Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Spinning Dough, a unique pizzeria in West Oakland known for its unconventional toppings like ube and longanisa, will close its doors on April 20 after eight years in business. Owner Jeff Chin announced the closure on social media, expressing gratitude for the support received throughout the years. This marks a bittersweet end for a restaurant that has made a significant impact on the local food scene.
Nicolas Heidorn, the executive director of Oakland's Public Ethics Commission, is set to leave his position in July, prompting a recruitment process for his successor. The commission, which oversees campaign finance and government ethics, faces challenges such as a significant backlog of cases and resource limitations. Heidorn emphasized the need for dedicated funding and staffing to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
Daytrip, a popular fermentation-forward restaurant in Oakland, has closed its doors, making way for a new family-oriented concept named Daytrip Counter. Set to open on May 7, 2025, the new establishment will focus on affordable, high-quality meals, particularly featuring spit-roasted chicken and a revamped menu designed for a casual dining experience. Owners Finn Stern and Stella Dennig are committed to maintaining a living wage for employees while implementing a counter-service model to enhance sustainability.
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) made an arrest related to illegal drug activity, thanks to community tips. On April 10, 2025, officers seized a significant amount of marijuana, a firearm, and cash during the operation. OPD encourages continued community involvement in reporting illegal activities to enhance public safety.
A billboard advertising a Turkish handgun in Oakland has sparked significant debate among residents, particularly in a city grappling with high rates of gun violence. While the advertisement promotes the Canik Mete MC9, designed to comply with California's strict gun laws, community reactions have been mixed, with many expressing shock and outrage. The ad's presence has raised questions about gun culture and legality in a city facing ongoing challenges with firearms.
The Oakland City Council has postponed the sale of the city's stake in the Coliseum, which was originally part of a $125 million deal with the African American Sports and Entertainment Group (AASEG). This decision aligns with the pending sale by Alameda County, which is crucial for the transaction's completion. Delays have been attributed to various factors, including ongoing negotiations and a lawsuit challenging the sale.
Barbara Lee has taken a commanding lead in the Oakland mayoral race following the latest ballot counts, surpassing Loren Taylor, who initially led. With over 50% of the first-choice votes and 52.7% after ranked-choice redistribution, Lee's victory seems imminent. Additionally, Charlene Wang appears to be winning D2 City Council, and Measure A is expected to pass.
The Oakland Police Department will hold a DUI checkpoint on April 18, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. This initiative aims to enhance public safety by removing impaired drivers from the roads, highlighting the risks associated with various substances, including alcohol and marijuana. Funding for the program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.
Highwire Coffee Roasters has announced a price increase for most of its beverages due to rising ingredient costs, particularly green coffee prices, which have doubled in the past year. This trend is echoed across the Bay Area as coffee shops like Red Bay Coffee also face increased costs, prompting similar price adjustments. Experts warn that consumers may have to compromise on quality as they grapple with rising prices for coffee and other essentials.
The article provides essential information on how to register to vote in Oakland, California, and details about the voting process for the upcoming special election in 2025. It highlights the convenience of online registration and the mailing of ballots to registered voters starting March 17. This information is crucial for ensuring that residents are prepared to participate in the electoral process.