What Newcomers Should Know About Piedmont

The new year is a time for new beginnings, including some new beginnings here in Piedmont. So to help newcomers with the transition to our little city, Patch offers a few insights on the quirks of local life.

1. Schools are a big deal. This goes without saying–the schools are why a lot of people move here and community support for education is strong. There is a long tradition of giving which means our kids have the benefit of a robust curriculum which still includes librarians, PE classes, arts courses, a wellness center, and more.

2. Mulberry's is the spot. The best place to catch up with friends is . In its past life it was a Bon Fare and before that a Convenient Market; customers left both stores with sticky soles and a not so fresh deli smell. We are now lucky to have a clean and beautifully designed neighborhood market featuring Peet's coffee, Fenton's ice cream and a deli counter catered by Virginia Davis of Virginia's Live A Little. 

3. There are just two main streets: Oakland Avenue and Highland Avenue. Heading west on Oakland will take you to Highway 580. The north end of Highland ends at Moraga Avenue, which leads to Highway 13. Out-of-towners use Oakland and Moraga to jump between 580 and 13.

4. Speeding on the main thoroughfares is ill-advised. Out-of-towners racing up Oakland or Highland often get caught, but locals know to obey the limit as Piedmont Police are on the job.

5. 30-minute parking means 30-minute parking. Be sure to read and abide by the street signs–including restrictions in residential areas near schools, parks and fields–so you don't get ticketed!

6. The blue vase marks the center of Piedmont's universe. The main focal point of the city is Excedra Plaza with its blue vase at the entrance to . The park is where Piedmonters play, picnic, walk their dogs, get married, and gather for community events like the annual Easter egg hunt and summer movie nights.

7. July 4th is Piedmont's favorite holiday. The parade along Highland Avenue is not to be missed. After the parade bring your blanket and picnic and enjoy the concert in Piedmont Park. You'll also want to mark your calendar for the Harvest Festival in September and the town in December.

8. Piedmonters borrow library books in Oakland. Piedmont does not have it's own public library, but Piedmont residents are able to take advantage of the Oakland Public Library system. The closes branches are , , and Rockridge Branch.

9. Piedmont is dog-friendly. If you have a social dog, across from Beach School is the place for them to play. Piedmont Park, and also have off-leash dog runs. Be sure to get your dog license from the first (by mail or on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

10. Bird calling will bring you your 15 minutes of fame. The Leonard J. Waxdeck bird calling contest is an annual tradition in Piedmont. Started by a beloved PHS teacher, the contest features high school students performing various bird calls. Authenticity, poise and delivery, and content of introduction are the criteria used to judge the calls. Those lucky enough to be selected fly to New York to appear on The Late Show with David Letterman.