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| August 5, 2013 | Vol 3, Issue 32 |
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Take A Fresh Look
at Oakland
News from Mayor Jean Quan & Friends |
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Banner photos above from last year's National Night Out.
Greetings!
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Getting the BBQ ready on Magnolia Street last year.
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Tonight thousands of Oaklanders will celebrate in over 670 National Night Out parties, one of the largest efforts in the nation. For the third consecutive year we have made great leaps and broken our city record as we continue to organize block by block to strengthen our neighborhoods.
This year is particularly significant for two reasons:
First, we are pushing police resources out into neighborhoods this summer in a reorganization built on the work of Bill Bratton and Bob Wasserman. We are making police leadership more accessible and more accountable on a neighborhood level by creating five geographic policing areas across the city, each with its own police captain responsible for the area. You can look up your area captain, beat lieutenant and sergeant, and the problem-solving officer for your beat online at http://mapgis.oaklandnet.com/PoliceDistricts
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Officers lining up for National Night Out assignments.
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We have asked officers to spend more time out of their cars: walking, biking, attending meetings, talking with residents, and engaging in a friendly way more often. We are seeing some initial modest reduction of some categories of crimes in some areas.
Second, we are making significant progress in the reforms monitored by the federal court. In July our court-appointed Compliance Director, Tom Frazier, wrote in his first progress report that under our new police leadership, the pace of our work has been extraordinary: "The change in the atmosphere of cooperation, and the focus on citizen service and organizational improvement have been recognized by many observers familiar with the inner workings of OPD. Interim Chief (Sean) Whent and his newly-formed executive staff are young, energetic, and obviously hard working." Our reforms include building on our work on the use of force and racial profiling with strengthened policies.
In recent weeks, the verdict in the Trayvon Martin killing and the release of the film Fruitvale Station, the story of Oscar Grant's last day, have provided the nation and our city an opportunity to open our hearts and minds about some tough issues.
Tonight is an opportunity to show the true spirit of Neighborhood Watch -- an opportunity to get to know and to care for each other's children, rather than fear them.
Finally, this year the City Council passed the major initiatives I proposed for public safety:
- Two new police academies each year
- Funding for additional CHP officers
- Over 40 civilian positions to free up officers for crime fighting
- Major funding for updated police technology, tracking software, police cars, and laptops.
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OPD Cadets at last year's NNO rally.
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This year we have also recruited three of the most diverse police academies in Oakland history and graduated our first academy in more than four years. We are still trying to grow the number of officers who live in Oakland, and we encourage interested residents to call 888-673-5627.
We are determined to make Oakland safer. We still have a way to go, but we have a plan and new resources. Over the next months we will ask for your opinions on selecting a new chief and finding resources for more police officers. I hope to see you at one of tonight's parties.
Sincerely,
Mayor Jean Quan
PLEASE SEE SECTION #3 FOR MORE WAYS TO MAKE OAKLAND SAFER
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Officers will be visiting many of the parties based at churches tonight.
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600 Plus Neighborhood Groups Have Registered,
Is Your Block, Building or Church One of Them?
To find out about your nearest NNO Party, call Felicia Verdin 238-3128 or Brenda Ivey 238-3091.
Tonight, Tuesday
August 6, 6-9 pm
National Night Out is America's block party night, an opportunity for residents to organize a barbecue, ice cream social, or other event that is designed to both strengthen neighborhood spirit and unity, and raise crime prevention awareness, by helping neighbors get to know each other.
National Night Out sends a simple, yet profound message: "when neighbors know each other neighborhoods are safer." Stronger relationships within neighborhoods result in improved communication and better resource and information sharing. And that sends a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and working together. Neighbor-to-neighbor cooperation increases crime prevention awareness and improves public safety.
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Fire Chief Reed and Mayor Quan visit a large party at the Lincoln Recreation Center in Chinatown last year.
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Mara Hruby on stage at Art & Soul.
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Art & Soul Continues our Season of Festivals;
Laurel Street Fair and Dragon Boat Festival at The Lake This Weekend
Oakland's good weather means a long season of festivals. Art & Soul is historically the largest, but festivals of all sizes are fun. Thanks to the tens of thousands who came downtown this weekend. I posted a few pictures to FaceBook.
This weekend a great neighborhood festival featuring many local artists and musicians takes place in the Laurel District. I will be at my booth there on Saturday. At the Lake, an international Dragon Boat Race competition takes place both Saturday and Sunday.
(See Section 1 for details.)
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The Family Zone at Art & Soul.
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Our Summer Peace in the Parks program continues
Thanks to the many groups who have volunteered with activities or food. Despite some unusually chilly Fridays, several hundred youth and their families have attended each event and we are ordering more hot dogs for this week!
 For the next 2 Fridays, we will be at these locations from 6-9pm:
- Willie Wilkins Park, 98th and Ave C.
- Carter Gilmore Park, 1930 66th @ Lucille
- West Oakland Teen Center, 3233 Market
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Preparing for a sack race at Willie Wilkens Park.
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...and don't forget to check out the items in the sidebar at right!
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| "Faces of Oakland" Photo Competition | |
"Faces of Oakland" Photo Competition on Now
On Thursday, July 25, Visit Oakland, the official destination marketing organization for Oakland, began accepting submissions for its annual photo competition. This year's contest will focus on "Faces of  Oakland," emphasizing Oakland's diverse community and neighborhoods. For this contest, Visit Oakland is looking for images that best portray Oakland as an attractive visitor destination.
Given this year's focus on photos of people, Visit Oakland is not accepting submissions of scenic shots, attractions or other related content. Images will be judged on originality, technical excellence, composition, overall impact and artistic merit.
To enter, photographers should complete the following steps:
Winners of the "Faces of Oakland" photo contest will be rewarded with topnotch Oakland experiences. Prizes include a $500 cash prize, an overnight stay and breakfast for two at the Claremont Hotel Club & Spa, a round of golf at Lake Chabot Golf Club, a complimentary tasting for four at Cerruti Cellars and additional prizes.
For more info, guidelines and entry forms: www.visitoakland.org/photocontest or contact Visit Oakland at intern@visitoakland.org
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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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IN THE NEWS
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CITY
GENERAL INTEREST
27 things to do around Oakland besides complaining about there being 28 entries on this list, August 2-8
Meg Bertoni, Oakland Local
July 31, 2013
Oakland Zoo Honors Zoo Keepers During National Zoo Keeper Week, July 21-27
PRWeb
July 21, 2013
Food for Body, Food for Thought, Food for Justice: People's Grocery in Oakland, California
Beverly Bell, Nation of Change
July 25, 2013
TECH & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Homestead, An Oakland Comfort-Food Haven
Allie Pape, SFEater.com
July 26, 2013
Bring Vegan Ice Cream in Oakland: Curbside!
Vegansaurus.com
July 24, 2013
The Most Exciting Italian in the East Bay (A16 in Rockridge)
Luke Tsai, East Bay Express
July 31, 2013
ART
Oakland: Teens learn to play with fire at The Crucible
Brittny Mejia, Oakland Tribune
July 25, 2013
A S.H.E.D. for Art
Katie Tandy, East Bay Express
July 31, 2013
How the Zimmerman Verdict Ignited an Explosion of Cultural Resistance Rooted in the Arts
Candice Bernd, TruthOut.org
August 2, 2013
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SPOTLIGHT
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The New Parkway Theater Launches "Karma Cinema Month" in August
The New Parkway
474 24th St, Oakland, 94612
For the entire month of August, The New Parkway Theater is encouraging patrons to pay-what-they-wish for their movie ticket. In turn, 30% of ticket sales will be donated to four local nonprofit "Karma Partners," each in a different sector doing vital work in our community. Karma Cinema Month Partners include: - Alameda County Community Food Bank
- College Track
- Ella Baker Center for Human Rights
- Hopalong Animal Rescue
Experience the Power of Generosity The New Parkway is inviting people to experience the power of generosity with Karma Cinema. Not only will patrons be encouraged to be as generous as possible, but they will also be showered with unexpected gifts throughout the month. It's all part of a cycle of generosity that will envelop patrons, staff, and the greater community as donations and spontaneous giving ripple inward and outward from the New Parkway Theater. Research Shows Attraction for Businesses that Help Nonprofits In a recent survey by the New Parkway, 82% of respondents said it was extremely or somewhat appealing to have 30% of their ticket purchase benefit nonprofits. How Karma Cinema Month Works In August, patrons can choose exactly how much they want to pay for their movie ticket. Of those proceeds, 30% of gross ticket sales for the month will go into the Karma Fund. New Parkway moviegoers can then chose where they want their karma to flow-they select their favored nonprofit at the theater, and proceeds will be distributed among the four Karma Partners accordingly. (i.e. If a Karma Partner is selected by 28% of patrons, then it will receive 28% of the proceeds.) For more info: 658-7900 or thenewparkway.com
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SPOTLIGHT
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See a Musical in the Redwoods this Summer
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Larry, the assistant choreographer (played by Todd Schlader), catches Richie, an auditioning dancer (played by Dave Abrams), in A Chorus Line, playing August 9-18 at Woodminster Amphitheater.
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SPECIAL FOR OUR READERS
Oakland Insider Half-Price Opening Nights
Use the code MYCITY
when you purchase tickets for
Aug 9 (A Chorus Line) and
Sep 6 (Legally Blonde) at Woodminster Amphitheater
Hello, Oakland neighbors!
Since 1967, Woodminster Summer Musicals has been a tradition in Oakland's Joaquin Miller Park. The beautiful, woodsy, outdoor setting is a magical place for live musical theater. We'd like to extend a special welcome to our Oakland neighbors, and we invite you to come to opening night for half-price. Just use the code (MyCity) when you order tickets online at woodminster.com, by phone at 510-531-9597, or in person at the box office.
The next show is A Chorus Line, the Broadway musical about Broadway dancers, full of thrilling dance numbers and well-known songs including "What I Did For Love" and "One." Join us for opening night August 9, and make sure you use the code MyCity when you order tickets.
For details about ticket prices, our Kids Come Free program, and more, click here.
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YOUR VOICE
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Measure Y
(Oakland Unite)
2013 Survey
The City of Oakland wants to know what residents think about community policing in Oakland and other services that Measure Y (Oakland Unite), a voter approved parcel tax, funds. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes of your time.
