
Lorry I. Lokey Graduate School of Business, Mills College
Deadline to apply: 11:59pm, Friday, March 8; Space is limited to 50 entrepreneurs
 Entrepreneurs and small business owners have a tough time finding the right training, tools, and funding necessary to grow their business. Now there's a clear solution. ICA's 2013 Business Growth Strategy Series features The 8 Factors Business Framework, developed and taught by Michael C. Bush, providing entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools to successfully launch, gain control and scale their businesses. This series is delivered in partnership with the Graduate School of Business; graduating students will earn a certificate and 3 continuing education credits. The series specifically targets companies and entrepreneurs with the following profile:
- Approximately 100K-3M in annual revenue
- 3+ employees
- Established companies (2-5 years old)
- San Francisco Bay Area based companies
- Demonstrated growth path
- Commitment to creating good jobs for people with high barriers to employment
Cost: $250 -- covers the cost of the class and provides access to The 8 Factors online classes and network. Financial assistance is available.
For more info: Ingrid Jacobson, ICA Education Manager, [email protected]
For more info generally: http://innercityadvisors.org
Deadline to apply: 11:59pm, Friday, March 8; Space is limited to 50 entrepreneurs
Click here to apply.
GOOD NEWS ABOUT OAKLAND JOBS
BART awards grant for local apprentice program 
Local workers make up the bulk of employees building BART's Oakland Airport Connector (OAC), and thanks to a newly awarded grant, some of those workers will come from an apprentice program aimed at training young Oakland men and women looking to learn a trade.
BART officials announced at the end of February the decision to award a grant of nearly $34,000 to the Oakland based Cypress Mandela Training Center to employ a young and diverse workforce made up of Oakland residents.
"Most faces behind the columns and infrastructure being built right now along Hegenberger Road are from Oakland or one of the surrounding communities," said BART Board Member Robert Raburn, who represents BART District 4, which includes Oakland. "This apprentice program isn't just about hiring local, it's about training our future workforce and following through on our commitment to the community."
About the Oakland Airport Connector
BART is in the process of constructing the Oakland Airport Connector (OAC) project which is on schedule to open in the fall of 2014. The OAC will replace the street level AirBART bus with an elevated automated people mover system seamlessly integrated into the BART fare system with trains running between the Coliseum/Oakland Airport Station approximately every four minutes.
About the Cypress Mandela Training Center
The Cypress Mandela Training Center, Inc. is an independent non-profit agency which runs a nationally acclaimed program which has worked in West Oakland over the past 20 years. The focus of the program has been to change the lives of many troubled youth in the City of Oakland, placing them successfully in various apprenticeship trades with union contractor employment.
For more info, click here.
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7. VOLUNTEER Opportunities
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Support YOUR Library: Volunteer Info Sessions
Thursday, March 14, 6:15-7:30pm
Main Library, Bradley C. Walters Community Room, 125 14th Street
OR
Saturday, March 16, 10-11:15am
81st Avenue Branch, 1021 81st Avenue (at Rudsdale)
Opportunities for adult volunteers at most branches of the Oakland Public Library include:
- Summer lunch program site volunteers
- Adult literacy tutors
- Pre-school story readers
- Library Advisory Commission members
- Bookstore volunteer staff and outreach
To register: Sara DuBois, 238-6572 or [email protected] or http://www.oaklandlibrary.org/volunteer
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8. The TECH Side of Oakland
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OpenOakland Brigade Planning Night  Tuesday, March 5, 6:30-9pm, City Hall, Hearing Room 3, 1 Frank H Ogawa Plaza. This is our first of the month meet-up where we plan, review, check in on projects, consider new ideas and events and connect with other civic hacking, opengov loving peeps. First-timers welcome. Dinner provided (carnivores, vegan, and gluten free covered). Click here for an agenda (members can add new items) Click here for their Strategic Plan (useful to know so you get what we're trying to achieve!)
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9. Kids' Programs & School News
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SUMMER CAMP FAIR
AAUW'S 31st Annual FREE Summer Camps and Programs Fair 
Sunday, March 10, 1-4:30pm
Scottish Rite Center, 1547 Lakeside Drive
Free and open to the public.
Meet representatives from more than 80 camps and programs for children ages pre-school to high school -- all in one place in one afternoon. From robotics to soccer to Shakespeare, circus performance camp, academic, tutoring, and special needs programs.
FOR KIDS HEADING TO COLLEGE
Scholarships available for public high school seniors
Marcus Foster Ed Fund (MFED) and Port of Oakland Scholarship applications for the class of 2013 are now available on the MFED website. They offer scholarships to all OUSD public and charter school seniors with a non-weighted GPA of 2.5 and above.
Deadline for the MFEF application is March 31. Click here for application.
Deadline for the Port application is March 29. Click here for application.
For more info: www.marcusfoster.org
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10. Upcoming Events: Mark Your Calendar
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St. Patrick's Day Celebration, Friday, March 15, 12-1pm, Oakland City Center,
Jazz at the Chimes, Sunday, March 17, 2pm, Chapel of the Chimes; 4499 Piedmont Ave.
