Youth UpRising (YU), the state-of-the-art youth center next to Castlemont High School, has recently opened a skatepark on the premises, presumably deep East Oakland's first. The new outdoor digs adds yet another dimension to an already existing slew of amenities. Equipped with recording studios, film editing suites, job services, a health center, cafe, dance studio and amphitheater, YU epitomizes everything youth centers should look like and provide.
Now with a skate park, the center will hopefully attract a more diverse population of youth to the center, while also turning members of their core community on to a new activity.
As a founding member of YU, it's existence and evolution always makes me proud. As a high school student it seemed improbable that something of such scale was really going to be born into an old Safeway on 88th and MacArthur. But, it was not only born, it has grown too! Just last week in fact, YU celebrated its 5th anniversary in grandiose fashion.
Executive Directors, MacArthur geniuses, judges, politicians, founders, funders, families, rappers, dancers, organizers artists and youth were all there to toast the success of the center. Such a well-rounded turnout demonstrates what a gathering place it is thanks to the work of the great staff and the grind of the hardest working hustler in Oakland, Executive Director Olis Simmons.
Now we'll add some skaters to that stew. How appropriate for a place so used to the grind.
And I'd also like to give a shout out toYouth UpRising for their award winning film, "Youth Jail Chronicles." The documentary notes how rampant incarceration is in our communities by talking to local youth who have spent time locked up. It's definitely depressing, but they crown the experience by sharing advice on what others can do to avoid their fate. It's sad that Oakland youth often know the prison industrial complex so intimately, but it's also sad that we more often read about these young people than listen to them. Here is our chance to start.
California Is A Place where ingenuity has always thrived; where a rebellious frontier culture has never quite left; where we make dollars out of cents and bikes out of snack food packaging. Okay, so not everyone in California uses Oreo wrappers and Coke cans to customize their tricycles, but in Oakland, that's common practice for Baybe Champ and the Scraper Bike Team.
The pedaling squad of youth snaking down the avenues may seem random or even "gang"-like to the uninititated, but it's actually part of a positive and comprehensive lifestyle. In Scrapertown, one of several beautifully shot short documentaries in their California Is A Place series, film makers Drea Cooper & Zackary Canepari examine the ins and outs of the scraper bike movement.
Baybe Champ, also known as the Scraper Bike King, is an enterprising young man that brings youth of all ages together to repair and customize bikes, and then floss through The Town in an orderly manner. Not only does his movement promote a green lifestyle by encouraging both cycling and recycling, it also keeps kids off the corner and requires a minimum gpa to participate. To put this in perspective, how many youth-initiated (Champ is now 21) and youth-led programs encourage green living, anti-violence, academic success and creative ingenuity all at once? Yes, that's a rhetorical question.
There have been many short videos about scraper bikes in Oakland over the years, but this one seems to be of the best quality. Check out this very unique slice of Oakland and the rest of the interesting California is a Place documentary series. Cooper and Canepari are not honing in on the Golden Gate Bridge and the Hollywood hills, they are instead examining unturned stones of the complicated but wonderful golden state in which we reside.
Writer's from all over have been vying to get the title of Head Blogger at Alicia Key's Iamsuperwoman.com. Amazingly, Oakland's own (by way of SacTown) Ruby Veridiano-Ching has made it to the final three, and with good reason: She's ill.
Bay Area bias aside, Ruby really is a dope individual who uses her creative energy to motivate others to reach their peak and stay there. From rocking out on stage back when she was in ill-Literacy and penning her amazing poetry collection Miss Universe to speaking on college campuses and interviewing artists, Ruby has proven that she is a force. If you've read her blog or peeped her "Homage to Oakland," you know that she's a passionate soul whose words are inspiring.