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GOOD FOR YOU
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Adopt a Spot
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2013 Oakland Adopt a Spot
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The City's Environmental Services department posted a video encouraging residents to join the Oakland Adopt a Spot program as part of National Volunteer Week last week. It features everyday residents who have adopted a spot in their neighborhoods as individuals or groups.
Through Adopt a Spot, the Public Works Agency provides a unique opportunity for individuals, neighborhood groups, civic organizations, and businesses to play an active and ongoing role in cleaning, greening, and beautifying parks, creeks, streets, and other public spaces. Public Works assists adopters by providing tool lending, post-cleanup debris collection, and technical assistance.
For more info: Christine Ralls, Adopt A Spot Coordinator, 238-6260 or cralls@oaklandnet.com or go to the City webpage at
www.oaklandadoptaspot.org .
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1. DISCOVER OAKLAND -- Activities this week
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Editor's Note: Remember to check both the UPCOMING and the RECURRING sections, way down at the bottom, for additional events.
 Oakland Asian Cultural Center There are many shades of innovation, diaspora, and performance. From first generation culture bearers to third generation hyphenated-Americans, the six artists featured in CounterPULSE's Performing Diaspora push the boundaries of their performance practice, each rooted in diverse cultural forms. Join OACC in August for a vibrant kick-off party, a thought provoking symposium, and two weekends of new work by Byb Chanel Bibene, Joti Singh, Jia Wu, Jewlia Eisenberg, Muisi-kongo Malonga, and Nadhi Thekkek
Laurel Street Fair - Call for Vendors, Saturday, August 10, 11am-6pm between 35th and 38th Avenues.
It's that time again! The Fair will take place Saturday, August 10, 11am-6pm between 35th and 38th Avenues. The Laurel would love vendors from the Laurel, Dimond, Maxwell Park and Allendale to shine! Click here for vendor application.
Oakland Dragon Boat Festival, Saturday & Sunday, August 10 & 11, Lake Merritt.
This two-day event is presented by the Oakland Renegades in conjunction with Bay Area Dragons (BAD), Oakland Department of Parks and Recreation (OPR), and the Pacific Dragonboat Association (PDBA). This year's Festival is the PDBA Regional Championship/CCWC Qualifier to determine who will be representing the US from this region at the 2014 IDBF Club Crew World Championships in Ravena, Italy.
For more info: oaklanddragonboatfestival.org
Oakland Municipal Band 102nd Concert Season, Sundays, 1-3pm, Lakeside Park, 666 Bellevue Ave.
Free concerts offer an array of jazz, contemporary, pop, big band, international, classical, marches, and show tunes. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Picnics welcomed. This Sunday's concert includes: Galop by Dmitri Shostakovich
Grand March from "Aida" by Giuseppi Verdi
Fairy Tale and March by Sergei Prokofieff
Music from "Brigadoon"
The world premiere of Jeux d'Enfants (Children's Games) by Georges Bizet, arranged by one of our very own band members, Nick Di Scala
Sabre and Spurs by John Philip Sousa
Masquerade Overture Carl Nielsen
Music from "Annie Get Your Gun"
Harry's Wondrous World John Williams
The Stars and Stripes Forever John Philip Sousa
For more info: 339-2818 or www.oaklandmunicipalband.org
Friday Nights at the Oakland Museum with Off the Grid Food Trucks, every Friday, 5-9pm, Oakland Museum, 1000 Oak St. 
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 café pop-up. Bring the whole family to OMCA for a sampling of the best in Bay Area curbside cuisine!
DJ Aware spinning hits from 5 to 6:30 pm
Family-friendly drop-in workshop doing animal printing on bandannas from 5 to 8 pm
Makers & Tasters Series ranging from beer brewing and coffee roasting to recipe sharing and gardening how-tos from 6 to 8 pm
Hooping class with Nicole Wong in the amphitheater from 6:30 to 7 pm
OMCA Pub Trivia with Senior Curator of Natural Sciences, Douglas Long, from 7 to 8:30 pm
Rock and roll band Hot Einsten performing live from 7 to 9 pm
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.
Bites Off Broadway -- Mobile Food and Family Fun,
Fridays, now thru October 11, 5:30-8:30pm,
in front of Studio One Art Center, 365 45th Street.
Featuring affordable and delicious food from rotating trucks, such as Fist of Flour, Tina Tamale, Taco Evangelist, Roderick's BBQ, Annakoot, Suzie Q's Lunch Box, Sanguchon, Go Streatery, Doc's of the Bay, Two Mammas Vegan Kitchen, Blue Saigon, Sunrise Deli and more. Lawn seating: bring a chair or a blanket plus your friends, family and neighbors. Hula-hooping, ping pong, live music and movies at dusk.
For more info: www.bitesoffbroadway.com
Adults and Teens Learn-to-Ride Class with the East Bay Bicycle Coalition, Thursday, August  8, 1-4pm, Laney College parking lot, East 8th and Fallon Streets.
This is a class for adults or teens who have either not yet learned how to ride a bike, or learned a long time ago but want a refresher on the basics of balancing, pedaling and steering. Our trained instructors are friendly, patient, and will help participants get off to a great start in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
A working bicycle and helmet are required in order to participate in this class. For those who do not have their own and are unable to borrow them, the nearby Bay Area Bikes shop in Jack London Square rents both bikes and helmets for the day, inexpensively.
For rental info: bayareabikerentals.net
For info generally and to register, click here.
FOR ADULTS
 Yoga for Stress Reduction, Mondays, 5:30-7pm. Tassafaronga Recreation Center, 975 85th Ave.Weekly Yoga classes will be taught by UC Berkeley graduate student and Yoga instructor Maya Weir. Yoga is a practice that connects the mind and body through physical movements, breathing work and meditation. The classes will assist participants with decreasing stress and anxiety, increase flexibility, protect and prevent arthritis and back pain, improve posture and relieve back and neck problems.
For more info: Cynthia Armstrong, Recreation Center Director,carmstrong@oaklandnet.com or 615-5764
FOR KIDS 
Basketball Clinic, Tuesdays & Thursdays thru August 15, 4-5pm, Ira Jinkins Recreation Center,9175 Edes Ave.
The basketball clinic is for youth, ages 7 to 16.
For more info: Donte Watson, Recreation Center Director, dwatson@oaklandnet.com or 615-5959
DANCING
Chicago Steppin' classes, Thursdays, 8-10pm, Ira Jinkins Rec Center, 9175 Edes Ave.
The classes will be held every Thursday through August. Participants will enjoy great music, dancing and conversation while learning the art of the "Chicago Step."
For more info and to register: Donte Watson, Recreation Center Director, dwatson@oaklandnet.com or 615-5959
 Dancing Under the Stars, Friday evenings, 8:30-10pm, Jack London Square, foot of Broadway. This week learn the Bachata, a dance from the Dominican Republic.
The incredibly popular dancing event returns to Oakland's waterfront. Kick up your heels and enjoy a free dance lesson provided by the Linden Street Dance Studio. Each week will feature a different type of dance followed by a dance party to practice what was learned.
For more info: 645-9292.
MUSIC
 Oakland Symphony Chorus Summer Sing-Ins, now thru August 31, 10am-12noon, 2201 Broadway, Suite 300. On July 9, OSC launched its 21st Anniversary Season of Summer Sing-Ins. All singers are invited to join OSC and sing along to some of the most beloved choral masterpieces. This summer you can expect some Bach, Brahms and Berlioz. OSC welcomes back conductors Vance George, Michael Morgan, Lynne Morrow and more. For more info: oebs.org
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. Here's a list of some upcoming concerts:
August 9 -- Tango No. 9 in "Tango Times, Take Two" 
August 10 - Clifford Brown/Max Roach Tribute Quintet
August 20 - Etienne Charles Creole Soul CD Release Show
August 23 - Melissa Morgan, presented in association with the SF Filipino American Jazz Festival
August 24 - The Artistry of the Jazz Trio, with William Susman, Frank Tusa, & Vince Lateano
August 25 - Linda Kosut with the Mike Greensill Trio
Costs vary, but typically range from $15 to $25
Click here for more info: www.piedmontpiano.com
To get on their mailing list: music@piedmontpiano.com
MOVIES
$5 Movie Day Every Sunday & Tuesday, Regal Cinema Jack London 100 Washington St.
Tired of shelling out $10 - $12 for movies in a theater? Then take advantage of the Regal, Jack London's all day $5 movie deal!
For more info: www.regmovies.com
The New Parkway, 474 24th Street
658-7900 or www.thenewparkway.com
If you haven't yet been to this movie theater, you really must go. Comfy (clean) couches, good food, and all sorts of themes. Check the website for all the specifics.
See the Spotlight, above, for a special August program that The New Parkway is doing.
SF Jewish Film Festival, August 9-12, Grand Lake & Piedmost Ave theaters.
The 33rd San Francisco Jewish Film Festival continues this weekend at the Grand Lake Theater and on August 12 at the Piedmont Theater. The first and still the largest of its kind, the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival (SFJFF) presents an incredible array of professional, provocative, international film - some with special festivities, discussions with filmmakers and international guests.
AWAKE ZION, Grand Lake Theater, Friday, August 9, 7pm. A special presentation of the musical documentary Awake Zion, which explores the musical connections between Rastafarians and Jews. Stick around after the film for a live dub/reggae show with the Bay Area's Dub Gabriel and Brooklyn-based Doctor Israel and a post-film Q&A with director Monica Haim. Traveling from Jamaica to Jerusalem, Awake Zion explores why the Star of David spoke to both Maimonides and Marley and how it came to be that the Exodus was a movement of both the Jews and "Jah People."
For tickets and more info: www.sfjff.org
SkyFall at Waterfront Flicks, Thursday, AUgust 8, at sundown, Market Lawn at Jack London Square.
Enjoy a free screening on the beautiful waterfront. Grab dinner at any Jack London Square restaurant or pack a picnic. Moviegoers should arrive early with blankets in-hand for pre-film festivities including small eats, beer, trivia and giveaways.
