National Night Out, August 4. A Nonprofit Community Newspaper • www.macarthurmetro.org See Three for Free on page 6. Post Office Box 19046, Oakland, 94619 • (510) 287-2655 Connecting the neighborhoods from Fruitvale Avenue to Seminary Avenue and from Foothill Boulevard to Warren Freeway since 1989 Volume 21 Number 6 August 2009

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R Hispanics, Caucasian, and Bank, is also on hand. A WWII B B Y B RIAN C ASTANEDA African-Americans—the city vet in his 80s, he speaks with t’s a bright, warm morning, of Oakland in micro. Thanks volunteers, all of whom affec- the second Wednesday of to two Chinese and Spanish tionately refer to him as Bob. I the month, outside Shiloh volunteer translators, Shiloh “It would be a terrible job if Mercy Ministries. It’s 8 a.m., Mercy Ministries doesn’t they didn’t love what they and a single woman is patiently have to worry about turning are doing,” he says of the hard seated by a bench near the anyone away. work. “But they do, because entrance, the earliest bird to Inside the gymnasium of what they are doing is serving arrive before the 10 o’clock the Shiloh Bible College, vol- the community.” opening. Soon after, the line unteers are already arriving. The volunteers and the is also composed of Chinese, Over the next few hours, they organization’s directors push will bag, sort, and distribute to avoid long lines which may Volunteers prepare and bag food for Shiloh Mercy Ministries. free food to between two- to discourage those who come six hundred people. The to them. “We hate lines,” Bob organization’s influence has to use Mercy Ministries ser- Shiloh Mercy Ministries food smiles. Several of the volun- spread outward from Oakland vices. The “Value Pack” may bank has served Oakland in teers bag items in rapid succes- to all of Alameda county. be picked up hassle-free. For this way for 28 years. “I love sion, placing between six and Today, it distributes an a suggested thirty dollar dona- the work over there. I really eight items per bag and setting average of 6,000 bags of food tion, the recipient receives do” says Judy Moore, director them aside. Prepared bags are a month to individuals and over a hundred dollars worth of Shiloh Mercy Ministries. then divided by more volun- families who arrive at its of food. The second and third Meanwhile, the Rev. teers. Many will be distributed location, sends food to various programs are the “Emergency Robert Allen, Vice President to the line outside the gym, but senior apartment centers, Food Box” provided by the and member of the Board of others are being set into groups and provides food for other Alameda County Food Bank, Directors for Shiloh Christian to be sent out to senior centers organizations to distribute. and food distributed by Fellowship and the Alameda all across the city. Three programs are the USDA. Both are free, but The Reverend Robert ”Bob” Allen. County Community Food Over the years, the available for those who wish continued on page 2

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B Y P AT P ATTERSON pull neighbors together. I’m cut and positioned the mosaic pleased to announce the birth of pieces and worked long hours. Mosaic Project— a jewel at Maxwell Park! The artists taught us techniques The first of three restroom as they worked. You felt the en- The Jewel in the Park walls was completed in early ergy of many hands working In May I reported on the Mosaic July with the design a park and heard casual conversations Project at the Park, the plans scene complete with trees, chil- as friendships blossomed be- and dreams of a small group of dren, birds and bugs. All types tween the workers. neighbors, the Mosaic Team. of mosaic materials were used I interviewed the artists to They wanted to add more including mirror shards, broken get their perspectives on this Ignacio De la Fuente said he had never seen a budget so challenging. beauty to an already lovely park plates, cups, and even broken masterpiece. landscape, using mosaic as the bits from an old turkey platter. Bonnie Henriquez, co- medium. The team’s vision I caught the action on that chair, stained glass and mosaic A volunteer at work on the mural. would transform brilliantly the first misty Saturday morning of artist: “I wanted to create a dull green cinder block restroom tile setting and chronicled the mosaic project in Maxwell Park. stronger community around it.” designer: I liked working with walls. It acted as a magnet to project to completion. People It is a way to bring color, beauty Gail Murphy, Peter Pan all the kids and helping both and art into the park without Director and mosaic team kids and adults, educating and

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P is so much stronger than each knowing our neighbors and thusiasm as they meticulously individual person, and that creating a more peaceful place placed their pieces. is what I saw during this for everyone.” Susan Scolnick, mosaic art- project. People of all ages and Beverly Shalom, clinical so- ist, quilter, potter: “ I enjoyed ethnicities participated and cial worker, mosaic artist, part the entire process, especially are very proud of their part of of the organizing committee, in working with so many different the mosaic.” charge of the children’s tables: people and I’ve now already Roberto Costa, co-chair, “What was exciting was the evo- noticed an increase in the num- mosaic artist who creates lution of the wall. The wall kept ber of people who come to en- abstract mosaic murals: “I changing with each person’s, joy the park. Public art changes saw a sense of empowerment including the children’s, ideas the outdoor space and makes and giving. I believe that mo- and contributions. people feel safe. Be a part of it.” saic murals represent a good Krista Kiem, mom and The Mosaic Committee opportunity to involve commu- mosaic artist, owner: Krista thanks everyone who The first of three mosaics was completed in early July. nity members and create a Kiem Mosaics, main wall continued on page 6

Your support helps keep the Metro alive! Become one of the Thousand Friends.

Vera Callendar, Keith Carson, M. Kahn & C. Guyer, Maria Mangini, Wilbur McEachin, Winifred McKee, Marilyn B. Miller, Phillis Robbiano, Nancy Siller Wilson, Linda Vaganov

