Culture Makers: Old Spaces, New Life
About this Event
What can Oakland's oldest places tell us about the city's future?
Join us Thurs., July 9 from 6:30–8pm at the New Parkway Theater for The Oaklandside’s Culture Makers as we dig into the stories hidden inside Oakland's historic homes, landmarks, and spaces—and explore how these places continue to shape the city's future.
Host and Producer of East Bay Yesterday podcast Liam O'Donoghue, Peralta Hacienda Historical Park Executive Director Miguel Lopez, and Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation Executive Director and CEO Mandolin Kadera-Redmond will join The Oaklandside's Arts & Community reporter Azucena Rasilla for a lively conversation about some of the physical places that make Oakland, Oakland, and the people breathing life into them.
From grand Victorians to neighborhood landmarks, we'll hear about how historic spaces are being both preserved and reimagined—serving as community hubs, cultural destinations, gathering spots, and anchors of neighborhood identity. Along the way, we'll uncover lesser-known Oakland stories, discuss the challenges of preservation, and explore how old spaces can find new purpose in a changing city.
Whether you're a local history buff, architecture lover, or simply curious about the places that make Oakland unique, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city around you—and a fresh perspective on where it's headed.
We want this event to be welcoming and accessible to everyone in our community. That’s why we’re offering two ticket options:
Early bird/general admission: For those who are able to support the event at full price
Pay what you can: No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Choose the price that works for you
Doors open at 6pm
Program begins promptly at 6:30pm
See you there!
About the panelists:
Miguel Lopez is the Executive Director of Friends of Peralta Hacienda Historical Park (PHHP) in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood, one of the Bay Area’s most culturally rich historic sites. Miguel leads the organization’s programs, preservation efforts, and community partnerships, drawing on a background in arts, culture, and community engagement and a deep commitment to Ohlone heritage, environmental justice, and Oakland’s immigrant and refugee communities. Before joining PHHP, he served as Marketing Manager at Arts Brookfield in New York and Development Associate at Creative Time. He holds a degree in Art History from UC Santa Cruz.
Liam O’Donoghue is the host and producer of East Bay Yesterday podcast and KPFA radio program. His journalism has appeared in outlets such as Berkeleyside, Oaklandside, SF Gate, Mother Jones, Salon, Snap Judgement, and 99 Percent Invisible. O’Donoghue has given presentations on local history at libraries, schools and bookstores and throughout the Bay Area, as well as at institutions such as The California Historical Society, Oakland Museum of California, Berkeley City Club, and Commonwealth Club. His show has been called "The Best Podcast about the East Bay” by East Bay Express and he has been honored by Oakland Heritage Alliance with a “Partners in Preservation Award.” Followhis Substack for local history news, essays, tours, upcoming events.
Mandolin Kadera-Redmond, Executive Director and CEO of the Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation (OPRF), has a long history of advocating for community-led Oakland park stewardship. As a former Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) Commissioner and OPRF Board Chair, Mandolin brings a depth of experience and knowledge, guiding OPRF as the organization grows and advocates for parks, recreation programs, environmental stewardship, and inclusive communities.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 17.85