For more info: www.jacklondonsquare.com
THEATER
 A Chorus Line, Friday, August 9 thru Sunday, August 18, 8pm, Woodminster Amphitheater, Joaquin Miller Park, 3300 Joaquin Miller Road. Enjoy this classic musical among the towering redwoods. For more info: www.woodminster.com
Second Fridays at Mosswood, every second Friday, 7-10pm, Mosswood Recreation Center, 3612 Webster St.
Enjoy this monthly performing arts social. Engage and share in music, dance and poetry geared to those ages 16 and up.
For more info: 597-5038
King Lear -- Shakespeare in the Park, Saturday, August 10, 1-3pm, Peralta Hacienda, 2465 34th Ave. Join Peralta Hacienda for a FREE community event. Vallejo Shakespeare in the Park presents: King Lear, directed by Clinton Vidal. Picnic style seating; please bring a blanket to sit on. No chairs will be provided or allowed, except for the handicapped section.
Click here for more info.
AT FAIRYLAND
fairyland.org
Regular Events -- Saturday & Sunday 
11am, 2pm, & 4pm: Puppet Show: The Magic Blossom. William Shakespeare's timeless tale of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" comes to life for children. Join King Oberon and Puck and the other fairies as they try to trick Queen Fairy Titania. One drop of dew in the eye from the magic flower will cause the infected to fall in love with the first person they see. But what happens when that person is a poor soul who has had his head turned into a donkey's!
12pm-2pm: The Marilynn O'Hare Arts & Crafts Center is open with activities geared toward children and their families.
12:30 & 3pm: Children's Theatre Presents: The Dragon in the Cloth. When an orphan boy brings a fish home to keep for good luck, he gets way more than he bargained for. The fish is a dragon princess who leads him on a journey below the waves and up to the moon and back. Will he learn to be happy with his lot, or will an old toad's advice lead him astray? Come let our young performers stitch your family into the cloth of this Hmong fairytale!
1pm-1:20pm: Animal of the Day!
Come up close and learn about one of our animal friends. Which one of Fairyland's feathered, furry or wooly creatures will it be today? Find out at the Humpty Dumpty wall.
1:30pm & 2:30pm: Jacqueline Lynaugh as Queen Ozma the ruler of Oz. Join her as she read tales and sings songs from the magical land of Oz.
AT THE ZOO
9777 Golf Links Rd
Animal Encounters,
Sundays, 11:30am and 12:15pm (for about 20 minutes)
Docent led live animal presentation: Wild animals need your help, come find out what you can do.
Learn about and meet some of our amazing animals close up. Our Program Animals are presented with fun facts and important messages; spend 20 minutes with us in the WildLife Theater! This program is free with regular Zoo Admission.
Family Sundown Safari, Aug 10, 5:00pm to 10:00am (the following 
morning).
Go on Safari in Oakland! Family Sundown Safari is a hands-on educational summer program for families with children ages 4 and up. Bring your tent and sleep out underneath the stars. Your family will never forget their incredibly fun and unique campout at the Oakland Zoo! New this year Gerald the Magician!
Pre-Registration is required. All forms and deposit must be received 1 month before the event date. Click here for more info and to register.
AT CHABOT SPACE & SCIENCE CENTER
10000 Skyline Blvd.
For more info, click here.
 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. For more info and monthly workshop listings, click here.
AUGUST: Extreme Travel!
Learn about airplanes, submarines, and space crafts as we take a journey high in the sky, deep in the ocean, and in to space!
Tuesday, August 6: Ze Plane! Ze Plane!
Experiment with Bernoulli's principal and air to learn how airplanes fly. Then build and test your own paper airplanes and helicopters.
Tuesday, August 13: Under the Sea
Explore the depths of the ocean as we travel 10,000 leagues under the sea in a submarine! Find out why we need to use a submarine, and observe strange marine creatures and ocean landscapes on our journey.
Tuesday, August 20: Blast Off!
Learn all about the biggest, most powerful rocket ever built - the Saturn V, the same rocket that took 12 astronauts to the moon! Then go on a simulated space flight aboard the Discovery Shuttle as we travel to the International Space Station and figure out what astronauts are doing up there.
 Dog Days of Summer, Saturday, August 10, 11am-4:30pm, Chabot Space & Science Center, 10000 Skyline Blvd.Dogs are performing feats of amazing science every day. Join us in celebrating dogs and their people at our Dog Days of Summer event. Explore the science behind the things that dogs do and love, from training and exercise to play and nutrition. World-renown animal behaviorist, Dr. Ian Dunbar as keynote speaker, demos from Sirius Dog Training, United States Coast Guard, and Canine Circus, plus a Doggie Spa, paw-traits, raffles and much more! Get ready for a day of doggone fun.
Included with General Admission - DOGS ARE WELCOME!!
Please note: all waiver forms must be signed before your dog can join the fun! Also, our planetarium and main exhibit spaces will be "dog-free" areas on the event day. If you plan to see shows, we advise to not bring your dog to the Center. Dogs will not be permitted to be left in cars.
For more info,click here.
Star Stories, Saturday, August 10 & 24, 8:30pm - 10pm
Lay on the grass and look up at the stars this summer! Bring your sleeping bags and blankets and come listen to an expert stargazer explain the mythology behind the constellations, stories from the night sky as seen throughout history and look for planets and other clues to help orient you to the night's sky.
For more info, click here.
 Member Telescope Viewing, Sunday, August 11, 7:30-10:30pm Each Sunday preceding the 1st quarter moon, the Eastbay Astronomical Society invites you to a special private telescope viewing. Unlike our regular viewing on Friday and Saturday evenings, EAS personalizes the experience by taking viewing requests, live interaction, and hosting tours and it's exclusively for our members! FREE Member Admission, RSVP Required! Space is limited and by reservation only, so call 336-7392 for tickets today. Click here for more info.
We Are Aliens -- An all new full dome show - narrated by Rupert Grint 
Limited Run: now thru December 15
Ever since the two men in black showed up, summer means ALIENS and Chabot is right on board with a new planetarium show! We Are Aliens, narrated by Rupert Grint, journeys through the galaxy searching for evidence of life. This animated piece is great for all ages as scientists explore the vast universe asking the question that has sparked curiosity and inspired exploration for generations: are we alone? Colorful and fun, intriguing and exciting, this full dome experience appeals to the kid in all of us.
Tickets are included with general admission (Chabot members always enjoy free admission). Check www.chabotspace.org for Showtimes or call the Box Office at 336-7373.
Dinner, a Movie, and the Universe, Friday & Saturday evenings.  The perfect date night experience is back! By popular demand, our unique after-dark offering has returned. Join us for a full-course dinner in our Skyline Bistro, enjoy our live-narrated Planetarium show Cosmos 360, and view the night sky through our telescopes (weather permitting). Reservations are not required, but strongly encouraged. Costs (includes Admission, Dinner, and Planetarium Show) Guests: $23 Adults / $16 Children Members: $15 Adults / $11 Children *Dinner only walk-ins welcome: $17 Adults / $13 Children *Price does not include admission to the Center For more info, click here.
OAKLAND MUSEUM
At the Oakland Museum, 1000 Oak Street
For more info: museumca.org
History Guild Day Trip -- Behind the Cameras at KQED and the New San  Francisco History Museum, Tuesday, August 6, 9:30am-4 pm
Ever wondered how television magic is made? In this behind-the-cameras tour of San Francisco's KQED studio, the Bay Area's renowned local public television station, you'll learn about what it takes to run this community-supported alternative to commercial media. On this tour, you will visit Studio A, the largest studio, where live and taped productions are aired, and Studio B-site of their pledge action. You'll also visit the production control room and edit suites, where live productions are produced and edited.
The next stop is 449 Powell Street: the destination for lunch and the home of the San Francisco History Museum, where you can explore fourteen rooms that celebrate the city of San Francisco at your own pace. The collection is an eclectic mix of the city's history-Phyllis Diller's wig, Bing Crosby's hat and golf club, Herb Caen's typewriter, a Barbary Coast Saloon, a speakeasy, and Emperor Norton, Carol Channing, and Shirley Temple memorabilia. Enjoy a chronicle of places and faces that made the city what it is today.
Click here for more info.
 Summer of Science: Flight of the Living Dead, Sunday, August 11, 11:30am-1:30pm
Join Erika Bueno and Chris Quock, researchers at San Francisco State University, to learn about the native Zombie Fly (Apocephalus borealis) that is parasitizing honey bees in California. Infected bees display the "zombie-like behavior" of leaving their hives at night on "a flight of the living dead." ZomBee Watch, a citizen science project, was founded to determine the widespread reach of this parasitic problem. With Bueno and Quock, learn how you can become a ZomBee Watcher in your own neighborhood by examining insect specimens and exploring light traps for data collection.
Included with Museum admission. Meet in the Oakland Section of the Gallery of California Natural Sciences.
Click here for more info.
Peter Stackpole: Bridging the Bay, now thru Jan. 26, 2014  Featuring stunning black-and-white photographs chronicling the original San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge construction in the 1930s by American photographer Peter Stackpole, the exhibition continues OMCA's ongoing series exploring contemporary topics in California through photography. On view in the Gallery of California Art during the opening of the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge in fall 2013, the exhibition of 22 of Stackpole's works from OMCA's collection connects visitors back in time to the bridge's first iteration and serves as a complement to the Museum's major exhibition on the San Francisco Bay, opening in concert with the new bridge and America's Cup. Click here for more info.
Hard Times in the OC
Now thru April 27, 2014
This installation in the Gallery of California History co-curated with faculty and students at California State University Fullerton focuses on the effects of the 2008 recession in Orange County. It's the second in the series titled What's Happening, California?
The exhibition explores the theme of resilience in the face of economic setbacks through a presentation of artifacts, including protest puppets, tools of laid-off workers, and oral history interviews. The resulting exhibition portrays a range of experiences and challenges facing the people of Orange County during the recession, reflecting the Oakland Museum of California's mission to connect communities to the cultural and environmental heritage of California.
ART
ART Exhibits at Oakland Public Libraries
Is This Justice? Student Design Exhibit, Main Library, TeenZone, July 8 - September 30
Artistic T-shirts conveying messages about violence prevention, incarceration, community, and freedom, created by students in the Restorative Justice Leaders program.
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 items no longer listed in this section and click here for a link to all library events.
