Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oakland families learned about high lead levels in school drinking water last August. The Oakland Unified School District faced criticism for its poor communication and response efforts, but it is now working to ensure safe water for its 34,000 students. A new podcast episode covers the ongoing developments and other local news.
Oakland Unified School District faces a lead contamination crisis, with many schools lacking safe drinking water. Despite efforts to install filtered water stations, ongoing issues with clogged machines and insufficient water supplies leave students at risk. The district aims to improve its tracking and remediation processes following years of inadequate testing.
Hyphy Burger plans its grand opening on August 2 in West Oakland, five months after starting a soft opening. The restaurant, founded by food influencer Darion Frazier, rapper Guapdad 4000, and entrepreneur Zack Alwajeeh, aims to serve the local community with a focused menu of smash burgers and specialty shakes.
The Justice Department filed a lawsuit against the Jerusalem Coffee House in Oakland, claiming the cafe discriminated against Jewish customers. Owner Abdulrahim Harara defended his establishment, linking the lawsuit to broader issues of community activism and the crisis in Gaza. Support for the cafe has surged since the lawsuit's announcement.
Rick & Ann’s, a beloved Berkeley brunch spot, will close permanently on August 30th after over 30 years of operation. Owner Ann Lauer decided not to renew the lease, transitioning her catering business to a new commercial kitchen.
An Alameda County judge denied a restraining order request against activist Seneca Scott, who faced accusations of online harassment from former mayor aide Brandon Harami. The judge ruled that Scott had not made credible threats or committed acts of violence. Scott characterized Harami's actions as an attempt to silence him rather than seek protection.
Tim Dupuis, Alameda County's Registrar of Voters, received positive evaluations from both the Elections Oversight Commission and the Civil Grand Jury despite past errors. The reports highlighted the need for clearer communication and addressed concerns about Dupuis' dual role, which may have affected election performance.
The Oakland Ballers, a new professional baseball team, clinched a playoff spot in their second season with a record of 46-16. Founded just months before their inaugural season, the team has successfully attracted local talent, reflecting Oakland's rich baseball heritage. The Ballers aim to build a community-focused team, contrasting with the recent departure of the Oakland Athletics.
Abdulrahim Harara, owner of Jerusalem Coffee House in Oakland, addressed a lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice alleging antisemitism for refusing service to Jewish customers. Harara's attorneys argue that the incidents were staged provocations aimed at inciting conflict against him as a Palestinian. Supporters claim the lawsuit represents a broader effort to silence Palestinian voices.
The Sequoyah Country Club in Oakland plans to cut down 175 redwood trees, alarming nearby residents who wish to preserve them. Residents, led by Ana Vizzo, have organized petitions and community meetings to oppose the removals, citing the city's Protected Tree Ordinance. The club argues that the removals are part of a landscape renovation aimed at creating a more environmentally friendly golf course.