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Alameda County officials secured an additional $1.5 million in food assistance amid uncertainty over November SNAP benefits. Two federal judges ruled against the Trump administration's handling of SNAP during the government shutdown, but recipients still face potential delays. Local leaders pledged to ensure that residents do not go hungry while awaiting aid.
The California Department of Education determined that Oakland Unified School District fostered a discriminatory environment for Jewish students, citing incidents such as omitting Israel from educational materials. The findings arose from complaints filed by attorney Marleen Sacks, who claimed the district failed to address discrimination adequately. Corrective actions include mandated bias training and review of complaint procedures.
Jot Mahal, a longstanding vegetarian Indian restaurant in Berkeley, closed its College Avenue location, replaced by Chandni Chowk. Meanwhile, Kasper’s Hot Dogs in Oakland shut down after 95 years, with owner Harold Koojoolian citing personal reasons for the closure. The building has been acquired by a nonprofit, which plans to maintain the original menu while adding cafe services.
Author Alex Werth explores the intersection of Black culture and policing in Oakland through his book “On Loop: Black Sonic Politics in Oakland.” Drawing on years of research, he examines the influence of the Hyphy Movement and other cultural elements while discussing the ongoing challenges facing the community. Werth promotes his book at various events in the Bay Area this week.
The Oaklandside is launching a reporting fellowship for high school students to address challenges in the Oakland Unified School District. The program invites students to work with journalists to identify issues and propose solutions, with fellows receiving a $1,500 stipend. Applications are due by November 30.
Over 82,000 residents in Alameda County will face significant health insurance rate hikes starting Nov. 1, as Covered California prepares for open enrollment. Premiums are set to increase by an average of $125 per person per month, potentially leaving millions uninsured if enhanced subsidies expire.
Residents in Oakland and Berkeley prepare for potential delays in SNAP benefits due to a federal government shutdown, impacting over 5 million Californians. Local food banks report increased demand, with pantries serving more households as the holiday season approaches. Several restaurants offer free or discounted meals for SNAP recipients to help alleviate food insecurity.
Oakland's Día de los Muertos Festival, celebrating its 30th year, may face reduced attendance due to fears of federal immigration enforcement targeting the event. The festival, scheduled for Nov. 2, honors the resilience of the immigrant community with the theme “Aquí estamos y no nos vamos” (Here we are, and we’re not going anywhere).
A recent survey reveals that 67% of Oakland voters support increasing police presence and surveillance in the city. Additionally, 61% favor policy changes to limit homeless encampments. The poll indicates strong backing for Mayor Barbara Lee, contrasting with the City Council's low favorability rating.
The Trump Administration's efforts to reduce the Department of Education intensified with plans to lay off staff overseeing special education, prompting legal intervention. Advocates warn that dismantling this office threatens educational rights for millions of children with disabilities.