East Bay Express OCTOBER 14-20 2020 by Weeklys

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OPINION

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WHERE IT ALL BEGAN The UC Berkeley campus has always been a hotspot in the fight for social justice.

Equality’s do-over Prop. 16’s passage would reduce racist barriers BY DEBRA GORE-MANN AND EVA PATERSON

law of the land. She remembers being accepted into UC Berkeley Law through an affirmative-action program, which provided her the opportunity—but she cracked the books, did the work and passed the bar exam on her first try. Then, in November 1996, Prop. 209 was approved, amending California’s state constitution to prohibit state institutions from considering diversity, specifically in the areas of public employment, public contracting and public education. The passage of Prop. 209 greatly reduced opportunities for families of color like ours. Many attempts were made over the years to restore equal-opportunity policies. Now, thanks to years of dedicated work, the Legislature has overwhelmingly voted to let Californians consider a ballot measure— Prop. 16—to right this wrong. It’s time to put race on the table. This country is not colorblind, we are not post-racial.

Our country is having a reckoning and systemic racism will no longer be allowed to oppress people of color. We need Prop. 16 because too many Californians face discriminatory barriers that prevent them from getting state contracts, employment, promotions and educational opportunities because of their race, ethnicity or gender. Covid-19 has exposed the structural inequality that communities of color face in our country. Data from the California health department show that Blacks and Latinx people are dying from coronavirus at disproportionately higher rates. Across the U.S., Black, Latinx, Indigenous and Pacific Islander Americans continue to die at a higher rate than whites. The true impact on Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, especially immigrants, is largely unknown, as diverse, disparate Asian American communities still get lumped together.

Debra Gore-Mann is president and CEO of The Greenlining Institute. Eva Paterson is president and co-founder of the Equal Justice Society. Opinions are the authors’ own and do not necessarily reflect those of East Bay Express.

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n November, California voters will be asked to vote on Proposition 16, which will allow state and local governments to use equalopportunity policies to promote good jobs, good wages and quality schools for everyone. California has needed this for some time, but the Covid-19 crisis made it urgent, and the police killing of George Floyd this spring Minneapolis illuminated the necessity of dismantling systemic racism. The authors of this article witnessed this issue with their own eyes. Debra Gore-Mann’s daughter was born in the spring of 1996, the same year the United States hosted the Summer Olympics in Atlanta. The world could see all the strong females of color who won so many gold medals. At that time, while not perfect, the country held so much promise for a small, brown baby with hope in her eyes. Eva Paterson grew up when “separate but equal” was the

The pandemic also created an economic crisis. Blacks, Latinos and Asian Americans experience worse job losses than whites, with Black-owned businesses nearly three times as likely to fold as white-owned companies. While over $650 billion was set aside for federal small-business support, only about 12 percent of businesses owned by people of color reportedly received the help they needed. The Greenlining Institute believes that figure may be less than 5 percent in California. Furthermore, our country has an alarming gender wage gap, with women—especially women of color—receiving less pay than their male counterparts. The upending of industries such as food service and travel put women of color at particular risk for unemployment during this crisis. Race and gender problems can’t be fixed by ignoring race and gender. California must be able to allocate resources to make sure those who are disproportionately impacted receive the resources they need. Even before the pandemic, businesses owned by women and people of color lacked access to capital and other resources, and could not be targeted directly by state agencies because of Prop. 209. The Equal Justice Society found that, as of 2015, businesses owned by women and people of color lost $1 billion in revenue and growth each year. We are living in a historic moment. Our shared values and our diverse communities today are under attack in America. White supremacists march, Black people are murdered, Latino immigrants are demonized, Covid-19 ravages Native American communities, hate crimes against Asian Americans are on the rise, and many of us fear for our safety because of who we are. We must fight to build a California and a country where Black lives matter and where our systems of justice are free of systemic racism. This moment can only be fully answered by reinstating affirmative action. Vote “yes” on Prop. 16.

NEWS Now that the MTC, AC Transit, BART and other transit agencies have created new safety plans, Voices for Public Transportation has shifted its focus to the funding crisis while still pushing for more safety measures. Transit agencies’ revenue has plummeted, not only because of the loss of fares, but also because many agencies receive significant revenue from sales taxes, which have fallen sharply. More than a billion dollars from the federal CARES Act helped plug the budget hole this year, but prospects for the next fiscal year are “glaringly terrifying,” said Currier. MTC officials in September said they were discussing ways to find money to avoid “a death spiral of service cuts.”

SAFETY FIRST Photo credit: harry_nl via Flickr

BUSTED The coronavirus pandemic has created a ‘death spiral’ in funding for AC Transit, BART and other public transit agencies in the Bay Area.

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Transpandemic

Bay Area public transportation hangs in the balance as ridership, funding plunge due to outbreak BY JEAN TEPPERMAN

he Covid-19 pandemic threatens not only the health of public transportation workers and riders, but also the health of Bay Area public transportation itself. Elected officials, public transit unions and community organizations have, for once, found common ground, as a loss of riders and revenue has led to an “existential crisis,” said Bob Allen, director of policy and advocacy campaigns at the nonprofit Urban Habitat.

BART ridership now hovers around 50,000 people a day, or about 12 percent of its pre-pandemic level, according to a recent staff report from the region’s largest rail system. Ridership on AC Transit, which operates 30 bus lines across Alameda and Contra Costa counties, fell 90 percent and is just “creeping back up,” said director Chris Peeples, an at-large director for the transit agency’s board. This poses serious problems for the economy, equity and the environment,

said Hayley Currier, policy advocacy manager for the advocacy agency TransForm. “Public transportation is required for a green and just recovery.” In response to the crisis—as of this week more than 108,000 people in the Bay Area have been infected and more than 1,600 have died—a coalition of Bay Area transit workers, riders, community members and environmental organizations called Voices for Public Transportation has ramped up advocacy since mid-summer. The group originally formed to advocate for a regional funding measure through a progressive tax designed by and for the communities served by transit. Over the summer this mission morphed to push the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to adopt strong regional health and safety requirements for public transportation. At the MTC’s August meeting, organizers presented a petition with 2,500 signatures demanding the adoption of a 10-point safety program recommended by the national Amalgamated Transit Union.

Armando Garcia Barbosa, a member of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265, was one of two dozen speakers at the August MTC meeting who denounced the agency’s draft health and safety plan as inadequate. Dozens of Bay Area transit workers have contracted the virus. “Our members face ongoing exposure to COVID-19 on a daily basis, with a high probability of being a super-spreader,” Garcia Barbosa said. Essential workers who depend on transit are also concerned. Carol Taylor, a member of Service Employees International Union Local 2015, which represents workers in home healthcare and convalescent homes, said “people on transit today are especially vulnerable. Retail workers are exposed more than others, convalescent homes are hot spots. We have to assume every passenger is contagious.” To minimize this risk, she added, some of her co-workers “are walking a couple extra miles a day— and most of our members are older.” Many speakers said MTC should require transit agencies to provide masks and hand sanitizer for passengers as well as workers. MTC Executive Director Therese McMillan noted that the state already requires people to wear masks in public spaces. But not everybody complies. Some Bay Area bus drivers have faced assault by passengers after they reminded those passengers to wear masks.

Public Notice

“The best way to get compliance is to give people what they need to comply,” said Victoria Fierce, a transit rider and candidate for an AC Transit director-at-large seat. Another controversial element of the draft plan was its recommendation that transit riders maintain at least three feet of social distancing, despite the six-foot social distancing recommendation from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the state of California. The three-foot recommendation was based on World Health Organization guidelines and the experiences of some European countries. Jovanka Beckles, a director candidate for AC Transit’s District 1 seat, echoed other speakers when she said the threefoot recommendation was “a huge insult to transit workers and workingclass people who ride transit.” The main objection to the plan was that it would “fail to provide concrete standards or specific requirements,” said Monica Mallon, a bus rider and member of Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action who has become a leader of Voices for Public Transportation. Commissioner Jim Spering, who represents Solano County, responded that MTC has “neither the authority nor the expertise to dictate specific health and safety standards.” He also told advocates, “This is a first step. We want to continue to work with you on this.”

‘AN INCREDIBLE VICTORY’

THE BIG PROBLEM For this fiscal year, Bay Area transit agencies are getting by with money from the CARES Act, which gave MTC $1.3 billion to distribute among them. But next fiscal year, starting in July 2021, many agencies face budget deficits that could lead to >6 “drastic service cuts and job

Notice of Availability (NOA) of a Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Environmental Assessment (EA) and Draft Individual Section 4(f) Evaluation for the Oakland Alameda Access Project with Opportunity for Virtual Public Hearing WHAT’S BEING PLANNED: The California Department of Transportation (CALTRANS), in partnership with Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC), proposes the Oakland Alameda Access Project, formerly known as the I-880/ Broadway-Jackson Interchange Improvements Project, to improve motorist, pedestrian, and bicyclist safety and reduce conflicts between regional and local traffic, and enhance bicycle and pedestrian accessibility and connectivity within the project area. The project will improve mobility and accessibility between Interstate 880, State Route 260, City of Oakland downtown neighborhoods, and the City of Alameda. The proposed project is located within the cities of Oakland and Alameda on State Route 260 (between post miles [PM] realignment [R] 0.78 and PM R 1.90) and Interstate 880 (PM 30.47 to PM 31.61) in Alameda County, California.

The proposed work will have an adverse effect on historic properties listed and/or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The proposed project will also result in a “use” under Section 4(f).

Project-level conformity analysis shows that the proposed project will conform to the State Implementation Plan (SIP), including localized impact analysis with interagency consultation for particulate matter (PM2.5) required by 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 93.116 and 93.123. This proposed project is not considered a project of air quality concern regarding particulate matter (PM2.5) as defined in 40 CFR 93.123(b)(1). A detailed PM2.5 hot-spot analysis was not completed because Clean Air Act and 40 CFR 93.116 requirements are met without an explicit hot-spot analysis. The proposed project comes from a conforming Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Comment is requested regarding the project-level conformity analysis. WHY THIS AD: CALTRANS has studied the effects this proposed project may have on the environment. The results of these studies are summarized in an environmental document known as a Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR)/Environmental Assessment (EA) and Draft Individual Section 4(f) Evaluation. The Draft EIR/EA and technical studies, as well as printed copies of the aforementioned reports, are available upon request. The purpose of this notice is to inform the public of the availability of these draft documents to any interested individuals, to provide the public an opportunity to comment, and to notify the public of an online presentation and Q&A (details below). WHAT’S AVAILABLE: You can review an electronic version of the Draft EIR/EA and Draft Individual Section 4(f) Evaluation at the Project website: (OaklandAlamedaAccessProject.com), the Caltrans District 4 website (https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-4/d4-projects/d4-oaap/), or via the Alameda CTC website (https://www.alamedactc.org/programs-projects/highway-improvement/oakland-alameda-access-project/). WHERE YOU COME IN: Have the potential impacts been addressed? Do you have information that should be included? Your comments will be part of the public record. Note: Questions submitted for the live presentation with Q&A will not be part of the official comment record. Please submit your written comments anytime from September 29, 2020 until November 30, 2020 to CALTRANS at the following e-mail, phone number, or mailing address. You can submit written comments via mail at: Lindsay Vivian, Office Chief Office of Environmental Analysis, Caltrans District 4 111 Grand Avenue, MS-8B, Oakland CA, 94612 Attn: Oakland Alameda Access Project Or email comments to Oakland.Alameda.Access@dot.ca.gov (preferred method due to COVID-19) Or call (510) 880-4195 to leave your comments. WHEN AND WHERE: Based on the Governor’s Executive Order and Department of Public Health recommendations to stay at home, except as needed, in-person public hearings will not be held to maintain social distancing requirements. Please join a live public hearing with Q&A via the project website: OaklandAlamedaAccessProject.com or phone (510) 880-4195 on October 20, 2020 at 5:30-7:30 PM. Individuals who require special accommodations are requested to contact the Project team at (510) 880-4195 at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled presentation date. For more information, please contact us at (510) 880-4195 or OaklandAlamedaAccessProject.com. Thank you for your interest in this project!

