Many bars do not see how they can profit under the ever-changing county and state orders. Popular Oakland spots such as Garage Door Saloon and Hemingway’s Cafe are currently closed. Mario’s Oakland Saloon joins Gene’s Place and Thirsty Scholar in offering takeout drinks, and Bootleggers currently offers outdoor seating options.

On the first night of her new job, Harley McCain witnessed a high-speed car chase. “This big black SUV comes flying by at like 75 mph, and of course it’s a 25 mph street, and I’m like what the...