Oakley's Cityhood event will feature fireworks, games and more

By Roni Gehlke
For the Contra Costa Times

Celebrating Cityhood has become a tradition in Oakley. Every first Saturday in July the city goes all out in remembrance of the city's incorporation in 1999. This year will be no different. Oakley residents are invited to the Freedom High School basin Saturday night for entertainment, games and fireworks.

"We're hosting a lot of the same activities as last year," the city's recreation supervisor, Lindsay Bruno, said. "We've asked the fireworks guys to pick up the finale to make it more spectacular."

Since some of the local communities have canceled their fireworks displays this year, Bruno expects that there may be more people attending the celebration this year to enjoy the musically choreographed show.

The free celebration, which begins at 6 p.m., will feature activities for all ages, including games, retail vendor booths and food. Those interested in participating in games such as laser tag, gyro spear, rock climbing and Eurobungy, petting zoo and pony rides can purchase a $5 children's punch ticket for unlimited rides.

There will also be clowns and a disc jockey providing entertainment throughout the evening. The fireworks will start at "pitch dark."

"It seems to start at a different time each year," Bruno said. "So we just say that it starts when it is completely dark."

Bruno said plenty of free street parking is available, but those who would like to park in the school's parking lot and who wish to support Freedom HighSchool sports can park there for a $5 fee.

Last month the high school announced that due to the severe budget crisis, the School Board would eliminate all freshman team coaching stipends.

"However, if we can raise $48,000 by Aug. 1, we can restore the freshman teams in eight of our sports next year," Freedom High School Principal Erik Faulkner said in a letter to parents in June.
One can also support the sports program by volunteering with Freedom's Athletic Booster Club, or by making individual donations to the cause with the school's Education Foundation. Information can be found on its website at www.educationwins.org.

No seating is available in the Freedom Basin for the Cityhood Celebration, but Bruno encourages visitors to bring chairs or blankets. No dogs are allowed at the event because they can easily be spooked at the loud noises of the fireworks display. While food will be available at the celebration, it is permissible to bring your own food, although no alcohol will be allowed.