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At the following meeting in September, MTC staff presented a draft online “dashboard” with a five-star rating system to score local transit agencies’ performance. The social-distancing standard had been changed to six feet, but there was no mention of providing PPE to riders. The MTC plan was still “not good enough, but it was an incredible victory,” Currier said. “They wouldn’t have written the plan if we hadn’t pushed.” Randy Rentschler, director of legislation and communications at the MTC, disagreed with that conclusion. MTC wrote the plan because it needs “customers to come back to public transit,” he said. “We need to do everything we can [to get] people feeling confident riding public transit.”

However, Rentschler conceded that the advocacy “resulted in a better plan.” Two weeks later, AC Transit announced a stronger health-and-safety plan, including providing masks and hand sanitizer for passengers as well as workers, plexiglass shields separating drivers from passengers, six feet of social distancing, new and stronger air filters, and disinfectant fogging added to the nightly cleaning of buses. Board Director Chis Peeples said these efforts had been in the works for months but were held up by practical challenges such as designing the shields and finding the right kind of plexiglass. Yvonne Williams, AC Transit’s union president, challenged those statements, saying both the MTC and the AC Transit plans were “the result of pressure they got from riders, Bike East Bay, Democratic Socialists of America, Urban Habitat, and Genesis,” among others, including the union. BART, meanwhile, received high marks for safety from its union president, Jesse Hunt, as well as from public health experts. Dean Winslow, a Stanford University infectious disease specialist, told Berkleyside that riding BART is “probably somewhat less risky” than going to the grocery store. BART’s ventilation system fully replaces the air in each car every 70 seconds, far less time than it takes to infect someone with coronavirus. Hunt said six-foot social distancing—made possible by BART’s decision to make all trains 10 cars long during the pandemic—is also key. BART, however, gets an unusually large percentage of its income from riders—around 65 percent—so the drop in ridership blew a big hole in its budget. Many other agencies are heavily dependent not only on fares, but also on sales tax revenue, both of which have plummeted since March.

NEWS

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losses,” said Nicole Wong, of the environmental justice organization Green for All. At the MTC’s September meeting, she and other speakers from Voices for Public Transportation urged the agency to address this crisis. McMillan, head of the MTC, said the commission will help transit agencies prevent cuts by giving them $500,000 from its share of CARES Act money, but this amount pales in comparison to the funding required. MTC staff also committed to re-examining the budget to find additional funds. Nathaniel Arnold, an AC Transit bus driver, said the important funding source is not the agency’s operating budget, but rather its control of “billions of dollars from numerous [state and federal] funding sources.” He and other advocates— such as Dave Campbell, of Bike East Bay, who urged the MTC to “move money from freeway projects to stabilize transit funding over the next few years”—want MTC to redirect those funds to help transit agencies recover from the pandemic. Mallon, of Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action, emphasized another key demand of transit riders: more money for operating funds to better serve people who depend on buses, rather than “big flashy capital projects” like extending rail lines. “As a rider,” Mallon said, the current shortage of operating funds means “service is not very frequent— you wait half an hour or an hour, especially at night.” She described traveling home to San Jose from Voices for Public Transportation meetings. When she gets off BART, if she misses the connection to her bus, “I’m sitting there for an hour waiting in the cold.” More operating funds would “improve the quality of life” of people like her who depend on public transportation, she said. In May, MTC formed a Blue Ribbon Transit Recovery Task Force, made up of public officials and representatives of community organizations, whose first job was disbursing federal CARES Act funding. With that done, the task force is charged with making immediate plans for transit recovery from the

pandemic as well as a long-term plan to “re-shape the region’s transit system into a more connected, more efficient, and more user-focused mobility network.” The task force’s next meeting, on Oct. 26, will discuss specific plans for the next phase of its work. Whatever their differences, however, unions, community groups and public officials agree with MTC Commissioner Spering that the commission won’t have enough money to bail out all the transit agencies. All parties have said they are committed to join forces in advocating for more funding for public transportation. “That’s one of our primary jobs,” Rentschler said, but “it’s too early to tell” where the money will come from. Prospects for another major federal coronavirus relief bill, of course, depend on the outcome of November’s election. Last week, President Trump said he was pulling out of Covid-relief negotiations. Another possible source is Proposition 15, which is on the November state ballot and, if passed, would make it possible to raise property taxes on corporations. Businesses have long enjoyed low taxes due to Prop. 13, which passed in 1978 and is supported mainly by voters looking to limit property-tax increases for homeowners. If Prop. 15 passes, significant increases in property-tax revenue could become available for transit agencies. AC Transit, in particular, gets a large percentage of its budget from property taxes. Rentschler predicted that the “big game in town” is more likely to be a regional funding source. “The likelihood that the state will have the votes to significantly increase public transit funding is pretty low,” Rentschler said, especially as California struggles to rebuild its economy from the coronavirus-induced crisis. Efforts to create a nine-county public transportation funding measure for the Bay Area, which were underway before the covid pandemic, have stalled. “We’re going to need new revenue,” Mallon said. “We’re going to need to focus on a Green New Deal for transit, to get the operators the money to dramatically increase transit and improve people’s lives.” l

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2020 VISION Schools, police, gig economy and housing take center stage in East Bay election battles BY STEVEN TAVARES

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BE LIKE WATER Oakland voters are being asked to adapt to rapidly changing situations, including the way policing is done. Ballot measure SR1 aims to create more independent oversight of the city’s police department.

he coronavirus election is upon us, setting up a crosscurrent of anxious voters worried about the re-election of President Trump and local candidates unsure how to navigate the pitfalls of campaigning during a pandemic. Meanwhile, the Alameda County Registrar’s Office is dealing with a massive influx of ballots with a mostly vote-by-mail election, which is expected to draw 1 million voters. All of this is happening as uncertainty hovers over elections in Oakland, neighboring Alameda and Berkeley, as well as with the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. Oakland voters will decide whether to bring back a majority

of the City Council, while the same electorate will be asked to add four new members to the muchmaligned Oakland Unified School District Board of Education. In addition, Measure S1 in Oakland could radically reframe how the Oakland Police Commission goes about reforming the city’s turbulent police department. In Alameda, a political scandal from three years ago threatens to roll back the island’s recent progressive renaissance, as three moderate candidates hope to unseat two incumbents this fall. Island voters will also decide whether to erase Measure A, a charter

amendment passed in 1973 that is blamed for styming new housing for nearly half a century while also blocking housing opportunities for minorities. Meanwhile, voters in the Tri-Valley and Fremont will elect a new member to the powerful five-member county Board of Supervisors in a matchup that has involved both sides slinging brickbats at each other for months.

OAKLAND Of the five Oakland council races this fall, the District 3 matchup in West Oakland—featuring Councilmember Lynette McElhaney,

longtime Oakland activist Carroll Fife and four others—represents the most likely upset, according to several local politicos. McElhaney has attracted the ire of labor for several years, stemming from a number of slights—none more debilitating than a perception she failed to support SEIU Local 1021 during recent contract negotiations. SEIU and the Alameda Labor Council have pumped $343,000 into an independent expenditure committee to defeat McElhaney. In the meantime, Fife also outraised McElhaney through the Sept. 19 campaign finance filing period. Aside from conventional wisdom

East Bay Express

MOMS FOR COUNCIL Carroll Fife has parlayed the success of the Moms 4 Housing occupation into an aggressive run for Lynette McElhaney’s District 3 council seat in Oakland.

includes Full Acts Gospel Church pastor Bob Jackson, former Oakland mayoral candidates Marcie Hodge and Marchon Tatmon, and Aaron Clay, a solar power businessman. Notably, on the issue of the Oakland Coliseum, which resides in the district, all five candidates advocate for the Oakland A’s to build their new ballpark at the site and not at the waterfront property known as Howard Terminal. The team, however, has voiced no intention to do so. Each candidate also opposes the city selling its 50 percent interest in the property to the team, which is proposing to build housing, retail and office space. In Fruitvale’s District 5, Councilmember Noel Gallo, also a part of the 2012 class that included McElhaney and Kalb, is

facing two young challengers in Richard S. Raya and Zoe LopezMeraz. While most do not believe Gallo’s re-election is in danger this fall, the age gap between himself and his opponents has sometimes been comically evident. During the Alameda County Democratic Central Committee endorsement meeting, held virtually last month, Gallo repeatedly struggled to master the new realities of Zoom meetings, often beginning to answer questions without unmuting his audio, while his much younger opponents looked on with a knowing smile. Oakland’s city attorney race also has a familial dynamic. City Attorney Barbara Parker is seeking re-election against one of her own, Eli Ferran, a member of the Oakland city attorney’s office.

Ferran’s wife is also chief of staff for District 6 Councilmember Loren Taylor. Throughout the campaign, Parker has portrayed Ferran as inexperienced and unexceptional in his performance as a deputy city manager. Parker, though, has suffered a number of losses as city attorney, including her defeat in the effort to block coal shipments in Oakland. Parker’s campaign is largely self-financed, according to the most recent campaign finance disclosures. Ferran, meanwhile, recently received help from the National Association of Realtors. An independent committee backed by the group plunked down $105,000 in support of Ferran earlier this month, including $82,000 for online advertisement, > 10 according to finance reports.