Featuring The Mads Tolling Quartet. Danish-born Tolling, now a Bay Area resident, brings the
 Mads Tolling Quartet to the stage of the lovely Julia Morgan-designed Chapel of the Chimes. The group includes Dave McNab on guitar, George Ban-Weiss on bass and Eric Garland on drums. They will perform a variety of tunes, including some from Tolling's CD "Celebrating Jean-Luc Ponty - Live at Yoshi's." Plenty of free parking.
Tickets: $15 general; $10 seniors (60+) and students -- for concert and reception. Purchase tickets at the door. Cash only. Limited seating! Ticket sales begin at 12:30pm; Doors open 1:30pm.
For more info: 654-0123 or [email protected]
 Avotcja with Veronica Loving & Jazzmine Jackson,
Saturday, March 23, 6:30-8pm, Marcus Books, 3900 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way.
Bay Area favorite Avotcja will read from and discuss her latest and great volume of poetry, "With Every Step I Take." The mother/daughter team of Loving and Jackson will discuss their new book, "Feeding a Monster," a revelatory and honest account of sexual abuse within their family. For info: 652-2344 or www.MarcusBooks.com
Oakland Running Festival, March 24. 
Voted the "Best Sporting Event of 2010" by Oakland Magazine, the Oakland Running Festival is the newest event in the Bay Area and Features 5 races of all distances: marathon, half, relay, 5k and kids' fun run. They have training runs happening now.
For more info: oaklandmarathon.com
The Cesar E. Chavez Lifetime Achievement Awards Reception and Ceremony
Saturday, March 30, Reception 2-3pm; Awards 3-6pm, Corazon Del Pueblo Community Center, 4814 International Blvd.
The EastBay Support Committee is recognizing outstanding individuals who have gone "above and beyond" to help others. These Oakland residents have taken a hands-on approach and have become personal advocates for their cause. The wives of Cesar E. Chavez and Pete Velasco, the original organizers for the Farmworker Movement, will present the awards. The nominees are: Froben Lozada (Angel Award) died January 24, 2013 Historical Figure, Ana M. Rojas, Peter D. Roos, Terry Bautista, Selia Melero, and Rafael Jesus Gonzalez.
For more info: Tina Flores, 355-2438 or [email protected]
APRIL
2013 USA Hockey Women's National Championships,
April 4-7, Oakland Ice Center, 519 18th St.
The games start at 9am on Thursday morning, April 4, and are played all day (starting between 6:30am and 8am depending upon the day, and continuing until about 9:30 to 10pm every night) on both ice surfaces through Saturday, April 6. On Sunday, April 7, the semifinals and championship games will be held until about 7pm.
For more info:www.oaklandice.com
OSA Spring Dance Concert 
Thursday thru Saturday, April 18-20, 7pm and Sunday, April 21, 3pm, Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts on 1428 Alice St.
Come see the young, up and coming talent from Oakland School for the Arts School of Dance in their only dance concert of the year. Tickets: $20 General Admission; $10 Students, Seniors, OSA Faculty/Staff (with valid ID) Available at the door and here.
For more info: www.oakarts.org
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| 12. Recurring Events |
Oakland Public Libraries sponsor a multitude of events all over the city. Go to this link -- now and often -- for upcoming events of all kinds: www.oaklandlibrary.org/events
Oakland Museum has weekday and weekend events and hands-on activities. First Sundays of the month are free. museumca.org
ART ANTICS
Saturday Stroll, Every Saturday, 1-5pm: Uptown Art Galleries:
www.oaklandartmurmur.org/calendar/saturday-stroll
Art on 25th Street -- Winter Thursdays, Thursday, March 28, 6-10pm, 25th Street between Telegraph and Broadway.
More than a dozen creative spaces located on 25th Street will be open. Local fashion, live acoustic music and more. For more info, click here.
Piedmont Art Walk, Piedmont Avenue, every 3rd Thursday, 6-9pm.
Enjoy Piedmont Avenue's rich and diverse collection of art of all stripes: culinary, music, design, photography, fashion, recycled design and upcycled style, among others.
For more info: www.piedmontavenue.org/avenue-art-walk
Saturday Stories: Bringing literature to life in the hands of young artists, Second  Saturday of each month, 12-4pm, MOCHA, 538 Ninth Street, Suite 210.
MOCHA (Museum of Children's Art) links literacy with artmaking. First, we read children's books out loud, then we lead an art activity that highlights the themes of our chosen tales. Refer to the MOCHA Calendar for upcoming stories and art activities.
Cost: FREE with Oakland library card; $8 regular admission
For more info: Amalia Nelson, Museum Registrar, 465-8770 x301, www.mocha.org
Click here to see their calendar.
Weekly Art Workshop with MOCHA, various times and locations.
Join MOCHA artists in this weekly workshop for children. Each week the artist will present art related to a different theme as s/he takes us around the world in art.
