Stay Up to Date on the East Bay Market
Simone Spotlight - Spring Home Maintenance
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Itโs that time of year again! Mark your calendar because upkeep to your home is essential to a happy home.
Below Iโve provided some tips of what you can do this Spring. Proper upkeep will not only give you peace of mind, but in the long run it is also preventative maintenance. These tips could end up saving you lots of money and potential headaches down the line.
Maintenance is Key to Happy Living
February 28th
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Itโs that time of year again! Mark your calendar because upkeep to your home is essential to a happy home.
Below Iโve provided some tips of what you can do this Spring. Proper upkeep will not only give you peace of mind, but in the long run it is also preventative maintenance. These tips could end up saving you lots of money and potential headaches down the line.
SPRING HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS
Spring is a time for rejuvenation, and, as the weather gets warmer here in East Bay, California, and the days grow longer, there's a positive energy in the air. Many people decide it's the perfect time for reorganizing and refreshing their homes, while others eagerly get to work in the yard and garden.
While it's easy to get caught up in spring cleaning and planting, this is also one of the most important times of the year for home maintenance.
The beginning of Daylight Saving Time is a great time to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, so if you haven't done that yet, here's your reminder. It's a good idea to do a basic checkup in some other key areas, too. After all, winter can be rough on your home.
These tips, from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and others, can help. Call it "spring training" for homeowners.
Yard and Exterior
Check for signs of rodents, roaches, termites, etc.
Clean gutters and downspouts.
Trim tree branches and shrubs that are hanging too close to your home or to utility wires, and remove dead trees.
Examine your deck and/or balconies for loose boards or railings, as well as any rot.
Ensure that mulch and soil isn't in contact with your homeโs siding.
Roof, Siding, Windows
Check for damage to your shingles, including mildew and algae; have a professional inspect and repair your roof, if necessary.
Go into the attic to check for signs of roof leakage, such as visible moisture or discoloration.
Look for peeling paint. Remember, paint is about more than appearance. A good paint job also protects against the effects of weather.
Check for leaks around window and door sills. Properly sealed windows and doors can help prevent damage and lower your energy costs.
Interior and Appliances
Examine your basement and/or crawlspace for any signs of standing water or dripping. Take action immediately, if needed, to avoid mold.
Clean your dryer exhaust hose and vent. Lint build-up in this area is a common cause of fires, so do a thorough job by moving the dryer and disconnecting both ends of the hose.
Clean exhaust fan outlets and screens. Check all air filters and replace, if necessary. Vacuum refrigerator/freezer coils to help your unit run efficiently.
These tasks will help keep you and your family safe, and they also can save you from costly repairs or homeowners insurance claims. So remember, when spring rolls around, thereโs a lot more to do than cleaning and changing your clocks.
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
This Sunday, be ready to be part of the Black Joy Experience Parade! Black Cultural Zone is bringing Akoma Market, Akoma Youth Market, Outdoor Play Day with Family Skate and so much more to the heart of downtown Oakland to share the Liberation Park experience of East Oakland with everyone. Grab your masks, your skates and have fun with the whole family!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
February 25-March 3
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
This Sunday, be ready to be part of the Black Joy Experience Parade! Black Cultural Zone is bringing Akoma Market, Akoma Youth Market, Outdoor Play Day with Family Skate and so much more to the heart of downtown Oakland to share the Liberation Park experience of East Oakland with everyone.
Grab your masks, your skates and have fun with the whole family!
Friday 2/25
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Game Nights at the Asian Branch Library!
