Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Oakland City Council eliminated the cultural affairs manager position, sparking outrage among local artists and cultural organizations. The role was vital for securing external funding, which constituted a significant portion of the arts budget. Artists expressed concern over the impact of this decision on the local arts community.
Prescott Night Markets will return this summer in Oakland, featuring over 20 food vendors from various international cuisines. The markets will coincide with Oakland Roots SC home games and will include live entertainment and family-friendly activities on July 24, August 21, September 4, and October 9.
Two ampm gas stations in Oakland experienced smash-and-grab robberies early Thursday morning, with the first incident occurring just after 1 a.m. An SUV crashed into one store, likely targeting the ATM, while a stolen silver Honda was used in a second robbery shortly before 3 a.m. No arrests have been reported.
A Fruitvale landlord, Darrick Chavis, pressured tenants to vacate their homes within 30 days while referencing immigration status. This has sparked fear among residents, many of whom are monolingual Spanish speakers, leading them to seek help from a tenant advocacy group. Chavis has a history of legal disputes and has faced warnings from city authorities regarding his conduct.
Sea Wolf Public House in Oakland will permanently close on July 19 after nearly nine years in business. Owners cite lease expiration and financial challenges, while encouraging community members to celebrate its legacy during final events. A silent auction will be held on July 12 to help pay outstanding debts.
The Boys and Girls Club launched a sportswriting program aimed at helping students enhance their writing skills. Athletes, professional sportwriters, and volunteers from WriterCoach Connection will guide participants in this initiative. The program seeks to combine sports with education, fostering young talent in both fields.
Dan Siegel, a prominent civil rights attorney, died on July 2 at age 79 in Oakland. Renowned for his pro bono work and dedication to social justice, Siegel influenced local law and activism throughout his career. Hundreds mourned his passing, highlighting his role as a champion of the marginalized.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee criticized President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," citing its severe cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs that could harm vulnerable residents. Lee emphasized the need for strategic responses and collaboration with local agencies to mitigate the impending impact of the legislation.
Oakland’s Jollof Festival on July 12 will determine which country makes the best jollof rice, featuring chefs from Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and more. Founded by Ishmael Osekre in 2017, the festival began as a response to heated debates on social media about jollof rice superiority. Attendees can taste dishes, vote for their favorites, and enjoy cultural performances and activities.
President Donald Trump signed a significant tax legislation that critics warn could devastate social services in Oakland and Alameda County. Local leaders, including Congresswoman Lateefah Simon, expressed concerns over cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, which could leave thousands without healthcare and food support. Notably absent from the opposition is Mayor Barbara Lee, who has yet to comment on the bill.