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that points to McElhaney’s potential defeat, polling suggests a potential drubbing is in store for the incumbent, who was first elected to the District 3 seat in 2012. A survey from the Oakland Housing and Jobs Coalition last week showed Fife, who garnered considerable attention by leading the Moms 4 Housing occupation earlier this year, with a commanding advantage heading down the home stretch. The same poll found District 1 Councilmember Dan Kalb with a slight advantage over newcomer Stephanie Dominguez Walton. Kalb has campaigned on his experience and a number of legislative victories since his election to the council in 2012. For example, Kalb is a co-author of Measure S1. But his wonky persona has conversely been attacked by Walton, who has often asserted that Kalb has lost his connection with the North Oakland district. At-Large Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan is facing perhaps the nastiest re-election fight from well-financed challenger Derreck Johnson. Tech giants Lyft, Uber and DoorDash have poured huge amounts of money toward an independent expenditure committee bent on defeating Kaplan, who has been a nemesis of the gig companies for several years. Johnson, who is backed by Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf—another Kaplan rival— also holds a significant fundraising advantage over the incumbent. Johnson’s campaign, however, has taken a number of hits in recent weeks over his self-touted business acumen. After portraying himself as the owner of Jack London Square’s Home of Chicken and Waffles, reports came out that he lost the eatery in bankruptcy among other questionable business dealings. East Oakland’s District 7 is guaranteed to have a new representative following the retirement of Councilmember Larry Reid, but the seat is expected to stay in the family. After holding the seat since 1996, Reid hopes to hand it over to his daughter, Treva Reid. She headlines a five-person race that

removes a cap on monetary penalties for code-enforcement fines.

ALAMEDA

Spur via Flickr

HALL PASS A scandal two years ago at Alameda City Hall over the hiring of a fire chief could impact the fortune of two incumbent City Council members.

The Oakland Unified School District’s inability to rise to the city’s economic and scholastic demands remains a black eye. But this November, Oakland voters will be afforded the unprecedented opportunity to remake the seven-member school board. All four races this fall include a total of 17 mostly first-time candidates for public office—and no incumbents. The OUSD board’s decision last year to begin closing some Oakland public schools and reports of contaminated water at McClymond’s High School appear to have galvanized candidates to run in each of the four contests. In District 1, three candidates— Stacy Thomas, Sam Davis and Austin Dannhuis—are in the race to replace current school

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board president Jody London in a district that witnessed strong opposition from parents over the closing of Kaiser Elementary School last December. Oakland Unified, which has struggled with budget woes for years, said the closure and consolidation of some schools is needed. In District 3, five candidates—including Maiya Edgerly, a education non-profit executive; educator Maximo Santana; parent Cherisse Gash; and OUSD teacher VanCedric Williams—hope to replace Jumoke Hinton Hodge. In District 5, educators Sheila Pope-Lawrence, Jorge Lerma and Mike Hutchinson, along with nonprofit director Leroy Roches Gaines, seek outgoing school board member Roseann Torres’ seat. In District 7, retired

teacher and former McClymonds basketball coach Ben Tapscott along with current educators Clifford Thomspon and Bronche Taylor are in the run for current school board member James Harris’ seat, as well as transportation project engineer Victor Valerio and communication coordinator Kristina Molina. Oakland police accountability activists will finally get an opportunity to add teeth to the city’s independent Police Commission. Measure S1 would allow the commission to create an Office of the Inspector General to monitor the handling of police misconduct cases, and hire its own attorneys. Measure QQ hopes to expand Oakland’s voting pool by allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in school board elections. Measure RR

Across the estuary In Alameda, councilmembers Jim Oddie and Malia Vella are seeking re-election in a five-person race for two at-large seats. Two years ago, a City Hall scandal involving accusations by the previous city manager that Oddie and Vella improperly attempted to influence her decision to hire a new fire chief, weighed heavily on voters’ minds. Oddie technically lost his seat on the council in the aftermath, but still rejoined the council under a charter provision that allows the runner-up in council elections to take over the seat of a departing councilmember—in this case when then-Councilmember Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft became mayor. There are signs that some Alameda voters still harbor resentment toward Oddie and Vella. But the trio of challengers—former Mayor Trish Herrera Spencer, Gig Codiga and Amos White—all espouse platforms that in many cases are diametrically opposed to the council incumbents. For instance, all three oppose the passage of Measure Z, the hotbutton initiative to excise the remnants of Measure A from the City Charter. While either Oddie or Vella’s re-election could be in danger this November, most believe the likelihood is lowered by the potential that Spencer, Codiga and White may split a portion of the vote that has shown itself in recent elections to be the minority in Alameda’s pronounced progressive electorate. The aforementioned Measure Z represents a chance for Alameda voters to remove charter language that significantly limited the building of new housing on the island for a generation. Critics believe the charter amendment fueled the city’s recent housing crisis because of low supply and high demand borne out of an intent to block outsiders from moving to Alameda. Proponents—ever distrustful of city government—

The League of Women Voters of Oakland

Making Democracy Work

Easy Voter Guide Oakland Municipal Election November 3, 2020

This Easy Voter Guide lists basic, nonpartisan information about local candidates and measures on the November 3, 2020 ballot. This guide is produced by the League of Women Voters of Oakland as a free educational service. For more copies, call (510) 834-7640. This guide is also available in Spanish and Chinese versions • Esta guía también está disponible en español • 本指南也有中文版

EB M U D

Are You Registered to Vote?

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November 3, 2020 Election

Easy Voter Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABOUT THIS ELECTION

About this Election..............................Page 2 What is on your ballot depends on where you live in Oakland. You have new ways to vote in this election because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Election Day is November 3, 2020. In this election, all Oakland voters can vote for candidates for City Council At-Large and City Attorney. Oakland voters who live in Districts 1, 3, 5, and 7 can vote for candidates for City Council and School Board.

City Council At-Large (3 Candidates)....Page 3 Oakland has eight City Council members who work together to make decisions about city services, the city budget, and local rules and laws. One of those eight members represents the whole city “at-large.” The term of office for City Council At-Large is four years. City Council (17 Candidates)............Pages 3-6 Unlike the at-large member, the other seven City Council members represent separate districts in Oakland. The term of office for City Council is four years. City Attorney (2 Candidates)................Page 6 The City Attorney represents Oakland in lawsuits, and gives legal advice to the city’s elected and appointed officials, commissions, and committees. The term of office for City Attorney is four years. School Board (17 Candidates)..........Pages 7-9 Oakland has seven School Board directors who represent separate districts in Oakland. School Board directors work together to make policies about how the schools in Oakland operate. The term of office for School Board is four years. Candidates for Other Offices................Page 9 In this election, many candidates will be running for a variety of national, state, county, and special district offices. Ballot Measures..........................Pages 10-11 Measure QQ (Youth Vote) Measure RR (Fine Limits) Measure S1 (Police Commission) Measure Y (School Facilities Bond) Measure W (Alameda County Sales Tax) State Propositions About the League..............................Page 12 The League of Women Voters of Oakland is a nonpartisan political organization which encourages informed and active participation in government.

EB M U D

Oakland has seven districts. Each district is represented by its own City Council member and its own School Board director. Oakland voters who live in certain neighborhoods can vote for candidates for special districts and other offices. All Oakland voters can vote on 12 state propositions and five local ballot measures (three city ballot measures, one school board measure, and one county measure).

HOW TO VOTE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Make sure you are registered to vote at the address where you are currently living. You can register or check your registration status at the California Secretary of State’s online voter registration webpage (registertovote.ca.gov), or you can find registration forms at post offices. The deadline to register is October 19. If you miss the registration deadline, you can still register in person at the Alameda County Registrar of Voters office (1225 Fallon Street in Oakland) or at any of the 100 Accessible Voting Locations (AVLs) in Alameda County. AVLs will be open on Saturday, October 31 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Sunday, November 1 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Monday, November 2 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), and Tuesday, November 3 (7 a.m. to 8 p.m.). You can look up AVL locations at the registrar’s website (acvote.org). There are three ways to vote in this election: 1) By mail: All registered voters will be sent a vote-by-mail ballot. Complete your ballot and return it by mail, no postage required. Mail it early enough so that it is postmarked by November 3, and be sure to sign the outside envelope. 2) Drop off: Drop off your completed vote-by-mail ballot in a 24-Hour Drop Box. There are 66 drop boxes in Alameda County (check acgov.org/rovapps/maps/ballotdropbox_map.htm for locations). 3) In person: You can complete a ballot at an AVL during the dates and times listed above. In this election, the usual polling places will not be open due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, call the registrar at (510) 272-6973.

Easy Voter Guide

November 3, 2020 Election

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CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 (Three candidates)

CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE (Three candidates) Derreck Johnson

Rebecca Kaplan

Nancy Sidebotham

Steph

Occupation: Small Business Owner Age: 55 Website: johnsonforoakland.com

Occupation: Oakland City Councilmember Age: 50 Website: KaplanforOakland.org

Dominguez Walton

Dan Kalb

Tri Ngo

Occupation: Tax Preparer Age: 75 Website: nancysidebotham.com

Occupation: Businesswoman, Mother Age: 54 Website: stephforoakland.com

Occupation: Oakland City Councilmember Age: Over 21 Website: dankalb.net

Occupation: Electrical Engineer Age: 36 Website: votetri.com

I am dedicated to serving and protecting the people of Oakland, and have worked as Legislative Aide, Housing Rights Attorney, AC Transit Boardmember, leader at Alameda County Transportation Commission, and was unanimously elected Council President by my colleagues last year.

I’ve fought for the rights of our residents.

Oakland’s biggest problems continue to get worse, the status quo is not working. We need change. I have over 25 years’ experience as a businesswoman, community activist, and classroom volunteer and I’m ready to meet this moment.

2-term, hard-working Councilmember. Longtime public interest, environmental, social justice advocate. UC Berkeley Alum. 30 years of policymaking and budget experience with proven record of accomplishments. Affordable housing champion, good government politician, outstanding library advocate, community service volunteer.

Born in a refugee camp and grew up in a working-class family, I became a PhD engineer from MIT, Johns Hopkins and Tesla. I am the only candidate limiting contributions to $35 per individual to ensure all voices are heard.

- Effective solutions for homelessness, displacement prevention, and expanding affordable housing - Protecting public health from the pandemic and from environmental injustice - Improving local jobs and support for local small businesses

1) Complete outside audit.

As your representative, I will prioritize affordable housing and homelessness, equity in education, revitalizing our local economy, and police reform. I promise to always listen and return your calls.

Housing Affordability & Homelessness: keeping people in their homes, more affordable housing. Public Safety for All: reduced crime, safer streets, emergency preparedness, police oversight. COVID Response: public health, preventing evictions, preserving small businesses, economic recovery.

Expanding grassroots engagement with an online voting platform so residents can weigh in on council votes. Solving homelessness and creating affordable housing. Reducing armed policing and shifting budget to preventative social services.

QUALIFICATIONS I am a third generation Oaklander, and small business owner who has created hundreds of jobs for Oaklanders, particularly formerly incarcerated people. I’ve helped nonprofits, foundations, and the City reduce violence, improve job training, and provide opportunities for low-income youth.

Poor leadership has left us floundering while surrounding communities flourish. Oakland is crime riddled and overtaxed with very few services and no accountability. I’m running to give the residents a voice.

TOP PRIORITIES 1) COVID health and economic recovery 2) Housing and Homelessness 3) Racial justice and equality

2) Removal of illegal additions to the Charter and repayment of funds. 3) At-Large is the bridge ensuring city services and resources are equally accessible to all districts.

