Week 3 July, 2010
This week’s highlighted local treasures are the progressive citizens of Oakland who are the true soul of this town.
Recent events in Oakland have sent shockwaves through the neighborhood conversations in Oakland where we almost can’t believe the dramatic scenes that have played out. As a citizen of Oakland I can tell you that most people here recognize how Oakland can be a stage for some unwanted theatrics. Too often it is here in Oakland where those from neighboring areas choose to act out their aggressions and discontents toward the greater community. It’s ironic that such is the case when Oakland could easily be considered a national epicenter for American progress on so many fronts that seek to erradicate the roots of poverty, exploitation and injustice. (See the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Transnational Institute for Grassroots Research and Action, Color of Change, National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, and many more headquartered in Oakland.) And consider where Oakland stands on perhaps the most pressing issue facing human existence today ranking #4 in the Popular Science list of America’s 50 Greenest Cities. The truth is that the unwanted theatrics played out on the Oakland stage are representative of the challenges facing the greater community of this whole country— if not the whole planet— most of which are being sincerely addressed in a broad spectrum of ways by very dedicated, progressive-minded citizens of the city of Oakland. The truth is that Oakland is at the forefront of the progressive movement that seeks justice and liberty for all. And those of us who live here know it. So this edition of WeekendWanderings salutes the soul of Oakland embodied in its citizens who stand for progress on so many fronts in spite of any and all who try to violate her spirit. In short, WeekendWanderings says God bless Oakland, California and the causes she champions!
So, let’s find some fun ’round the bay…
Art Under the Oaks at Alen Lane Nursery: This weekend in Livermore. From their website: This year promises to continue to delight the art, wine, music and fruit lover! We’ll have local wineries pouring samples, local artists will be on hand demonstrating their craft, music will fill the grounds, and Dave Wilson Nursery will hold their Annual Summer Fruit Tasting, so yummy, you won’t want to miss it. You can purchase tasty treats from Sweet & Savory Bakery and Café while taking in the event. The Valley Woodcarvers will be presenting a special show to include carvings from the old flagpole from downtown Livermore.
All Shook Down Live Music in North Beach: This Sunday in San Francisco. From their website: SF Weekly and Scion are proud to present All Shook Down, a showcase of eclectic local, national, and international music in the heart of San Francisco’s historic North Beach neighborhood. Featuring live music from more than 30 artists on an outdoor stage and in the unique intimate venues on Grant & Green streets. With production support provided by North Beach Jazz Fest veterans Sunset Promotions and promotional partners Eye Heart SF, Nate Mezmer Presents, Crawl SF and 1M Entertainment. Headlining the event will be internationally acclaimed pop artist NEON INDIAN and future-soul diva JANELLE MONAE. All Shook Down will also unveil the nominees for the 2010 SF Weekly Music Awards, and attendees will be able to submit their votes on-site. Many of the nominees will be performing at the festival.
Bikes4Life Bike Ride for Peace: This Saturday in Oakland. From their website: B4L’s mission is focused on empowerment, leadership development, and community development. A successful uniter B4L’s bicycle adventures attract a large diverse group of enthusiastic youth and seasoned riders of all ages and backgrounds. Bikes 4 Life Annual Peace Ride happens in July dont miss the next one. Bikes 4 Life is a community bicycle shop in West Oakland. It started out as annual ride and now has become One Fam’s social enterprise creating a model for self sufficiency. It brings together diverse members of the community to enjoy biking and repair and has the best prices for quality bicycles around.
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How we grow ‘em in Oakland