You, too, can become a friend of the Metro. See page 2. 2 August 2009

site adoptions by providing tools and training. HOT NUMBERS Friends of Sausal Creek So next time you walk Op Ed PUBLIC AGENCIES along the canyon, think about ABAT—the Alcoholic 777-8670 This doesn’t mean the all of the volunteer labor that B Y K IMRA M C A FEE Beverage Action Team has created this amazing place planting has slowed down. The Bus Graffiti hotline 238-4703 Recently FOSC uber-volunteer of solace within our urban Abandoned cars 238-6030 Thinking about adopting Karen Paulsell pulled together landscape. We hope you will O.P.D. Non-emergency 777-3333 . . . a patch of creekside? planting figures for the past feel inspired to befriend the Stops Here Reach back in your mind to five years. In that period, creek by taking a chunk of Animal control 535-5602 1996. Were you one of the over 15,000 plants have been space as your own, keeping B Y L INDA L AWSON Beat Health (drugs) 777-8630 neighbors who put your propagated and gone into the invasives at bay, and, Crime Stoppers 238-6946 hy is bus route #47 up heart, your time, and your the ground. Karen’s data can when planting season comes, Drug Hotline 238-DRUG for elimination? It pro- brain power into starting the even tell you how many of getting your hands a little bit Public Works 615-5566 vides vital service to Friends of Sausal Creek? Do those were, for example, dirty. W Truancy Tip Line 879-8172 Maxwell Park where even a few you remember what the can- farewell-to-spring (Clarkia ———————————— blocks’ walk may be insurmount- Noise Hotline: 238-6777 yon was like before the major rubicunda)—632 plants—and Kimra McAfee is the (Oakland CEDA, able for residents, many of whom restoration project of 2000- at which restoration area the Executive Director of FOSC. property complaint line) are elderly or disabled. Most folks Contact her at 501-3672 or C.O.R.E. 238-6351 2001? Can you recall the be- plants were planted. think that hardship is not finding [email protected]. (Citizens of Oakland ginnings of the Joaquin Miller There are many opportuni- a parking space within 10 yards Respond to Emergencies) Native Plant Nursery, when ties for you to be a friend of Web site is www.sausalcreek.org. of your destination. I am a dis- City Tree Unit 615-5850 volunteers propagated 60 spe- Sausal Creek, and the water- abled woman in my early 60’s, Oaklanders Assistance 444-CITY cies of local native plants and shed needs your help. FOSC use a walker, and take buses ev- Center can direct you to ended up with 20,000 plants wants to continue to take on the appropriate governmental erywhere. For many of us, the services in Oakland. for the canyon restoration? new projects (like removing Shiloh bus is not only our conveyance, it FOSC as an organization the rusting culvert in dictates our schedules and pro- PRIVATE AGENCIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 has changed and grown since Beaconsfield Canyon, and get- vides a large percentage of our A Safe Place 536-7233 those early days. We have ting permits to propagate and social interactions, sometimes (domestic violence) three part-time paid staff, and plant the endangered pallid require that individuals pleasant, frequently not. East Bay Community 548-2377 we are now a nonprofit orga- manzanita), but we need to bring I.D. The conduct of bus passen- Mediation (neighborhood disputes) nization. We still have ex- maintain the many sites we Donations of food, in- gers generally conforms to a sub- tremely dedicated volunteers, have worked on over the last cluding garden produce, culture. Riders run into friends, but it’s harder to get large 13 years. By adopting a site, may be brought to Shiloh form temporary alliances, com- groups of neighbors out for you and your family or friends Mercy Ministries, located pete for resources, choose to be the restoration work days. can maintain a little patch of at 3300 School St., during considerate or belligerent, gre- Yes, the community comes restored area in as little as four open hours between 9 a.m. garious or invisible. More news out in force for Earth Day in hours a month. School, youth, to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. and gossip, facts and opinions ISSN 1091-1111 April and Creek-to-Bay Day and church groups are also en- Mercy Ministries may be may be shared in a 20-minute Managing Editor Sheila D’Amico in September (mark your cal- couraged to adopt sites. Sev- contacted by phone at 436- ride with strangers than in a Copy Editors endar for September 19), but eral sites have really benefited 0390. Food is distributed week with family. Anne Fox much of the site maintenance from adoption, and we would across the street, at the Shiloh Overall, the behavior on Jody Berke Adina Sara is now done by youth needing love to see more spots Bible College gymnasium buses seems kinder than society Diane Stone community service hours. claimed. FOSC will support entrance at 3295 School St. continued on page 6 Finances/Bookkeeping Reuben Goldberg Advertising Manager Krista Gulbransen Art Director Andreas Jones Word Processing Discover Baby Djojonegoro Photography Nick Lostracco Jody Berke Bryan Farley Family owned since 1933. Distribution open position—volunteers needed Your Natural Food Marketplace Mailing For Your Healthy Life Style! Gloria Wilmer Calendar ORGANIC PRODUCE Marilyn Green Friends and Money Honeys NUTRITIONAL CONSULTANT Gloria Wilmer ON DUTY Editor Emeritus WHOLE GRAIN BAKERY Toni Locke HUNDREDS OF BULK HERBS, SPICES, GRAINS, FLOURS Board of Directors Reuben Goldberg “Come on Down” Marcia Henry 3033 MacArthur Blvd. Brian Holmes Hwy 13 Redwood Exit Oakland • 482-3848 Judith Offer 3033 MacArthur Blvd OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Ernest Villafranca Mon-Fri 8:00am - 7:30pm Bart Wright 580 West to 580 East to Fruitvale/ 35th Ave Sat 8:00am - 6:30pm Coolidge Ave

High St Exit 35th Ave Sun 9:00am - 5:30pm A special thanks to all

Fruitvale Ave Hwy 580 residents, associations, and FREE PARKING merchants for their support. Also, a special thanks to all volunteer writers, artists, photographers, and distributors. Printing by Wesco Graphics, Inc., How to Reach Tracy, California, (209) 832-1000. the Metro Opinions expressed in the MacArthur Editor: Metro are those of the contributors metroreaders@ earthlink.net and do not necessarily reflect the views held by the publication. Community Calendar: ©2009 by the MacArthur Metro, [email protected] or P.O. Box 19046, Oakland, CA 94619, 531-9233 www.macarthurmetro.org, Classified or Display ads: (510) 287-2655. [email protected] MACASKILL! or 287-2655 or mail to: We welcome your MacArthur Metro, P.O. Box news and ads; 19046, Oakland, CA 94619 deadline the 15th. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Please include name, address and phone number. We Publication in the do not print anonymous letters. first week of each No email, no stamps? month except Leave a message on voice To contribute by credit card, go to www.macarthurmetro.org. Click on Network for Good. mail 287-2655. January and July. 3 August 2009