Library events page: www.oaklandlibrary.org/events
Library Offers Free Music Downloads and Streaming 
On Wednesday, July 24, the Oakland Public Library (OPL) began to offer patrons the ability to download and stream popular music for free, through a service called Freegal Music. Freegal gives you access to millions of songs from over 10,000 labels in MP3 format. To access the free service, you need a valid OPL library card. To check out the free service, please visit the OPL website at www.oaklandlibrary.org or go directly to Freegal's site here.
For more info: Jamie Turbak, Acting Associate Library Director, jturbak@oaklandlibrary.org or 238-6610
4 libraries to change hours beginning September 16
In order to increase the public's access to neighborhood library branches, Oakland Public Library will be implementing a schedule change at four of the library's 16 branch locations. Effective Monday, September 16, 2013, the Brookfield, Eastmont, Golden Gate, and Piedmont Avenue branch libraries will be open Monday through Friday. All other branches will keep their current Tuesday through Saturday schedules and the Main Library will continue to be open seven days a week.
The four branches that are shifting to a Monday through Friday schedule will be open on Monday evenings, instead of their current Tuesday evenings, with the following Monday hours:
* Brookfield and Eastmont branches: 11:30 am - 7 pm
* Golden Gate and Piedmont Avenue branches: 12:30 pm - 8 pm
All Tuesday-Saturday branches will continue to be open on Tuesday evenings, and the Main Library will continue to be open on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
To view current branch schedules, visit the library's website here.
For more info:www.oaklandlibrary.org
Summer Reading
Join us for a summer of fun as the Oakland Public Library launches its annual Summer Reading Program, with separate reading programs for kids, teens, and adults. This year's theme is "Reading is Soooo Delicious!" and the library calendar will feature many food- and reading-related programs all summer long. Summer Reading concludes August 10.
Summer Reading for Kids
The kids' program rewards young readers (ages 0-14) with raffle prizes, entertainment, and fun activities. Click here for program details,
Teen Passport Program 
Teens (ages 12-18) can participate in the Teen Summer Passport Program, which encourages young people to read, participate in Library activities, and explore Bay Area cultural sites. Click here for program details.
Adult Summer Reading
Adults (18 and up) can qualify to win raffle prizes by reading, sharing book reviews, and by utilizing library services. Ask any librarian for info.
A SAMPLE OF THIS WEEK's EVENTS
Editor's Note: In the interest of space, we're removing the regular, recurring items we usually have below this section. There are so many events the libraries offer -- best that you just go check out their website for all the details: www.oaklandlibrary.org/events.
East Bay Chronic Pain Group, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 3-5pm, Rockridge Branch, upstairs meeting room, 5366 College Ave.
East Bay Chronic Pain Group: A place to speak the language of pain and embrace the language of hope. Click here for more info.
Dr. King, the Dream, and the Speech that Sparked a Movement, Wednesday, August 7, 6-7:30pm, Main Library, Walters Auditorium, 125 14th St.
Guardian columnist and Nation magazine contributor Gary Younge will commemorate the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech with a talk about its conception and its enduring impact on social movements and activists around the globe. Mr. Younge will sign copies of his book, "The Speech: the Story Behind Martin Luther King's Dream." Click here for more info.
Decorate Flower Pot & Plant Seeds, Thursday, August 8, 1:30pm, Eastmont Branch,
7200 Bancroft, Ste 211 Eastmont Town Center. Come decorate a flower pot and plant it with the paper seed quarter you will earn for your four-hour reading prize! Click here for more info.
Making Sense of Health Care Reform, Obama Care, and/or The Affordable Care Act
Saturday, August 10, 1-3pm, Main Library, Bradley Walters Community Room, 125 14th St. Denise Lombard, a specialist in Health, Long Term Care, Disability, and Life Insurance will explain the Affordable Care Act. This act will be fully implemented on January 1, 2014, so you will need to prepare. It will change the way the health care system operates. Click here for more info.
Jazz Casino Night, Saturday, August 10, 6-9pm, African American Museum & Library, 659 14th St.
Join the Friends of AAMLO for a night of music and big fun! Bingo, cards, prizes!
Donation $10.00
Please present membership card for FREE admission. Bring a friend! Half price. Members have privileges. Click here for more info.
Free Sunday Jazz, Sundays thru August 25, 3-6pm, Golden Gate Branch Library, 5606 San Pablo Ave.
The Friends of Golden Gate Branch Library present their annual summer jazz series, with performances every Sunday through the end of August. Upcoming shows feature the following artists:
- August 11 - Kenny Washington
- August 18 - Junius Courtney Big Band (at Temescal Creek Park)
- August 25 - Rhonda Benin
The main act performs at 3pm, followed by Randy's Moore's "History of Jazz" discussion at 4pm and an open jam session at 5pm.
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2. CITY NEWS
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CITY NEWS
Advertising firm hired to brand Oakland as a premier travel destination
Visit Oakland has chosen world-renowned advertising and branding firm Carol H. Williams Advertising (CHWA) to brand Oakland as a premier travel destination. A committee of Oakland stakeholders was involved in the selection process.
Many were surprised last year when the New York Times chose Oakland as the 5th best place to visit in the world last year. CHWA will develop a destination brand to further boost Oakland as a premier travel destination for leisure travelers, meeting planners and group conventions. Working in conjunction with Young Strategies, Inc., who have conducted visitor research this year, the goal is to have an overarching brand for the destination that will be embraced not only by visitors, but also Oakland's residents, business community and municipality. The scope of work for CHWA will include strategic messaging, brand architecture, media planning, advertising campaign development and other special projects.
"This is an exciting first step for the future of our destination," said Alison Best, president and CEO of Visit Oakland. "With this partnership, we have an opportunity to help reposition Oakland as a global destination. We are confident that Carol H. Williams Advertising will produce compelling creative and strategic messaging to help put Oakland in the spotlight."
 Housing and Community Development Department Commended for "Best Practices"
In July, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Monitor commended the City of Oakland Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for 'Best Practices' in all areas of program administration. The City of Oakland's HCD was being monitored by HUD from July 16 through 19, 2013 for its administration of the HOME Investment Partnership Program. The City of Oakland receives approximately $ 2 million in HOME funds annually for construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing developments. The City, through HCD, awards HOME funds to affordable housing developers under its annual Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) process. The HUD Monitor spent several days reviewing loan documentation, inspecting HOME-related policies and procedures, and examining asset monitoring compliance criteria. He also conducted site visits to five affordable housing developments to ensure that on-site project management staff is apprised by City staff of their administrative obligations under the HOME program.
City Launches Registry of Investor Owned Foreclosed Properties 
In order to address the decline of neighborhood livability and health and safety problems that have arisen from high levels of foreclosure activity in Oakland, the Oakland City Council passed an ordinance designed to address issues of deferred maintenance or property neglect associated with properties in the foreclosure process. The resulting change to Oakland Municipal Code now requires non-owner occupant buyers of properties that have a default or foreclosure history to register and arrange for an inspection by Building Services.
For more info: http://solar.oaklandnet.com/iop
 New Youth Poet Laureate Announced
The Oakland Public Library is very excited to announce that 17 year old OBASI DAVIS has been selected as the City of Oakland's 2013 Youth Poet Laureate. Mr. Davis emerged as the best of eight talented finalists in a competition that began in April with a highly competitive process juried by accomplished authors, educators and community leaders. Born and raised in Oakland, he is a founding member of the heralded poetry ensemble Young, Gifted and Black. A tenacious student of prose and poetry since age 12, he has dedicated himself to his craft in workshops, at open mics and on stage at some of the nation's largest largest performance venues. He is a member of Spokes, Youth Speaks' teen advisory board and production training program. In 2013 he earned a spot to represent the Bay Area as a member of its delegation to the Brave New Voices international Teen Poetry Slam and Festival.
California Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera, a judge in the competition, calls Mr.Davis a "rare master of the out breath, born into consciousness, singing ...With the humanity voice of Gwendolyn Brooks, the long jeweled line of Ginsberg and his own Obasi magic, here stands a giant poet in the making for the people of Oakland and the world." Judge Raphael Cohen, a poet and local publisher, recognized Davis as a frontrunner. "He bravely engages the painful puzzles of young adulthood in an era that alternately derides or dismisses young people's experiences, turning inward to explore his, and our, capacity for truth telling and change making. Expertly balancing a focused rage with an irrepressible tenderness, Davis is certain to inspire and activate a new generation of leaders through both the written and spoken word.
The Youth Poet Laureate competition was staged by the Oakland Public Library's Teen Services Department, in partnership with Youth Speaks, ProArts Gallery, Oakland School for the Arts, and more than a dozen community partners and the opportunity to officially represent the Oakland community through poetry, media, and public appearances.
 The other semi-finalists were:
- Olivia Hoffman, 16, Oakland School for the Arts
- Maya Bello, 16, Holy Names High School
- Robert Paige, 18, Oakland Technical High School
- Mina Jameson, 15, Oakland School for the Arts
- Francesca Paris, 16, Head-Royce School
- Cindy Huey, 17, Oakland Technical High School
- Kai Smith, 15, Oakland School for the Arts
Mr. Davis wins a $5,000 scholarship and the opportunity to officially represent his community through poetry, media, and public appearances.
For more info: Amy Sonnie, Teen Outreach Librarian, 238-7233 or asonnie@oaklandlibrary.org or click here.
Brighter Lights on Our City Streets -- 
LED Streetlight Conversion Continues in West Oakland
The City of Oakland is currently converting all 30,000 existing High Pressure Sodium (HPS) cobra head streetlights with Light Emitting Diode (LED) streetlights citywide. Replacement of the existing streetlight fixtures with the new LED fixtures provides a better quality of light that will enhance public safety and help reduce crime. In addition, the new LED technology is more energy efficient and the bulbs have a longer lifespan. Oakland is one of first municipalities to implement wide-scale LED conversion - only 5% of municipalities have converted, or are in the process of converting, to LED lights. The citywide project will be done by year's end; energy savings will pay for the costs of conversion.
