Heart of the Town

 

A team of seasoned marketing and event professionals, Heart of the Town Events (HOTT) brings a wealth of experience, creativity and technical expertise to all projects. Launched in November 2014, HOTT is an Oakland-based 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to

enhancing the region’s economic and cultural landscape through marketing, public relations, event production, and operational support for area arts, civic, and community organizations.

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Created by longtime Oakland marketing and event professionals Samee Roberts

and Steven Tiffin ─ and joined by local event producer Sarah Kidder ─ HOTT has

successfully produced a wide range of notable events and is particularly adept at

time and resource allocation from planning through on-site execution. The team is

known for its expert coordination of large scale public events where logistical

expertise and connections are crucial to facilitating permits, street closures and traffic

management, in addition to building civic and community trust.

 

Samee, Steven and Sarah first collaborated as HOTT in 2014 to produce Mayor Libby

Schaaf’s “Made in Oakland” Inaugural Festival ─ an eclectic showcase of local art &

culture that drew thousands and received rave reviews. The team’s vast expertise is

evident in all events produced, including the iconic Art + Soul Oakland, a two-day

regional festival that encompasses a 10-block area in the heart of the city’s downtown. Co-founded by Samee Roberts and Steven Tiffin, the festival has played a

key role in revitalizing downtown and establishing Oakland as premier destination for

arts & culture.

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A 501c3 nonprofit, Heart of the Town is deeply rooted in the community. HOTT’s diverse, grassroots board of directors meets bimonthly.

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Heart of the Town projects include:

• Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf’s “Made in Oakland” Inaugural Festival

• Art + Soul Oakland

• Bay Area Book Festival

• Temescal Street Fair

• Rockridge Out & About

• Autumn Lights Festival

• East Bay Open Streets 2015

• Meow at the Moon Benefit for Cat Town/ Oakland Animal Shelter

• Plus myriad marketing, communications and public relations projects

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