Leona Heights High Street Neighborhood News Neighborhood News

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family barbecues C W Heights residents like Bud Oakland’s looming budget and frequent encounters with Blair were able to prevent deficit might reduce the Melrose neighbors out for a walk have further development and Branch Library to half time with been common in our neighbor- preserve the existing open- a shared staff. They rallied their hood lately. Even if you prefer space hillsides that frame neighbors, talked to Branch to get away, you don’t have our neighborhood. Also, as a Manager Sandra Toscano, and to go far for a good place to result of the early mining, the attended a meeting with others have a picnic with nearby development of the Bermuda who believed in public libraries. parks like Leona Canyon Triangle part of our neighbor- When they discovered that there and the Trout Ponds. Neighbors plant the community vegetable garden at the dedication hood was made possible. was no active Friends of the As some of you may know, of the WellnessCenter. As the place where most Melrose Branch they decided our part of Oakland has long outsiders are introduced to turn the fiscal crisis into an been a place where people an enthusiastic crowd filled simply doling out pills. The ex- to our area, we have Leona opportunity to start again. have come to relax and recre- Miracles of Faith Community amining room is modest, the ex- Lodge, administered by the Working with the umbrella ate. Before our neighborhood Church for the dedication of ercise equipment shares the City of Oakland. A great Friends of the Public Library was even conceived of and the Wellness Center. The center meeting room, but this begin- place to hold a function for (FOPL), they’ve taken the lead. rolling grass-covered hills grew out of the vision of Pastor ning is viewed as a mustard a large group, the Lodge Their goals are fund raising, dominated, the train and street Gregg Brown and Assistant seed that can change the com- was the brainchild of local rounding up volunteers, and cars would bring folks out our Pastor Dr. Ramona Tascoe, who munity, forge partnerships, and residents back in the 1950s generally getting out the word. way from combines a calling to medicine serve as a model for the entire who wanted a place for the The Branch needs supplies, a back around the turn of the last and the church. Her objective nation. The Wellness Center is area’s growing Boy Scout full time children’s librarian century. A hotel was even built involves breaking the culture named in honor of Sister Maxine troop to meet. Since then, and after-school programs for of inequity, changing the way Morgan, an LVN and long-time here near the intersection of the Lodge has hosted a vast youngsters. The response has people eat, live, and understand active church member. Leona St. and Mountain Blvd. array of activities and events. been positive, and they hope their own well-being, not continued on page 6 Led by the equestrian ac- I encourage you to get to enhance the library as a center of the community. To get in- tivities at Mills College, count- out and explore our neighbor- volved or just to find out what’s less horse barns dotted our hood, walk the streets and happening, they recommend go- developing neighborhood, hiking trails. It’s a rich area ing on line to the new Web site— Redwood Heights and horseback riding here was we live in, in more ways friendsofmelroselibrary.org, as big as TV watching is today. than one. The Observatory was built and ————————————— emailing contact@ Neighborhood News relocated to the intersection of Gordon Laverty can be reached friendsofmelroselibrary.org Mountain Blvd. and Leona St. at [email protected]. or calling Jess at 261-4745. off. Questions: contact B Y D ENISE D AVILA They are also delighted Mary Dalsin at with Oakland’s decision to [email protected]. maintain the branch on a five- August 4 Ice Cream Social We specialize in the small repair day-a-week schedule. and Neighborhood Night New Blog that other contractors won’t do! ✔ Only a One Hour Minimum! Out Jordan Road for Neighborhood ✔ Experienced Craftsmen Healing Inside and Out ✔ Licensed, Bonded, Insured The Redwood Heights Neigh- Do you want to post informa- 510-531-4300 On a beautiful June afternoon borhood Association (RHNA) www.HandymanMatters.com tion or read about upcoming will host its third annual Ice events in the neighborhood? Do Cream Social in conjunction you want to see what Redwood with National Night Out on Heights neighbors are thinking Tuesday, August 4. Redwood about these days, or do you Heights neighbors will gather have some thoughts you want at Avenue Terrace Park for to share about topics relevant to ice cream treats and socializing. the neighborhood? RHNA has The Social begins at 6:30 pm. launched a neighborhood blog Last year’s event included Where Kids Grow with God just for you. Visit http:// activities for kids, door prizes, 2.9-6 years redwoodheights.org and click and guest speakers. This Low Teacher-Child Ratio on the link to RHNA blog. Christian Education year’s social is sure to be a Personal, Nurturing Care great fun, too. Summer Block Sale Success Kindergarten Readiness August 22 Neighborhood Despite the economy, this Year Round Program Night at Oakland A’s year’s annual summer block 510-569-0600 Baseball Game sale on Jordan Rd. was a great 8800 Fontaine St., Oakland and Fireworks event, complete with beautiful Just off 580 @ Keller Ave Don’t miss the fun! Neighbors, weather. The RHNA would A Ministry of United Lutheran families, and friends are invited like to acknowledge long time Church of Oakland to join the RHNA for a neigh- organizer Anna Katz and also borhood night at A’s vs. Detroit Jeremy and Sharon Constant, game and fireworks show on who have graciously hosted Saturday, August 22 at 6:05 the RHNA booth in their drive- Breema Bodywork pm. Bring a blanket to watch way for several years. The pro- No oil, no disrobe the fireworks from the field, ceeds from the RHNA booth or view them from your seats. sales provide financial support Laurel Summer (Fireworks start 20 minutes to help fund neighborhood Special: after the game.) The block of events such as the annual picnic 45 min for $40 RHNA seats is located in sec- and ice cream social, to defray the printing and postage costs with this ad tion 104, Rows 27-32. Tickets are $20 per seat. of residential mailers, and to Purchase tickets online at offset the expenses of operating Ay*ur*veda the RHNA Web site: http:// a neighborhood organization. redwoodheights.org. Pay with Thus, a special thank-you goes Marisol a credit card or your PayPal ac- out to all of the neighbors who count. Purchase tickets by mail generously donated items to Victoria Alara Alcoset by sending a check to RHNA and purchased items from the wellness advisor at P.O. Box 19038, Oakland, CA RHNA booth. The event would 510•579•3362 94619. Tickets must be pur- not be a success without you! avmarisol.blogspot.com chased by Friday, August 7, Please start saving items for and will be mailed or dropped next year’s sale. 4 August 2009

