News & Reviews

BASS: Bryan Harrison Band to play Nomad Cafe benefit in wake of Oakland robberies
Press Release

In the wake of a spree of "take-over style" robberies plaguing Oakland in recent weeks, one neighborhood and community has decided to come together in support of one of the small businesses victimized by this senseless violence. The Nomad Café (6500 Shattuck Avenue, Oakland), was robbed at gun point just after closing two weeks ago and will be the site of a benefit concert this Friday evening, September 5th from 7:00pm to 9:30pm, in support of those directly affected by the robbery.

The Nomad Café was established 5 years ago and was an immediate hit in a neighborhood that was lacking an identity. The Nomad became the home to many in the neighborhood and those moving thru from Oakland to Berkeley in search of a warm, friendly, eco/green/fair-trade place to hang out.

"The Nomad Cafe has spent the past five years building and supporting our community, and we appreciate all the support the community has shown us in return," said Nomad owner Christopher Waters. "We want the proceeds of our supporters' generosity in the aftermath of this recent crime to provide a much-needed rehabilitation of the spirits for the members of our staff who experienced the robbery that night.  Funds will also be used to help fund security enhancements at Nomad Cafe," he explained.

Admission to this event is free, but donations will be welcomed. Music will be provided by two local bands familiar to the Nomad Cafe: Bryan Harrison Band and Kevin Beadles Band, each of whom will perform about an hour long set. "We initially thought we would at least donate whatever monies we'd normally make at a gig like this from tips and CD sales," said Bryan Harrison. "But to have the community come together like this is a truly beautiful thing. It's taken on a life of its own."

Ron Kriss, a longtime community business owner and activist is a friend of Waters' and has taken it upon himself to help orchestrate the benefit on a bit larger scale. "We have other businesses in the area that have suffered similar fates from these types of crimes," he explained. "We need to support these local businesses not only when things are going right, but also during the tough times and I love what Christopher stands for -- he is a great father, dedicated to the local public schools, an avid community participant in so many issues, and he runs a great café,"  he added.

A raffle will be held throughout the evening with prizes donated not just by the bands, but by community businesses looking to help and make a difference. "So, while the show is free, we're hoping to be able to raise a $1,000 or more for Christopher and his staff," Bryan explained.

The Nomad Cafe is located at 6500 Shattuck Ave in Oakland near the Berkeley border. Showtime is from 7:30-9:30 on Friday September 5, 2008, the Nomad is usually a busy place on a normal evening and this will provide a chance for old timers and newcomers to experience the "neighborhood defining Nomad café" so you are encouraged to get there early.

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