meet the artists

While visiting the progress of Water Writes, a new mural in Uptown, I was lucky enough to meet the artists who created it.  Meet (from left) Estria, Ceci, and Josue.  They were generous with their time and answered my many questions.  Much of the mural was done freehand and the finished work looks much different than the initial design.  An amazing accomplishment.

100 Strangers: Babu and Khan

Meet Babu and Khan.  I met them at the tire shop where I took the reflection photos posted on Friday.  Both of them volunteered to have their pictures taken.  (What a relief.  I have no trouble talking to strangers, but I find it really hard asking if I can take a picture).  Khan made me promise not to ask him to smile.  Babu is from a village near Karachi, Pakistan and is Khan's nephew.  Prior to coming here a year ago, he studied technical engineering at a Christian school in Karachi.  Babu grew up knowing that his uncle was sponsoring him for a visa.  It took 13 years of waiting before it was granted.  Hard as it must have been, he says he did not give up hope about this long journey.  I can only imagine how difficult a transition it must be given how different our cultures are.  Nonetheless, Babu is happy he's here and seems to have a positive outlook.  There was so much more I would have liked to know about both of them; but after all, they were at work.  And the shop was really busy.  It was a pleasure meeting both of these guys.

100 Strangers: The Tamale Queen

Meet Maria the Tamale Queen.  She and her assistant turned out to feed the crowds at the recent Preview Sale for the White Elephant Sale.  Held in a 96,000 sq. ft. warehouse, this is an annual event that raises money for the Oakland Museum and is now in its 51st year.  With all volunteer help and all donated goods, last year we raised more than $1.3 million to support the museum, (which is currently being renovated and will reopen May 1).  The big sale is always the first weekend in March.  If you're in town, come on by.  Entrance is free.  Believe me, you'll be amazed at the sheer volume of goods for sale and the bargain prices.  You'll probably see Maria too.  She told me she's been coming every year for the last ten years.  I can vouch for her tamales; they are muy sabrosos.