Food always has a way of gathering people together, and oftentimes, uniting them as one – like family. This very concept is being used by local organizations, to feed mouths and ultimately to feed minds.

 For anyone and everyone with an appreciation for the green hip hop movement, Saturday's Fresh Fest is a don't miss  A packed half day of music and events to be held on August 14th from noon to 6 pm at Oakland's pretty Mosswood Park,

Editor's Note: This week's Music Monday feature accompanies our weeklong series on green hip hop and Oakland's urban eco movement with music from two of the scene's leaders.  Fiyawata's Ambessa the Articulate brings a straight ahead hip hop track while

After all the fireworks of the last two weeks, you might find yourself craving some sun, sky and quiet.

Thankfully, July is National Recreation and Parks month. The East Bay is home to some amazing parks - courtesy of the city, county/regional and state parks systems - and several of them are celebrating important anniversaries this year.