BY KATE KILPATRICK // Local entrepreneurs say they want Emeryville’s north side to be a destination for small, independently owned businesses. But with tough economic times ahead, it’s hard to stay optimistic.

BY BETTY BASTIDAS, SHIKIRI HIGHTOWER AND KATE KILPATRICK //

Prop Eight, Prop Four, some stuff about chickens and prisoners … California voters had to read up on the issues before connecting all the black arrows. Fortunately even many of Emeryville’s young and first-time voters came prepared.