So whether you are a fan of her work, love her style, or just believe that "Ain't Nothin' Like an Oakland Girl," make sure you show love to Ruby Veridiano-Ching. The best way to help her out is to write some words of suppose in THIS COMMENT SECTION. But I'll let her tell it:
"[P]lease help me carry out the true cause of inspiring & empowering women by leaving your comment...however long or short you want it to be- just please keep it positive, I want to let the world know that whoever belongs to my community is a positive force. We live with love, and that's the kind of community I'm proud to have." - Ruby Veridiano
There was a time during the big band era of the 1930s when folks packed small theaters and cabarets in downtown Oakland. There was a time during the 1940s when 7th St. in West Oakland was rocking with west coast blues every weekend. There was a time in the 60s and 70s when the Old Oakland Auditorium played host to huge rock bands like the Grateful Dead. And there was a time in the late 80s and early 90s when Berkeley's punk scene was churning out fierce talents like Green Day. And then, by and large, live local music in the East Bay evaporated.
Surely exceptions existed, but for those of us coming up in the late 90s and 2000s, live music wasn't exactly in great supply. Yes, there was Summer Jam and BFD way out at Shoreline, and the big tours made their requisite pit stops at Bay Area arenas, but small venues that highlighted local talent were in short supply. Even the "hyphy" era became more defined by the sideshow culture it was spawned from then the music itself. And it was this brand of local love that ended with the demise of several night spots, such as Sweet Jimmie's, On Broadway, 17, etc.
But recently, Oakland and the East Bay have been witnessing a renaissance of sorts. Last week 38thnotes caught a show headlining the electro-hyphy-soul stylings of Wallpaper. The hip-pop Oakland duo put on a quality show full of infectious, fun, auto-tuned energy that had both indie rock kids and hip-hop heads bobbing to the beat.
Then this past Friday we caught a great show at The New Parish featuring the dynamic singer/song-writer/producer 1-o.a.k and the always luminescent Goapele. Goapele is arguably the most prominent R&Bay vocalist (Keyshia Cole's carpetbagging self aside), and presided over a capacity crowd with both grace and passion as she shared old favorites and future classics. And, for the record, I can assure you that on her forthcoming Milk & Honey album she goes bigger, deeper and doper.
Fast forward to Sunday where DNastee and DJ Aebl Dee's of Streets Is Talking Radio hosted their bimonthly showcase Fresh Steps at Luka's Taproom. There, patrons were introduced to the hip-hop band Product of Environment, trip-soul singer Amy Serrata and underground Oakland emcee Clif Soulo. And then last night at Jareem and JE's weekly Monday Soul event, recently relocated to The New Parish, those in attendance witnessed a parade of Bay Area all-stars on yet another memorable night.
Erk Tha Jerk, Netta Brielle, R.O.D., London, Jimmie Reign, J. Myers, Tony Vic and Samm were just a few of the dope artists to grace the stage. The night was non-stop fun and dancing, and was devoid of egos as the laundry list of notable artists passed the mic and collaborated at every turn. This might seem minor, but in a small market desperate for national attention, it's been far too easy for artists with a shot to push themselves to the front of a non-existent scene. What we've been witnessing lately however, is a community of artists focusing on the scene more than themselves. They greet each other with hugs, perform together, record together and even have Sunday brunch together. And it is this love of place, music and people that is helping bring a local music community back to the East Bay.
And though they might often go unheralded, this Oakland renaissance would be nothing without the musicians that back these stars in the making.
The Kev Choice Ensemble has been holding it down for some time now with amazing live shows that careen from raw hip-hop to meticulous classical, and improvised jazz back to powerful soul. It is The Park however that have owned the scene of late, backing damn near every up-and-coming artist in the Bay from Netta B and R.O.D. to Los Rakas and Isis Genisis. Their musicianship is incredible and their ability to play behind anyone is mind boggling. They can be seen this Thursday at Club Anton's as Do D.A.T. unveils Oakland In Blue, his dope Duke Ellington inspired hip-hop opus.
It cannot be ignored of course that local venues that are open to live music are also emerging to meet the need. There is surely a hesitancy on the part of venues given the fate of other night spots that have been shuttered in the not so distant past, but even in the same building where Sweet Jimmie's once stood, The New Parish is establishing itself as a center of a new Oakland. "There is something special happening in Oakland," co-owner Namani Mohlabane said Monday night. And he couldn't be more right.