Dimond Neighborhood News Paulette Avery, program, moderated by Victoria B Y K ATHLEEN R USSELL R.N., M.S.N., Wake, featured water-saving I.B.C.L.C. Health Merchant Recognition tips from Dimond neighbors. Katy Foulkes, EBMUD, pre- B Y C HRIDO O NONI To Your Health Congratulations to Dimond busi- sented a brief history and News ness Natural Home Cleaning geography of the watershed Professionals named ninth Sen- of the Mokelumne River and An orchid to Juan and wo health topics caught multiple sclerosis (MS) and ate District’s “2009 Small Busi- discussed water quality. For Anna, from Melrose School, my attention recently, so breast-feeding. Since August is ness of the Year” by Senator Loni information and resources, go to for removing graffiti on the Tthis month I’m providing World Breast-Feeding Month, Hancock. Natural Home Clean- www.ebmud.com. Laura Allen, brick wall at Camden and information on both. The first providing more evidence in the ing provides eco-friendly house- Greywater Guerrillas, presented Madera. They came equipped one involves Zicam Cold Rem- support of breast-feeding is cleaning services using the least a slide show and explained how with rags, rubber gloves, edy Nasal Gel and Nasal Swabs. especially appropriate. toxic cleaning products, protect- to re-use greywater from sinks, and graffiti remover and A few years ago I recommended In results published online ing the health of clients and showers, and washing machines, made it clear to Jose Dorado Zicam for colds because of its in June, researchers report that workers, as well as the environ- and ways to filtrate water that they were as disgusted effectiveness in fighting and women with MS who breast- ment. A worker-cooperative into on-site mulch, trees, as anyone at the illegal shortening the duration of cold feed may reduce their risk of business, Natural Home Clean- and shrubs. For information, graffiti and what it did to symptoms. A couple of years relapse after pregnancy. The ing provides employment and education and workshops at the neighborhood. later, there were reports that study will appear in the August worker-ownership opportunities www.greywaterguerrillas.com. some people using the product issue of the Archives of Neurology. to low-income immigrant Although the study was small, An orchid to Oakland applied in the nose were experi- women. For more information go Welcome to Dimond the results indicate a very sig- City Public Works Depart- encing a loss of the sense of to www.naturalhomeclean- Welcome to Fernseed, a new nificant decrease in the number ment Graffiti Abatement for smell, and I passed that infor- ing.com or call 532-6645. business. “At Fernseed, every- of women experiencing a relapse the repainting of a high, long mation on in my column. In thing discarded is suddenly after pregnancy when they ex- retaining wall on 35th Ave. June, that warning was formal- Dimond Post Office remade and new again”, says clusively breast-fed for at least After painting out illegal ized by the FDA. The products Federal agencies are reviewing Kristine Dang. “We renew and two months. In women with graffiti for years with his have not been recalled, but I potential post office closures but remake with design imagination, MS who did not breast-feed own house paint, Dal Sellman recommend that you avoid the there was not a list of closures at a fresh coat of paint, and some or began supplementing with called Public Works on an af- use of any product containing the time this issue of MacArthur good, old- fashioned, blue- formula before two months zinc that is applied directly Metro went to press. The Dimond collar elbow-grease.” This rehab ternoon asking for the wall postpartum, the rate of relapse into the nose because the zinc post office, 2226 MacArthur business founded by Kristine to be repainted. It was done was 87 percent compared to 36 can damage the nerves needed Blvd., Oakland, CA 94602, serves Dang and operated by her before 11:30 the next morn- percent of women with MS who for the sense of smell. several residential areas along and her support team, Chad ing. Dal says, “Outstanding!” continued exclusive breast-feed- with an active senior population. Sloane and Jeremiah Bal, is at Being someone who takes ing. The primary reason women the time to smell the roses Residents are encouraged to 3436 Dimond Ave., 566-3229, Orchids to the Fourth gave for not breast-feeding or (and any other fragrant flower write letters voicing concern www.fernseed.com. Hours are Annual Summer Solstice Fête for stopping early was to resume in my path), not having that about this possible closure to: Friday–Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. de la Musique volunteers for taking medications. Based on pleasure would be a great loss. U.S. Representative Barbara Lee, once again filling the Laurel the study results, continuing Dimond Calendar But losing the sense of smell 1301 Clay St. #1000-N, Oakland, with the sounds of music. to breast-feed may be a better can be not only unpleasant but CA 94612; and City of Oakland Cleanup Walks: Even half an Thanks to John F., Mark, choice that provides greater dangerous as well. Without it Postmaster Gooch, U.S. Post Of- hour helps. Sponsored by La Stella, Shel, Renais, Scott, protection against relapse than you might be unaware of a gas fice, 201 13th St. #212, Oakland, Farine Bakery, Dimond. Summer Jo-Ann, Bernadine, Sarah, medication use. Scientists be- leak or the smell of smoke. CA 94612-9998. Area residents hours: Every Tuesday and Suzanne, and Sara for plan- lieve the delay in the return of Additionally, without the sense and organizations are working Thursday 8 to 9 a.m. (meet in ning and carrying out the menses that occurs with breast- of smell, food becomes less ap- on a plan to support the Dimond front of McDonald’s); Thursdays event and organizing the feeding may explain the results. petizing and enjoyable because post office prior to finalization of 7 to 8 p.m. (see Dimond email wonderful helpers and Of course, breast-feeding much of what we taste comes closures. Email krussell@russell- list); contact krussell@russell- musicians. Word just came offers a multitude of benefits from the smell of the food. gordon.com or call 842-3200, to gordon.com. in that these wonderful to both mothers and babies. Matrixx, the company that be added to the committee list, or Mondays 11 a.m. to noon: neighbors are already work- A study underway at Kaiser is Dimond Park: meet at Scout makes Zicam, denies the danger watch for postings on Dimond ing on the fifth Fête. looking at the effects of breast- email list. Appreciation to Rich- Hut (Cañon and Wellington of their products and states feeding on mothers with gesta- ard Cowan, Chief of Staff, park entrance). Leader: Michelle that product safety is “sup- tional diabetes to see if breast- Councilmember Jean Quan’s of- Doppelt, email: mdoppelt@ An Orchid to Nancy ported by the cumulative feeding reduces the risk of fice, for researching the current oaklandnet.com. Karigaca for leading the revi- science and has been confirmed developing Type II diabetes. status. Saturday, August 15: talization of Maxwell Park by a multidisciplinary panel of —————————————— Dimond Cleanup Walk: meet at and spearheading the cre- scientists.” I say, better to follow Paulette Avery is a registered Water-Saving Program Dimond Gateway Garden, ation of the mural in the the FDA recommendations. nurse, an International Board Dimond Improvement Associa- MacArthur and Lincoln (30 park. (See the Maxwell Park The second topic I want Certified Lactation Consultant, tion (DIA) presented a water- minute and 45 minute walks). Neighborhood News for to bring to your attention comes and a freelance writer who saving program on July 1. The continued on page 6 complete story.) from a recent study done on specializes in health issues.