5pm Oakland Museum of California Extended Hours until 9 pm and Off the Grid food trucks
5pm Mills College Performing Arts Andrea Abi-Karam & Emme Lund: A Mills Alum Reading
6pm Oakland Public Library Tax Attorney in the Library
7pm Camron-Stanford House Parlor Piano with Daniel Adam Maltz
7pm Disney on Ice Returns to Oakland at Oakland Arena
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests
Saturday 2/26
7am Montclair Village Music at Sophieโs Cuppa Tea
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Kirk Waller
12pm Oakland Museum of California Lunchtime Sessions: Music, Dance, and Storytelling in the Garden
12pm Oakland Public Library Dungeons & Dragons Club for Teens
12pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Junior Jazz Performance
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Kirk Waller
7pm Comedy Oakland Online Show
7pm Disney on Ice Returns to Oakland at Oakland Arena
7pm Camron-Stanford House Parlor Piano with Daniel Adam Maltz
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Sunday 2/27
9am Jack London Square Farmer's Market
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
10:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Kirk Waller
11am Oakland Museum of California Last day to see 'Mothership: Voyage Into Afrofuturism'
12pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
12pm Black Joy Experience Parade at Liberation Park
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Camron-Stanford House Parlor Piano with Daniel Adam Maltz
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Kirk Waller
7pm Disney on Ice Returns to Oakland at Oakland Arena
Monday 2/28
10am Berkeley Public Library One-On-One Tech Help
5pm Oakland Public Library Help with Applying for Home Energy Assistance
Tuesday 3/1
10:30am Berkeley Public Library City of Berkeley Pop-up Vaccination Clinic @THPSouth
10:30am Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
10:30am Berkeley Chamber Fresh Tools To Address Labor Shortages
5:30pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
5:30pm Mills College Performing Arts Janae Newsom & Landon Smith: A Mills Alum Reading
Kids Play Zone Mardi Gras Party
Wednesday 3/2
9:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Virtual Family Storytime
Thursday 3/3
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park @Bateman Park
11am Jack London Oakland Blood Drive
6pm Oakland Public Library We Bike Book Club
Simone Spotlight - When To Update Your Home Insurance
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Updating your policy probably isnโt something at the forefront of your mind. However, knowing when to update your homeowners insurance policy is important because changes to your lifestyle could affect your policy, your coverage, and how much youโre paying.
When To Update Your Home Insurance
February 21
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Updating your policy probably isnโt something at the forefront of your mind. However, knowing when to update your homeowners insurance policy is important because changes to your lifestyle could affect your policy, your coverage, and how much youโre paying.
Here are five reasons to update your home insurance:
Home Renovations
Itโs essential to notify your insurance provider when you renovate your kitchen, install a new roof, or add a bathroom to your home. Home renovation improvements can have a major influence on the value of your home, requiring your insurance carrier to adjust your property coverage limits to match the replacement expenses. While this may increase your premiums, it is definitely worth it to have adequate coverage in the event of a claim.
Updated Security System
Youโre in for a pleasant surprise if youโve added or upgraded your security system since you last looked for the best home insurance prices. Many homeowners insurance providers give clients who have a monitored security or fire alarm system a discount.
You have Bought or Adopted a Dog
Liability coverage for dog bites are included in many homeowners insurance policies. The catch is that you must notify your insurance company about your new family member. If you havenโt informed your insurer about your pet before filing a claim, it could affect your policyโs coverage.
Change in Career
If youโve retired, changed your career, or now work from home, let your insurance provider know. Providers are usually more lenient to those that spend a lot of time at home since itโs less likely they'll have their home invaded.
Big Purchases
If youโve purchased or been given something worth a lot of money, itโs always a good idea to let your insurance company know. They can adjust your premium to protect you should something go wrong. The same works if you sell or give away something valuable. Call to drop your premium.
What To Do
Reviewing your homeowners insurance might not be at the top of your home improvement to-do list. However, following the five guidelines described below will save you time and money in the long run.
Your home itself must be your top priority. However, donโt base your coverage on the appraised worth of the home, which includes land costs. Instead, use the most recent per-square-foot replacement rates in your area, as provided by your local homebuilders association. The disparity can be substantial.
Is your area vulnerable to extreme weather? Calculate the cost of extended or guaranteed replacement plans, which protect you from inflated labor and raw material costs in the event of a disaster.
For more information contact your insurance provider and go over your insurance coverage. They can update your policy so it reflects your current situation and needs.
Happy President's Day East Bay!
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Happy Presidentโs Day! Presidentsโ Day, officially Washingtonโs Birthday, in the United States, holiday (third Monday in February) popularly recognized as honoring George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The day is sometimes understood as a celebration of the birthdays and lives of all U.S. presidents.
Happy President's Day East Bay!
February 21
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Presidentsโ Day, officially Washingtonโs Birthday, in the United States, holiday (third Monday in February) popularly recognized as honoring George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The day is sometimes understood as a celebration of the birthdays and lives of all U.S. presidents.
For more information on this holiday, follow the link below.
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
This week the Museum of Cรก is hosting two awesome events in celebration of Black History Month. On Friday, there will be an interactive virtual performance by Oakland acappella group SoVoSรณ. While on Sunday, a virtual guided workshop inspired by the concepts of Afrofuturism will take place.