The project began installation in June and to date has converted more than 3,110 streetlights in East Oakland. "Oakland is a national leader in green innovation, this project saves money and the environment while boosting public safety," said Mayor Jean Quan. "These lights are brighter but burn less energy, which means we're reducing our energy bills and our energy use at the same time, and their much longer lifespan also means we're reducing our e-waste footprint." For more info: www.oaklandpw.com
Construction to Begin on Latham Square Pilot Pedestrian Plaza
Construction on the Latham Square Pilot Pedestrian Plaza continues. The pilot project will transform Telegraph Avenue from 16th Street to Broadway into a pedestrian-only plaza. While the pedestrian plaza is in place, vehicular traffic on Telegraph Avenue will be diverted onto 16th Street and drivers traveling north on Broadway will no longer be able to make a left turn onto Telegraph Avenue.
The City worked closely with local stakeholders on the plaza design and traffic circulation through more than 25 individual meetings with local businesses, property owners, residents and other stakeholders; public presentations to the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Oakland Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee; and a 4-hour community design workshop in February that attracted more than 100 participants.
The pilot project will build on Latham Square's significance as a gateway to the vibrant Uptown neighborhood by creating an enhanced pedestrian space through a low-cost trial that enhances the pedestrian environment, increases economic development potential, saves existing trees and improves private automobile and transit operations. The pilot pedestrian plaza will remain in place until at least October 2013 at which time staff will bring a report to City Council on the plaza's success and a recommendation on whether a permanent pedestrian plaza should be created.
Throughout the pilot period, City staff will collect citizen input, analyze the plaza and traffic flow and make adjustments as needed to respond to concerns.
A noontime event to mark the "soft opening" of the Pilot Plaza is being planned for Friday, August 16, with a larger grand opening expected in September.
For design documents, project materials and other info: www.oaklandnet.com/LathamSquare
For more info generally: Iris Starr, Division Manager of Transportation Planning and Funding, istarr@oaklandnet.com or 238-6229
UPCOMING MEETINGS
City Seeks Citizen Input on Council Redistricting
 The City is hosting a series of Redistricting Town Hall Meetings to gather input from the community on boundary adjustments to Council Districts to equalize each district's population according to US Census data. The Oakland City Charter mandates the review of City Council District boundaries every 10 years. The Council provided specific direction to City staff and established the criteria to be used in reviewing the Council District boundaries. (To view the reports, resolution and video of the meeting, please visit http://bit.ly/103avDM.) The Oakland City Council Districts also serve as the districts for the Board of Education. However, boundary changes will not impact school enrollment choices. Issues raised at the first meetings include: - Some want minimum change others suggest more radical change
- Should the districts be more economically diverse or more homogeneous?
- What growth should we account for given the large new housing developments at Brooklyn Basin and Oak Knoll as well as planned zoning for more density along corridors like Broadway or International?
In the links below there are tools to design your own maps. The dates and locations for future Redistricting Town Hall Meetings are: - Thursday, September 5, 6:30-8:30pm, Caesar Chavez Education Center, 2825 International Boulevard (Interpretation in Spanish will be provided.)
- Saturday, September 7, 10am-12noon, Frick Middle School, 2845 64th Avenue
- Saturday, September 7, 2-4pm, Oakland Public Library, Main Library Auditorium, 125 14th Street (Interpretation in Cantonese and Vietnamese will be provided.)
- Sunday, September 8, 3-5pm, Claremont Middle School, 5750 College Avenue
Do you know what Council District you live in? Click here for a map of Council Districts and locator tool. For those unable to attend any of the above meetings, the City is offering a variety of other engagement and feedback opportunities including: In October, the City Council will begin holding public hearings to deliberate on the proposed redistricting maps that result from the summer's Town Hall Meetings. The Council will make a final selection of the Council District boundaries in November. For more information on Oakland's redistricting process including a map of current Council Districts, redistricting-related legislation, upcoming Council meeting dates and more: Devan Reiff, AICP, Planner II, dreiff@oaklandnet.com or 238-3550 and www.oaklandnet.com/redistricting
FOR KIDS
Free Summer Lunches for Kids Served at 11 Library Locations Through This Week
This summer, a record number of free and nutritious meals are being served to thousands of youth at select branch libraries, Tuesdays to Fridays, and at the Main Library Mondays to Fridays. Eleven Oakland Public Library sites will offer free lunches to children 18 years and younger. Participating branch libraries are:
 81st Avenue- César Chávez
- Dimond
- Eastmont
- Elmhurst
- Golden Gate
- Martin Luther King Jr.
- Melrose
- Temescal
- West Oakland
At the Main Library, lunch will be served in the Bradley C. Walters Community Room (down the hall from the Children's Room) and in the TeenZone (on the 2nd floor).
The free lunch program is operated by the City of Oakland's Department of Human Services in partnership with the Alameda County Community Food Bank. For more info: Sharon McKellar, Community Relations Librarian, smckellar@Oaklandlibrary.org or 238-3513
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.
- If your interest is in arts and culture - there are vacancies on both the Cultural Affairs Commission and on the Public Art Advisory Committee.
- The Commission on Aging has two positions that will become vacant in September.
- The Commission on Persons with Disabilities has some vacancies as well.
- Calling out to youth! Citizen's Police Review Board has a couple of openings and would like at least one youth candidate.
- And the Violence Prevention and Public Safety Oversight Committees are looking for one or two excellent candidates.
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 Hatzune Aguilar Sanchez at haguilar@oaklandnet.com .
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Late Night Parks in West Oakland
COMMUNITY MEETINGS & EVENTS
North Oakland Senior Center Celebrates National Night Out, Tuesday, August 6, 6-8pm, North Oakland Senior Center, 5714 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way.
The North Oakland Senior Center will celebrate National Night Out and North Oakland neighbors are invited to enjoy an old-fashioned ice cream social on the patio.
For more info and to volunteer: 597-5085 or Mary Norton, Senior Center Director, at mnorton@oaklandnet.com
CeaseFire Oakland/LifeLines to Healing -- Walk our neighborhoods
 | A recent CeaseFire Friday Night Walk
(© Howard Dyckoff) |
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. I join the walks at least once a month. 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."
- August 9 - Cosmopolitan, 988 85th Avenue
- August 16 - Allen Temple, 8501 International Blvd
- August 23 - At Thy Word, 8915 International Blvd
- August 30 - First Mt. Sinai, 1970 86th Avenue
For more info: 639-1440 or fridaycommunitynightwalks@gmail.com
OPD NEWS
OPD Recruits Complete Field Training
On Saturday, July 27, graduates of the Oakland Police Department's 166th recruit academy class completed their 16 weeks of field training. The officers were assigned to community beats to build relationships within the community they will be serving.
For more info: Sgt. Holly Joshi, OPD Chief of Staff, hjoshi@oaklandnet.com or 238-3131
Area-Specific Crime Stats Posted to OPD Website 
Last week, the Oakland Police Department (OPD) updated the web pages for the five Bureau of Field Operations Areas by adding area-specific crime stats. A citywide weekly crime report, available on the Crime Statistics page, has been available since the website was created. The new crime stat pages are tailored to each Area, making information on local crime conditions easily available to neighborhood residents. The five Area webpages are accessible through the Bureau of Field Operations page here.
For more info: Sgt. Holly Joshi, OPD Chief of Staff, hjoshi@oaklandnet.com or 238-3131
Neighborhood Policing Plan Still Rolling Out
The Oakland Police Department has implemented its Neighborhood Policing Plan, putting into place leadership and teams for each of 5 Police Areas. Area commanders will deploy crime reduction and prevention strategies tailored for their to provide more focused, problem-oriented, and community-driven police service delivery as possible. There will be no change to the number of patrol or problem solving officers assigned to beats or to Neighborhood Crime Prevention Councils.
The 5 commanders below have the authority needed to impact local community crime trends, issues, and patterns and will be held accountable for effective police service and the quality of police/community relationships in their Areas. We are currently adding more lieutenants and sergeants, special crime reduction teams, and eventually investigators to each district. We will be holding meetings in each Police Area to introduce the Captains and their command staff over the next weeks.
 Area 1 - Capt. Eric Lewis - 238-6911 - elewis@oaklandnet.com
A PDF version of the map showing the 5 areas is available here.
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
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. Safe & Healthy Oakland
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FOR YOUR HEALTH...
 Making Sense of Health Care Reform, Obama Care, and/or The Affordable Care Act
Saturday, August 10, 1-3pm,
Main Oakland Public Library, Bradley Walters Community Room, 125 14th St.
Denise Lombard, a specialist in Health, Long Term Care, Disability, and Life Insurance will explain the Affordable Care Act. This act will be fully implemented on January 1, 2014, so you will need to prepare. It will change the way the health care system operates.
Click here for more info.
... AND SAFETY
Fire Station Open Houses 
Sponsored By: City of Oakland/Fire Department, WPAD, and Public Agencies
- Resources for Residents of Oakland Hills
- Roving Fire Patrols, Free Chipping Services
- WPAD Citizens Advisory Committee
- Roadside Treatment, Inspections
- Goat Grazing, New Engines
- Public Education/Fire Safety Information
Here are the dates and locations:
- Tuesday, August 6 (NNO) Fire Station 7, 1996 Amito Ave.
- Saturday, August 17 Fire Station 24 5900 Shepherd Canyon
- Saturday, August 31 Fire Station 28 4615 Grass Valley
- Saturday, September 7 Fire Station 6, 7080 Colton Blvd.
- Saturday, September 28 Fire Station 21 13150 Skyline Blvd.
CORE CLASSES THIS FALL CORE stands for Communities of Oakland Respond to Emergencies. The program is free to anyone  who lives or works in the City of Oakland. If you have not taken any CORE training, or if it has been a while since your last CORE class, please consider attending. For more info and to register for classes:core@oaklandnet.com , 238-6351, and www.oaklandcore.org CORE I Training Tuesday, August 13, 6-8:30pm Children's Hospital Oakland, 744 52nd Street CORE (Communities of Oakland Respond to Emergencies) provides  free emergency preparedness training for individuals and neighborhood groups. CORE I teaches selfreliance skills. The program is free to anyone who lives or works in Oakland. To register:core@oaklandnet.com or 238-6351 ALL FALL CORE TRAINING SERIES Fall evening classes will begin with - CORE I on August 13th followed by
- CORE II on August 20th and they will conclude with a
- CORE III Series at the Fire Training Center on Saturday August 24th and Sunday August 25th.
