Boulevard Bites

by Tracey Rolandelli

### Our warmer weather is bringing more bicycles out on our roads this spring, and this writer will be joining the ranks soon. With high gas prices and bicycling being a great alternative to the gym, this summer should see many of us out there on the boulevard. Because safety is an issue for the urban rider, a great resource to check out is the East Bay Bicycle Coalition Web site at www.ebbc.org. Riders can find current information on biking groups, bike maps, road hazards (areas with potholes and other dangerous road issues), bike theft prevention tips, reporting databases, and all sorts of local events. One doesn't need a high-end bicycle to join in on the fun. Any working old "beater" or Craigslist/Freecycle special will do!'

### Oakland Acupuncture Project, www.oaklandacupunctureproject.com, is now open for business at 3576 Laurel Avenue. The clinic treats a variety of illnesses and conditions, at a sliding scale fee of $15-$35 per visit. Treatments are given in a traditional setting, using a common room instead of the individual cubicles usually found in American clinics.

### Have you ever wanted to commision a bold and colorful portrait of your beloved pet? Local Dimond artist Amy Jo Karn's work can be seen on her Web site, www.amyjokarn.com, and also in independent galleries throughout the East Bay. Amy grew up in New Mexico, and her art reflects Santa Fe style in color and whimsical folk expression. In addition to pet portraits, she also paints portraits of women and landscape scenes, and during the holidays Amy creates special gift items for sale. People can contact her through the Web site, and find information there about private commissions.

### It's almost time for the 2008 Oakland Greek Festival at the Cathedral of the Ascension. This festival features incredible food, colorful gifts, and lively music. There are also tours of the stunningly beautiful cathedral interior, a must see. The cathedral is located at 4700 Lincoln Avenue, and details about the festival can be found at www.oaklandgreekfestival.com. I recommend that Dimond/Laurel locals make the visit on foot, as parking can be tricky. Not to mention it helps burn off some of the delicious calories you will be consuming. The dancing helps, too. See you there!

### Neighbors on the Laurel Village listserv are discussing the dangerous traffic conditions on 35th Ave. Several people have been killed or injured on that street in spite of traffic calming efforts. Think you can help find a solution or just want to keep informed,

'join the group. To join, e-mail laurelvillage-subscribe\@yahoogroups.com or go to laurelvillage.org.

### Concerned about the proposed budget cuts to education? Check with your neighborhood school to see the potential impact of the cuts. Don't want the cuts? Take action. You can find out more at the Oakland Unified School District Web site,

'http://webportal.ousd.k12.ca.us.