Be ready to be part of this fun events, stay safe East Bay!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
February 18-24
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
This week the Museum of Cรก is hosting two awesome events in celebration of Black History Month. On Friday, there will be an interactive virtual performance by Oakland acappella group SoVoSรณ. While on Sunday, a virtual guided workshop inspired by the concepts of Afrofuturism will take place.
Be ready to be part of this fun events, stay safe East Bay!
Friday 2/18
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
10am Oakland Museum of California Black History Virtual Performance
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Game Nights at the Asian Branch Library!
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
7:30pm Mills College Performing Arts An Evening with Eiko Otake, film screenings and discussion
Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests
Saturday 2/19
7am Montclair Village Music at Sophieโs Cuppa Tea
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
12pm Oakland Museum of California Lunchtime Sessions: Music, Dance, and Storytelling in the Garden
12pm Oakland Public Library Dungeons & Dragons Club for Teens
12pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Fashion show
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
1pm Chabot Space & Science Center Investigating Space: Space Tourism
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Brian Scott
7pm Comedy Oakland Online Show
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Sunday 2/20
9am Jack London Square Farmer's Market
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
10am Akoma Market at Liberation Park
10:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Brian Scott
12pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
12pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Junior Jazz Performance
1pm Oakland Museum of California Afro-Rithms from the Future Workshop
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Brian Scott
4pm Adult Skate at Liberation Park
Monday 2/21
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: A Surprise Birthday Party
Tuesday 2/22
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time@ Grove Street Park
10:30am Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
11am Kids Play Zone JAMaROO KIDs Music & Movement Class
2pm Berkeley Public Library BPL Book Club
5:30pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
Wednesday 2/23
9:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Virtual Family Storytime
2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Urban Sketching @Sather Gate
7pm Disney on Ice Returns to Oakland at Oakland Arena
Thursday 2/24
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Engineers in Training Online Workshop for Kids
6pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
7pm Disney on Ice Returns to Oakland at Oakland Arena
Black History Month
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Itโs Black History Month, the official observance month of African American history in the U.S, and Canada. It is a month of remembering and honoring the history of the African diaspora.
It was created by the historian Carter G. Woodsen and originated as the second week of February. The week was selected because it coincided with President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglasโ birthdays.
https://www.510families.com/east-bay-summer-camp/
Celebrate Black Lives this Month
February 17th, 2022
Itโs Black History Month, the official observance month of African American history in the U.S, and Canada. It is a month of remembering and honoring the history of the African diaspora.
It was created by the historian Carter G. Woodsen and originated as the second week of February. The week was selected because it coincided with President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglasโ birthdays.
Since then, the celebration and remembrance has evolved into what we know as Black History Month. Although this celebration originated in the United States, now Europe also celebrates Black History Month in different times of the year (U.K. celebrates in October).
To learn more about Black History use the following links:
https://www.history.com/topics/black-history
https://www.biography.com/tag/black-history
https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/black-history-month
Summer Camp Guide for 2022
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Donโt miss out on signing up your little ones to East Bay summer camps. For your convenience Iโve added the website of 510 Families that provides a list of East Bay camps, information on the camps, contact, applications and restrictions.
https://www.510families.com/east-bay-summer-camp/
Sign Your Children Up Today for Summer Fun!
February 14th, 2022
Itโs summer time!
Orโฆnot quite yet. But if youโve got young ones, itโs time to start making summer plans. Summer camp enrollment fills up fast, so if you havenโt already planned out activities for your kids this summer, let this be a reminder to you! Check out the 510 Families East Bay Summer Camp Guide for even more details about summer camp fun in your area. From dancing, to science, sports, to music, youโve got a lot of great choices here in the East Bay for summer time fun!
Simone Spotlight - Happy Valentine's Day East Bay!
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
My clients are at the center of my business ! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you. Being your go to is very fulfilling and gratifying as I help people build the life and home of their dreams!
I appreciate you and I look forward to continue my service in helping you for many years to come!
HAPPY VALENTINEโS DAY EAST BAY!
February 14TH, 2022
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
My clients are at the center of my business ! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you. Being your go to is very fulfilling and gratifying as I help people build the life and home of their dreams!
I appreciate you and I look forward to continue my service in helping you for many years to come!
