Good morning, Oakland.

Yesterday, Fruitvale station on the Berryessa Line closed after a major medical emergency — officials called a coroner while BART trains bypassed the station and AC Transit buses provided service between Coliseum and Lake Merritt.

Oakland’s Black Arts Movement and Business District was named a California Cultural District this month.

The state designation brings $10,000 and help with marketing and development — support for local Black artists and businesses along the 14th Street corridor.

Oakland offers a dozen New Year’s Eve events from live concerts to children’s festivals at venues including FLUID510, Mad Oak & Oakland School for The Arts, letting residents choose parties that suit every age and interest.

Ticket prices and times vary, so check details ahead.

On Dec. 10, Oakland officials reported that design changes on International Boulevard—such as installing plastic bollards from summer 2024—reduced pedestrian deaths from seven in 2023 to zero so far in 2025.

Replacement work for damaged posts is ongoing.

The Chronicle launched a searchable database to view inspection reports for 16,000 California health care facilities.

The tool (which compiles nearly 40,000 reports from Jan. 2022 to Nov. 2025) will be updated twice a year to help readers see facility performance clearly.

Local treat reviews list favorite sweets from Oakland, such as Daytrip Counter’s large black sesame coconut cookie and Tarts de Feybesse’s mango pastry with prices from $3—$18.

The guide helps residents choose quick treats at area bakeries and markets.

Alvon Johnson Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — Yoshi's — Tickets required — Experience a night of versatile music with the 'King of the Blues' performing jazz and rock classics.

General Business Networking Event

6-8 p.m. — Sobre Mesa — Limited tickets — Connect with professionals across diverse industries at this multi-vertical networking opportunity.

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.