Oakland's reemergence could be more diverse; It would be nice to see the Art Murmur hipsters gallivant with the R&B community, and vice-versa, but I suppose we should be thankful that we are blessed with multiple scenes to choose from. For now, please enjoi the music being produced in Oakland by frequenting establishments that are supporting the local arts. And even when you're chilling at the house, please support virally by voting for Erk Tha Jerk's "Right Here" video on MTV and London's "Back to The Way" video (below) on BET.
I hope to see you out and about, but until then I'd like to leave you with an anonymous quote that I found in an old Oakland coffee table book.
Oakland now is like a great old blues singer. She knows how to moan and cry, but the bad times behind her make her know how to savor the good times. Maybe she's got some scars, but when she gets cooking she can still shake things up, and she can sing the pants off the young ones coming up that don't know her savvy -- there's no soul in Walnut Creek! The old time Oaklanders, and the port, and the big corporations building new skyscrapers downtown, are like instruments in the band, and all together now we're blowing some pretty good jazz.
Oakland girls are amazing. Whether we're talking about my mom, my best friend, my ex, mis amigas or my students, they are all dope in their own way. My mother of course gets top billing and a special Mother's Day shout out for bringing me into this world and this city– A city where I have fallen for other Oakland girls again and again.
There is a nonchalant confidence that yall carry; An organic intelligence that flourishes when cultivated; A curvaceous canvas for us artist types to paint; A bold style that affirms your cool; A savvy awareness of the world; A chip on your shoulder that manifests as militant when educated, and wild when untended. More than anything though, yall are incredibly resilient.
Oakland girls deal with weights many can't fathom. I can't tell you the scars that I have uncovered over the years as a boyfriend, confidant, teacher and friend. From sexual abuse, to poverty and neglect, some of yall have had to raise yourselves to blossom in spite of everything. Others have been raised well, but with the highest of expectations. Felt like you couldnt live up to it all, were it not for your enviable work ethic and drive. Regardless of which side of 580 you grew up on, or what obstacles you've faced, you all inspire me.
Products on an underdog city, many of yall have succeeded despite the odds. As I've traveled and lived around the country, I've met so many amazing members of our Oakland diaspora. I am convinced that Oakland's number one export is talent. And though I wish we could all stay and make Oakland the place it deserves to be, I would never seek to clip the wings of Oakland girls. Go forth on this Sunday and know that you are appreciated.
And just so you have a little something to slap while you're out running errands today, check out this gem from Clif Soulo's forthcoming I Wish These Were My Beats Vol. 1 featuring the unimitable Beejus. The beat is from Charles Hamilton's anthem "Brooklyn Girls," but Oakland girls go way harder. Love yall!
Last week I watched Poetic Justice for the first time in a while and figured it would be something appropriate to highlight for Throwback Thursday. The story follows Lucky (Tupac Shakur) and Justice (Janet Jackson) on a road trip from LA to Oakland with two other friends in a mail truck. The movie isn't overly complicated, but it strikes a meaningful chord nonetheless.
It's relevant to 38th Notes, not just because part of the movie was shot in The Town, but more so because Pac is such an influential factor in hip-hop culture and Oakland lore.
In the flick it is apparent how much natural charisma Pac exudes. It's too easy for many to view him through a postive/conscious lens or a violent/gangsta lens, but neither do him justice. In reality Pac brings much more nuance and brilliance to the table. Though he was acting in Poetic Justice, there are certain intangibles that shine through from his real personality, much in the same way Denzel or Will Smith bring parts of their authentic selves to each role.
What shines through is lovable, intelligent and, at the same time, sad. That sadness of course stems from his early departure from a place that needed him so much. I would have loved to see the change he could have brought forth and the talent he would have cultivated if he had been able to stay with us a bit longer. Just as a frame of reference, Pac passed at the age of 25. Jay-Z didn't put out his first album till he was 26. So just marinate with the impact he could have had on the game and the world. It's truly crazy
Check out a couple dope interviews he did regarding Poetic Justice, celebrate his life and enjoi Throwback Thursday. Hello!
This morning 38th Notes has the distinct pleasure of welcoming guest contributor Ms. Ruby Veridiano-Ching. Ruby is an amazing poet, performer, writer, arts educator, media personality and all around person. Though originally from Sacramento, CA she is a self-professed Oakland girl at heart.
In the past year however, she made the big move to New York to pursue her career in media (a move Renaissance and I have also made before). What follows is her reflections on a recent visit back home. to The Bay. Please enjoi :)
_____________________
There’s no place like here. When the sun sets into the Bay, it feels like a deep breath- as if we are witnessing the sky in meditation. It feels like release, relief. Consequently, I don’t feel at peace anywhere as much as I do here, which is why, even though I’m not a native, I call this place my heart’s permanent residence.
Dear Oakland, I love you.
Many things I have learned to love about myself is a product of living here. This is the place that taught me to bask in my creativity, hone the movement my art is meant to create, nurture people to create community, and place love at the forefront of my direction, wherever I choose to go. The Bay, to me, is a beautiful collision of humanity, the kind of place where diversity is natural, and acceptance is understood. Maybe I’m idealistic, because I know the Bay isn’t perfect either. But I’ve never felt so loved as I do here, and I can only speak from experience.
Zadie Smith once wrote that “soul is pain’s alchemy”. I guess this is why you can feel all the soul that Oakland breathes- this is a place of resilience, of death and rebirth, of mourning and celebration. It is a place of wars and surrender, of protest and prayer, of heartbreak and healing, and inevitably, hope.
Hope. I learned to survive in celebration here. So as I left this place I lovingly call home yesterday, I took all the Oakland my heart can hold to share with the world. I hope you all get to meet her one day, and feel that incomparable comfort that comes when the dinosaur cranes greet you on the other side of the Bay bridge, signaling a relief from the City, and a warm welcome into the Town.
Most of all, I hope for you all, the sunset.
_____________________
For more Ruby follow her on twitter and check out her awesome blog rubyisill.com. Also check out a PSA she did for the City of Oakland's Imagine Peace campaign below.
The show "Home Turf" appears to be a locally focused telecast that showcases the issues of young people. The show is hosted by Dominique and accompanied by a cheesy 80s hip-hop sound and aesthetic, but this particular story is really dope.
Greg Liggins was a renowned BMX racer from Hayward who amassed a large number of titles and sponsors over the course of his racing career. However, when his sponsor announced a trip to apartheid South Africa, Liggins objected and refused, and as a result, was dropped by his sponsor and black balled from racing. We often hear of high profile examples like Hollywood's McCarthy era black lists, but things of this nature happen all the time.
I have no idea where Greg Liggins is now, but I'm glad he took a stand for what he believed in, and hope it hasn't crippled his life too much.
Tonight, my brothers lost a good friend of theirs to gunfire on the streets of Oakland. For many of us that have grown up here, it's a fact of life, that death may come too soon. In most places, murder is met with outrage, but here we cry and move on. Patch it up after we purge ourselves and get a tat to memorialize the memories. This is our way of remembering, but also our way of numbing and normalizing the pain.
It just so happened that Clif Soulo sent over this track earlier today with a feel and first verse that conjure up the death we are now dealing with. "Feel It In The Air" was a song from Beanie Sigel's The B.Coming but Clif captured the vibe and made it his own. Unfortunately the first verse is about a sequence of events we know too well–a sequence that has struck a nerve this evening.
So zone out to this as you remember Jerrod Hubbard, or any of your other homies that have passed in recent memory. Extract all the best they brought to the world and live it out in yourself. And to all of you who don't know anyone who has wrongfully fallen before a gun, don't write off all who have as criminals who had it coming. There is no choir boy/felon dichotomy in Oakland, just a city of people trying to make a way out of no way.
And sometimes that hustle comes crashing down, but trust that their loss hurts some one. Respect and honor them and their families. And you can start doing that by stopping being such an arrogant and despicable prick in the local newspaper online forums. All this talk about how murder victims deserve their fates and the perpetrators should be locked up for life, is based on your own privileged naivete so please save your rants for other ignorant people.
When lives are lost in Oakland, I feel it. I am training myself not to be numb to it, training myself to feel it deeply, because only when we do, will we be able to begin to right this ship. So if you see Jerrod's skin or hair or face and assume he was just another nameless thug who had it coming, go play in traffic. That is all.
Yes, February was indeed Black history month, and it is now March, but who are we to quarantine important racial commentary? Is it less relevant because it's now one day after a governmentally selected period of appreciation? I think not, so fuggit.
Enter Oakland's DLabrie (left), M1 of Dead Prez, The Jacka, Adisa Banjoko, Shamako and SaikoDelic for some present reflections on the Black experience. It is both a localized and worldly take on the history and future of the black struggle, focusing both on the social ills that have long burdened African-Americans, and the necessity of overcoming them.
When everyone and their mother is more concerned with their level of flyness than their degree of freedom, we need to stop and reacess our priorities. So daps to DLabrie for putting together this collaboration.
Many of you may not know this, but martial arts icon Bruce Lee spent some important years in Oakland before launching his movie career in LA. He lived in East Oakland's Maxwell Park and had a martial arts studio on Broadway in the north, right by Oakland Tech High School. It was here that Lee had an infamous showdown with the Bay Area's martial arts leader for the right to teach non-Asian students.
Check out this 2005 article in the Contra Costa Times about the search for information linking Bruce Lee to Oakland, and peep the video about his Bay Area showdown below that. Take it away guys!
Bruce Lee had a studio in Oakland Posted in the Contra Costa Times
on Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Written by Erika Mailman
Picture the scene, a triumvirate of history-minded people: Betty Marvin, head of the Oakland Cultural Heritage Survey; Kathy Ferreira, former admin director of the Oakland Heritage Alliance; and me. We're eating Vietnamese food a stone's throw from City Hall and full of glee over Betty and Kathy's discovery. They've figured out where Bruce Lee's studio was.
Flash back to a year ago: Ferreira was working at OHA's former site, the Camron-Stanford house on the edge of Lake Merritt. A French tourist stopped her on her way into the building, saying that he had come all the way from France to see Bruce Lee's studio. Ferreira launched into action, calling Jeff Hull since his group, Nonchalance, put out a poster depicting Lee. All that the two could put together was stories that Lee had taught out of someone's house in East Oakland, where there was no signage to mark the gung fu fighter's time there.
Ferreira called Marvin for help. Stumped, Marvin poked around city directories (much like today's phone books, only organized by address as well as name) but didn't get very far. The man returned to France without an answer and months passed.
Then, at the survey office where Marvin works, a colleague was doing research on Upper Broadway, looking at the permit history building by building on microfiche. "She says, 'Wow, Bruce Lee's martial arts studio! I wonder if it's THE Bruce Lee.' I vultured down on her and we printed it out," said Marvin.
That simple permit, filed by Lee and his friend James Yimm Lee to open a martial arts studio, provided a lot of answers.
For one thing, we now know where the studio was: 4157 Broadway, where the Toyota dealership near Dave's Coffee Shop now stands. Unfortunately, the martial arts studio was torn down, but at least we can pay homage to where it once was!
We also know that the permit was filed July 24, 1964. as a new business changing location from Seattle. And we learn that at the time of application, Bruce and James Lee lived together at 3039 Monticello Ave., which is in Maxwell Park. Bruce and Linda Lee moved in with James after his wife, Katherine, died in 1964, coming from Seattle to further train James -- who had visited Bruce there on a tip -- and open the studio.
The name of the studio is hard to read on the microfiche printout, but it looks like friends chose the name "Jun Fan Gung Fu Institute" as a "Chinese Self-Defense School." Unfortunately, the studio didn't do too well and had to close. Bruce Lee later moved to Hollywood, and the rest is history.
But as Ferreira and Marvin eloquently argue, Oakland should acknowledge his sojourn here.
"Bruce Lee's contribution to Oakland is something that's been completely overlooked," Ferreira said. "I mean, if you have some Gen-Xer from France traveling all the way here ... This is a huge issue that the visitors' bureau is just blowing."
Their possibly tongue-in-cheek suggestion? A statue of Bruce Lee on the Broadway median near where his studio stood."Who doesn't like Bruce Lee?" said Ferreira, who took judo in high school. "He's like a god, an international hero. I can't think of another Oaklander like that, with his bucking tradition and the norm."