Other venues include Rockridge Library , Dimond Library, and the Oakland Fire Department's Training Division. CORE REFRESHER CLASSES If you are a CORE III graduate and your CORE ID has expired (2 year run), refresh your skills and update your ID card status. Two options are offered: Standard Refresher - 1-day, hands-on training class Advanced Refresher - 2-day class incorporating the CORE III series in addition to the hands-on training. NOTE: content of our training does change over time and this will insure that you are up to date with the latest information. Either version you choose will allow you to renew your CORE volunteer certification and ID card for 2 years. Register online. THIRD THURSDAY MONTHLY TRAINING SERIES Third Thursday training for the fall will be held at the ESMD Media room, 1605 Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Oakland. These two hour classes will begin at 6:30 PM and will include both classroom training and simulated hands on training. . The general topics will be Light Search & Rescue, Conducting a Neighborhood Drill, Cribbing Method/ Technique, Heavy Rain/Flooding Prep and Response, and Neighborhood Radio Communications. CORE TRAINING IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CORE will conduct a CORE I Home and Family Preparedness class and a CORE II Neighborhood Preparedness and Response class in your neighborhood if you can gather 15 people to attend (friends , co-workers, etc.). BACK TO TOP
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5. The TECH Side of Oakland
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 Hack the Hood offers Oakland small businesses free resources to become more visible in online search
Having your own website isn't enough to market your services online if you want to make sure you show up in mobile and web search and directory listings. Whether you have a great website or not, our program trains local youth how to work with you to make sure your business and/or service shows up when customers search in Google Maps, Directories & listings. The youth in our Hack the Hood program -- who are being trained and mentored by web professionals, including folks from Facebook, Ask.com, and Pandora -- will also build you a free 1-page mobile web site that won't crash on a smart phone and will get you morecalls and customers.
The Hack the Hood program, funded by The Oakland Fund for Children and Youth and the Thomas J Long Foundation, teaches web and mobile development skills to Oakland teens and then sends them out to work in the community to get local businesses online. Youth get important job readiness skills and tech career development insights; local businesses get greater visibility online.
To get your business into our program, fill out the form here or email hth@oaklandlocal.com
An HTH staffer will contact you and schedule youth to work with you and get your small business eligible online.
Who is eligible?
This program is great for local stores, but will also work well for home-based businesses and individual service providers. All businesses must have a publishable location in Oakland -- not a post office box -- to participate.
For more info: hackthehood.org
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6. GET YOUR WALK ON!
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With summer comes lots of opportunities to get to know this wonderful city better, and get some good old-fashioned exercise at the same time! Most events are ongoing throughout the summer, but some, like the first two listings this week, are special events. Take your pick.
Summer Walking Tours
now thru December 7
Providing an intriguing combination of outdoor exercise and education about our city's unique architectural, historic and cultural heritage. The tours are 2-hour walks lead by knowledgeable guides, and range from very easy to moderately challenging.
For more info: www.oaklandheritage.org
Dockside Tours of the Presidential Yacht Potomac
now thru January 26, 2014, 11am & 3pm
Take a walk through history with a docent-led tour of FDR's Floating White House.
For more info and to purchase tickets: 627-1215 or www.jacklondonsquare.com/events
First Thursday Art Walk
Every First Thursday of the Month, 6-9pm
Grand Avenue from LakePark to Piedmont border. The Grand Avenue Business District hosts a monthly art event with special discounts from merchants and galleries.
For more info, click here.
 Guided Walking Tours
3rd Saturdays, 2pm & 4pm
Oakland Art Murmur offers a series of guided walking tours, on third Saturdays of each month, as a way of introducing visitors to Oakland's rich array of visual art venues.
For more info: oaklandartmurmur.org
Savor Oakland Food Tours 
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
A chance to explore the local cuisine, history, art, and architecture while you walk and snack. Fun for all ages! This narrated and guided 3.5 hour food tour visits several food and drink tasting locations including Oakland-style soul food, Pan-American cuisine, award-winning wine, just to name a few. All food tastings are included in the ticket price of $45.
For more info: savoroaklandfoodtours.com
 Saturday Stroll
every week, 1pm & 5pm
Vessel Gallery hosts their Artist Talk Series every second Saturday and a jewelry trunk shows on the First Saturdays. Saturdays are an opportunity to get closer view of the art and learn more about our exhibits and artists.
For more info: www.vessel-gallery.com
Free Walking Tours of Oakland 
every Wednesday & Saturday, 10am, May thru October
Free 90-minute walking tours of downtown Oakland will be offered every Wednesday and Saturday starting May 1 and continuing through October. The twice-weekly guided tours showcase the city's changing skyline, landmarks, churches, and high-rises. Sponsored by the Marketing Division, Department of Economic & Workforce Development, the tours are led by a volunteer guide, and start at 10am from various starting locations depending on the itinerary.
Reservations are recommended. Leave a message on the Tours' 24-hour hotline at 238-3234 or email aallen@oaklandnet.com .
For more info, click here.
There are 8 different tours, all listed at the weblink above.
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7. VOLUNTEER Opportunities
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 Donate Children's Books
Now thru Friday, August 16
Until August 16, the Department of Human Services is holding a Book Drive for low-income children in the Oakland area. The book drive is part of the summer United We Serve: Let's Read. Let's Move initiative implemented by the Corporation for National and Community Service and reflects President Obama's call to service. Please no encyclopedias, text books or library discards. The decorated collections bins may be found at:
- Federal Building, 1301 Clay Street
- State Building, 1515 Clay Street
- City of Oakland buildings at 1, 150 and 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza
- Oakland City Center buildings at 555 12th Street, 1111 Broadway and 500 12th Street
- Citibank, 1333 Broadway Street
- University of California Office of the President, 1111 Franklin Street
For more info: Liz Hillen, Senior Services Program Assistant, lhillen@oaklandnet.com or 238-3620
Have time on your hands? Interested in helping Oakland teens succeed?
WriterCoach Connection takes teams of trained community volunteers into public school English classes to work with students on their classroom writing assignments. We believe one-on-one feedback from caring adults helps students develop their ideas and become confident and competent writers. Our two-part volunteer trainings provide strategies and practice to work effectively with students at all levels of achievement and all stages of the writing process. 
In Oakland we coach at Fremont High School in the Fruitvale and have recently expanded to Oakland School for the Arts. We have a great need for coaches, especially at Fremont High. The commitment is just 1-2 hours per week, 2-4 weeks each month during the school year.
For more info: www.writercoachconnection.com or Camille Graves, Oakland Volunteer Coordinator,oakwcc@gmail.com or 306-1792
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8. BUY Oakland, Grow Our Local Economy
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A FEW GOOD RESOURCES
Oakland Grown Gift Card 
Buy cards for yourself or as a gift to be used with participating Oakland independent businesses and artists. You have lots of great local businesses to choose from and can feel good about keeping your money in Oakland. And now the card includes rewards points, called OakShares. Earn 5 points every time you spend $5 or more at a participating location; good towards specials offered by that business. www.oaklandgrown.org/giftcard 516-0653
Marqeta Explore Oakland card 
Get or gift 25% more money to spend at Oakland`s top restaurants, keep dollars in the community and support nonprofit Great Oakland Public Schools.
www.marqeta.com/exploreoakland 888-462-7738
Discover and Go from the Oakland Library 
Taking a family out can be expensive. The Library's "Discover and Go" Program let's Oaklanders "check out tickets" to many Bay Area museums. Or consider a quiet walk around the Lake or in one of our beautiful shoreline or Redwood parks.
Discover and Go
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| 9. JOBS, BUSINESS, & TRAINING Opportunities | |
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES & RESOURCES
Jobs at Safe Passages - work in and for your community
Safe Passages is actively recruiting and hiring for several great full-time and part-time positions, including Afterschool Coordinator, Program Assistants, Instructors, and AmeriCorps Members. They are particularly looking for applicants who represent the communities they serve.
All the job announcements are posted on their website: www.safepassages.org
West Oakland Job Resource Center
The West Oakland Job Resource Center will be opening soon in the West Oakland Library at 1801 Adeline Street. The Center will serve as the nexus for linking job seekers, employers, and contractors and can be reached via the AC Transit NL and 26 lines. As the project ramps up over the next few years we are trying to make sure that there are Oakland residents who can fill our 50% local hire requirements. We particularly hope to make sure residents are prepared for construction and eventually logistics jobs.  With the Council approval of funding and hiring of new staff, the center has begun a series of orientations. - Jobs in the construction Industry and how to access those jobs
- Information on the trades, unions and their requirements
- Pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship training opportunities
- Job placement assistance on construction projects in the local area
EMPLOYERS REQUIRE JOB SEEKERS THAT MEET THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: - Can pass a drug test
- Have at least an 8th grade reading and math level (and preferably a GED or High School diploma)
- Have documents proving legal eligibility to work in the United States
- Proof of Oakland residency for 6 months prior to registering with us, and
- Have a valid California Driver License or California ID, and access to reliable transportation
Job seekers can pre-register to attend orientations by calling: 419-0509The Job Resource Center will connect job seekers with job training, education and other support services, refer qualified workers to the Oakland Army Base (OAB) Project and other employers. The Center will also track and support the progress of apprentices becoming journey-level workers, match local residents with operations jobs on the OAB, and recruit existing workers in Oakland on an ongoing priority basis. At the West Oakland Job Resource Center employers will be able to post job notifications and receive resumes from qualified workers. The Center will be a valuable resource for technical support and assistance in complying with the OAB Cooperation Agreement, which requires quality employment and training for community residents. Contractors will use the Job Resource Center to help them meet local hiring goals, track job assignments, worker hiring and retention.
TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Build your Fundraising Skills
Do you work for or support a non-profit organization? Are you interested in knowing more about the art of fundraising? The Development Executives Roundtable (DER), an all-volunteer organization, helps Bay Area fundraisers build skills through education, practical tools, networking, and peer support. DER now offers free subscriptions to their newsletter. Just go here and hit the Subscribe button.