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CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 3 (Six candidates) Carroll Fife

Lynette Gibson McElhaney

Seneca Scott

Meron Semedar

Alexus Taylor

Faye Taylor

Occupation: Nonprofit Director Age: 43 Website: carrollfife.org

Occupation: Oakland City Councilmember Age: 52 Website: lynetteforoakland.com

Occupation: Small Business Owner Age: 41 Website: senecafor oaklandd3.com

Occupation: Educator Age: 34 Website: meronsemedar.org

Occupation: — Age: — Website: —

Occupation: Longshoreman Age: 73 Website: —

I hold a BA in Political Science from UC Berkeley and bring 20+ years business experience as a non-profit affordable housing provider to work toward solutions for our most pressing problems: jobs, housing, homelessness, safety, environment justice and COVID19 response.

Graduate Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor relations. Twenty years Labor movement experience, including East Bay Director for SEIU 1021. Founder of Oakhella and Bottoms Up Community Gardens. Oakland lover and community leader. Progressive pragmatist. Eight year D3 resident.

I’m a community organizer, social justice, human rights, refugee plight activist and educator. I hold a Civil Engineering degree and a Masters in International Studies from the University of San Francisco. District 3 has been my home for the past 7 years.

Candidate did not provide response.

I’ve done contracts negotiations for local 121. President of local 141 for a year. City of Oakland senior citizen advisory board as a parliamentarian. Was sent to Wisconsin to learn how to be a job evaluator for local 141.

1) Reducing the general purpose police budget by 50% to fund non-policing trauma-informed human services and violence prevention. 2) An Equitable COVID19 Relief & Recovery 3) Expanding and Improving Homelessness Response & Services

1) Clean and safe neighborhoods. Equitable, citywide approach to homeless encampments. Immediate cease and desist of unsanitary and unsafe conditions. 2) Community resilience via “Overgrow Oakland” food growing campaign. 3) Development with community intent and integration.

Divesting, reshaping our policing and redirecting funds to community services.

Candidate did not provide response.

Housing, stop them from closing McClymonds High School, getting Oakland employees their deserved minimum wage to equal to our neighboring cities.

QUALIFICATIONS With over 20 years of communityrooted experience, I have founded or led multiple organizations and understand how to build coalitions and help people to leverage their power to create the change needed for equity and justice.

TOP PRIORITIES COVID-19 has exacerbated existing inequities and further threatened basic human rights. I will lead the council in addressing the challenges of providing housing, living wage jobs and strong business, and a safe community for everyone.

Strong regulation on housing, stricter tenant protection and taxing corporations and developers. Providing shelter and a dignified treatment for our homeless population.

Easy Voter Guide

November 3, 2020 Election

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CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 7 (Five candidates)

CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 (Three candidates) Noel Gallo

Zoe Lopez-Meraz

Richard Raya

Aaron Clay

Dr. Marcie Hodge

Robert “Bob” Jackson

Occupation: Oakland City Councilmember Age: 65 Website: noelgallo foroakland.com

Occupation: Former Medical Worker Age: 28 Website: zlm4oak.org

Occupation: Legal Educator Age: 23 Website: Santosraya.com

Occupation: Small Business Owner Age: 51 Website: Clay4d7.com

Occupation: Nonprofit Executive Director Age: 45 Website: hodge4 oakland2020.com

Occupation: Pastor, Housing Advocate Age: 74 Website: jacksonfor eastoakland.com

My lived experience and extensive outreach allow me to understand the root causes of the issues we are facing. My background in research and development across many fields has honed my thinking on a systems level and writing clear policy.

Through my time on Oakland’s Cultural Affairs Commission, my legal training, and my connection to the community (for example, through my job at Centro Legal de la Raza), I’ve gained the knowledge, passion, and drive to be an effective Councilmember.

My qualifications include my legal tenure, where I opened free clinics, represented individuals facing foreclosure, and counseled governments on redevelopment projects. Currently, I am a CEO of a solar energy company, an OUSD teacher, and board member of Youth UpRising.

I’m fortunate to have been given the opportunity to serve my community in a variety of ways. Chief among them is my tenure as Peralta Community College District Trustee and member of the City of Oakland Finance Committee.

I have lived in Oakland all of my life. I hold a Masters Degree and am pastor at the Acts Full Gospel Church. I am the founder of the Men Of Valor, the O.K. Program for youth, and the Oakland African American Chamber.

Accessible paths to affordable housing and ownership.

Broadly, we need to rectify our budget, and consequently, my three priorities are: improving city systems, reducing the police budget, and providing housing for all.

We need to provide all District 7 residents with a healthy home in a safe neighborhood through new opportunities and smart growth that benefits the community.

As councilmember I will establish vibrant communities where families thrive. Support the growth of local businesses that offer living wage jobs, increase the percentage of affordable housing, and fight for quality education.

1) To grow an economy that works for District 7.

QUALIFICATIONS I am the Oakland City Councilmember for District 5 and served on the Oakland Board of Education. I have strong community partnerships, public and private sector experience, and have led effective public policies. I am committed to Oakland.

TOP PRIORITIES A clean, safe and healthy city. Increased production of housing; combatting homelessness and displacement. Oakland businesses development; job creation and preservation; COVID-19 recovery and resiliency.

Restorative justice for youth and formerly incarcerated. Renewable energy development and jobs.

2) To find real solutions to housing affordability and homelessness. 3) To make the neighborhood and streets cleaner and safer.

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CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 7 (Five candidates, continued)

CITY ATTORNEY (Two candidates)

A BRIEF EXPLANATION OF RANKED-CHOICE VOTING

Treva Reid

Eli Ferran

In November 2010, Oakland started using Ranked-Choice Voting in elections for city offices. Ranked-Choice Voting is not used in elections for county, state, or national offices.

Marchon Tatmon

Barbara Parker

Ranked-Choice Voting lets you rank a first-, second-, and third-choice candidate for one office. With Ranked-Choice Voting, if a candidate receives over 50% of the first-choice votes, then that candidate wins. Occupation: Community Engagement Strategist Age: 48 Website: ReidforOakland.com

Occupation: Government Affairs Manager Age: 35 Website: VoteMarchon.com

Occupation: Attorney Age: 41 Website: eliforoakland.com

Occupation: Oakland City Attorney Age: — Website: parkerforoakland.com

QUALIFICATIONS I’m a community leader, advocate, and overcomer. I’ve experienced many of the challenges our district faces. As Assemblymember Skinner’s Legislative Aide, a board member of organizations and professionally, I delivered equitable outcomes with sound judgement, strategic planning and community collaboration.

I’m an Oakland Budget Commissioner, Government Affairs Manager, 2018 Oakland Mayoral Candidate, Former Homeless Outreach Manager, Former Emergency Warming Shelter Manager; BA-Political Science, Masters in Public Administration, Doctorate Degree Student-Public Administration and Policy (2021).

During my tenure as a Deputy Oakland City Attorney, I assumed substantial responsibility in all areas of state and municipal codes and laws including alcohol nuisance abatement, tobacco, cabarets, public nuisance, gambling, building code, fire code, and inspection/ abatement warrants.

City Attorney for 9 years. Experience, integrity & professional judgment for critical decisions. My litigation and legal advisor skills saved millions & brought in millions more. I’ve fought for economic, environmental, racial, and social justice, and been watchdog for open, transparent government.

Three biggest issues Oakland faces and my priorities outside of COVID-19 and the economic downturn:

1) Protect vulnerable residents against all forms of injustice.

1) Being change force – protecting, advancing Oaklanders’ rights and wellbeing. 2) Protecting employee health and safety; preserving services, jobs affected by pandemic. 3) Providing top notch advice and counsel; being watchdog for open, fair government.

However, if no candidate receives over 50% of the first-choice votes, then the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated. For voters who ranked the eliminated candidate first, their votes then transfer to their secondchoice candidate. After this transfer, if there is still no candidate with over 50% of the votes, then the next candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated. Votes for the eliminated candidate are transferred in the same way as before. The process repeats until one candidate receives over 50% of the votes. Voters are not required to rank three choices for each office. Voters should not rank the same candidate more than once, because that does not help the candidate. If a voter ranks one candidate as the voter’s first, second, and third choice, it is the same as if the voter leaves the second and third choice blank. Visit www.acvote.org/voting/rcv to learn more about Ranked-Choice Voting.

TOP PRIORITIES If elected as your Oakland City Council District 7 councilmember, I will continue to champion: 1) Housing Stability and Addressing Homelessness; 2) Public Safety and Community Vitality; 3) Economic Development and Living Wage/Family Sustaining Career Paths

Homelessness and affordable housing;

2) Combat unlawful evictions & tenant discrimination.

Equitable and Sustainable Economic Development;

3) Provide strong oversight & accountability around officer misconduct.

Violent Crime and Police reform.

CANDIDATE FORUMS The League of Women Voters of Oakland organizes candidate forums so that candidates can present their views to voters. These forums are nonpartisan, free, and open to the public. For the safety of candidates and attendees during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s forums are being held online instead of in person. To see the forum schedule, register to attend forums, or watch forum recordings, visit my.lwv.org/california/oakland/candidate-forums.

Easy Voter Guide

November 3, 2020 Election

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SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3 (Five candidates)

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1 (Three candidates) Austin Dannhaus

Sam Davis

Stacy Thomas

Maiya Edgerly

Cherisse Gash

Mark Hurty

Occupation: Educator, Business Leader Age: 33 Website: austinforousd.com

Occupation: Education Analyst, Parent Age: 47 Website: SamDavisFor OaklandSchools.org

Occupation: Self-Employed Bookkeeper Age: 57 Website: StacyforOakland PublicSchools.org

Occupation: Non-Profit Executive Director Age: 31 Website: maiyaforoakland.com

Occupation: Parent Age: 43 Website: cherissegash.com

Occupation: Ed-tech Product Manager Age: 62 Website: markforoakland.com

Public school parent and former teacher, advocating for accountability, transparency and equity in our schools for 17 years. I have a degree in math and experience with education data, so I’m excited to analyze and balance the budget.

I am a twenty-year homeowner in North Oakland who loves this city. I know the benefit of a fun, safe, engaging, diverse public school education. I will work to ensure the best use of our funds for kids.

I founded and operated Onyx Scholars, a college readiness program for underserved students. I have over 10 years of resource development experience and aided thousands of students achieve post-high school success, including attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

As a proud mother of a 2020 OUSD graduate, I understand the persistence required to advocate for a quality education. As a multigenerational native and descendant of teachers, I’ve been a community organizer and life-long supporter of public education.

I’m a former special education teacher, parent of former OUSD students, and graduate of Oakland’s public schools. I’ve worked in education technology for several years and I have a certificate in Education Finance from Georgetown University.

Educational equity: excellent education for every student regardless of race or special needs. Long-term stable budgeting, ending questionable financial practices. Decisionmaking starts with families and educators, since we know best what students need for success.

1) Hold the superintendent accountable for the hiring of principals and facilities management.

Increase college access programming to lessen racial disparities and achievement gaps. Ensure students and families’ voices are heard in implementing distance learning policies and procedures under COVID-19. Address mismanagement that has been documented in OUSD.

