Well National Night Out was a success. Oakland had over 400 Block Parties organized by local community residents. These people took the courage to go out and do it and make it happen for the rest of their neighborhoods. We thank you all for doing it and showing that we DO have neighbors that care and we CAN be friends and look out for each other. Thank you all! Remember, Oakland is Proud!

Below are photos and video of the Champion Street Block Party Organizer Carolyn Vallerga with the Oakland Police Department and Karis Griffin from the Oakland Parks and Recreations Department.

As of right now we’re at 75 murders this year compared to 60 something homicides last year. We keep having these 5 murder weekends with drive by shootings all over. What has this city come to? Why are we trying to break records? Where is the OPD (Oakland Police Department)? Why are some of these happening in broad daylight? What can we do to stop the increasing crime rate? Questions, questions, questions. Answers?
I don’t know but it is a shame. I guess so far there hasn’t been too many innocent bystanders being murdered.. It seems to be a lot of gang and drug related activity. Which of course retaliations and murders will come from this lifestyle.

Here is a list of Oakland Crime Maps with up to date statistics and Police Reports for your neighborhood.
Spot Crime
Oakland Crime Spotting
City of Oakland Crime Watch
Oakland Crime Reports

Oakland National Night Out 2008 Tuesday August 5th. Get together with your neighbors, stay out past dark, celebrate your neighborhood in a safe fun matter. These are your streets and you have friendly neighbors willing to hang out and show their presence. Take back your hood. Get involved, host a block party in your area! It’s easy and a great way to meet your neighbors and keep your streets safe.[ad#big-square-1]

Lakefest: Art, Wine & Food Festival on
Lakeshore Avenue
August 2 & 3 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Lakeshore Ave & Splash Pad Park
Arts & Crafts, Wine Tasting Tents, Live Music, Art Cars, Farmer’s Market (on Saturday ONLY), Taste by the Lake
Free Admission
Wine Tasting Packages start at $10
Neighborhood Features: Lake Merritt, Grand Lake Theatre, Lakeshore & Grand Avenue shopping districts
Event Details (PDF)
Vendor Application (PDF)
Sponsorship Information (PDF)
Green Exhibitor Application (PDF)
Call for Winies Application (PDF)