I think this was in the Tribune, too. It was fun to go to city hall, of course. Although the council chambers have just terrible sight lines.

Oakland leaders discuss economy’s impact on city

Oakland can’t expect the federal stimulus package or other outside help to ease it through tough economic times, but must step up and actively find workable solutions for itself, speakers concluded at a panel convened Feb. 20 by City Council President Jane Brunner.

Speakers did express cautious optimism about President Obama’s stimulus plan during the “Progressive Perspective on the Economic Crisis” panel planned and moderated by Brunner, who represents District 1, North Oakland, but several stressed that it is not a magic solution.

“It will not fix the Oakland budget problem,” Brunner said.