Everything You Need Dimond Chiropractic Center for a Meal! Early morning, evening and Saturday appointments available Most insurances accepted $25 Off Initial Visit when you mention this ad 3221 Fruitvale Ave. • Oakland (510) 534-7484 — Dr. Carrie A. Ousley MA E— RKET PLAC •FRESH & ORGANIC PRODUCE •FRESH FISH Daily •ORGANIC POULTRY Denied Disability Benefits? No Fee Unless We Win. •FRESH GOURMET BREADS George Andre Fields, Attorney at Law •FINE FOOD DELICACIES Free Parking P.O. Box 18887, Oakland, CA 95619 Phone/Fax 510.568.3077 OPEN 7 DAYS Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm www.gafields.com | [email protected] Sunday 9am-7pm Practice Limited to Social Security, SSI & Veterans Disability Benefits 482-8178 Admitted in Washington and Oregon 35th & MacArthur Serving Disabled Clients Throughout the Bay Area 5 August 2009

METRO Laurel Neighborhood News CLASSIFIED ADS

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D Bernice & Joe Playschool. For nearly Mendocino coast cottage: Charming is both the interior of a 29 years, play-based learning in furnished 1BR plus living room sofa T martial arts studio and our earthquake retrofitted, home-like bed, fireplace, fully equipped home to a new community- center near Mills College. The kitchen. Minimum 3 days, $85/day, focused venue for artists and $525/week. (510) 482-5577. park-like quarter-acre setting has their supporters. Co-directors pine and fruit trees, vegetable Move your home office to a profes- Dvora Gordon and Janet Rachel garden, redwood playhouse, 20- sional building. Small office suitable founded The Space in early 2009 foot sailboat, two-story wooden for appointment-only clients. Fur- rocket ship, outdoor art and to feature the diverse work of nished, parking, janitorial included. block rooms. Curriculum includes local artists and bring together Lease 3215 MacArthur Blvd, $350 the residents of the Laurel and pre-reading, pre-math enrichment, per month. Contact Bill at 289-0200. field trips, F.I.T. gymnastics, surrounding areas of Oakland. music and Spanish lessons. Empha- “We are creating a welcom- SERVICES sis put on socialization, verbaliza- ing place for a diverse popula- tion. Sibling discount. Lunch, African-American manicurist, tion of ages, cultures, sexual The Space at Laurel Jujitsu. snacks provided. Ages 2 to 5 located in the Laurel District, orientations, interest, and art years. License #010214258. background, experience and in- be rented for classes, work- specializing in manicures, pedicures forms,” Janet described. “So Brochure. (510) 638-3529. Visit us at sight will make The Space a suc- shops, martial arts, meetings, w/paraffin wax treatments, sculp- far, we have featured visual art www.berniceandjoe-playschool.com. cessful venture. Janet observed: toddler and after-school pro- tured nails, silk and fiberglass wraps. and photographic exhibits, in- Over 20 years experience and “There is a need to bring the arts grams, rehearsals, and private dependent film-maker nights, Saxophone & Piano. Play music service in this area. Call (510) to the Laurel and surrounding parties. Call 436-4277. A mas- for the joy of it! Have fun learning a cappella vocalists, a documen- 482-3229 for appointment. areas of Oakland, and we think sage and acupuncture studio jazz, blues, improvisation. Patient, tary series and discussion on that we can help fill that need.” in the back can be rented by supportive teacher. Ages 10 & up. CLASSIFIED RATES: Classified ads are racism, and R&B, jazz, and folk Contact Dvora and Janet contacting JoAnn directly by Speciality: Adult beginners. Eva 436- $.50 per word. Discounted prices are music. We are also planning available for five- and ten-issue frequen- by email at thespaceoakland@ calling 530-5043. 0504. to feature a fashion show in- cies. Send your copy along with pay- gmail.com, by calling 436-4277, The Space features ment to The MacArthur Metro, PO Box volving the apparel shops in and through the Web Feldenkrais, Spanish classes, 19046, Oakland, 94619 or email your the Laurel District and beyond.” Past Issues of the Metro copy to [email protected]. site (under construction): tango classes, and a women’s The Space takes its place with a searchable database Deadline for submission and payment is thespaceoakland.com. Get chorus rehearsal, which is the 15th of the month. For additional beside new, promising develop- available online at on the email list for news accepting new members. information on discounts or other infor- ments on MacArthur Blvd. macarthurmetro.org mation contact Krista Gulbransen at 287- about upcoming events. 2655, fax 291-2944. like Trattoria Laurellinos and Laurel Jujitsu at 4148 Upcoming Events the Saturday morning Farmers’ MacArthur Blvd. is owned Current art exhibit: Works Market. “We’ve been delighted and directed by JoAnn Strang. by Woody Johnson and Jimi with the turnout for our JoAnn teaches private Jujitsu Evans. Call for a viewing. EMILY DOSKOW Attorney at Law shows,” Janet continued. classes. Susan Liroff, a mutual August 8: Music show with “Mostly, we’ve had full houses. Serving Bay Area LGBT Families with Pride Since 1989 friend, “muse,” and Jujitsu Cara Wick and Deborah And the Summer Solstice student, introduced Dvora and Cummings. August 22: Music • Adoption and Parentage Music Festival was a perfect Janet to JoAnn. Upon seeing show with Andre dos Santos • Marriage and Domestic Partnership Consultations way for us to introduce our- the airy, sunny martial arts stu- Morgan and the band Liquid • Prenuptial and Pre-Registration Agreements selves to the community.” dio, they knew that The Space Girlfriend. • Uncontested Dissolutions The Space was one of the had found its home. —————————————— 510.540.8311 ten locations where nearly 70 Rentals help support John Frando can be reached at musicians and bands performed www.emilydoskow.com | [email protected] the programs. The facility can [email protected]. in the Fourth Annual Laurel Summer Solstice Music Festival. Musicians and audience mem- bers alike praised the caliber of The Space as a place to play and listen to music. See who we have Reliable Quality Craftsmanship In addition to directing The in the booth at Space, Dvora and Janet are mu- Residential - Commercial the Laurel Street Fair! sic producers and artists. Dvora Interior - Exterior is a mosaic, collage, and garden FREE ESTIMATES design artist. Janet is a vocalist (510) 482-2371 involved in several projects, Lic# 907378 Bonded and Insured including the satire a cappella www.eggshellthepaintingcompany.com quartet: Out On A Clef. Their

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Calendar of Community Events Three for Free High Street News CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 BY MARILYN GREEN,COORDINATOR B Y M ETRO S TAFF some-one you don’t already know? The MacArthur Metro calendar welcomes a range of listings. We empha- The gathering included size community meetings and actions that address neighborhood concerns Neighborhood Night Out, Altenheim 100th church leaders of many faiths, as well as cultural events that enrich our lives. To have your event listed, Tuesday, August 4 Anniversary, August 15 including Muslim and Buddhist, and nursing students in white, please contact Marilyn Green no later than the 12th of the preceding Throughout Oakland, neighbors On Saturday, August 15, The like angels. Youngsters like Alex month at 531-9233 or [email protected]. have planned activities to take Altenheim will celebrate its Silvestra helped out as greeters. back the streets. Last year, na- 100th year. Long a fixture in the After the ceremony the congre- August 2009 tionwide, more than 37 million Dimond District at the top of the gation planted seeds beside people participated while, in hill overlooking Fruitvale Ave., the church in the Community Neighborhood Crime Prevention Councils Oakland, residents held 400 the building was a home and Vegetable Garden, munched Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council: Wednesday, August 12, neighborhood events. This year hub for a flourishing German- on healthy refreshments, and 7 p.m., Miracles of Faith Lutheran Church, 4335 Virginia. the goal is 450. Don’t have an American population through enjoyed jazz, blues, and Ricardo http://maxwellparknc.com or Jan at 534-4978. event on your street? Bring a most of the last century, when Scales on the keyboard. Commu- dessert to share and join with Melrose-High Hopes NCPC: Thursday, August 20, 7 p.m., Flux 53 the Dimond District was alive nity members are welcome to your neighbors at 6:30 p.m. in on Foothill and Fairfax. with orchards and beer gardens. use the Wellness Center, to Brookdale Park (at Brookdale Today, the building and sur- volunteer their help or to add and High) to plant a tree in honor Dimond Library 3565 Fruitvale Ave. Information: 482-7844. rounding garden continue to be their ideas to this new dream. of the four fallen officers and a center for the local German Family Storytimes: Tuesdays, 7 p.m. those who serve us in the Oak- community. On August 15 every- Celebrate National Storytime: Wednesdays, 10:15 a.m. and 11 a.m., 10:15 a.m. for land Police Department. Or see one is welcome to come and join Night Out toddlers up to 2 years; 11 a.m. for ages 3 to 5 years. the calendar and neighborhood in the fun. Doors will open at 3:30 You’ll find a lot of National columns and your local listservs Lawyers in the Library: First Tuesday, August 4, 6 to 8 p.m.; sign-up at p.m., with the program starting Night Out parties on Tuesday, (or local yahoo groups) for more 5:45 p.m. Free legal information. Please call in advance to confirm on at 4 p.m. There’ll be free music August 4, to celebrate and ce- information about the evening’s the day of the program. and dancing, and there may be ment our community. An un- activities. a modest charge for the German usual one will take place at 6:30 Spanish Conversation Group: First and third Tuesdays, August 4 and food and drink available. 18, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Contact: Sarah Hodgson 482-7844, Laurel Street Fair, August 8 p.m. at Brookdale Park. There, Distinguished guest speakers, the Melrose-High Hopes NCPC [email protected]. Improve your skills and learn new vo- The Laurel Neighborhood Asso- a theatrical performance, and a cabulary. Participants should be familiar with basics. Drop-ins welcome. invites all neighbors to a tree ciation (Laurel merchants) holds German choral group will also planting in gratitude for our Fratello Marionettes: Tuesday, August 11, 7 p.m. See a performance their annual street fair from appear. The Altenheim is located fallen officers and our beat offic- of The Frog Prince, the classic fairytale of spoiled Princess Ofelia who 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Join your neigh- at 1720 MacArthur Blvd. in Oak- ers who put their lives on the meets a frog . . . or is he really a frog? bors on MacArthur between 35th land with plenty of street parking line for us every day. Bring Book Discussion Group: Tuesday, August 18, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Call and 38th Aves. for a sampling of and an entrance on Excelsior beverages and a dessert to share. for current title. area foods, products, and ser- Ave. as well. For more informa- vices. Why not make it a point tion, please call 530-4013 or email Maxwell Park Mosaic Teen Time: Thursday, August 27, 3:30 to 5 p.m. Music, snacks, and to say hello and actually meet hannelore@excelsior center.org. board games for teens. Press them on the wall Colorful pieces of tile Melrose Library 4805 Foothill Blvd. Information: 535-5623. A jigsaw puzzle Cartooning Workshop: Tuesday, August 11, 3 p.m. Daniel Salcido Op Ed Dimond News Step back, look again teaches cartooning. The colors transform into CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 Children in the park Jewelry Making: Tuesday, August 18, 3 p.m. Local designer Chelsee —————————————— Robinson will guide you in creating your own beautiful bracelet, at large. Is it because (A) close Wednesday, September 2: Adelle Foley can be reached at necklace, or earrings. Materials provided. quarters puts us all at each Dimond Improvement Associa- [email protected]. other’s mercy, (B) relief that the tion (DIA) General Meeting: General Calendar bus finally came briefly lightens 7:30 p.m., Dimond Library, 3565 OPR Summer Camp Explosion: through August 21, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., your spirit or (C) the transit is, Fruitvale Ave. Topics: Dimond Allendale Recreation Center, 3711 Suter St. Games, crafts, boating, after all, transient? Mysteries to area zoning and Oaktoberfest. Maxwell Park News swimming, and more. $40 per week. Extended care, 3 to 6 p.m. $15 ponder. Saturday, October 10: per week. www.oaklandnet.com/parks. 