- Wednesdays, 2-4pm, Eastmont Branch, 7200 Bancroft, Ste 211, Eastmont Town Center, 615-5726
- Wednesdays, 2-4pm, 81st Avenue Branch, 1021 81st Ave (at Rudsdale), 615-5812
- Wednesdays, 2:30-4:30pm, Main Library, Children's Room, 125 14th St, 238-3134
- Wednesdays, 3-5pm, Golden Gate Branch, 5606 San Pablo Ave, 597-5023
- Thursdays, 3-5pm, C�sar E. Ch�vez Branch, 3301 East 12th St, 535-5620
- Fridays, 3-5pm, Elmhurst Branch, 1427 88th Ave, 615-5727
AT OUR PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Lawyers in the Library, 2nd Tuesday of each month (Mar 19, Apr 16, May 21), 81st Avenue Branch, 1021 81st Avenue (at Rudsdale). Free legal information and referral presented with the Alameda County Bar Association. Sessions are popular and sometimes subject to change. Sign-ups start at 4:45pm.
Call ahead to confirm on the day of the program. 615-5812
Lego Mania, various times and branches.
Design, build and explore with thousands of LEGOs at the monthly LEGO club.
- 2nd Thursdays, Main Library, Children's Room, 125 14th St.
- 1st Friday of the month, 3:30pm, Dimond Branch, 3565 Fruitvale Ave.
Bilingual Toddler Storytime, Wednesdays, 10:30am, Asian Branch, 388 9th St, Suite 190.
Songs, active rhymes, and stories especially for ages 18 months to 3 years. Meets every Wednesday, followed by playtime. Presented in English and Mandarin. For large groups, please call in advance.
For more info: 238-3400
Writers' Support & Critique Group, 3rd Saturday of the month, 1-5pm, Rockridge Branch, 5366 College Ave. A workshop open to all writers, sponsored by the California Writers Club, Berkeley Branch.
For more info: 597-5017
African American Quilt Guild of Oakland, 4th Saturday of the month, 1-3pm, West Oakland Branch, 1801 Adeline St. All are welcome to attend for quilting inspiration and community.
For more info: www.aaqgo.org or 238-7352
Baby Bounce, various times and locations. 
Play, sing, and rhyme one on one with your baby from birth to 18 months. Followed by Playtime!
- Tuesdays 10:20am Main library
- Wednesdays 10:15am Dimond Branch
- Wednesdays 11:30am Lakeview Branch
- Thursdays 11:30am Montclair Branch
- Saturdays 11am Golden Gate Branch
For more info: www.oaklandlibrary.org/events
TEEN Times at various library branches
Teen 'Scape, Wednesdays, 2-3pm, Rockridge Branch, 5366 College Ave. For more info: Vicky Chen 597-5017 or [email protected]
Teen GameZone, Wednesdays, 3-5pm, C�sar E. Ch�vez Branch, 3301 East 12th St. For more info: 535-5620
Game and Craft Day, Wednesdays, 4-5pm, Asian Branch, 388 9th St, Suite 190. For more info: 238-3400 
Tutoring in the TeenZone, Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm, Mail Library, Teen Zone, 125 14th St.
For more info: 238-3134
Video Games at Elmhurst, Wednesdays, 2:30-4:30pm, Elmhurst Branch, 1427 88th Ave. For more info: 615-5727
Teen Thursdays, Thursdays, 3:30-4:30pm, Dimond Branch, 3565 Fruitvale Ave. For more info: 482-7844
Teen GameZone at Eastmont Branch, Thursdays, 3-5pm, 7200 Bancroft, Ste 211 Eastmont Town Center. For more info: 615-5726
Game Day, Saturdays, 3-5pm, 81st Avenue Branch, 1021 81st Avenue (at Rudsdale). For more info: 615-5812
AT MOSSWOOD REC CENTER
2nd Fridays Performing Arts Social, Every 2nd Friday, 7-10pm, Mosswood Rec Center, 3612 Webster St. Engage and share in music, dance and poetry geared to those 16 and up.
For more info: 597-5038
Sewing with a Purpose, 1st and 3rd Fridays, 6-7:30pm, Mosswood Rec Center, 3612 Webster St. Come revamp your favorite clothes, from jeans to shirts, in this fun semi-monthly class and learn basic sewing skills.
For more info (including class fee): 597-5038
New School Crafting, Every 3rd Friday, 6:30-8pm, Mosswood Rec Center, 3612 Webster St.
Patrons, ages 21 and up, can stop by and create arts and crafts in a fun and relaxing setting while enjoying appetizers and drinks.
For more info (including class fee): 597-5038
 Saturday morning bike ride with Warehouse416 artists and friends
every (dry) Saturday, 8:45am (doors open at 8am), 416 26th St.
This is a flat, short ride designed to provide new or returning riders with a way of getting started. We will guide you back to the start early, based on your needs. Our full ride is 30 miles and returns to 416 26th by 12:30pm.
For more info: Ron Scrivani, [email protected] or
Tuesday Morning Toastmasters with Warehouse416 artists and friends, Tuesdays, 7-8am, 416-26th St.
Plenty of parking is available. Anyone who needs a parking place can get one here, enjoy an hour of fun, then walk to work. All you need is a job in the area. You are welcome to visit, just to see what it is like.
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What do YOU customize?
The Status of Women in the World, 
Conversations with Julia Morgan,
When the Bough Breaks Documentary Film by Ji Dan:
