Welcome to May in the Grand Lake Neighborhood. We’ve got blue skies and gorgeous Oakland weather. We’ve also got some dynamic neighbors, shops, farmers’ market vendors, and services—it’s a cornucopia of spring activity! We’ll ask every month, but please consider joining our (volunteer) production team and send us your ideas — we truly want to make this your resource.
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Much more than a thrift store
Urban Furniture & Boutique may be a thrift store, but it also provides housing, employment, and supportive services to single moms. Meet Tracey Williams, its visionary founder and see how you can get involved.
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Oakland’s Bicycle Plan
Learn about Oakland’s visionary Bike Plan which is guiding the remaking of miles of Oakland streets.
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Bike riders shop, too!
There are at least two sides to every controversy—often many more. Here’s one neighbor’s take on why making Grand Avenue more bike-friendly will be a boon to riders, pedestrians, and business owners.
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Important Miscellaneous Stuff
Publishing this newsletter is a learning experience; mistakes get made and, hopefully, are not repeated. Also, a new restaurant is on its way, and a Farmers Market vendor is recognized by KQED.
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In Bloom: A Tour Through Ann Nichols’ Garden Paradise
Sometimes a garden is much more than its plants. Meet Ann Nichols and her undulating, whimsical, and always changing nationally-renowned garden located here in the Grand Lake neighborhood.
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Hipline: More Than Just a Dance Floor
What’s happening on Lakeshore? Meet Hipline: it’s as much a movement as it is a dance studio. Also, get your roller skates out to support the LGBTQ Cultural District’s first fundraiser. And thanks to the Spring Event supporters.
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Onwards and Upwards: Annie Wong and Annie’s T Cakes
Annie’s T Cakes, a staple at the Farmers Market for the last few years, recently called it quits at the market, but not before building a moon cake empire and being part of the movie premiere for an Oscar-winning film.
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Earth Day in the Grand Lake Neighborhood
Join Ken Katz on his tour of Earth Day events around the neighborhood and Lake Merritt.
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May 2024 Calendar
From May Fest to history to botany to film, you can entertain and educate yourself every day of May—on zoom and in person.