535-5635. Meanwhile, if you ride the Oaktoberfest in the Dimond, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 bus or are concerned about this “Oakland’s Family Friendly Join the Oakland Strokes Rowing Crew: Ongoing. Open to all high participated in each and every or other proposed changes, Craft Beer Festival!”, school students. No prior experience necessary. Phil Caruthers at way to make this a very success- contact the AC Transit Board, www.oaktoberfest.org. [email protected] or 527-4595. ful community project, including VP Chris Peeples, a long-time ad- Event Organizers: Earp volunteers, neighbors, City Register for Environmental Classes at Merritt College: Classes are vocate for public transportation. Events, Daniel Swafford, and Councilwoman Jean Quan, ongoing. For specifics, contact www.ecomerritt.org or 434-3840. Email chris_peeples@ yahoo.com Stan Dodson of La Farine Nancy Karigaca, Friends of Register online at www.peralta.edu. or [email protected], or Bakery. To volunteer email Maxwell Park and City of Body Ball Fitness Exercise Class (Aero-bo-cise): Mondays and Wednes- phone: 891-7151. [email protected]. Oakland’s Public Work teams. days, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. (ongoing), Redwood Heights Recreation See more photos at http:// Center, 3883 Aliso Ave., Oakland. 482-7827. Bounce off the pounds. web.mac.com/patreezia/iWeb/ Ball required. Evening Restoration at Dimond Park: Thursday, August 27, 6 to 8 p.m., Mosaic%20v2/Welcome.html St. Jarlath Senior Center: Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Fruitvale and Scout Hut, south side of the Dimond Recreation Center, 3860 Hanly Rd., —————————————— Pleasant. 532-2068. Oakland. Join Friends of Sausal Creek in clearing invasive species and Patterson can be reached at cleaning up the trail. Tools, gloves, instruction, and snack are provided. Fruitvale Presbyterian Church Senior Center: Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. to [email protected]. Wear layers and bring water. Minors need a waiver signed by a parent 1:30 p.m., 2734 MacArthur Blvd. 530-0915. or guardian to participate. Drop-ins welcome. RSVP for groups of four or Nursery Propagation Workdays: Saturdays, August 1, 8, and 29, 1:30 more. For directions or more information, contact Megan at to 4:30 p.m., Native Plant Nursery, 3594 Sanborn [email protected]. Rd. Join us for an afternoon of native plant propagation. Sowing, trans- Movie at Dunsmuir House: Friday, August 28, Grounds open 6 p.m., Oakland planting, cuttings, and maintenance. Wear layers and bring water; we movie approximately 8:30 p.m., 2960 Peralta Oaks Court. Bring a provide tools, gloves, instruction, and snack. Drop-ins welcome. Minors Landscaping blanket and a picnic. Live music. A Little Princess. Mansion will be open need a guardian to sign a waiver. Please contact Megan at Since 1976 for free self guided tours. 562-0328 or www.dunsmuir.org [email protected] to RSVP. Restoration Workday in Beaconsfield Canyon: Saturday, August 29, 9 a.m. COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL Restoration Workday: Saturday, August 1, 9 a.m. to noon, Joaquin to noon, Meet at the end of Beaconsfield Place. Take Park Blvd. east until IRRIGATION SYSTEMS/DRAINAGE Miller Park Native Plant Nursery Grasslands Site, 3594 Sanborn Rd. Mountain. Turn right, then bear left as Mountain becomes Ascot Dr. Turn BRICK • CONCRETE • MASONRY Remove invasive plants, and learn about native species. See Nursery left at Chelton, then right at the second intersection. Workday led by DROUGHT-TOLERANT LANDSCAPES Propagation, above, for what to bring and contact info. Richard Kauffman. All welcome. Email [email protected]. GARDEN LIGHTING • FENCING • SOD LAWNS National Night Out Party: Tuesday, August 4, 5 p.m., Jefferson Elemen- EROSION CONTROL Jazz Vespers: Sunday, August 30, 5 p.m., High Street Presb. Church tary, 2035 40th Ave. Contact: Ana Martinez, 773-0469. RETAINING WALLS: Courtland and High St. ROCK • STONE • WOOD • BLOCK National Night Out: Tuesday, August 4, 6:30 p.m., Brookdale Park. Aerobics/General Exercise classes: Saturdays, August 29 to December 19, Tree-planting ceremony. See High Street Neighborhood News, page 3. 9 to 10:50 a.m., or Tuesdays, September 1 to December 15, 5 to 6:50 FREE ESTIMATES Singin’ In The Rain: Friday to Sunday, August 7, 8, 9, and Thursday to p.m., or Thursdays, September 3 to December 17, 5 to 6:50 p.m., Merritt CA LIC. #652408 Sunday, August 13, 14, 15, 16, 8 p.m., Woodminster Amphitheatre, College, 12500 Campus Dr. $10 for 4 months per class. Sign up at (510) 635-1779 3300 Joaquin Miller Rd. 531-9597 or www.woodminster.com, $25-$40 www.peralta.edu or contact instructor Abdur-Rasheed, 436-2658 or 5900 COLISEUM WAY • OAKLAND ($2 discount for children/seniors). 464-3109 or [email protected]. 7 August 2009

