2012 Class

Health of the Hood: Lockwood-Tevis Dump Site

By Michael Holland Me being a true Generation X child, it’s no surprise that I liken every aspect of my life to rap music. Other age groups might think it […]

Latest in 2012 Class
Winston Callender Might Still be Alive if Things Were Different
East Oakland Woman Fights Foreclosure
Young Storytellers Fan Out to Collect Oakland’s Oral Histories
‘Want to spend the rest of your life in prison?’: A Judge’s Advice & Some Murky Testimony

“You’re only 19 or so," Lam's judge said to him at the hearing. "I’m sure it’s difficult to conceive or imagine that many years in custody. But I think that leads some people to go to trial and after they get a sentence with life, then think, ‘what did I do? I’m here for the rest of my life, most likely.’ There’s not a huge difference, I don’t see, between 20 years and 25 years, when it means you get out. You can have a life. And quite frankly, for a fleeting moment, I thought, ‘Oh you want a trial? You want to spend the rest of your life in prison?'’’

A Tale of Four Fatalities in Two Days in One City
‘He COULD Have Done It, But I Don’t Think He Did’
Education is My Weapon of Choice

One of the great challenges educators always face is how to fix the problems of the now while creating solutions for the long-term. As shocking as the Newtown shootings have been, I remain unshaken in my absolute conviction that the only way to stop all shooters, is through love, education, understanding, and compassion. I know that some will dismiss this as unrealistic, but it seems to me no less realistic than continuing to build up an armed society, to the point where everyone is prepared to shoot and every misunderstanding becomes potentially explosive.

PHOTOS: Health of the Hood – Cleveland Heights
VIDEO – ‘Tis the Season: Laurel Neighborhood Harmonizes to Help Others in Need

Is harmony and unity possible in East Oakland? The Laurel Merchant and Laurel District Association strive to prove that it does. The second annual Laurel Holiday Stroll and Donation Drive is just one of over 20 events held in the Laurel District geared towards strengthening relationships between the community and local business.