In homes all over the Bay Area, the morning of Aug. 3 may have begun in an ordinary way with dad making pancakes in animal shapes and mom sleeping in. But, if their day happened to take them to South Shore Shopping Center — perhaps seeking back-to-school specials — the day took an extraordinary turn.
The 2nd Friday Art Walk spotlights art, culture and nightlife in Alameda each month. Galleries, shops and bars stay open late each second Friday and feature local art, live music and special discounts. The City of Alameda, MV Transit and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. have partnered with 2nd Friday Art Walk to provide a free shuttle that loops from east to west in Alameda and includes a stop in Oakland’s Jingletown neighborhood.
The lineup of makers at the Alameda Mini Maker Faire was announced last week. More than 75 exhibitors will display their works and get people involved in making.
Only at a wonderfully creative facility like Rhythmix Cultural Works could Pour Your HeART Out, a benefit for youth arts — an annual showcase of some of Northern California’s most talented women in craft beverage, food and the arts — take place all under one roof. On Saturday, Aug. 10, from 2 to 5 p.m., enjoy an exclusive afternoon of live music, food and drink, while helping Rhythmix provide free arts education programs. The programs reach an estimated 2,500 East Bay youth annually.
Recently Alameda’s poetry and music community gathered at C’era Una Volta restaurant on July 6 to say a final good-bye to nationally known beat poet and musician Jimmy V. Lyons.
Local film maker Jeff Giordano screened a new documentary about Lyons’ life and work entitled, Searching for Jimmy Lyons. Lyons was a “national treasure” who spent most of his life in Alameda. He was a prolific poet and writer as well as a songwriter and musician. His most famous song, “Listen Lonely Girl,” was recorded by Johnny Mathis, and climbed to the top of the charts when it was produced.