District budget financial accountability and transparency.

Assure that every student in Oakland reads at grade level by third grade.

QUALIFICATIONS I have unique experience as an educator and business owner that combines empathy with a proven ability to lead organizations, develop strategy, and manage finances. I’ve worked as an education policy advocate and currently teach with the Prison University Project.

TOP PRIORITIES Addressing financial waste and mismanagement at the Central office. Ending educational inequality by investing in our most at-risk students. Investing in teachers – the most important factor in a student’s education.

2) Stop closing our public schools. 3) Visit with schools and PTAs either via zoom or in person.

Investing in public education, creating a moratorium on wealthbiased, non-union charter schools; no more school closures. Eliminating the schoolto-prison pipeline to support, not suppress, our youth.

Develop a comprehensive plan to bridge the digital divide. Make the budget process student centered, community driven, transparent, and equitable.

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SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3 (Five candidates, continued)

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 5 (Four candidates)

Maximo Santana

VanCedric Williams

Leroy Gaines

Mike Hutchinson

Sheila Pope-Lawrence

Jorge Lerma

Occupation: Educator Age: 29 Website: santanafor oakland2020.com

Occupation: Teacher, Treasurer, Educator Age: 51 Website: vancedricwilliams.com

Occupation: Education Non-Profit Leader Age: 40 Website: leroygaines 4oakland.net

Occupation: Educator, Community Organizer Age: 47 Website: facebook.com /MikeHutchinson 4SchoolBoard

Occupation: Middle School Counselor Age: 54 Website: popelawrence.com

Occupation: Retired Educator Age: 70 Website: jorgeforoakland.com

As a 20-year teacher and Union Treasurer, I’ve audited school site, school district, and Teacher Union budgets. I have intricate knowledge of school operations, funding sources, school staffing, programming, facilities management, curriculum development, parent and community engagement, layoffs, and hiring.

I have real experience – 20 years in education and 10 years as a principal. I also produce real results. I received Oakland’s principal of the year award and transformed a high poverty, high need OUSD school into a California Distinguished School.

I was born, raised, and educated in Oakland. I worked with Oakland’s youth for 20 years. For the past eight years I have worked as a public education organizer and advocate, cofounded OPEN, and actively attended every School Board Meeting.

I have recently worked in OUSD as well as other school districts over the past 29 years and I know that with my leadership I will create systematic change to improve education for ALL students in Oakland.

I’ve dedicated my life to public education, first as a teacher for 30+ years and then as a principal and administrator for 10+ years in OUSD. I’m a bilingual and bicultural advocate for quality education and equity for all students.

My top three priorities are: 1) Budget Transparency and Accountability 2) Investing in Sustainable and FullService Community Schools 3) Strengthening reading, writing and literacy curriculum and expanding Ethnic Studies from K-12

Fiscal Solvency – We need to get the most out of every dollar.

End school closures and financial mismanagement, facilitate authentic community engagement where the community is included as partners and decision makers, create sustainable community schools so that every neighborhood has a quality public school.

1) Resolving the budget crisis so that the district is solvent,

My top 3 priorities are reforming the OUSD budget process, accelerating the hiring of Black and Latinx teachers and administrators to better represent the student body, and replacing standardized testing with student-centered assessment.

QUALIFICATIONS I’m an Oaklandbased educator who has been working in public, private, and nonprofit education for the last ten years. I bring my expertise in digital instruction, educational technology, and love for Oakland students to the OUSD school board.

TOP PRIORITIES Increasing transparency and accountability with OUSD financial dealings. Equip students and teachers with infrastructure to fulfill the promise of online school. Help families with barriers they may have to giving students a warm learning environment.

Early Literacy – It is the foundation of opportunity. Innovative Community Schools – The community is the engine to build a brighter future for Oakland.

2) Setting goals that will keep both the district and the board accountable, 3) Mandating curriculum that Ethnic studies and career pathway development start in elementary school.

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November 3, 2020 Election

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OTHER OFFICES

SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 7 (Five candidates) Kristina Molina

Ben Tapscott

Bronché Taylor

Dr. Clifford Thompson

Victor Javier Valerio

In this election, all Oakland voters will have these offices on their ballot: U.S. President U.S. House of Representatives, District 13

Occupation: Communications Coordinator Age: 45 Website: votekristinamolina.com

Occupation: Teacher, Administrator (retired) Age: 81 Website: coachtapscott.com

Occupation: Oakland PublicEducation Fund Age: 37 Website: Bronche4oakland.com

Occupation: 5th Grade Teacher Age: 66 Website: clif4 oaklandschools.org

Occupation: Transportation Project Engineer Age: 37 Website: valerioforoakland. nationbuilder.com

I’ve been a teacher, after school program coordinator, and community programs director and Vice Principal in OUSD. I have extensive experience in Oakland schools engaging with students, teachers, administrators, community and key stakeholders.

I’ve worked in the field of education for 40 years. I’ve been a teacher, assistant principal, principal, county coordinator of secondary school, and a college professor. I have two BAs, two MAs, and two doctorates. I understand teaching and learning.

I work as a project engineer ensuring completion and functionality via engineering and management on projects. Also, being a commissioner for the Independent Citizen Bond Oversight Committee for Measures A, B, and J, I have experience in community engagement.

QUALIFICATIONS I am a mother of four OUSD children, a youth mentor and activist in East Oakland for 25 years, providing full wrap-around public health, trauma relief, and educational resources to the most vulnerable women and children of East Oakland.

I was an educator for forty-two years. My career included: sixteen years of teaching, six years as an administrator, and twenty years as a college professor, and a public school advocate for fiftyfour years; and attended board meetings.

TOP PRIORITIES Transparency, Teacher Attrition, and Restoration must be addressed for parents to see the budget allocation and how we can make more equitable decisions for all students and reduce teacher attrition and student recidivism.

1) Safety at all school sites during and after the pandemic, and a healthy school environment for students, teachers and staff. 2) Financial accountability and transparency. 3) Improve reading proficiency in preschool and grades 1st through 3rd.

1) Decrease academic achievement gaps in OUSD and provide quality education. 2) Elevate student leadership and the community school model. Create parent, student, teacher committees. 3) Innovate policies, procedures and curriculums after implementing a districtwide evaluation.

My top three priorities will be academic excellence, equity, and fiscal management. This will bring all voices to the table, provide everyone the opportunity to be heard, while ensuring we have a financially sound board.

The school district needs: 1) Health and Safety Plan for emergencies; 2) increased student enrollment and revenue generation for fiscal solvency; 3) internal controls for best management practices on accountability, transparency and ethical oversight.

California Senate, District 9 Depending on where they live, some Oakland voters will have some of these offices on their ballot: California Assembly, District 15 California Assembly, District 18 Alameda County Superior Court, Seat 2 AC Transit Director, Ward 2 AC Transit Director, At-Large BART Director, District 7 Peralta Community College District Trustee, Area 1 You can learn more about the candidates for these offices at the Voter’s Edge California website (votersedge.org), which is produced by MapLight and the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund.

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CITY OF OAKLAND MEASURE QQ

CITY OF OAKLAND MEASURE RR

CITY OF OAKLAND MEASURE S1

Youth Vote (requires over 50% “yes” votes to pass)

Fine Limits (requires over 50% “yes” votes to pass)

Police Commission (requires over 50% “yes” votes to pass)

The way it is now: Oakland residents must be at least 18 years old to vote in elections.

The way it is now: The Oakland Municipal Code is a set of laws that are specific to Oakland. These laws are set by the Oakland City Council. People who break these laws can be fined. The Oakland City Charter sets a $1,000 maximum amount for these fines. The $1,000 limit has not been changed since 1968.

The way it is now: In 2016, Oakland voters passed Measure LL, which created the Oakland Police Commission. The Commission reviews the policies and practices of the Oakland Police Department and can recommend changes. The Commission’s investigative body, the Community Police Review Agency, investigates police misconduct and recommends discipline. Since 2016, questions have arisen about the Commission’s authority to independently hire and fire staff, particularly its Inspector General and legal advisors to the Commission and the Agency.

What Measure QQ would do: Measure QQ would enable the City Council to pass a law lowering the voting age to 16 for Oakland school board elections only. The age for voting for all other elected offices would remain 18. Financial effects: There would be no immediate financial effect. If the City Council passed a law to lower the voting age, it would cost between $7,000$10,000 in years when school board elections are held, according to current estimates. However, actual costs would depend upon the terms and implementation of the law passed by the City Council. People for Measure QQ say: • Measure QQ would allow the City Council to consider the benefits of allowing 16and 17-year-olds to vote in school board elections. • Lowering the voting age in school board elections would increase overall voter participation by helping young people set lifelong voting habits. People against Measure QQ say: • People younger than 18 have little experience managing the complicated budgets and financing of the sort that school board directors will be considering. • There are other ways to improve voter participation among young adults.

What Measure RR would do: Measure RR would remove the Charter language setting the $1,000 limit on these fines. The City Council would be able to set a new limit for these fines. The City Council would be required to hold a public hearing to set a new limit. Financial effects: There would be no direct financial effects. People for Measure RR say: • An updated fine limit is overdue since the $1,000 limit has not been changed since 1968. • Oakland needs to be able to set fines high enough to discourage people from breaking its laws such as those against illegal dumping. People against Measure RR say: • Measure RR would allow Oakland to set unlimited fines.

What Measure S1 would do: Measure S1 would resolve questions about the Commission’s authority. It would establish an Office of Inspector General. It would confirm the Commission’s authority to independently hire and fire the Inspector General and legal advisors to the Commission and the Agency. Financial effects: Measure S1 would authorize additional staffing, particularly the positions of legal advisors. The City Council is required to provide adequate funding for that staffing and the Commission’s operations in general. Those costs will appear in the City’s 2021-2023 budget. People for Measure S1 say: • Measure S1 will allow the Oakland Police Commission to staff positions that are critical to its effectiveness. People against Measure S1 say: • No argument has been filed in opposition to Measure S1.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OAKLAND BALLOT MEASURES Is your community group looking for unbiased information about Oakland ballot measures? Trained representatives of the League of Women Voters of Oakland are eager to speak to schools, churches, companies, neighborhood associations, and other groups. Presentations offer opposing points of view so that voters can make up their own minds. To inquire about a presentation, contact us at lwvvoterservice@gmail.com.

Election Day Is November 3

Your Vote Is Your Voice

Easy Voter Guide

November 3, 2020 Election

Page 11

OUSD MEASURE Y

COUNTY OF ALAMEDA MEASURE W

CALIFORNIA MEASURES

School Facilities Bond (requires over 55% “yes” votes to pass)

Alameda County Sales Tax (requires over 50% “yes” votes to pass)

In this election, all Oakland voters will have these state propositions on their ballot:

The way it is now: The Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) needs money to repair and improve school facilities. The district estimates these repairs and improvements would cost about $3.4 billion, according to its Facilities Master Plan.

The way it is now: Homelessness in Alameda County has doubled in the last four years. There are now about 8,000 homeless people in Alameda County.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, OUSD needs money to upgrade classrooms and technology to provide for social distancing and online instruction. What Measure Y would do: Measure Y would allow OUSD to sell up to $735 million in bonds. By selling bonds, OUSD would get up to $735 million to spend on school facilities projects over several years. Some projects would be for specific schools. Other projects, such as repairing bathrooms and electrical systems, are needed at schools throughout the district. The school board’s facilities committee would decide when each project happens. A citizens’ oversight committee would review projects before and after they are undertaken to make sure money is used the way it’s supposed to be. Measure Y funds would be audited every year. Financial effects: To repay the bonds, OUSD would increase Oakland property taxes. The bonds would not be sold all at once, so taxes would not increase all at once. When all the bonds have been sold, property taxes would go up by about $60 per $100,000 of a property’s assessed value. This means that if the county assessor says a property is worth $300,000, the property owner will pay $180 in additional tax for Measure Y. The tax increase for Measure Y bonds would last until all the bonds are repaid, around the year 2049. OUSD has sold other bonds in the past, and those bonds will be repaid between 2025 and 2041. As bonds are repaid, taxes end, and total taxes go down that year. People for Measure Y say: • Measure Y will fund major repairs to fix deteriorating classrooms, bathrooms, plumbing, faulty electrical systems, air conditioning, and leaky roofs. • Measure Y will upgrade technology for distance learning and revamp classrooms and facilities to keep students and staff socially distanced during the pandemic. People against Measure Y say: • Bonds are a bad way to pay for school repairs. • Taxes are already too high.

EB M U D

Several funding sources pay for services to help people avoid or overcome homelessness. One of these sources is the county’s general fund. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for services. The pandemic has also decreased the available funding to meet those needs. The sales tax in most of Alameda County, including Oakland, is 9.25%. What Measure W would do: Measure W would increase the sales tax in Alameda County by half a percent (0.5%) for the next 10 years. The tax would raise about $150 million every year. Money from the tax would go into the general fund, where it could be used for any lawful purpose. The Alameda County Board of Supervisors has said that it would use the money to help the homeless by providing housing, mental health services, job training, and a social safety net. A citizens’ oversight committee would review how the money gets spent.

Proposition 14 Stem Cell Research Proposition 15 Commercial Property Taxes Proposition 16 Public Agency Diversity Proposition 17 Voting Rights for Former Prisoners Proposition 18 Voting Rights for 17-Year-Olds Proposition 19 Property Tax Rules Proposition 20 Criminal Penalties and Parole Proposition 21 Local Governments and Rent Control Proposition 22 Rideshare/Delivery Drivers

Financial effects: The sales tax would increase to 9.75% in Oakland starting April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2031.

Proposition 23 Kidney Dialysis Clinics

Alameda County would have an additional $150 million every year to spend on essential county services.

Proposition 24 Consumer Privacy Laws

People for Measure W say: • Measure W will help people who are homeless as well as people who are at risk of becoming homeless, and expand shelter and street-based assistance. • The county must do all it can to reduce homelessness.

Proposition 25 Replacing Cash Bail

People against Measure W say: • Sales taxes put the biggest burden on individuals most affected by the current economic crisis. • The money from the sales tax could end up being spent on other things besides homelessness.

You can learn more about these propositions with the California Easy Voter Guide (easyvoterguide.org), which is produced by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and the California State Library.

The League of Women Voters of Oakland Page 12

November 3, 2020 Election

ABOUT THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS Founded in 1920, the League of Women Voters is a national nonprofit organization. It includes over 800 state, regional, and local Leagues. The League of Women Voters of Oakland is one of the largest of California’s local Leagues. The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidate for elective office. Our members: • Encourage informed and active participation in government; • Work to increase understanding of major public policy issues; and • Influence public policy through education and advocacy.

WHY SHOULD I JOIN? Through participation in League projects, you will: Contribute valuable service to the community; Gain knowledge and experience through the study and discussion of timely and important topics; Discover new interests, develop new skills, and learn about crucial issues in your community; and Make professional contacts and develop lasting friendships as you meet others in the League who share your interests.

JOIN TODAY League membership is open to women and men 16 years of age and older. Call our office at (510) 834-7640 or e-mail us at membership@lwvoakland.org and we will send you a membership form. Or, you can join online: my.lwv.org/california/oakland/join Check us out on Facebook: facebook.com/lwvoak And follow us on Twitter: @LWV_Oakland Visit lwvoakland.org for more information.

EB M U D

Making Democracy Work Easy Voter Guide

See next week’s issue for a rundown of national and state elections, including California propositions and races for the state Legislature, Congress and President. —EDITOR

disagree and contend Measure A provides residents with a bulwark against runaway development. Measure AA, also on the ballot this fall, asks voters to give additional powers to the newly formed city prosecutor’s office, while cleaning up gender-specific language in the Charter.

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Four years ago, Cheryl Davila surprised many in Berkeley politics by unseating longtime District 2 Councilmember Darryl Moore. Her campaign for re-election, though, has proven difficult this fall with the emergence of Terry Taplin, a Berkeley transportation commissioner who has the backing of several progressive groups, along with a near sweep of the city’s state and local elected officials. Taplin has repeatedly asserted during the campaign that District 2 struggles with quality-of-life issues. It’s a criticism Davila used against her predecessor four years ago. During a candidates forum last month, Davila said that the district is “getting the attention it needs” and much more than before her time on the council. She also boasts of passing more than 300 pieces of legislation since joining the City Council. Taplin believes he’s the most progressive candidate in the race, but Sen. Bernie Sanders endorsed Davila last week. Alex Sharenko, a solar-energy scientist, and Timothy Carter, a Berkeley small-business owner, are also in the ranked-choice voting race.

Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguín’s re-election will face three challengers next month. In typical Berkeley fashion, the candidates sound more intent on saving the world’s problems than its own. Arreguín has become a regional leader since his election four years ago. Arreguín touted his successes in approving and building affordable housing in Berkeley, while shoring up the city’s budget despite trying times this year. But Arreguín faces a highly aggressive challenge from activist Wayne Hsiung, who labels himself a political outsider. He has doggedly portrayed Arreguín as supporting policies to the detriment of the city’s homeless, allowing the militarization of the police department and for being too slow on climate change. Arreguín rejected each argument during a recent forum. Also in the race is Aidan Hill, a Cal political science student, and Naomi Pete, a retired senior. Three other incumbent council members are on the ballot. In District 3, Councilmember Ben Bartlett faces Deborah Matthews, a real estate broker, and Orlando Martinez, a construction manager. In District 5, Councilmember Sophie Hahn is challenged by Todd Andrew, a real estate salesperson, and Paul Darwin Picklesimer, a community center manager. Also, in District 6, Councilmember Susan Wengraf seeks a third term on the council against Richard Illgen, a social justice attorney. > 12 In addition, the Berkeley

City of Berkeley

MAY OR MAY NOT Jesse Arreguín’s re-election fight has mostly centered around the Berkeley mayor’s handling of homelessness and policing.

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< 11

Unified School District Board of Education will add two new members. School board members Judy Appel and Beatriz Leyva-Cutler are not running for re-election. The field of six candidates for the two open seats include Laura Babitt, a financial auditor; Jose Luis Bedolla, a nonprofit CEO; Michael Chang, an education law attorney; Norma J F Harrison, a community volunteer; Esfandiar Imani, a risk management consultant; and Ana Vasudeo, a school transportation planner. While most East Bay cities have avoided the pursuit of ballot measures for the November election because of the pandemic, Berkeley is bucking the trend with eight. Among them is Measure GG, which adds a 50-cent tax on ride-sharing companies for trips originating in Berkeley; Measure HH, which increases the city’s utility users’ tax to 10 percent; Measure JJ, an increase in councilmember’s pay; and Measure II, a charter amendment that creates an independent Berkeley Police Accountability Board and director of police accountability.

ALAMEDA COUNTY While all of these races have proven to be hard-fought affairs, none has come as close to being as personal as the contest for the open District 1 seat on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors left vacant by retiring Supervisor Scott Haggerty. “We need a lawmaker, not a lawbreaker,” Dublin Mayor David Haubert has often said of his opponent, Fremont Councilmember Vinnie Bacon, who has a history of campaign finance violations. For his part, Bacon has labeled Haubert a former Republican who opposes abortion and once addressed the Oath Keepers, a right-wing, antigovernment group. Why does this race matter to the rest of Alameda County? An open seat on the fivemember board is a rare occurrence and the winner of the election could sway the county on housing issues (e.g. Bacon’s rhetoric often has a NIMBY tone) and funding for the Alameda County Sheriff ’s Office (e.g. Haubert is likely to be more supportive of law enforcement). l

ARTS & CULTURE

Photo by Joe Martinez

ICONIC Jazz-legend Wynton Marsalis is scheduled to talk about jazz and racial justice for the ‘Call & Response’ series.

Zoom-Age Jazz

Living Jazz overcomes the pandemic blues with new ‘Call & Response’ series BY D. SCOT MILLER underlying all of our work, which is to propagate community based on accessibility and diversity.” Like many arts organizations, Living Jazz found themselves disconnected from their base and their mission due to the social-distancing mandates and closed venues. Even as they tried to cope with this “new normal,” other problems began to arise. “We started recognizing as time went on during the last six months that people were experiencing ‘Zoom fatigue’ and the experience people were having with live music,” Hoffman said. “It seemed to me, people were getting exhausted with online concerts and less enthusiastic about something they

“Call & Response” runs from Oct. 18 thru Dec. 6, Sundays at 4pm. Sliding scale; no one turned away due to lack of funds. www.livingjazz.org.

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or 36 years, Living Jazz has provided disadvantaged youth, adults and seniors free music programs in Title One Oakland public schools, offering immersive experiences that reignite interest in jazz music and musicians. All this changed when the pandemic struck. “At the beginning of Covid-19, along with the rest of the universe, we could no longer do the work that we were typically doing,” said Stacey Hoffman, founding executive director of Living Jazz. “All of a sudden we were relegated to the computer and we no longer were able to produce the programs that we had been used to. More importantly, we were not able to do the thing that’s

would have normally gone out to do many times a week. “So, we began this conversation about how to think outside of the box to stay relevant. We asked ourselves what we would want to do personally. What would be appealing to us if we didn’t even want to log on to another online concert? We began talking about our own personal desire to have the chance to listen to our jazz heroes, jazz masters and iconic musicians talk about how they personally are reflecting, dealing [with] and adjusting to what’s going on in the world. We felt that providing an opportunity for our community and the broader public to listen in on private, intimate conversations might be something that we could offer that would be different, relevant and bring people to the table.” Living Jazz came up with the Call & Response series as a way to mitigate the distance between its organization and the community. The series begins Oct. 18, with iconic jazz drummer Teri Lyne Carrington in conversation with legendary jazz drummer Allison Miller on gender justice, followed by Wynton

Marsalis speaking for social justice on Nov. 8, singer-songwriter Kurt Elling speaking on philosophy, spirituality and jazz on Nov. 22, and ending with jazz violinist Regina Carter on Dec. 6. “We wanted to create intimate moments of vulnerability there and give a chance for the audience to ask questions. I mean, how often do you get to ask Wynton Marsalis a question about what’s this time like for him and sheltering-in-place with his family?” said Lyz Luke, Living Jazz’s associate director. “Each of these different artists on the lineup brings such a unique perspective and who they are and what their causes are that they fight for, for example, Terri Lyne Carrington is a huge supporter of gender justice, and so for her to tackle that while getting her perspective on what it’s like for her during Covid times is pretty cool opportunity.” In a time when so many people seem inaccessible, it’s quite an achievement for Living Jazz to be able to gather such iconic jazz messengers for intimate conversations. “It’s a matter of family; musical relationships,” Hoffman said. “Once somebody works for us, they feel like they’re part of a family and a community. There’s so much goodwill that I think it’s been more about brainstorming and wondering what the connections are, how these individuals might fit into this kind of programming and what would make sense in terms of the types of conversations it could lead to.” Along with many other Covid-19 adapted programs, including one bringing live music to people waiting in line at a food bank in West Oakland, Living Jazz’s Call & Response shows that jazz is still open and growing, even as the venues are closed. “I’m really honored that these jazz legends are stepping in as support for our arts organization and that they truly care about music, education, and youth music education in particular,” Luke said. “They’re doing this as a way to help us get through to 2021 and beyond. “

FILM

Netflix

YIPPIES UNITE Sacha Baron Cohen, far right, stars as famous Youth International Party co-founder Abbie Hoffman in ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7,’ which debuts Friday on Netflix.

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Aaron Sorkin’s new film on the Chicago 7 is just as relevant today as it was in 1968 BY KELLY VANCE

ust in time for the 2020 Presidential Election, filmmaker Aaron Sorkin is here to remind us—in the measured outrage of his historical drama, The Trial of the Chicago 7—that such issues as police brutality, systemic racism, civil disobedience, the anti-war movement and the heavy hand of the judiciary have been a continual part of the American political predicament for at least the past 52 years. That is to say, we still haven’t moved on. Writer-director Sorkin (The Social Network, The West Wing) begins his nerve-jangling, pertinent overview of the violent street battles around Chicago’s 1968 Democratic

Convention just as the defendants go on trial in a federal courtroom in that city, one year later. They’re charged with violating the Civil Rights Act by crossing state lines with the intent to start a riot, but quite a bit more than that is on trial. The Vietnam war is at its height. Richard Nixon’s White House fears and loathes the anti-war coalition of radicals, hippies and Black Panthers. Any young person wearing long hair or the wrong political button is risking serious trouble. As if to reflect those contentious times, the movie’s cast of real-life characters is packed with vigorous personalities. Wildest and wooliest of the defendants is Abbie Hoffman

(played in overdrive by Sacha Baron Cohen), a civil-rights-protesterturned-political-prankster who uses absurdity and ridicule to make his point. Hoffman and his hairy colleague Jerry Rubin (Jeremy Strong), an activist who dropped out of UC Berkeley, are the people who invited everyone to Chicago in the first place, through their Youth International Party. The “Yippies” branded their week-long protest as the Festival of Life, and gathered together a band of fellow peaceniks for the big showdown, including co-defendants Tom Hayden (Eddie Redmayne) and Rennie Davis (Alex Sharp) from Students for a Democratic Society; veteran anti-war activist David Dellinger (John Carroll Lynch); academics John Froines and Lee Weiner (Danny Flaherty, Noah Robbins); and Oakland’s own Bobby Seale (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), chairman of the Black Panther Party. For the defense: movement attorneys William Kunstler (another hypnotic

performance by Mark Rylance) and Leonard Weinglass (Ben Shenkman). Arrayed against them are a phalanx of cops, National Guard troops, paid provocateurs, undercover FBI agents, an ambitious government prosecutor (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Nixon’s Attorney General, John Mitchell (John Doman), who’s anxious to teach the “shitty little fairies” a lesson. All that power is focused on the figure of Judge Julius Hoffman (no relation to Abbie), portrayed by Frank Langella as a big-shot bigot ready to hang them all. Says Abbie: “This is a political trial.” That is made abundantly clear when Sorkin cuts into the testimony with flashback scenes of peaceful demonstrators getting the shit beat out of them by nightstick-swinging Chicago fuzz. Alert audiences will immediately notice there are eight defendants in the cast list instead of seven. That’s because the argumentative Seale gets “severed” from the trial after being literally bound and gagged in the courtroom for talking out of turn. Cohen’s Abbie Hoffman aside, Abdul-Mateen gives the film’s single most meaningful performance as the unyielding Seale. He is advised in court by Chicago Black Panther leader Fred Hampton (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), who is assassinated in his bed by police while the trial is going on. Then, as now, Black people tend to be automatically seen as lawbreakers by the authorities. Especially revolutionary Black people. Sorkin’s drama, leavened by Abbie Hoffman’s sitcom-style repartee and bloody vintage newsreel footage, can serve as a useful reminder that the more things change, the more they remain the same. Ironies abound. Note Hayden’s kid-on-a-flagpole incident, shown in flashback, which plays directly into the hands of Nixon and the police. Also: Abbie on the stand, quoting the rebellious sayings of Jesus Christ. And Michael Keaton’s “gotcha!” cameo as former Attorney General Ramsey Clark, testifying: “The riots were started by the Chicago police.” Netflix’s new one—released Friday—is a fine conversation starter, but don’t let it interfere with your trip to the polling place. l

EPICURO

Courtesy of Sobre Mesa

PIVOT PUNCH Sobre Mesa opened to rave reviews but had to switch up its offerings when the coronavirus outbreak came to California.

Cocktail & Chill Sobre Mesa BY JEFFREY EDALATPOUR

I recently stopped by Sobre Mesa to meet with May German, one of the owners, and have a brief chat with Stamps when she wasn’t busy mixing drinks. May’s husband, Nelson German, who was out of town, is the chef and operations manager. They opened the nearby alaMar Kitchen & Bar together in 2014. Nine days before the Covid-19 shelter-in-place order in March, Sobre Mesa opened to what May described as an “overwhelming response” from the community. Even though they had to close the bar less than two weeks later, the Germans were buoyed by the initial reception. With lines forming

Sobre Mesa, open 5-10pm Thursday and 5-11pm Friday and Saturday, 1618 Franklin St., Oakland. 510.858.7544. sobremesaoak.com.

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obre Mesa’s namesake cocktail is an ode to the Dominican Republic’s national drink, the Mama Juana. Sadé Stamps, the bar manager at the recently reopened Afro-Latino cocktail lounge on Franklin Street in Oakland, says they took the base ingredients of the drink and deconstructed them. “Historically, the Mama Juana is a mixture of rum, herbs, bark, honey and wine,” she explains. The lounge made the drink its own by combining two types of rum, a “sobre mesa mamajuana mix,” lime and grapefruit. Stamps says it’s a “beautiful rum punch style of cocktail.”

out the door those first few nights, they felt the concept had struck a chord in the neighborhood. While they didn’t have any intention of closing permanently, the Germans hoped things would normalize by June. As the uncertain forecast persisted, the couple understood that they’d have to modify Sobre Mesa’s concept. “We knew we had to pivot but we had to be smart about it,” May says. AlaMar has remained open all year. Since it was already set up as a fast, casual restaurant, adjusting the menu for takeout and delivery didn’t require many substantial changes. But Sobre Mesa was designed to foster a social experience, as a gathering place for friends to get together and chat. May explained that the literal meaning of the Spanish phrase “sobre mesa,” or “on the table,” is an expression for what happens after dinner’s over, when everyone’s relaxed at the end of a meal.

“Sobre Mesa is Nelson’s brainchild and passion project,” May says. Born and raised in New York City, Chef Nelson opened their second business to highlight his cultural heritage as a Dominican American. May points out that the aesthetic experience of the interior is meant to reflect that as well. Inside, the walls are painted a tropical green that’s meant to impart “the feeling of being on vacation in Miami.” An enormous framed mural of overlapping palm fronds stares back at itself in the mirror above the bar. Each large frond is painted a phosphorescent color: teal, emerald, fuchsia. Real potted plants and an elongated leather booth contribute to the feeling of lushness in the lounge. On one wall, there’s a rotating “gallery” of local artists’ work. Currently, DeadEyes owns the space. And for the moment, Nelson has asked Michael Woods to create a popup menu based on Afro-Caribbean cuisine with Southern influences. Woods, who was born and raised in Oakland, is serving dishes like fried fish over slow cooked grits, a jerk chicken with brown rice and ham hock collard greens and a Swahilian succotash expressly made for vegans. Meanwhile, Chef Nelson is devising a menu that will work for indoor dining as well as for takeout and delivery. Alameda County is considering a plan to allow indoor dining in the coming weeks, and May says she believes the timing will work out well for Sobre Mesa. When I arrived downtown at the corner of Franklin and 17th streets, Sobre Mesa’s temporary parklet was protecting a few patrons from the winds that were kicking up at dusk. “Once we heard that outdoor dining was approved, we applied for a parklet with the city and were approved,” May says. After a construction delay, the new parklet—expected to comfortably accommodate up to 16 people— should be installed this week. “Outdoor dining is key to the success of the bar,” May says.

CHRONIC TOWN

FRESH FACES A new crop of influencers are promoting California’s legalized cannabis industry with questionable motives.

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Puff Pros

Rise in cannabis influencers leads to industry distrust BY DAN MITCHELL

he culture clash that has characterized the cannabis business since before California voters legalized adult use in 2016 shows few signs of abating, despite the pandemic and all the other struggles the industry faces. Many of the people who worked in the state’s pot industry in the years and decades before legalization worry about venture capitalists and “Big Weed” stomping into their world, pushing out smaller players and placing the market in a few, powerful

hands. So far, their worries have been largely justified. Lately, complaints have turned to another issue that might prove even more ruinous—from the perspective of “traditionalists,” at least—than industry concentration and unfair competition. I’m talking about insufferable industry hype. Right from the get-go, celebrities from Tommy Chong and Roseanne Barr to Martha Stewart have flocked to weed to enhance their “brands.” They put their names on products that

in some cases they might be wholly unfamiliar with. In other cases, like that of Jim Belushi, they are actively involved with running pot companies. But most show up for appearances at bacchanalian industry events—or at least, they did so before the pandemic hit. Now that nearly everything is happening online, people are starting to complain about “influencers.” Influencers have been all over social media for years. They are sometimes established stars, and sometimes just people who have built up big social-media followings, which they then leverage for profit by hawking everything from perfume to sneakers. This group is newer in the cannabis space, thanks largely to the fact that it’s difficult for many pot companies to advertise because of all the legal restrictions and regulations. They can’t run TV or radio ads in most cases. In many markets, even print and billboard ads are forbidden.