MONEY HONEYS

The Metro acknowledges contributions of $50 or more by listing your name or business as a Money Honey for 10 issues. You keep our paper alive and well. Sheila D’Amico $150 and above $50 up to $150 (continued) Gary D. Yee & Caroline C. Yee John Frando Laurel Jujitsu Laurel Hardware While the Metro was on munity policing—if that was the amnesty will bring the city Reuben Goldberg & Sharon & George Higgins summer hiatus, the Oakland the motivation for the cuts, about $500,000 in additional Eileen Carlin-Goldberg Victoria D. Wake Schools came back to local con- that is. revenues. To learn more, in- Renais Winter & Doug Stone Shoshana & Dave Finacom trol, the Council passed the cluding information on other Nancy Sidebotham Michael L. Wirgler city budget, and the citizens The Council approved payments eligible for penalty Janet S. & John A. Broughton Phil Wong & Lisa Lemus once again insisted on support raising parking meter fees to waivers, go to Bart Wright Andrew Cohn & Ignacio De La Fuente Christine Dell-Cohn of local libraries. Our most fa- two dollars an hour and in- www.jeanquan.org. William A. & Nancy Scott-Ince $50 up to $150 mous local writer, Jack Lon- creasing the time meters are Marcia Henry & Gary Delgado don, wouldn’t have become operative. Now deposit those Keep Oakland American Legion, East Oakland Post 471, Robert Cacy, Adjt. Millicent Morris Chaney who he was without the li- coins from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Be Beautiful’s Chris Ralls reports Margaret M. O’Halloran & Chris Lute Scott H. & Stella Roda Lamb brary. Just imagine Jack and careful parking on residential that another mural is going up M.A. Drelling Bonnie R. Henriquez poet Ina Coolbrith, Oakland’s streets, too. Posters to neigh- on the private building at 46th Beverly James Richard B. & Joanna Roberts first librarian, giving each other borhood listservs report an in- and Foothill, across from Fre- David J. Pitta Scheberies, Inc congratulatory fist bumps up crease in tickets for Vehicle mont Pool. This mural is being Ruth Malone Jeff Liu & Hung Kelley there in library heaven. Code violations, including created by some of the same C. A. Peddle & Pamela Magnuson- Dal & Virginia Sellman wrong side of the street park- artists who were responsible Peddle Karen M. Schroeder Neighborhood Crime ing and blocking a driveway— for the Indian-themed mural Felicity Buxton Vee & Ashley Thomsak Mark A. Baldwin Prevention Councils learned even your own. Fines are ordered torn down last year in Will & Riba EdwardsLaurie Umeh Hoang Le Banh recently that they would no hefty. what can be described, to put it Merry Luskin Gordon & Marjorie Laverty Adina Sara longer receive their $700 per in the best possible light, as a John & Jo-Ann Maggiora Donivan Elizabeth Callaway year budgets. This was part of Meanwhile, in her huge misunderstanding and Adelle & Jack Foley Vito & Katy Vanoni an annual allocation of $50,000 newsletter, Jean Quan an- misuse of authority. Of inter- Deborah Cooper & Kenneth Shaw Maya J. Sinclair to further community policing. nounced a city amnesty for est, while the previous mural Diane Tebault William Milny Loss of the funds will make it parking and other fines. Con- was on the wall, taggers did Douglas Ferguson Mary V. & Anna L. Seastrand harder for these citizen activ- tact the city anytime from Au- not deface it. But after the de- Lois Johnson Patricia & Jim Quinn ists to do their work and will gust through October, and pay struction of the mural, while Lawrence J. & Margaret O. Bowerman Lesley & Gloria Wilmer be demoralizing for awhile, but your original parking ticket. the wall was blank, the build- Fred Russillo Virginia S. & Wade Sherwood is not likely to lead to the de- The city will waive additional ing was continually being de- Val and Mel Jones Roussel Sargent mise of their insistence on com- fines and interest. Quan says faced by illegal graffiti. Kimiko and Yoshi Wong John R. Elk and Claude M. Elk in Memory of Katie, Kathleen Rolinson Oakland Veterinary Hospital Eugene Crenshaw Sharon Toth Richard C. & Kathleen Cowan Susan Audap-Page Carolyn R. Adams Susanne Lea & Russ Bruno Beverly Smith Lydia Palmin & Tom Daley Margaret Elizares Off-leash Trail Walks Water Intrusion? Ana Rauch & John Torpey Joan Dark & Cliff Falloon Helen J. & William R. Shyvers. Jr. Anonymous, in memory Drop-in Pet Sitting Windows/Stucco Laurie Spry of Chauncey Bailey Problems? Jane L. Stallman Patricia Patterson (510) 504-2180 Kimiko & Yoshi Wong/Komodo Toys Toni Locke Nancy Meyer Joanna & Richard Roberts www.tracystlc.com Berkeley Plastering Keith Carson Susan & William Bagnell Sheila D’Amico Erin Hughes We have more than Denise Davila Tanya M Joyce Low Introductory Rates for Metro Readers! 20 years experience in Sarah A. Finnegan Barbara Ritz Window/Door Installation, and maintenance of Stucco Structures

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Sidney Ragland—A Positive Voice in the Community

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Serving your neighborhood FREE CLASS for over 30 years $4 OFF …Canidae Dog Food with 30 professional with this coupon. Any 30 lb. Bag of… Expires Aug. 30, 2009 Real Estate Agents • If you are thinking of selling, we offer free property evaluation. • If you are thinking of buying, we offer many first time buyer loan programs with down payments as low as $500. • If you are thinking of renting, call us for a list of rentals. • If you are tired of managing your property, call us for professional property management. Lynn A. Worthington, Broker 5942 MacArthur Boulevard • 510-562-8600

ZHI DAO GUAN Acupressure • Massage THE TAOIST CENTER Energy Balancing Dr. Alex Feng LAc, PhD, OMD Spiritual Counseling “One of the Ten Best Complementary $15 OFF INITIAL VISIT Medicine Practitioners in the Bay Area” WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD —SF Focus Magazine 3824 MacArthur Boulevard, Oakland • 510-336-0129 GENTLE YOGA ➥ www.thetaoistcenter.com great for people over 50 and those who wish to get in shape! Tue 7:30-8:30am • Thur 5:45-7pm Gong Fu for Children—Ages 5 and Up FIRST CLASS IS FREE Taught by Master Yan-Hua Yang; Wednesdays 5-6pm & Saturdays 1-2pm At the Taoist Center 3824 MacArthur Blvd THE TAOIST CENTER ALSO OFFERS: • Traditional Chinese Medicine Care and Consultations with Dr. Feng • Classes in Tai Ji, Qi Gong and Judo/Jujitsu, Bagua and Broadsword • Hand selected herbal teas and herbal customized prescriptions • Feng Shui reading of the home or business • Gong Fu for children • Bodywork sessions • Yoga classes (See ad at right)

TAOISM CLASS and MEDITATION: Last Friday of every month at 7pm (Aug. 28, Sep. 25, Oct. 30, Nov. 27) FREE and OPEN to the PUBLIC Sixth Annual Taoist Gathering October 23-25, 2009 Martina 510.336.9636