Through the Activate Oakland grant program, anyone can apply to host anything from a block party to an exercise class in one of the city’s business districts.
Author Archives: Roselyn Romero
Roselyn Romero covers small businesses for The Oaklandside as a 2023-24 Poynter-Koch Media and Journalism Fellow. Previously, she was an investigative intern at NBC Bay Area and the inaugural intern for the global investigations team of The Associated Press through a partnership with the Ida B. Wells Society for Investigative Reporting. Roselyn graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in journalism and minors in Spanish, ethnic studies, and women's and gender studies. She is a proud daughter of Filipino immigrants and was born and raised in Oxnard, California.
Posted inBusiness
Are Oakland community ambassadors making a difference?
“There’s this misconception that, because we can’t stop a violent crime, there’s this ineffectualness of the program when it is so much deeper.”
Posted inBusiness
4 women-owned Oakland shops with impressive collections of vintage clothing
Whether you’re hunting down the perfect pair of Levi’s jeans or a designer bag for a quarter of the original price, these stores provide a thrifty alternative to fast fashion.
Posted inNosh
A longtime Oakland restaurant owner steps away after break-ins
Amir Asli relinquished his stake in Persian Nights on Grand Avenue, but his former business partner is keeping the restaurant open.
Posted inHealth & Environment
New 10-year initiative aims to help Black families thrive in East Oakland
Rise East, a $100 million philanthropic effort, will tackle longstanding systemic issues facing residents in a 40-square-block area.
Posted inBusiness
Black-owned Temple of Earth Apothecary soft-opens near Lake Merritt
The Grand Avenue co-op is more than an herb shop—it’s also a school and community healing space centering Black and Indigenous ancestral medicine.
Posted inNosh
3 Filipino restaurants in Oakland serving up classic comfort and innovative fusion
Whether you’re craving authentic dishes or itching for something new, these spots can satisfy your urge.
Posted inCity Hall & Policing
Got ideas for making Oakland better? Take this new city survey
Mayor Sheng Thao is asking residents to give City Hall feedback on critical issues like affordable housing, public safety, and economic development.
