Fruitvale Alive Reborn'
Streetscape improvements to Fruitvale and along the intersection of MacArthur, known as the Fruitvale Alive Project, are moving forward after the influx of a $2 million MTC grant and the continued push from CEDA project coordinator David Ralston.'
An information session and community forum is scheduled for Wednesday, December 5, at 7:30 p.m., in the Dimond Library, following the Dimond Safety Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. David Ralston will update the community on the status of the project and solicit feedback on the plan and design features, including the 580-overpass remodel.
Dimond Winter Festival
The Dimond Winter Festival will be Saturday, December 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Winter Festival is an Interfaith Celebration with spiritual leaders from various faiths sharing words and music to help us honor and celebrate diversity.'
Help support the local economy by purchasing holiday crafts made by local artists. Enjoy a pancake breakfast made by Francis and Frank of Ann's cafe. Events include making crafts with the kids and photos with Santa. Listen to musical performances by Kehilla Synagogue, The Renaissance School Choir, and other local youth groups. $5 donation or canned goods appreciated at the door.
Lincoln Court Center to Stretch Your Mind and Body
Programs tailored for adults 50 and over are now being offered to the community at the newly dedicated Lincoln Court Center, located at 2400 MacArthur Blvd. Many classes are offered at later times in the day to accommodate a new generation of older adults who are keeping their minds and bodies moving.
Programs include: Breathe and Move, starting Wednesday, Nov. 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Strong Bodies Stay Young; and Line Dancing. All classes are tuition-free. For more information and to register for these classes, call Helen Yuen at 336-1952. For future classes and events, visit the Dimond Improvement Association website: dimondnews.org'
Dimond History Night
Last month's Dimond History Night hosted by the Dimond Improvement Association filled the Library's community room with people eager to learn the vibrant evolution of their beloved neighborhood. Eleanor Dunn, local historian, engaged the crowd with projections of maps and photos chronicling changes in the region dating back to the pre-Columbian era.
Attendees were able to spend time in group discussions with author Dennis Evanosky, who recently published a book on the history of the Laurel District and plans the same for Dimond; Quentin from the Oakland History Room; and DIA Board Member Karen Schroeder.
Emcee Victoria Wake reminded guests that the District continues to make history, thanks in large part to the contributions and volunteer efforts of local residents and merchants.
2008 Collectors Calendar
If you missed History Night or want some of the old photos for your own collection, purchase a 2008 Dimond History Collectors Calendar. The calendar features pictures from 19th and early 20th-century Dimond, historical descriptions, important community event dates, and useful city and neighborhood phone numbers. The best feature is that 100 percent of the proceeds go directly to the Dimond community for beautification and safety projects.
2008 Dimond Improvement Association members receive a discount on the calendar. Join the DIA and add more value to the community. To receive a calendar order form, contact the Dimond Improvement Association at dia\@dimondnews.org or call 452-7392. Order forms are also available in the Dimond Library.
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