The "bucking tradition" she refers to is that Bruce Lee got into trouble with the Asian martial arts community for sharing martial arts information with non-Asians. Ferreira heard that Bruce Lee was challenged to a duel with another fighter named Wong Jak Man in the basement of the home on Monticello. If he lost, he was to stop teaching -- but of course, he won.
The Bay turned out pretty heavy to denounce hoes on this one. Always good to see folks come together, but umm, perhaps next time we should do so for a Coup video, or a Haiti benefit show. I know there are many deep-seated issues of self-hate and mirages of modeldom at work here, but it always saddens me how many girls will show up to a video espousing such misogyny.
Do hoes exist? Of course. Are all women hoes? Of course not. So naturally many young women can channel Jay-Z's "Bitches & Sistas" to assert that they are not in fact hoes, and detest them in much the same way men do, thereby validating their participation in such a video. BUT, even if this is the case, how do you think everyone else categorizes you when you're rubbing up on a rapper as he disses what you appear to be? If a couple of women had verses on the song, it could change the context, but as it is, it looks like a gender-degrading anthem that you are way too juiced to be a part of.
I really wish as men in hip-hop, we could embrace women as more than just unimaginative props. And I understand the hustler's "I dont trust/love 'em" mentality, but women are beautiful and worthy of way more respect than they receive.
All criticism aside though D-Lo, I have to hand it to you, this song really does slap. Can't say I don't get a bit mannish on the dance floor when it comes on. *sigh* I'm even posting Snoop's remix for hood measure. For the record though, Uncle 40's verse > ______________.
In remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, I'd like to introduce you to an exceptional group of students from Oakland Tech High School. Activist-minded members of Tech's 1981 Apollo class are responsible for making Martin Luther King Jr Day a holiday in the state of California, before it was recognized nationally. The short below was produced by the Bay Area Video Coalition, and focuses on this landmark achievement of Oakland youth.
Too often young people are left out of the conversations and actions that determine our present and future, but it is the magnitude of moments like these that prove that we are quite powerful indeed. I hope this serves as inspiration to young and old alike to reinvest in the power of civic action.
We have had a lot of criticisms for all our local teams this year, but we also like to point out the positive things they're doing, whether on the field/court or in the community. Kirk Morrison, Oakland native and Raiders linebacker, is one of the only members of the team who knows the combination of living in our tough community, and rooting for the Raiders every week. On Monday night, the night after the Raiders suffered another tough loss, Morrison and some of his teammates gathered 50 kids from the East Oakland Youth Development Center (EOYDC) for his 3rd annual Shop with a Jock event. Each child received $100 to shop with, as the Raider players helped pick out gifts for themselves or gifts to give others.
Our city is enduring tough times, and kids are usually the ones who take it the hardest. Whether it's through eliminating after-school programs, education spending cuts, or parents working multiple jobs, it is good that we show our kids that we care. Kirk grew up playing basketball at EOYDC and takes it upon himself to pick 50 of the most dedicated kids from the center to reward. Not only that, but he brings along his teammates. This year Richard Seymour, Thomas Howard, Slade Norris, Sam Williams, and David Nixon accompanied the kids in their shopping endeavors, which was held at a department store in San Leandro.
Anytime a local team puts on events for the community I applaud them, but when you know that a player can actually relate to these kids, it makes it that much sweeter. Though the franchises do some community work in Oakland, it seems that many of the events are held in the city's surrounding suburbs. The A's have helped with a couple ball fields in Oakland, and the Warriors have done the same with some basketball courts, but the efforts are few and far between. These teams and players make millions of dollars off the residents in the community, and a lot of fans choose to spend their leftover money on tickets rather than other choices of entertainment.
The video above is from last years Shop With A Jock, and it gives a little more insight into the joy it brings to the kids and the players. I also spotted the late Marquis Cooper in the video, a special teams player for the Raiders who died in a boating accident this summer. Our prayers continue to go out to his family as they experience their Christmas without him.
As the Holiday Season comes upon us, it is important that we reach out a helping hand to those in need in our great city. It could be helping to serve hot meals, buying gifts for kids, or simply putting a dollar in a homeless person's cup. As Oakland continues to grow and change, we must not forget about all the people who help make this city what it is. So please take action or give what you can, even if the person can only give you a smile in return. Happy Holidays from 38thNotes!
