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The Oaklash drag festival in Oakland, co-founded by Mama Celeste, has grown from 500 attendees in its inaugural year to 5,000 last year. The festival faces funding challenges due to recent budget cuts and a political climate that has affected corporate sponsorships. Celeste emphasizes the need for community resilience amid rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
Oakland's City Council approved $12.8 million in one-year grants to support violence prevention programs, including services for gunshot victims and survivors of gender-based violence. The funding aims to assist community organizations while awaiting a comprehensive public safety plan.
Oakland will continue its free summer meals program for children and adults with disabilities at 47 locations, serving from May 27 to August 8. The initiative, supported by various community organizations, aims to provide over 950 meals daily to combat child hunger during the summer months.
After 22 years under state receivership, the Oakland Unified School District will regain local control in July. The district faced significant oversight, which limited its decision-making power and created challenges related to funding and school management. Local leaders celebrate this change as a critical step towards addressing long-standing issues in the district.
Dan Pitcock, owner of Roberts Electric Co., reflects on the marvel of electricity as his company marks over a century of service in the Bay Area. Founded in the late 19th century, RECO has completed thousands of projects, contributing to local infrastructure and community resilience. Pitcock emphasizes the importance of electricity in daily life and the satisfaction of maintaining a legacy business.
Several new restaurants have opened in the East Bay, including Dumpling House in Alameda and Extreme Pizza in Berkeley. Black Forest Kitchen debuted in Oakland, serving Berlin-style döner kebabs, while Dek Doi and Discover Community Café also reopened with new offerings.
Cafe Noir has relocated to Prescott Market in West Oakland, offering a menu of homemade comfort foods. Meanwhile, Demiya has opened at Emeryville Public Market, specializing in Western-influenced Japanese dishes. New French wine bar La Loulou has also debuted on Piedmont Ave., serving an array of wines and small bites.
City workers began dismantling Oakland's largest homeless encampment, the E. 12th median camp, amid confusion and tensions. The removal, supported by a $7 million state grant, aims to relocate 79 individuals into a new shelter, but raised concerns about safety protocols during the operation.
The City of Oakland announced a new collaboration to support the Summer Food Service Program, providing free meals to children aged 18 and under. The program will operate from May 27 to August 8, offering around 950 meals daily at city-run sites and an additional 1,200 meals at community-based sites. This initiative aims to combat food insecurity during the summer months when schools are closed.
Oakland's 10th annual 510 Day festival attracted thousands to Lake Merritt on May 10, celebrating the city's culture and community spirit. Attendees engaged in music, local vendors, and social connections, highlighting Oakland's diversity and resilience. The event served as a platform for residents to honor their heritage and promote unity.