February 2024 edition • Issue No. 23
The newsletter is a resource for connecting neighbors, building community, and sharing neighborhood news and updates from the Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council (MPNC)
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Hello neighbors!
Welcome to the first Maxwell Park newsletter of 2024. As of the new year, we've moved from publishing the newsletter bi-monthly in the odd months to the even months (February, April, etc.) In the odd months, the MPNC will send an email, separate from this newsletter, with timely neighborhood updates. As always, if there's something you'd like to see in the newsletter or would like to contribute, please reach out.
The new year – especially these first few days of February – has packed quite a punch of windy and wet weather! According to Weather Underground, more than two inches of rain has fallen in Oakland in the first week of February. In the midst of a blustery January day, the beautiful rainbow below was a pleasant sight in the sky above Maxwell Park.
Here are a few upcoming events that we'll be checking out, including the first couple of events right here in Maxwell Park this weekend:
- MLA Eco Bash: Saturday, February 10. Melrose Leadership Academy on Fleming Ave. is holding "A Day of Remaking and Shopping." More details below and on Facebook.
- High Street Coalition Clean-Up: Saturday, February 10, 8:30 a.m., meet at Walgreens on High Street. Learn more.
- Personal Emergency Preparedness Training: Thursday, February 15, 6-7:30 p.m., Iglesia Bautisa Church on Virginia Ave. Learn more and register.
- Laurel Lunar New Year Celebration & Lion Dance Procession: Saturday, February 17, along MacArthur Boulevard in the Laurel. Learn more.
- Lunar New Year Parade: Sunday, February 18 in Oakland Chinatown. Learn more. Wishing us all good luck in the Year of the Dragon!
- Oakland Restaurant Week: March 14-24. Featuring neighborhood gems and MICHELIN rated restaurants throughout Oakland. Details to be announced soon.
While we prefer to keep this newsletter upbeat, we want to share a couple quick and easy personal safety tips: When you're in your vehicle or stepping out of it for a moment, such as to fill your gas tank, be sure to lock the vehicle door and keep purses, briefcases, etc. out of sight off the seats. When coming home after dark, watch for any trailing cars. Drive around the block if needed before stopping at your home, and get out of your car quickly. Stay safe, neighbors.
Thanks for reading! In this issue:
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Photo by Barbara Hartford
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Save the date: Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council community meeting
Wednesday, March 13, 7-8:30 p.m. on Zoom
Board elections will be held. Registration details and a final agenda will be included in the MPNC updates email in early March and posted at www.maxwellparknc.org.
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MLA Eco Bash: February 10
Join Melrose Leadership Academy at its Eco Bash, a day of remaking and free shopping on Saturday, February 10, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Maxwell Campus, 4730 Fleming Avenue. Free shop from a curated collection of awesome clothes, books, toys, and household goods. This year MLA is leveling up the event by adding a repair station, upcycling activities, and a fashion show.
Donations are being accepted on Friday, February 9, 5-7 p.m. at the Maxwell Campus Cafeteria (no day-of donations). Help stock the free-store with gently used clothes, toys, books and household goods; items that you’d be willing to “buy” (no trash or miscellaneous plastic).
For more information, contact: Judith Soto judithdsoto@gmail.com
Follow MLA on Facebook and Instagram.
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Public Safety Meeting
SAVE THE DATE: The MPNC is holding an in-person Public Safety meeting on Sunday, February 18 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Melrose Leadership Academy (4730 Fleming Ave.) RSVP today.
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MPNC Board Elections
As we continue to foster a sense of community and collaboration, the Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council (MPNC) is excited to announce upcoming board elections on Wednesday, March 13. This is a fantastic opportunity for passionate individuals like you to actively contribute to the growth and well-being of our neighborhood.
Positions up for Election
- Vice Chair: Assist the Chair in leading meetings, represent the Council when necessary, and contribute to overall decision-making.
- Membership Secretary: Maintain accurate records of membership, manage communications, and support outreach efforts to engage more neighbors.