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10. GREENING Oakland
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Main Library Children's Room is "Growing Readers"
 Thursdays, now thru August 8, 3-4pm
On Monday, June 10, the Main Library Children's Room began a program that introduces urban farming and container gardening to young library patrons. At the Main Library, patrons will notice the gardens are already sprouting in metal containers outside the Children's Room, on the Library's Oak Street side. The "Growing Readers" program will run all summer, thanks to a generous grant from the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). To implement the program, Oakland Public Library (OPL) is partnering with Acta Non Verba: Youth Urban Farm Project, a non-profit that introduces Oakland youth to urban farming and container gardening.
Beginning Thursday, June 20 and for the next eight Thursdays, children will be able to work with Acta Non Verba staff in the garden, do a fun activity and learn about topics such as "Good Bug or Bad Bug?" and "Where Does Food Come From?" (The July 4 workshop will be held on Tuesday, July 2 due to the Library's closure for Independence Day.) The workshops run from 3 to 4pm. These yummy topics tie in with the Library's Summer Reading theme this year -- "Reading is So Delicious!" -- as well as
 the Alameda County Community Food Bank's free summer lunch program for kids in which OPL will be participating. This project was supported in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian. For more info: Helen Bloch, Librarian II,hbloch@oaklandlibrary.org or 238-3615
EVENTS THIS WEEK
 Local Clean Energy Alliance Meeting, Thursday, August 8, call for time, Central Historic Building, 436 14th St.
The LCEA has open meetings on the second Thursday of every month, featuring informative speakers on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and related efforts.
 Home Mead Making Workshop, Sunday, August 11, 11am-2pm, Pollinate Farm and Garden, 2727 Fruitvale Ave. Hippocras? Cyser? Melomel? Mead is one of the oldest fermented drinks known to man. Learn about the history of mead, its common derivations, and how to make it at home! Participants will taste some samples and receive a kit including local honey and all the supplies needed to ferment a gallon batch. Must be 21 at the time of the class.
Cost: $25 single/$40 couple plus $35 materials fee.
Click here for more info.
UPCOMING EVENTS
 Raimondi Park Needs You!
Saturday, August 31, 9am-1pm, Raimondi Park, 1800 Wood St. in West Oakland, entrance on 18th Street between Campbell & Wood.
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Raimondi Park needs your help
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Raimondi is one of Oakland's most popular sports and recreation venues but it needs a serious sprucing up. If you like to get your hands dirty for a very good cause please join the Oakland Parks Coalition Workday at Raimondi to restore health and beauty to Raimondi's trees and landscaping on Saturday, August 31st.
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, a sunhat, work gloves, and any of your favorite weeding and pruning tools. OPC will supply other tools and refreshments.
For more info: oaklandparkscoalition@gmail.com
 Oakland Greenways 5k, 10k adventure courses, Sunday, August 18, Leaning Tower of Pizza, 498 Wesley Ave. Discover the hidden green gems of the Oakland hills and Piedmont! Snake your way through charming creek-side greenways and hidden neighborhood paths, starting and finishing by Lake Merritt. Find your own way in teams of 1 to 5. See if you can cover the course in the optimal distance of 5k or 10k! Your custom-made map will reveal the robust network of connecting staircases and footpaths. Upon finishing, enjoy refreshments and some socializing. Preregister for a discounted entry fee!
11am Check-in and Registration, course maps available
11:40 Course briefing
12pm Mass start 
Course Details:
- Length: 5 km, 10 km by the shortest possible route
- Gender Divisions: Women, Men, Mixed
- Age Divisions: Family, Junior (17 and under), Open, Masters (any team member is 40+)
- Team Size: 1 to 5
Completing the course: The course checkpoints will be shown with circles on the map. Find your way to the place at the center of each circle, and you will see an orange and white flag with an attached e-card reader. You will swipe your e-card at the top of the reader and hear a beep. When finishing, your timing results will be read by a computer off your e-card. E-card rentals are included in the event entry fee.
The custom map will have a 1:15000 scale with 20 foot contours showing where the course is hilly.
Cost: $20 adults, $10 kids by Aug 16; $25 and $15 after
Pre-register here for a (further) discounted entry fee!
For more info, click here.
The Gardens at Lake Merritt Community Work Parties
For more info: gardensatlakemerritt.org/
The Gardens at Lake Merritt have lots of options for you to get your hands dirty -- on a weekly or a monthly basis. Choose one of more of these regular workdays and come lend a hand.
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 Every Tuesday Evening, Sensory Garden, 5:30-7:30pm - Every Thursday Morning, Succulent Garden, 9am-12noon
- 1st Saturday of each month, (July 6) 9am-12noon, Mediterranean Garden
- 1st Saturday of each month, (July 6) 9am-1:30pm, Succulent Garden
- First and third Saturday of each month, (July 6 & July 20), Edible Gardens. (If you're interested in gardening at an Edible Garden; the Victory Garden Foundation's People's Victory Garden will have mentored gardening days on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays. Click here for more info. )
- 3rd Saturday of each month, (July 20) 9am-12noon, Sensory Gardens, Palmetum, and the Rhododendron Garden.
Friends of Sausal Creek Events
Click here for a full calendar of events and directions to each event.
Become a Dedicated Dead-Header at Morcom Rose Garden
For more info on becoming a Morcom Rose Garden certified Master Gardener, click here.
Arroyo Viejo Creek Clean-Up Day,
3rd Saturday of every month, 10am-12pm. Meet at Oakland  Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd.
Park in the Lower Parking Lot near Maddie's Center for Science and Education. Walk back down towards the Zoo's Parking Ticket Booth (where you entered the Zoo) and meet at the big creek restoration sign. Bring your gloves, play clothes and your friends and come help us keep our creek clean. Earn some volunteer hours, learn about nature and meet new friends while working at the Arroyo Viejo Creek as an Oakland Zoo Creek Keeper. There is no fee associated with this program.
For more info: 632-9525 or www.oaklandzoo.org
NEWS
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© Damon Tighe
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Association (DIA), and Friends of Oakland Parks & Recreation (FOPR) are raising the funds needed to fix the trail.
The work required -- rerouting a substantial section of trail about 10 feet into the hillside -- must be performed by professionals, and will cost $5,000. The completion of this project would help ensure public access for years to come.
All donations are tax deductible and any size contribution is greatly appreciated. Please make checks payable to: Friends of Oakland Parks & Recreation (memo: "FOJMP PCT") and drop off at La Farine Bakery, 3411 Fruitvale Ave, "Attn: Stan", or mail to: Friends of Joaquin Miller Park, PO Box 20383, Oakland, CA 94620.
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11. Kids' Programs & School News
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EDITOR's NOTE: News about the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) and the local education community appears in a lot of different places: print, radio, television and online media. OUSD has started collecting the highlights in one easy place: https://www.rebelmouse.com/OUSD/ Check the link regularly.
Library Participating in Back-to-School Free Disney Book Giveaway 
Saturday, August 17, 11am-3pm
On Saturday, August 17, volunteers at eight locations of the Oakland Public Library (OPL) will distribute free books to children. The participating locations are:
- Main Library Children's Room
- 81st Avenue Branch
- Brookfield Branch
- Elmhurst Branch
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch
- Melrose Branch
- Piedmont Avenue Branch
- West Oakland Branch
Along with books, suggested reading lists prepared by OPL children's librarians will also be distributed. New library users are invited to register for a free library card. This event is made possible through a partnership with the Oakland Unified School District.
To learn about other back-to-school events: www.ousd.k12.ca.us
For more info: Sharon McKellar, Community Relations Librarian, smckellar@oaklandlibrary.org or 238-3513
 Oakland Youth Orchestra New Member Auditions
August 5, 6, 8 & 10, 4-8pm, 1428 Alice Street
Membership in OYO is open to highly qualified players of orchestral instruments from Bay Area schools. Generally, students are between the ages of 12 and 22  years, but exceptional younger students may also be admitted. Members are selected on the basis of an audition. Students are required to participate in school music programs when available and must also be receiving private instrument instruction.
Learning professional responsibility is an important part of OYO's program for musical excellence. Members are required to prepare, to arrive promptly, and to attend all rehearsals. Seating is generally rotational.
To apply: www.oyo.org/page/audition1.html
Free Gang Awareness Trainings 1-3 hour trainings available to Oakland schools and community-based organizations serving Oakland youth - Signs of gang involvement
 - Strategies for working with affiliated youth
- Community resources available
98-100% of participants said they had a better understanding of gang activity at their school or in the community. 83%-96% of participants report having a better understanding of how to work with youth who are gang affiliated. One participant said: "Excellent training. I now have some tools on how to be more proactive with my students who are gang affiliated. It has given me the knowledge of how I can become more aware of what is going on with my students and what to look out for in my classroom!" Trainings are made possible by The City of Oakland - Oakland Unite and OUSD Office of Alternative Education in partnership with California Youth Outreach and Hatchuel, Tabernik and Associates with Juan Carlos Carmona. For more info & to schedule a training: Shirley Yee, OUSD Office of Alternative Education, 597-4294 or shirley.yee@ousd.k12.ca.us  Oakland Board of Education Accepting Applications for Measure G Committee Committee members oversee expenditure of Oakland Education Parcel Tax monies To apply: Follow link from the OUSD homepage at www.ousd.k12.ca.us or go directly to: http://tinyurl.com/psx3nt4 Oakland Board of Education is accepting membership applications for the Oakland Education Parcel Tax Committee, better known as the "Measure G Committee." This 7-member Committee informs the public on the use of monies derived from the parcel tax. Measure G is designed to help the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD): - attract and retain highly qualified teachers
- subsidize courses which allow students to qualify for college
- supply up-to-date textbooks and instructional materials
- lower class sizes
- fund after-school academic programs
- maintain school libraries
- provide programs, including arts and music, which enhance student achievement
Measure G is a permanent tax, applied annually, of $195.00 per parcel for Oakland property owners, with exemptions offered to low-income taxpayers. The money is used to supplement state and federal funding so that OUSD can better serve the college and career preparatory needs of the city's public school students. Money from Measure G cannot be spent on administrative salaries and must be approved by the Measure G oversight committee. Collectively, the Measure G Committee members should meet the following criteria: - One member shall be the parent or guardian of a child enrolled in the District
- One member shall be both a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in the District and active in a parent-teacher organization, such as the School Site Council (SSC) or Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
- One member shall be a community member who does not have a child enrolled in the District
- One member shall be a representative of the business community
- At least two members shall have demonstrated financial expertise
- At least four members of the committee shall be property owners in the City of Oakland
A single individual may be appointed as a representative of more than one of the above categories, if applicable. OUSD will seek to ensure the Committee is representative of the diversity of the District. For more info: Edgar Rakestraw, Executive Assistant, Board of Education, edgar.rakestraw@ousd.k12.ca.us Make Your Summer Plans with the Help of OUSD OUSD offers a variety of programs for students this summer. Take a look at the OUSD programs offered by the schools to focus on academic support, algebra preparation, transition programs to prepare students for middle school and high school, and arts enrichment, as well as high school credit recovery. In addition, their Summer Resources Guide contains resources and information on summer programs in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area. Click here for more program info and to download the Resource Guide.