That East Bay Life Monthly Update - February 2022
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
2021 was one of the most frenzied real estate markets ever, with buyer demand far exceeding the supply of listings available to buy - and all the usual indicators, including home price appreciation trends, reflected this severe imbalance.
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Simone Spotlight
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Super Bowl LVI will be held Sunday, February 13th, 2022. This is the final championship game of the National Football League (NFL) for the 2021 NFL season. It will be played between the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Los Angeles Rams and the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Cincinnati Bengals.
The game will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the home stadium of the Rams, marking the second-consecutive and second overall Super Bowl to feature a team playing in its home stadium.
SUPERBOWL LVI
February 13th, 2022
Game Time: 6:30 p.m. EST/3:30 p.m. PST
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Super Bowl LVI will be held Sunday, February 13th, 2022. This is the final championship game of the National Football League (NFL) for the 2021 NFL season. It will be played between the National Football Conference (NFC) champion Los Angeles Rams and the American Football Conference (AFC) champion Cincinnati Bengals.
The game will take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the home stadium of the Rams, marking the second-consecutive and second overall Super Bowl to feature a team playing in its home stadium.
This is the second time the Rams will play to win a Super Bowl championship and their first as a Los Angeles-based team in their fifth appearance. Their last win was in 1999, Super Bowl XXXIV while based in St. Louis and they last appeared in 2018's Super Bowl LIII.
The Bengals are seeking their first Super Bowl championship title. This is there third time playing in the Super Bowl. Their last appearance was in 1988's Super Bowl XXIII. Both teams finished the regular season as their respective conference's 4-seed, making it the first Super Bowl without a top-3 seed since seeding was introduced in 1975.
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Oakland First Fridays is back! The event will feature the Turf street dancers, Artismobilus collaborative art wall, and Mario B presents โSay It Loudโ fashion show. Nzuri Soul will also be performing. In addition, there will be the HEAT dance line and poets performing for an all black entertainment stage in honor of Black History Month.
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
February 4-10
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Oakland First Fridays is back! The event will feature the Turf street dancers, Artismobilus collaborative art wall, and Mario B presents โSay It Loudโ fashion show. Nzuri Soul will also be performing. In addition, there will be the HEAT dance line and poets performing for an all black entertainment stage in honor of Black History Month.
Friday 2/4
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Game Nights at the Asian Branch Library!
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
5pm Oakland First Fridays
6pm Chabot Space & Science Center First Friday: Winter Skies
Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests
Saturday 2/5
7am Montclair Village Music at Sophieโs Cuppa Tea
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10am Oakland Vintage Market at Jefferson Street
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Blake Maxam
12pm Oakland Museum of California Lunar New Year Celebration 2022
12pm Oakland Public Library Dungeons & Dragons Club for Teens
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
1pm Jack London Oakland Lunar New Year Celebration 2022
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Blake Maxam
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm Comedy Oakland Online Show
Sunday 2/6
9am Jack London Square Farmer's Market
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10am Black Love Market at Liberation Park
10:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Blake Maxam
11am Oakland Museum of California First Sundays at OMCA
12pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
1pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Live Jazz and Wine Tasting
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Magician Blake Maxam
4pm Adult Skate at Liberation Park
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Members Telescope Viewing
Monday 2/7
10am Berkeley Public Library One-On-One Tech Help
4pm Berkeley Public Library Lunar New Year with Kristina Cho, author of Mooncakes and Milk Bread
Tuesday 2/8
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time@ Grove Street Park
10:30am Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
11am Kids Play Zone JAMaROO KIDs Music & Movement Class
5:30pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
Wednesday 2/9
9:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Virtual Family Storytime
4pm Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
Thursday 2/10
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park
12pm Berkeley Business Bootcamp: A Monthly Series for Small Business Owners
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Indie RPG Pop-Up
East Bay Weekly Celebration
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, among others. The New Year celebration is usually celebrated for multiple daysโnot just one day as in the Gregorian calendarโs New Year. In 2022, Lunar New Year begins on February 1.
Happy Lunar New Year 2022!
February 1st, 2022
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, among others. The New Year celebration is usually celebrated for multiple daysโnot just one day as in the Gregorian calendarโs New Year. In 2022, Lunar New Year begins on February 1.
Chinaโs Lunar New Year is known as the Spring Festival or Chuฬnjiรฉin Mandarin, while Koreans call it Seollal and Vietnamese refer to it as Tแบฟt.
