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Cookie Plug's Emeryville location has temporarily closed amid controversy surrounding its founder. Kilovolt Coffee relocated after its lease was not renewed, and Zarri’s Delicatessen will close at the end of April after 50 years in business. Each establishment represents a shift in the East Bay dining landscape.
Oakland Unified School District Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell will leave her position on July 1 after the board approved her voluntary separation agreement. Johnson-Trammell, who has served since 2017, will hold the title of superintendent emeritus until January 2026, during which time the district will transition to an interim leader.
Oakland Police Department reports a 37% decrease in overall crime for the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024. However, homicides increased by 15%, prompting concern despite a 70% clearance rate for homicide investigations. The department credits crime reduction to community collaboration and the dedication of its officers.
Comedian W. Kamau Bell donated his $1 million winnings from Celebrity Jeopardy! to fully fund $150,000 worth of educational projects on Donors Choose for schools in Oakland. His gift, announced at Castlemont High School, aims to alleviate the financial burden teachers face in supporting their classrooms. Bell emphasized the importance of community support amidst ongoing challenges in public education funding.
The Oakland Police Department requires 277 additional officers to effectively patrol the city, according to a draft report by PFM Group Consulting. Currently, Oakland employs 675 officers but is budgeted for only 600, leading to significant staffing shortages that impact public safety.
The family of Krysta Tsukahara has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the estates of Soren Dixon and others after Tsukahara died in a crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck driven by Dixon. The lawsuit alleges negligence related to alcohol and drug use before the incident, which left Tsukahara and two others dead while only one passenger survived. The plaintiffs seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash and the fire that ensued.
Oakland's guaranteed income program provided $500 monthly to 600 low-income families, showing positive impacts on employment, education, and mental health, according to a new report. The study highlights that participants were more likely to secure full-time jobs compared to a control group, challenging the notion that cash assistance discourages work. As Oakland faces a financial crisis, the future of the program remains uncertain.
Jaji, a new restaurant in Uptown Oakland, offers Afghan cuisine with modern twists, reflecting owner Sophia Akbar's heritage. The menu features innovative dishes like mushroom pekora and Shola-Qorooti Croquettes, developed through collaboration with family members. Akbar aims to create a welcoming space for diverse patrons to experience Afghan culture.
Oakland launches the General Plan Community Advisory Subcommittee to enhance community engagement in its General Plan Update. Residents can apply for the Community Advisory Subcommittee until May 15. The initiative aims to reflect the diverse identities and experiences of Oaklanders.
Oakland City Council will hold a public hearing on May 20, 2025, at 3:30 PM, both in-person and virtually, regarding the First Substantial Amendment to the FY 2024/25 Annual Action Plan. Public comments can be submitted via email from May 5 to June 4, 2025, to be included in the final submission. Details for virtual participation are available on the city’s website.