Good morning, Oakland.

The Oakland Public Library launches a Meet the Author series (featuring Talia Basma and Darwin BondGraham) this Thursday, Jan.

8 at 6 p.m. at 125 14th St, and the Black Panther Museum closes its inaugural exhibit with a reception this Saturday, Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. at 1427 Broadway.

Mosswood Meltdown returns this summer with an opening pre-party featuring Pavement, Wednesday and Vivian Girls on July 17 at Mosswood Park — tickets are $99 and the event is hosted by filmmaker John Waters.

The main festival runs July 18–19 with more performers announced later.

BART and SF Sketchfest will offer Oakland’s first moving train stand-up comedy show on Jan.

24 at 12th Street/Oakland City Center Station (ticket sales began on Jan. 6) as four comedians each perform a 15-minute set via silent disco-style headphones.

Many Bay Area restaurants, cafes and bars display vinyl records as decor but few spin them; Oakland’s Bar Shiru plays LPs on special days + invites diners to enjoy a true vinyl listening experience.

Volunteers at Richmond’s Dotson Family Marsh completed a rain-affected Christmas Bird Count on Jan.

3, recording 178 species that included rare sightings amid ongoing habitat restoration. The event showed how local efforts help support diverse wildlife.

State Sen. Scott Wiener proposed a bill Tuesday that would let renters install portable solar panels (already tested by a Bay Area nonprofit) without interconnection fees, a move that could save households up to $500 annually.

More than 20 new California workplace laws take effect to change bonus pay policies, job ad disclosures, and worker rights notifications for Oakland employers and staff.

Businesses must meet deadlines + provide written notices by Feb. 1 and update emergency contact options by March 30, legal experts say.

MAMA Oakland’s $14 meatball sub is a takeout-only dish ordered online and picked up from the restaurant just steps from Bay Grape Wine Bar (which is closed on Mondays), where it can be enjoyed with wine.

It is ready in 15–20 minutes at 376 Grand Ave.

During Monday night's game, the Warriors lost 103-102 to the Clippers after coach Steve Kerr was ejected when a no call on an apparent goaltending halted a late rally — the decision proved critical in a nail-biting finish.

At Bellarmine during the inaugural Bay Area Challenge, EBAL teams outscored opponents in six of eight games — boosting regional rankings, with Riordan reaching the top after beating Monte Vista-Danville and Livermore snapping a 13-year winless streak.

Ranzel Merritt Live Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Yoshi's — Tickets available — Experience the fusion of hip hop, jazz, and funk with Ranzel Merritt's innovative sound.

January Breakaway Blues

7-11:30 p.m. — Lake Merritt Dance at Veterans Memorial Building — $15 entry or $20 for dance + classes — Enjoy a fun evening of blues dancing with lessons and DJ'd music.

Tower Of Power Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Yoshi's — Ticket prices vary — Experience 55 years of legendary funk and soul with Tower of Power.

Knitting with Friends

12-2 p.m. — im Moment Kaffee — Free entry — Connect with fellow yarn enthusiasts in a warm, supportive community for all knitting levels.

Five Course Wine Pairing Dinner

5:30-9 p.m. — The Berkeley Boathouse — $99 per person — Delight in a gourmet five-course meal paired with exquisite wines.

Tower Of Power Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Yoshi's — Ticketed event — Experience 55 years of soul and funk music with the legendary Tower of Power.

Boss Guitars Master Class Series: Jubu Smith

2-4 p.m. — The Sound Room — Tickets available — Learn from legendary guitarist Jubu Smith and enhance your musical skills in this dynamic masterclass.

LIFE OF THE PARTY! - Oakland First Friday

10 PM – 1 AM — Crybaby — Free entry for first 25 with RSVP — Experience lit vibes and curated sets from local DJs at Oakland's First Friday celebration.