Tied to the lunar calendar, the holiday began as a time for feasting and to honor household and heavenly deities, as well as ancestors. The New Year typically begins with the first new moon that occurs between the end of January and spans the first 15 days of the first month of the lunar calendarโuntil the full moon arrives.
Zodiac Animals
Each year in the Lunar calendar is represented by one of 12 zodiac animals included in the cycle of 12 stations or โsignsโ along the apparent path of the sun through the cosmos.
The 12 zodiac animals are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. In addition to the animals, five elements of earth, water, fire, wood and metal are also mapped onto the traditional lunar calendar. Each year is associated with an animal that corresponds to an element.
The year 2022 is slated to be the year of the water tiger. The water tiger comes up every 60 years. The water tiger is action-oriented and represents strength, clearing away evil and bravery.
Lunar New Year Foods and Traditions
Each culture celebrates the Lunar New Year differently with various foods and traditions that symbolize prosperity, abundance and togetherness. In preparation for the Lunar New Year, houses are thoroughly cleaned to rid them of inauspicious spirits, which might have collected during the old year. Cleaning is also meant to open space for good will and good luck.
Some households hold rituals to offer food and paper icons to ancestors. Others post red paper and banners inscribed with calligraphy messages of good health and fortune in front of, and inside, homes. Elders give out envelopes containing money to children. Foods made from glutinous rice are commonly eaten, as these foods represent togetherness. Other foods symbolize prosperity, abundance and good luck.
Lunar New Year Greetings
Cultures celebrating Lunar New Year have different ways of greeting each other during the holiday. In Mandarin, a common way to wish family and close friends a happy New Year is โXฤซnniรกn hวo,โ meaning โNew Year Goodnessโ or โGood New Year.โ Another greeting is โXฤซnniรกn kuร ilรจ,โ meaning "Happy New Year."
Traditional greetings during Tแบฟt in Vietnam are โChรบc Mแปซng Nฤm Mแปiโ (Happy New Year) and โCung Chรบc Tรขn Xuรขnโ (gracious wishes of the new spring). For Seollal, South Koreans commonly say "Saehae bok mani badeuseyoโ (May you receive lots of luck in the new year), while North Koreans say "Saehaereul chuckhahabnidaโ(Congratulations on the new year).
Simone's Spotlight
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Here are the best nature trails and hikes that East Bay has to offer. There is nothing better than getting connected to nature and clearing your mind after a long week. Take some time to yourself and enjoy some of the best sites that East Bay has to offer.
Best East Bay Hikes Part 1
January 31st, 2022
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Wildcat Gorge to Meadows Canyon Trail Loop, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley
Distance: 3.3 miles
Time Required: 1 hour 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Parking: Free, available at Lake Anza parking lot
Directions: Follow Lake Anza Trail and turn left onto Wildcat Gorge Trail until the Meadows Canyon Trail. Follow onto Curran Trail and descend back to Wildcat Gorge Trail
Tilden Regional Park is one of the original regional parks in the East Bay and a classic hiking spot in Berkeley.
Beyond some amazing trails, the park has a carousel and farm, and Lake Anza offers seasonal swimming, making it a destination for families in particular. Tilden is just a short drive from downtown Berkeley but once youโre there, youโll feel far removed from the bustling college town.
Thereโs plenty of shade on this beautiful East Bay hike, and a creek and lake along the way as well. If you can, go early.
Beyond avoiding the crowds, hiking in the morning as the fog is lifting gives Tilden an unreal and enchanted feel.
Huckleberry Nature Path, Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve, Oakland
Distance: 1.7 miles
Time Required: 1 hour 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Parking: Free, available at Skyline Blvd. staging area. If the parking lot is full, park along the road
Directions: From the staging area, follow Huckleberry Path
A gem nestled in the Oakland Hills, the preserve is abundant with plants and flowers found nowhere else in the East Bay.
This path is a self-guided tour within the reserve โ think of it as a two-for-one nature walk and learning adventure (there are plaques throughout the trail explaining the different plants).
This beautiful East Bay hiking trail is shaded with a canopy of evergreens with some views of the valley, and youโll gradually encounter a mild incline. The path has an upper and lower trail โ stay on the upper if you want to take it easy, take the lower if youโre up for a little more of a workout.