Putting influencers to work is one way to deal with that problem. But is it good for the industry? No, said David Rheins, executive director of the Marijuana Business Association. The rise of cannabis influencers is “a bullshit marketing thing that people pay into,” he recently told the Talking Hedge podcast. “I think payola is alive and well in social media.” That might be putting it mildly. Beyond influencers, a whole raft of publications—both online and in print—that purport to “cover” the cannabis industry are really just payto-play marketing organs. And, as is the case in many industries, there are lots of trade magazines that don’t directly take money from the sources of articles, but do run puff pieces in the hopes of getting those sources to buy ads or reward them for doing so. The journalism in these publications is far from hard-hitting, to say the least. “Influencers,” though, are often at least transparent (but sometimes not). They take money to pass along marketing messages. They are human billboards. And most people know it. The fact that they are so, well, influential might say more about our society than it does about the influencers themselves and their sponsors. Their followers on social media platforms can run into the hundreds of thousands, most of them presumably aware that they’re being marketed to and that the so-called “weedfluencers” they’re following aren’t passing along independent, objective advice. None of this means they’re lying, at least not in every instance. It’s just that it’s impossible to know whether a person is praising a product that deserves such praise. One of the more popular weedfluencers, Koala Puffs, told MG Retailer magazine that the most important thing to her is that “the content has to feel genuine. With authenticity, the audience you attract will be organic and loyal.” Whether it “feels” genuine is, of course, up to the audience, which in Koala Puffs’ case numbers nearly 700,000 on Instagram alone. “It depends on how you define ‘authentic,’” Rheins said. “One can confuse and conflate authenticity with popularity.” l

SAVAGE LOVE

People Think I'm Poly What do they mean by 'hang out'? BY DAN SAVAGE

’m in my early 30s and I’ve been struggling to make new friends. A lot of the people in my extended social circle are polyamorous/queer, and while I identify as queer, I’m in a monogamish relationship that isn’t poly. Lately I’ve been getting approached a lot by people who want a romantic/sexual connection. It seems like the only people who want me around want in my pants and they assume because I’m queer I’m also poly without asking directly. So people ask me if I want to “hang out” and I’m often unsure if they mean “hang out” in a date context or a friend context. I’ve ended up on dates I didn’t know I was going on! My biggest issue is that I don’t understand why people want to date/fuck me but don’t want to be my friend. I’m pretty average looking and I am not overly f lirty. So why is this happening? —NOODLING ON THIS PROBLEM OVER LATTES, YEAH? There’s nothing stopping you from asking—directly—for a little clarity: “Hang out? I’d love to! But do you mean ‘hang out’ as in ‘spend time together as friends’ or ‘hang out’ as in ‘let’s-go-ona-date’? I ask because I’ve wound up on a couple of dates that I didn’t know were dates and it was awkward.” As for why this is happening … well, either the poly people in your social circle assume—incorrectly—that all queer people are poly, or you’re much more attractive than you’re giving yourself credit for, NOTPOLY. Or some combo of both.

—WRITING WAS ENOUGH I’m happy it helped just to write the letter, WWE, and I read your letter and I agree: you’re doing the right thing for yourself and your husband. Best of luck to you both. mail@savagelove.net. Follow Dan on Twitter @FakeDanSavage. www.savagelovecast.com

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sent you a letter yesterday. Today I told my husband I want a divorce. So I didn’t need any advice from you after all. Once I laid it out in my letter to you and thought about the last three years and the amount of struggling with this I have gone through, I realized that it was SO. DAMN. OBVIOUS. There was no question. There was only an answer. Divorce. … Thank you. Even though you did not need to respond, just being there to write to helped.

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ROB BREZSNY FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

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Week of October 14

ARIES (March 21-April 19):

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

Would you be willing to meditate on how you might become more skilled in the arts of intimacy? Would you consider reading books and websites that offer guidance about strategies for being the best partner and ally you can be? Are you receptive to becoming more devoted to practicing empathy and deep listening? I’m not saying you’re deficient in these matters, nor am I implying that you need to improve your mastery of them any more than the rest of us. I simply want you to know that now is an especially favorable time for you to make progress.

“The hardest thing you will ever do is trust yourself,” says Libran journalist Barbara Walters. Really? I don’t think so. In my experience, the hardest thing to do is to consistently treat ourselves with the loving care we need to be mentally and physically healthy. But I do acknowledge that trusting ourselves is also an iffy task for many of us. And yet that’s often because we don’t habitually give ourselves the loving care we need to be healthy. How can we trust ourselves if we don’t put in the work necessary to ensure our vitality? But here’s the good news, Libra: In the coming weeks, you’re likely to be extra motivated and intuitively astute whenever you improve the way you nurture yourself.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

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Entre chien et loup is a French idiom that literally means “between dog and wolf.” It’s used to describe twilight or dusk, when the light is faint and it’s tough to distinguish between a dog and a wolf. But it may also suggest a situation that is a blend of the familiar and the unknown, or even a moment when what’s ordinary and routine is becoming unruly or wild. Entre chien et loup suggests an intermediary state that’s unpredictable or beyond our ability to define. In accordance with astrological omens, I propose you regard it as one of your main themes for now. Don’t fight it; enjoy it! Thrive on it!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): For 34 years, the beloved American TV personality Mr. Rogers did a show for children. He’s now widely acknowledged as having been a powerful teacher of goodness and morality. Here’s a fun fact: His actual middle name was “McFeely.” I propose that you use that as a nickname for yourself. If McFeely doesn’t quite appeal to you, maybe try “Feel Maestro” or “Emotion Adept” or “Sensitivity Genius.” Doing so might help inspire you to fulfill your astrological assignment in the coming weeks, which is to allow yourself to experience more deep feelings than usual—and thereby enhance your heart intelligence. That’s crucial! In the coming weeks, your head intelligence needs your heart intelligence to be working at peak capacity.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): A blogger named Dr.LoveLlama writes, “You may think I am walking around the house with a blanket around my shoulders because I am cold, but in fact the ‘blanket’ is my cloak and I am on a fantasy adventure.” I approve of such behavior during our ongoing struggles with Covid19, and I especially recommend it to you in the coming days. You’ll be wise to supercharge your imagination, giving it permission to dream up heroic adventures and epic exploits that you may or may not actually undertake someday. It’s time to become braver and more playful in the inner realms.

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According to author Rev. Dr. Marilyn Sewell, “The body has its own way of knowing, a knowing that has little to do with logic, and much to do with truth.” I recommend that you meditate on that perspective. Make it your keynote. Your physical organism always has wisdom to impart, and you can always benefit from tuning in to it—and that’s especially important for you right now. So let me ask you: How much skill do you have in listening to what your body tells you? How receptive are you to its unique and sometimes subtle forms of expression? I hope you’ll enhance your ability to commune with it during the next four weeks.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In his fictional memoir Running in the Family, Virgo author Michael Ondaatje returns to Sri Lanka, the land where he spent his childhood, after many years away. At one point he enthuses that he would sometimes wake up in the morning and “just smell things for the whole day.” I’d love for you to try a similar experiment, Virgo: Treat yourself to a festival of aromas. Give yourself freely to consorting with the sensual joy of the world’s many scents. Does that sound frivolous? I don’t think it is. I believe it would have a deeply calming and grounding effect on you. It would anchor you more thoroughly in the here and now of your actual life, and inspire you to shed any fantasies that you should be different from who you are.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “You can’t learn anything when you’re trying to look like the smartest person in the room,” writes author Barbara Kingsolver. That’s a useful message for you right now. Why? Because you will soon be exposed to teachings that could change your life for the better. And if you hope to be fully available for those teachings, you must be extra receptive and curious and open-minded—which means you shouldn’t try to seem like you already know everything you need to know.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I’ve decided not to use quotes by famous writers who’ve endorsed bigoted ideas. In the future, my horoscopes won’t mention the work of T. S. Eliot, Roald Dahl, V. S. Naipaul, Edith Wharton, Kingsley Amis, H. P. Lovecraft, Flannery O’Connor, Rudyard Kipling and Louis-Ferdinand Celine. I’m sorry to see them go, because I’ve learned a lot from some of them. And I understand that many were reflecting attitudes that were widespread in their era and milieu. But as I’ve deepened my commitment to fighting prejudice, I’ve come to the conclusion that I personally don’t want to engage with past perpetrators. Now, in accordance with current astrological omens, I invite you to take an inventory of your own relationship with bigoted influences—and consider making some shifts in your behavior. (More info: tinyurl.com/BigotedAuthors1 and tinyurl.com/BigotedAuthors2)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn chemist Tu Youyou doesn’t have a medical degree or PhD. Yet she discovered a treatment for malaria that has saved millions of lives. The drug was derived from an ancient herbal medicine that she spent years tracking down. In part because of her lack of credentials, she remained virtually unsung from the time she helped come up with the cure in 1977 until she won a Nobel Prize in 2015. What’s most unsung about your accomplishments, Capricorn? There’s a much better chance than usual that it will finally be appreciated in the coming months.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Luck is what happens to you when fate gets tired of waiting,” says author Gregory David Roberts. If that’s true, I expect that a surge of luck will flow your way soon. According to my astrological analysis, fate has grown impatient waiting for you to take the actions that would launch your life story’s next chapter. Hopefully, a series of propitious flukes will precipitate the postponed but necessary transformations. My advice? Don’t question the unexpected perks. Don’t get in their way. Allow them to work their magic.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Have you formulated wily plans and crafty maneuvers to help you navigate through the labyrinthine tests and trials up ahead? I hope so. If you hope to solve the dicey riddles and elude the deceptive temptations, you’ll need to use one of your best old tricks—and come up with a new trick, as well. But please keep this important caveat in mind: To succeed, you won’t necessarily have to break the rules. It may be sufficient merely to make the rules more supple and flexible.

Homework: What belief would you be willing to change your mind about if offered convincing counter-evidence? FreeWillAstrology.com

Easy Voter Guide

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Oakland Municipal Election November 3, 2020

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT - File No: 573071

The following individual(s) are doing business: IT’S A BREEZE MOVING & ESTATE LIQUIDATION: 3830 HUNTINGTON STREET, OAKLAND, CA 94619, PO BOX 20195 PIEDMONT, CA 94620 is hereby registered by the following owner(s): BREEZE CARLILE, 3830 HUNTINGTON STREET, OAKLAND, CA 94619. This business is being conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL. Registrant will begin transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed herein. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of ALAMEDA COUNTY on SEPTEMBER 17, 2020. (Publication Dates: October 14, 21, 28, November 4 of 2020).

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF BRIAN THOMAS MOORE CASE NO. RP20074425

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To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: BRIAN THOMAS MOORE. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by BRETT E. MOORE in the Superior Court of California, County of ALAMEDA. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that BRETT E. MOORE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on November 3, 2020 at 2:00 P.M in Dept. 201, 2120 MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. WAY, BERKELEY, CA 94704, BERKELY COURTHOUSE.

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YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: MICHAEL L. MAGASINN, ESQ. 2945 TOWNSGATE ROAD, SUITE 200 WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361 Telephone: 310-979-3272 (Publication Dates October, 14, 21, 28 of 2020)

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IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

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