Good morning, Oakland.

Ulta Beauty and Target have agreed to end the mini-Ulta partnership in 13 Bay Area stores—closures will occur next year when the current agreement expires in August.

Customers with linked rewards accounts will continue to earn rewards until the stores close.

Teacher Javier Armas encouraged two Mam students in Oakland to document their cultural heritage by creating a book — Mam History: Oakland Notes on the History of the Mayan-Mam Language.

They spent months researching and interviewing elders to capture their community's stories and traditions.

California's unemployment rate rose to 5.5% in July, marking the highest level among U.S. states as tech jobs weakened—18,200 more people sought work than in June.

Former head Michael Bernick said the tech job market has been brutal for those starting out.

Advocates rallied around Oakland HeadStart as federal officials threatened to cut funding and bar undocumented families while enrollment held steady; community groups held town hall meetings and urged city leaders to defend the program—officials are now waiting for final federal guidance.

Valley fever cases have risen sharply across California with over 6,700 provisional cases reported in 2025 so far.

Monterey County experienced a 260% increase with 348 cases while Contra Costa County now leads Bay Area counts with more than 100 infections—public health officials advise residents to take precautions in dusty conditions.

Flavor Brigade in Dimond offers 2nd Street, an authentic Philly-style frozen treat with layers of Italian ice and custard on Fruitvale Ave. The treat, available in flavors like cherry and Tiger’s Blood, costs $7.25 for a small serving—bringing a taste of Philadelphia to local residents.

Concerts By The Lake 2025

6-8 p.m. — Pleasant Hill City Hall — Cash/CC accepted — Enjoy food, drinks, and live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Life Drawing Session at Faultline Gallery

5:45-9 p.m. — Faultline Gallery — $20 online, $25 at the door — Engage your creativity with a life drawing session featuring a live model.

AI Tips for Genealogy Research

10:30-10:45 a.m. — FamilySearch center — Free entry — Explore the latest AI tips to enhance your genealogy research in a brief chat.

Mahjong Rules Book Talk and Game Play

6-8:30 p.m. — Chinese Historical Society of America Museum — $20-40 — Explore mahjong's history and gameplay with author Nicole Wong while enjoying refreshments and a book signing.

Cyrus Chestnut Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Piedmont Piano Company — Ticket prices vary — Experience the masterful jazz of Cyrus Chestnut as he showcases his technical skill and soulful style.

Kirk Whalum Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Yoshi's — Ticket prices vary — Experience the smooth sounds of Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum as he brings his jazzy vibes to Oakland.

Life Drawing Session

5:45-9 p.m. — Faultline Gallery — $20 online, $25 at the door — Explore your artistic side with dynamic life drawing sessions featuring a live model.

Let’s Talk FamilySearch: A Group Exploration

11 AM — Oakland FamilySearch Center — Free entry — Discuss navigating FamilySearch and share tips in a community setting.

AI Tips for Genealogy Research

10:30-10:45 a.m. — FamilySearch center — Free entry — Discover the latest AI tips for enhancing your genealogy research in this informative session.

Happy Hour Cruise at Jack London Square

8-10 p.m. — Jack London Square — $20 — Unwind with unbeatable drink specials and dance aboard a scenic cruise of the San Francisco Bay.