Besides the namesake huckleberries, youโll wander through many kinds of ferns, bay laurels, and manzanitas, just to name a few. Each season will showcase different plants and flowers, so donโt limit yourself to just a one-time excursion.
For more information, see the park website.
Stream Trail to French Trail, Redwood Regional Park, Oakland
Distance: 5.2 miles
Time Required: 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Free, Skyline Gate staging area
Directions: From the staging area, take the Stream Trail, make a right onto Fern Trail, and continue onto French Trail. Make a right onto West Ridge Trail.
The name says it all โ come here if you want to see Californiaโs coastal redwoods, right in Oakland!
Itโs a great and quieter alternative to going to Muir Woods north of SF, which gets crowded with tourists and locals alike.
Redwood Regional Park is filled with many trails to choose from, and this one is moderate enough that you can admire the abundance of 150-foot redwoods and ferns as you go.
This park is also a great place for spying animals such as deer, rabbits, and even the rare golden eagle. Once youโre deep in the heart of the forests, youโll notice the air around you is cooler and milder thanks to a refreshing stream of air flowing in, making this spot great for the summer months.
Mt. Diablo Falls Trail, Mt. Diablo State Park, Clayton, East Bay
Distance: 6 miles
Time: 4 hours
Difficulty: Advanced
Parking: free, limited parking available on Regency Drive
Trailhead: Regency Gate at the end of Regency Drive
Directions: Follow Donner Canyon Road, following it until Meridian Ridge Fire Road and make a right. Continue until Middle Trail, make a left and follow until you reach Falls Trail.
A little further east in Clayton, Mt. Diablo State Park offers over 40 trails to explore, some of which offer the most spectacular views of the East Bay.
Hikers clamber to Mt. Diablo for these panoramas, but if youโre looking to chase waterfalls, the Falls Trail is your best bet!
Youโll meander through grasslands and oak savannahs with waterfalls (yes, plural) along the way. The waterfalls are of course best after rainfall, so going in the winter or spring means the waterfalls are flowing and the hills are at their most vibrant.
The path can be quite muddy and slippery after rainfall, and once you hit Falls Trails, there are some steep sections, so take care. If you go during the summer or during dryer months, the landscape wonโt be as lush but youโll still spy some gorgeous wildflowers and amazing views of the valley.
A word of caution, especially to any arachnophobes out there: Mt. Diablo State Park is known for its tarantulas, which come out in full force for mating season in late August through early October! If you spy a tarantula, theyโre not out to get you and theyโre actually harmless โ their venom isnโt poisonous to people.
For more information, check the park website.
Springhill Loop, Briones Regional Park, Berkeley
Distance: 3.9 miles
Time Required: 2 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Free, available at Springhill Road
Directions: Follow Springhill Road to Springhill Trail and follow to Lafayette Ridge Trail. Turn right onto Briones Crest Trail and keep right and follow to Sunrise Trail. Turn left onto Buckeye Ranch Trail to finish.
Northeast of Berkeley, Briones Regional Park is 6,000 acres of open space with miles upon miles of rolling hills. The park has grazing land with cows and horses, and a research center for UC Berkeley.
This loop is a series of trails with some uphill sections interspersed and is mostly unshaded, so make sure to pack a hat and sunglasses. Be prepared to climb and work up a sweat, but the steep inclines are well worth it for the views.
Once you get to the ridge, youโll be rewarded with a birdโs eye view of Walnut Creek and the surrounding areas, as well as unparalleled views of Mt. Diablo.
Thereโs a bench right where Sunrise Trails starts, a perfect spot to enjoy the views and munch on a snack before finishing the trail. In the springtime, the hills are an unbelievable green and the wildflowers are in full bloom. If you want to make the most of the sweeping views, go during sunrise or sunset!
For more information, check the park website.
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
It's time to welcome the Year of the Tiger! Check out the celebrations in Clinton Park and Jack London Square this Saturday.
Donโt forget to wear a mask and observe social distancing, while having fun with the whole family!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
January 28-February 3
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
It's time to welcome the Year of the Tiger! Check out the celebrations in Clinton Park and Jack London Square this Saturday.
Donโt forget to wear a mask and observe social distancing, while having fun with the whole family!
Friday 1/28
8:30am Oakland Metro Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Game Nights at the Asian Branch Library!