- Member at-Large (2 positions): Actively participate in meetings, provide input on community matters, and support various initiatives.
If you've ever considered playing a more active role in our community, now is the time! Board members serve for two years. Serving on the Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council Board is an enriching experience that allows you to make a meaningful impact on the issues that matter most to our community.
What is the MPNC?
The MPNC is a volunteer based organization that serves as a direct link between the community and local government. We provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns, share ideas, and actively participate in decision-making processes that shape the neighborhood's future. The MPNC plays a vital role in ensuring that our community thrives by addressing local issues and fostering a sense of unity and community among Maxwell Park residents.
Expectations of Board Members
Board members are essential in driving positive change within our community. As a member of the MPNC Board, you will:
- Represent the Community: Act as a voice for your neighbors and bring their concerns and ideas to the forefront of discussions.
- Collaborate with Local Authorities: Work closely with city officials to address issues affecting Maxwell Park and advocate for the community's needs.
- Organize Community Events: Help plan and execute events that bring neighbors together, fostering a sense of community pride and unity.
- Attend Regular Meetings: Actively participate in board meetings to stay informed about local developments, discuss community matters, and make informed decisions.
Interested in Running?
If you are passionate about Maxwell Park and interested in contributing to its growth and well-being, we encourage you to consider running for a board position. This is your chance to be a voice for the community and actively shape the neighborhood's future.
For those interested or with questions about the roles and responsibilities, please reach out to James Owen (james.t.owen@gmail.com) and/or José Dorado (joseadorado48@gmail.com). James and José are more than happy to provide additional information and guide you through the process.
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Safer Blocks: Information Session
Join the Maxwell Park Neighborhood Council for a virtual information session on the Neighborhood Watch program and community crime prevention:
Tuesday, February 27
6:30-7:30 p.m. on Zoom (Click here to register)
Learn about Neighborhood Watch benefits, community safety impact, and ways to get involved from Oakland’s Neighborhood Services representatives. Hear practical tips and inspiration from a panel of Maxwell Park block captains who've successfully organized their own programs.
If Neighborhood Watch isn't your thing, that's okay. Community safety comes in various forms, and block-by-block organizing isn't mandatory. Join us to explore diverse safety and block organization strategies that suit your comfort and preferences.
Whether you're new to Neighborhood Watch or considering a program on your block, this event is for you. Connect with neighbors, get insights, and contribute to a safer Maxwell Park. For event inquiries, contact James Owen at maxwellparknc@gmail.com. Let's build a safer, connected community.
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Communitē Table is Community
by Vikki Richardson, Newsletter Reporter
In the heart of the Laurel lies a culinary gem that embodies the essence of community, comfort, and culinary excellence: Communitē Table restaurant at 4171 MacArthur Blvd. Owned and operated by Michele LeProhn, this establishment has been a place of warmth and hospitality for almost a decade, serving up healthy homestyle cooking with a side of heartfelt camaraderie.
Michele's restaurant journey began making frozen soups out of the Food Mill in 2013. She then started a monthly pop up hosted by Café 3016. In 2014, she took the next step and opened Communitē Table. Drawing upon her East Bay roots and over 30 years of residency in the Laurel, Michele saw an opportunity to bring affordable, California-inspired cuisine to a community she deeply cherished. She wanted to ensure that everyone, regardless of their budget, could enjoy a meal at Communitē Table.
Open throughout the week from 12-7 p.m., Communitē Table offers a welcoming environment where friends and families can gather and enjoy wholesome meals together. Michele's commitment to accessibility is reflected in her menu, which features everything from hearty classics like chicken pot pie to vegan options like kale salad and vegan chili over brown rice. Gluten-free options are available. Customers can also order Martin's Farm to Table CSA boxes ensuring that fresh, locally sourced ingredients are always within reach.
