Good morning, Oakland.

Caltrans released survey results on I-980 today that show most survey respondents favor removing the freeway to create safe roads, housing, and parks.

Evoak! will host a block party at Preservation Park on Saturday, Oct. 25—where residents will share oral histories and use hands-on modeling to discuss Vision 980 and repair past harms.

Starter Bakery will hold its grand opening at 1183 Solano Ave in Albany on Oct.

25—two days from today—after a year-long renovation of an old dentist’s office, offering sugar-coated treats including baseball-sized beignets and other baked goods. New restaurant spots have also opened across the East Bay with Ashby Eatery in Berkeley, Comeback Cafe in Emeryville, Hella Bees in Oakland, Impression of Lanzhou in Berkeley, and Tommy’s Burger Co. in Richmond launching recently.

Bay Area theaters tested artificial intelligence for design and writing tasks as budget cuts pushed them to try new methods—some artists saw it as a cost-saving tool while others argued it weakened the human touch—raising questions about the future of live performance.

Auto parts shops in the Bay Area reported a nearly $600 rise in catalytic converter prices for a Toyota Prius over ten months—experts say tariffs and global supply issues may force higher charges for drivers.

Oakland Unified School District reported a rise in enrollment to 34,135 students—673 above projections—on census day for the 2025-2026 school year after investing $5 million to market its schools over five years.

District officials remain cautious as they work to maintain the gains amid budget pressures and limited transitional kindergarten spots.

Gov. Newsom deployed California National Guard troops to staff food banks amid a federal shutdown that has delayed food benefits and may cause November SNAP payments to be missed, and he stressed the troops will not be used for police work—local food bank leaders report rising demand.

Today, over 100 federal immigration agents are arriving at Coast Guard Base Alameda as part of a federal operation—Alameda police will not participate and residents are advised to avoid direct contact with ICE officers unless a judge-signed warrant is provided—and community hotlines offer legal assistance.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held yesterday at the future site for the Young People’s Wellness Center at 86th Ave + International Boulevard in East Oakland.

Roots Community Health said the center will open in 2026 to offer health care, safe social spaces and workforce training to young people ages 13 to 26.

Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga finished his season opener on Oct.

21 with 17 points, nine rebounds and six assists—he signed a two-year deal after summer contract talks and benefited from veteran Jimmy Butler's mentorship to help secure a 119-109 win over the Lakers.

Oakland Soul Arts & Music Festival

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Henry J. Kaiser Center for the Arts — $— Celebrate the vibrant arts and music scene of the Bay Area at this engaging festival.

Oakland Hills Trail Run

3:15 a.m. — Lake Merritt Sail Boat House — Registration required — Experience the scenic beauty of Oakland's hidden redwood forest in a trail running event.

Life Drawing Session

5:45-9 p.m. — Faultline Gallery — $20 online, $25 at the door — Experience a creative evening with short poses and a live model.

Luna Mexicana Celebration

2:30-4 p.m. — Paramount Theatre Oakland — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with vibrant dance, music, and community spirit.

Milonga Rubia Dance Event

7-11 p.m. — Just Dance Ballroom — $20 entry — Enjoy an evening of Argentine tango with a different DJ each time in a welcoming atmosphere.

Life Drawing Session at Faultline Gallery

12-3 p.m. — Faultline Gallery — $20 online, $25 at the door — Experience the creative challenge of capturing the human form in a supportive environment.

Leisure - Welcome to the Mood Tour

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Fox Theater — Win tickets — Enjoy a night with electronic music from New Zealand's Leisure.

Jagged Edge Cuffing Season Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Calvin Simmons Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Relive your youth with 90s R&B legends Jagged Edge and special guests Eric Bellinger and Lloyd this cuffing season.

Life Drawing Session at Faultline Gallery

6-9 p.m. — Faultline Gallery — $20 online / $25 at the door — Practice your drawing skills from a live model in a creative atmosphere.

Free Your Mind: An Evening for Youth ALIVE!

7-10 p.m. — Chabot Space & Science Center — $65 General Admission, $100 VIP — Immerse in creativity and community while supporting Youth ALIVE!'s impact in Oakland.