It’s that time of year again–time to vote for the Best of the East Bay!  The East Bay Express’s big summer issue and flagship event recognizes readers and editors favorites in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

This year’s theme is “Home Grown,” which recognizes things grown right here in our own backyard.  In this twenty-first century world of globalization and mass production, Home Grown asks the readers and editors to be thoughtful citizens and loyal localists when making their nominations for the Best of the East Bay.

Voting is taking place online at http://www.eastbayexpress.com/ballot until July 4th, so vote early and make your voice heard!

And mark your calendars now for Friday August 6th, the date for the Best of the East Bay Party.  This year’s party will be at Jack London Square waterfront from 5-11PM.  The event is free and open for all ages, and features multiple bands, a kid’s zone, and a Blues Pavilion, paying tribute to the blues history of Russeel City in Hayward and 7th Street in Oakland.  For more details and ongoing updates, please visit www.EastBayExpress.com/BOEBParty

Are you a last minute shopper?  You can still buy your holiday presents last minute while supporting the local economy and enjoying yourself!  This year on Friday, December 18, merchants in multiple shopping districts, including the Lakeshore Shopping District, are staying open late to give you time to shop.  There will also be live entertainment and face painting for the kids!  For details check out the Shop Oakland Events page here.

October 31st means Halloween to many, but to others celebrating in the Mexican tradition, it represents the Day of the Dead.  In honor of El Dia de Los Muertos, La Borinquena Restaurant & Specialty Shop is hosting cooking demonstrations, video presentations, and more fun for the whole family this Saturday, October 31st at its restaurant.  And be sure to join La Borinquena and more on Sunday, November 1, in Fruitvale to visit the alter “dedicated to commemorate the people and places that have formed our community over the decades and generations.”

For more information, visit TinaTamale.com

OneCalifornia Founder Kat Taylor was featured in last month’s San Francisco Examiner article about the Commonwealth Club’s forum “Philanthropic Response to the Economy.” Check out the Examiner piece here.

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Come see exhibits such as this fiery snake at the Fire Arts Festival!

Come join us at this celebration of creativity expressed through fire and art held by the crucible at their new Fire Arts Arena off of West Grand Avenue! This year’s festival will be held on July 15-18 from 8:00PM until 11:59PM. For more information, click here.

Dr. C Diane Howell, former producer of the Oakland Black Expo

This year’s Black Expo will be held at the Oakland Convention Center on July 18-19. There will be a job fair, live entertainment, and college information available at this festival. For more information, click here.

Come taste wine from 15 local wineries at the 4th annual Urban Wine Experience. The event will be held from 2:00PM until 5:00PM on August 8, location TBD. There will also be regional foods and live entertainment! For more information, click here.

Discover new artists and explore the fascinating studios of some of the over 400 artists who open their doors to the public again this weekend.   June 13-14 from 11am - 6pm. The artists welcome guests with food, wine, and sometimes even demonstrations of their processes. Pro Arts Gallery coordinates this fabulous annual event, offering bus tours, galas and a fabulous directory with photos and maps that allow you to take yourself on a self-guided tour. Get the directory at locations throughout the East Bay or download and go. Info available on the Pro Arts website.

Come join us at the 4th Annual Ignite! New Business Expo on Thursday, June 25 from 11am to 3pm at Frank Ogawa Plaza in downtown Oakland.  See lots of inspiring new local entrepreneurs showing off their products and services, and meet other local business supporters!

It’s free and open to the public.  Details here.

Hope to see you there!