The challenges of the past few years have highlighted the fragility of small, independent restaurants like Communitē Table. While takeout orders have been a lifeline to small business, they cannot sustain a neighborhood restaurant in Oakland. We as a neighborhood will decide what businesses remain in the Laurel; the support of the community is more important than ever. Whether it's enjoying a meal at Communitē Table, ordering a Community Supported Agriculture box, or simply spreading the word, every action contributes to the resilience and vitality of the Laurel’s small businesses.
So next time you find yourself on MacArthur Boulevard, I invite you to step into Communitē Table. Experience the warmth of a home-cooked meal, the joy of community connection, and the satisfaction of knowing that you're supporting a local treasure.
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Photos by Barbara Hartford
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ECO Tip: Winter Planting
from our neighborhood environmentalist
It is so awesome to see our plants come back to life as our winter earth rehydrates. This is a great time for planting in the yard so roots have time to establish themselves before our dry season begins.
Our coming dry season may be warmer and drier because 2023 set records worldwide.
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-67861954
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Alex the Cat
Submitted by Lis and Mason McKinley, Madera Avenue
We are longtime residents of Maxwell Park. We moved here in 2003. A couple of years later we adopted a cat, Alex, who became quite well-known amongst our neighbors, especially those with dogs. I am writing to let Maxwell Park readers know that Alex crossed the "Rainbow Bridge" on December 27.
Alex was known in many capacities – The "Mayor" of Madera Avenue, the "Dog Whisperer," "Mighty hunter" and all-around good friend to many – near and far. Alex made himself present in the homes of many of our neighbors and we would often hear these stories of how he would come and pay them a visit. On several occasions, when we were out and about shopping or eating, people would ask us, "are you Alex's parents?".
It was common for a group of people to be in front of our house with Alex holding court. They would take their walks by our house just to see him. And he was there to greet them. Countless times we would be in the house and hear someone calling “Allleeeex!” They brought their dogs because Alex got along well with them and was good friends with dozens of them.
Alex's reputation for being loving, kind and curious to all who encountered him was the stuff of Maxwell Park lore.
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Photos by Lis and Mason McKinley
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Northeastern University Oakland News
Submitted by Renée Jadushlever, Vice President of Campus Administration and Strategic Initiatives
Northeastern University Oakland Opportunity Scholarship
Northeastern University has a long-standing commitment to supporting students in the local communities where our campuses are located. Through community-based programs, admission, and financial aid initiatives, the university creates pathways to college and degree completion—a priority for Northeastern.
Northeastern University will waive the application fee for all applicants currently attending Oakland Unified School District High Schools. High school seniors graduating from an Oakland Unified School District High School and Pell Eligible City of Oakland residents are eligible for Northeastern’s Oakland Opportunity Scholarship. Students must apply and be admitted as first-year (freshman) students to Northeastern’s undergraduate day program.
Each high school may nominate up to two candidates for the award. Additional candidates may also be identified through Northeastern’s general application evaluation process. Applicants must have extensive engagement in their local school communities and a commitment to service within the city.
Northeastern will award up to 10 Full Tuition, Room and Board Scholarships Annually. For more information, contact: oaklandadmissions@northeastern.edu.
Look Up to the Sky, Hung Liu's Legacy of Mentoring Women Artists
Mills College Art Museum
January 20-March 24, 2024
An exceptionally gifted educator, Hung Liu (1948-2021) was a vibrant and vital part of the artist community in the Bay Area and beyond. (Her work is on display at the Oakland Airport) Just before her untimely death in 2021, Liu began conversations with MCAM to organize an exhibition showcasing the work of an amazing group of women artists that she taught and mentored during her tenure as a professor in the Mills College Art Department. Look Up to the Sky, Hung Liu's Legacy of Mentoring Women Artists, is the realization of that idea and features the work of Hung Liu, alongside Rosana Castrillo Diaz, Nicole Fein, Danielle Lawrence, Monica Lundy, Nancy Mintz, Sandra Ono, Susan Preston, Mel Prest, Rachelle Reichert, Yoshiko Shimano, Gina Tuzzi, Lien Truong, and Bambi Waterman.
