Vasgerdsian emphasized, "We're not naive enough to say that everything's great. Obviously, there are areas for improvement. But there are also great things happening and this national spotlight on the negative is a drag that we don't want to be the butt of, that Oakland is a terrible place, because it's not true." This statement embodies their motivation to celebrate the positive aspects of Oakland while recognizing the need for improvement.
Bardakian noted, "When the news is constantly focused on negativity, it can overshadow the good things. We wanted to create an initiative that not only showcases our local artisans and businesses but also encourages residents to uplift one another in this vibrant community." This highlights their commitment to fostering community spirit amidst adversity.
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