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12. UPCOMING EVENTS
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Sing-Along Cinema Series, Wednesday, August 14, Sundown, Ferry Lawn, Jack London Square, foot of Broadway.
Enjoy a free screening of "Grease" with the theatrical antics of Barely Legal, as they sing and dance along with the movie. Come dressed as a character from the movie and be prepared to sing your favorite songs. For more info: www.jacklondonsquare.com
EMBRACE the Dimond District, Thursday, August 15 and every 3rd Thursday, 5pm, corner of Dimond & MacArthur Blvd.
Join your friends, family and neighbors to EMBRACE the Dimond District every 3rd Thursday of the month. Starting at 5pm, come out to the Dimond to have a bite to eat, a cup of coffee, or to just stroll around! This monthly event is organized by the Dimond Business and Professional Association (DB&PA), and has a different theme each month. The "PREMIRE" August 15th will be all about art:
Sidewalk Art Contest for ALL!
- Many featured local artist and craftsmen
- A fantastically fun kids' zone
- Get the super secret "WORD" for 3rd Thursday merchant specials!
- Community organizers will also be present to answer all your questions
Red Oak Realty Outdoor Movie Night in Montclair -- The Goonies, Saturday, August 17, 8pm.
Third Saturday's of the month til September 21st, 6450 Moraga Ave. Doors open at 6:30, movies start at 7pm. 4 nights this summer, a movie will be projected onto a 26' screen on the side of Red Oak's Moraga Avenue office. All are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the parking lot for a free outdoor movie complete with popcorn and previews.
"Speak" movie, Tuesday, August 20, 6-9pm, Warehouse 416, 416 26th St, "speak", movie starts at 6:30. FREE.
Anyone interested in learning about Toastmasters should come on over and see this movie. We hold ToastMasters meetings every Tuesday at 6:30pm and 7am. You can join either meeting as an observer anytime. On Aug 20 we are having a mixer and a movie. Movie run time is 89 minutes.
For more info: warehouse416.com
 Late Summer Soiree - a benefit for Oakland Art Murmur, Wednesday, August 28, 6:30-9:30pm.
Friends of OAM invites you to an exclusive tour of a superlative private modern art collection, housed in the collector's personal residence, an exquisite Bernard Maybeck estate in the Oakland Hills. Come usher in the Fall with Friends of OAM, enjoy delicious bites and lovely drinks while strolling the magnificent grounds of this landmark estate, and all the while take in some seriously stellar works of art by major twentieth century masters.
Cost $25 for the general public; $20 for members of Friends of OAM; Complimentary for Supporter and Donor Level Members
Tickets are strictly limited, get yours today.
SPECIAL OFFER: Become a member of Friends of OAM in the month of August and receive a discount on your tickets to this event (plus invitations to future free events for Friends of OAM members!)
For more info: Oaklandartmurmur.com
Oakland Fund For The Arts annual dinner party at Bocanova Restaurant, Thursday, August
29, 6pm.
With the support of donors like you, Oakland Fund for the Arts (OFFTA) has awarded over $425,000 in grants, funding 100+ performance and visual art programs in 110 public schools located in some of Oakland's most distressed areas. Since being founded in 1996, OFFTA has reached more than 14,000 children. Bocanova, one of Oakland's trendiest restaurants  and long-time supporter of Oakland Fund for the Arts, is once again hosting the annual fundraiser. Cocktails, a silent auction and music will kick-off the event. For more info and to buy tickets: offta.org OCTOBER 6th Annual Oaktoberfest in the Dimond, Saturday, October 5, 11am-6pm. 4 blocks of fun branching out from the intersection of Fruitvale Ave. and MacArthur Blvd. Oaktoberfest in the Dimond returns for its 6th year of fun, community-building, and festivities. This event is FREE to the public. Oakland Mayor Jean Quan taps the first keg at 10:45 am in a traditional Munich style Oktoberfest kick off. Highlights include:  the Bill Brand Biergarten (at Fruitvale Ave. and MacArthur Blvd.) with 20 local craft breweries;- the Mad Zymurgist Homebrew Competition hosted in the HopTech Homebrewers' Alley;
- the Family-Friendly Rootbier Garten;
- the Wells Fargo Bank Family Stage filled with fun for the entire family;
- the Main Stage with traditional German and modern Oakland entertainment; and
- plenty of food and vendor booths in-between, including beer-food pairings, German inspired artisan entrees, cooking demos, alongside traditional favorites to satisfy everyone.
Plan your weekend around this great Community Festival - with all proceeds benefiting neighborhood improvement. Tickets on sale at www.Oaktoberfest.org Volunteers always welcome! For more info, to volunteer, sponsor, vend, or advertise: www.Oaktoberfest.org or 452-7392 BACK TO TOP
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| 13. 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
First Thursday Art Walk, Every First Thursday of the Month, 6-9pm, Grand Avenue from LakePark to Piedmont border.
The Grand Avenue Business District hosts a monthly art event with special discounts from merchants and galleries.
For more info, click here.
Jack's Night Market, First Fridays through September, 6-10pm, Jack London Square, foot of  Broadway.
A captivating evening filled with merriment and verve can be enjoyed every first Friday through September. Sample the eclectic mix of artisans, music, food and fun.
For more info: www.jacklondonsquare.com
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
MOVIES
Waterfront Flicks some Thursdays, at sundown, Market Lawn at Jack London Square.
Enjoy a free screening on the beautiful waterfront. Moviegoers should arrive early with blankets in-hand for pre-film festivities including small eats, beer, trivia and giveaways.
For more info: www.jacklondonsquare.com
Movies at Studio One,Fridays, 8:15 pm, Studio One Art Center, 365 45th Street.
Enjoy a free screening of recent movies.
For more info: 597-5027
 Movie Night at Redwood Heights Rec Center,
some Fridays at dusk, Redwood Hts Rec Center, 3883 Aliso Ave.
A great way to spend a Friday night is to come over to Redwood Heights Rec Center, bring a small lawn chair and/or blanket, some warm clothes, and watch a fun movie under the evening sky. Movies start at dusk, which changes as the days get longer. There will be popcorn, hot chocolate, drinks & hotdogs this year. No alcohol, drugs or dogs allowed. All of the money goes towards scholarship fund for summer day camp and after school Rockets program.
For more info: Breht Clark, Recreation Center Director, bclark@oaklandnet.com or 482-7827
For the summer schedule, click here.
Laurel Outdoor Movie Series 
Last Saturday of the month, June thru October, 8pm
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and warm clothes, held in the Ace Hardware Parking Lot (4024 MacArthur Blvd). Sponsored by Movement Ink, Ace Hardware, the LDA and various Laurel merchants each month.
July 27 -- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (PG-13)
August 31 -- Good Hair w/ Chris Rock (PG-13)
September 28 -- Wall-E (PG)
October 26 -- Nightmare Before Christmas (PG) and Shaun of the Dead (R for adults only)
Red Oak Realty Outdoor Movie Night in Montclair.
Third Saturday's of the month: July 20th, August 17th, September 21st, 6450 Moraga Ave. Doors open at 6:30, movies start at 7pm. 4 nights this summer, a movie will be projected onto a 26' screen on the side of Red Oak's Moraga Avenue office. All are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the parking lot for a free outdoor movie complete with popcorn and previews.
JUST FOR KIDS
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. For more info and monthly workshop listings, click here.
Girls' Sports Days at Oakland Parks & Rec
 League of Women Voters Monthly Hot Topics Roundtable Discussion
LWV of Oakland sponsors monthly HOT TOPICS roundtable discussions to inform members and the public and to seek ways everyone can come together to address important issues facing our community.
For more info: www.lwvoakland.org/calendar.html
 Tuesday Toastmasters with Warehouse416 artists and friends, Tuesdays, 7-8am, and NEW TIME: 6:30pm, 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.
For more info: Ron Scrivani, scrivanir@aol.com or warehouse416.com
 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, scrivanir@aol.com or warehouse416.com
Vintage Porcelain Show, Wednesdays, 10:30am & every 2nd Saturday, 10:30am, & every 2nd Sunday, 2pm, Pardee Home and Museum, 672 11th St.
If you love vintage china, you won't want to miss Mrs. Helen Pardee's collection of exquisite demitasse cups, teacups, and tea pots. Included with cost of tour ($5) or tour with high tea ($25). Reservations required for tea or private tour (min 4).
For more info: 444-2187, www.pardeehome.org
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The Listening Horse designed by our nationally known architect Walter Hood has a magical impact as visitors listen to stories
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FOR EVERYONE
What I Hear, I Keep: Stories From Oakland's Griots, Wednesday-Saturday until February 2014, 2:30-5:30pm, Peralta House Museum, 2465 34th Ave.
A visual and audio art installation based on African American stories of modern-day Oakland, with local residents telling about their lives and exploring their identities. Hear voices speak about the pluses and minuses of segregation, rituals commemorating the Black Holocaust, combating racism in major league baseball, The De Fermery Recreation Center community, the Black Panthers, the heyday of KJAZ, the Black Native community, and many other iconic contemporary Oakland themes. Cost: $5; free for Fruitvale Community members and children 10 & underFor more info: Peraltahacienda.org
Mexica Dance, every Monday evening, 6-8pm, sponsored by Peralta Hacienda, Center for History and Community, 2488 Coolidge Ave.
All are welcome to discover Mexica culture during ceremony and dance classes open to the public.
For more info: www.peraltahacienda.org
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