Policy Equity for All: Advancing Economic and Workforce Development Opportunities
Block Community Space, Uptown Oakland
March 29, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Community to Community (C2C) Impact Engine builds partnerships between academics and community organizations and government agencies to advance social equity goals. Among C2C’s community-centered research and programs, labor economics, summer youth employment and housing are key focus areas. For further details or questions, please contact: Alli Chagi-Starr
a.chagi-starr@northeastern.edu
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Let’s Clear the Air
from Martin Kojnok, neighbor and Realtor® in Maxwell Park
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It’s been chilly and we’re using the heat. Have you checked or changed your furnace filter?
Regularly checking and changing your furnace filter is like giving your home's heating system a breath of fresh air. The filter acts as a shield, trapping dust and allergens, but over time, it gets clogged. This not only makes your furnace work harder, increasing energy bills, but it also affects the air you breathe. By swapping out the filter regularly, you keep the air clean, making your home a healthier and more comfortable place.
Think of it as a little investment in both your well-being and your wallet. A clean filter means your furnace operates efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. Plus, it extends the life of your furnace, sparing you from unexpected repair costs. So, make it a routine – check and change that filter – your wallet and your lungs will thank you!
While you’re at it, why not check those carbon monoxide alarms, too? At your furnace is a good place for one but any gas appliance has the potential to leak dangerous carbon monoxide into the home. It’s a good idea to have one at or nearby your furnace and gas water heater — and on every floor. Carbon monoxide is a heavy gas that accumulates low to the ground. Unlike smoke detectors which are usually kept up high, carbon monoxide detectors should be kept low to the ground to ensure accumulation is caught early. Many can just be conveniently plugged into a standard wall outlet.
If you have an older furnace or suspect yours might need a look over, PG&E offers free annual safety inspections of gas appliances which you can schedule by calling them at 1-800-743-5000.
Dwell well, friends, and always feel free to reach out with any home or home sale questions.
Martin Kojnok
CORCORAN ICON PROPERTIES
MBA | REALTOR® | DRE 01941661
martin@martinkojnok.com m: 510.593.3370 www.martinkojnok.com
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Keeping our Streets Clean
🗑 WHAT: Volunteer litter pickup; sanitized vests 🦺, work gloves🧤, bags, and litter grabbers provided!
👷🏿♀️👨🏽🌾 WHO: All are welcomed! Even if you don't live in the neighborhood!
High Street Coalition Clean-ups
🗑WHEN: second and fourth Saturday of every month from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Next cleanups: February 10 and 24
🗑 WHERE: Walgreens (at High and Redding Streets)
Follow the High Street Coalition on Nextdoor, Instagram, or email highstreetcoalition@gmail.com to be added to the email distribution list.
MacArthur Boulevard Cleanup
🗑WHEN: first Saturday of every month from 9-10:30 a.m. Next cleanup: March 2
🗑 WHERE: Chevron station (formally Shell) (located at Pierson and MacArthur Boulevard). Focus is on cleaning up the stretch of MacArthur Boulevard along I-580 from Mills College to 55th Avenue.
Follow the group on Nextdoor or join the email mailing list.
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Join the Maxwell Park Emergency Response Team
contact list:
email MPERT.info@gmail.com or call/text: 510-917-9994
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Suggestions? Feedback?
Is there anything you would like to see in the newsletter? Would you like to be a part of the newsletter team as a content contributor, writer, or photographer? Contact newsletter editor Annemarie Henning at maxwellparknewsletter@gmail.com.
The MPNC is dedicated to improving the quality of life and safety in Maxwell Park (Police Beat 28X). The MPNC consists of a Board of Directors and a number of Neighborhood Action Teams that address neighborhood concerns such as blight, traffic, and emergency preparedness. As an authorized City of Oakland Neighborhood Crime Prevention Council, we work cooperatively with the City Council and Police Department on priority safety issues. New participants are always welcome!
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Please share this newsletter with a neighbor, who can subscribe here. If you have any neighborhood-related concerns or want to get involved as a community volunteer, please reach out to the MPNC.
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