Bonus Video: This video aired on Inside The NFL last year and talks about Kirk's relationship with the Raiders from his childhood to the present. Extra props for his first Raider Jersey being Jeff George's #3
This is the amazing trailer to a short film entitled "Oakland B Mine" that will be showing on a big 30 foot screen at the Oakland Airport's baggage claim. The film is designed to highlight the beautiful people and sites in Oakland that visitors often overlook en route to SF. It's a lovely slice of The Town, one that all should see and enjoi.
I'll be away for Turkey Day, but I for one give thanks for Oakland, California. If you do too, drop a comment about why. Hugs and good vibes to all who support 38thNotes in this labor of love. Toodles
Click HERE to see Clint and his wife addressing the cover. Clint thinks he looks like a serial killer, I think he looks like the Oakland Tech Bulldog he is. On a separate note, how did he pull his wife? I'd love to say it's that Town game, but I've got a hunch its that mula, baby.
If you're looking for a positive event to hit up today I would highly suggest that you check out Eco Justice For East Oakland. The event is being held at Youth Uprising, which is next to Castlemont High School, from 6:30-8:30pm tonight. Not only is this event trying to raise environmental awareness in East Oakland, it is also trying to bring together Black and Brown folks for a common cause. There will be speakers, organizations who focus on Green living, performers, and food.
Eco Justice For East Oakland Youth UPrising @ 8711 MacArthur Blvd November 19, 2009 6:30p-8:30p
An added bonus for coming will be that you get to hear 38thnotes' very own Coolhand Luke perform a couple poems, one of which is available below. If you live in East Oakland, or if you want to know about ways to live a more green life, then I suggest you attend. Tre Eightman will be hosting and 38thnotes will be well represented so we hope to see you there.
V Smoothe recently reported on the community forums that new OPD Chief Batts has been taking part in. This approach is at least a first step in mending the divides between the police and the community, but the rhetoric will mean little if not converted to conduct.
The video below explores the strained relationship between the boys and the people in Oakland, and it is definitely nothing to underestimate.
In remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, I'd like to introduce you to an exceptional group of students from Oakland Tech High School. Activist-minded members of Tech's 1981 Apollo class are single-handedly responsible for making Martin Luther King Jr Day a holiday in the state of California, before it was ever recognized nationally. The video above, is a short produced by the Bay Area Video Coalition, and focuses on this landmark achievement of Oakland youth.
Often times young people are left out of the conversations that determine our present and future, but it is the magnitude of moments like the one documented above that prove that we are powerful beyond measure. If you believe in us, guide us and invest in us, we will lead you to great heights. More from my generation soon . . .
via Oakland Magazine "Over the past decade, it’s become an old saw: Oakland is making a comeback, emerging from San Francisco’s shadow and shedding its industrial past. Then news about failing schools or senseless bloodshed or City Hall cronyism makes headlines, and it seems like the same old Oakland—beloved by residents but saddled with an image problem it can’t seem to shake.
But activity abounds around the city, even set against the backdrop of a deflated housing market, a shrinking job market and ever elusive major retail projects: Large swaths of land—abandoned by the military and the port—are on the verge of dramatic makeovers; new high-rises are changing the skyline; the bar has been raised on grocery shopping; and former Mayor Jerry Brown’s 10K housing plan is close to reality.
To help make sense of the changing landscape, here’s a look at 10 projects that have special significance because of sheer size, impact on particular neighborhoods or cultural importance." Full article here _______________ There are obviously the constant specters of gentrification, deforestation and developers run amok, but to be sure development in Oakland is not all bad. There is definitely a need to revitalize The Town, but it will only be done in a respectful and positive manner, if we make a concerted effort to get involved a lá the Oak Knoll Residents. I am particularly juiced for The Fox's grand opening (hence the pic) but a lot of these projects have potential.
Is anyone else nervous though that hell of these projects involve housing? How will that play given our current crisis? Maybe it will at least keep some of these Jerry Brown lofts a bit cheaper. I know much is made of bringing money to Oakland, but let us not forget that it is Oakland's spirit of blue-collar hustle that makes it the place we love. Please don't let us lose that
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