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests
Saturday 1/29
7am Montclair Village Music at Sophieโs Cuppa Tea
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10am Community Breakfast at Liberation Park
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Snow Queen
12pm Oakland Museum of California Lunchtime Sessions: Music, Dance, and Storytelling in the Garden
12pm Oakland Public Library Dungeons & Dragons Club for Teens
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
1pm Oakland Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce Lunar New Year Celebration at Clinton Park
1pm Jack London Oakland Lunar New Year Celebration 2022
1pm Temescal District Telegraph Ave Planter Refresh Day
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Storyteller Snow Queen
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm Comedy Oakland Online Show
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Sunday 1/30
9am Jack London Square Farmer's Market
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Circus artist Bri Crabtree
12pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
1pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Live Jazz and Wine Tasting
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Circus artist Bri Crabtree
4pm Adult Skate at Liberation Park
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Monday 1/31
10am Berkeley Public Library One-On-One Tech Help
Tuesday 2/1
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time@ Grove Street Park
10:30am Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
11am Kids Play Zone JAMaROO KIDs Music & Movement Class
5:30pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
Wednesday 2/2
9:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Virtual Family Storytime
4pm Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
4pm Oakland Public Library CityTeam Free Grocery Giveaway
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Thursday 2/3
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time in the Park
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
The deadline to enroll for the 2022-23 school year is quickly approaching. Follow the link above to the Berkeley website to enroll today. Compliments of your Realtor! ~ Simone Koga
Deadline to Enroll for Berkeley Schools
February 4
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - Student Enrollment is Ending
The deadline for enrolling to Berkeley schools is quickly approaching. I have provided a link for you to enroll you kid(s) to meet the deadline of Feb. 4th, 2022.
Currently they are holding virtual tours, family night and other opportunities to meet other people from the community.
To apply follow this link:
https://www.berkeleyschools.net/admissions/enrollment/
The Berkeley Schools website is a great resource to know who needs to apply, how to apply and has current events the schools are holding for students and their families.
If you have any questions you can reach them directly at (510) 644-6150. They welcome parents to reach out with any questions hey may have.
Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD)
2020 Bonar Street Berkeley, CA 94702
Main line: 510-644-6150
Email: admissions@berkeley.net
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
The deadline to enroll for the 2022-23 school year is quickly approaching. Follow the link above to the OUSD website to enroll today. Compliments of your Realtor! ~ Simone Koga
Deadline to Enroll for Oakland Schools
February 4
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - Student Enrollment is Ending
The deadline for enrolling to Oakland schools is quickly approaching. I have provided a link for you to enroll you kid(s) to meet the deadline of Feb. 4th, 2022.
Currently they are holding virtual tours, family night and other opportunities to meet other people from the community.
To apply follow this link:
https://ousdapply.schoolmint.net/signin
The OUSD website is a great resource to know who needs to apply, how to apply and has current events the schools are holding for students and their families.
If you have any questions you can reach them directly at (510) 879-4600. They welcome parents to reach out with any questions hey may have.
The Student Welcome Center is open to in-person visits, primarily by appointment and for a limited number of walk-ins.
You can make an appointment online here or by calling. You can also text or email them.
Lakeview Student Welcome Center
746 Grand Avenue
Oakland, CA 94610
Text / Call : 510-879-4600
Email: enroll@ousd.org
East Bay Weekly Events
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Your Sunday night plans just got a lot more fun! DJ GA is spinning at Adult Skate this Sunday at Umoja Skating Rink at Liberation Park. Ages 16 and up are welcome. Donโt miss the night of fun on the rink!
Your Weekly Guide to Local Events
January 21-27
๐ Hey East Bay ๐
Your weekly list of fun local events is here.
Your Sunday night plans just got a lot more fun! DJ GA is spinning at Adult Skate this Sunday at Umoja Skating Rink at Liberation Park. Ages 16 and up are welcome. Donโt miss the night of fun on the rink!
Friday 1/21
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10am Berkeley Public Library Financial Workshop: Long Term Care; Medicare Basic; Wealth Preservation
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
3:30pm Oakland Public Library Game Nights at the Asian Branch Library!
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests
Saturday 1/22
7am Montclair Village Music at Sophieโs Cuppa Tea
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Juggler and Comedian Owen Baker Flynn
11am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
12pm Oakland Museum of California Lunchtime Sessions: Music, Dance, and Storytelling in the Garden
12pm Oakland Public Library Dungeons & Dragons Club for Teens
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Juggler and Comedian Owen Baker Flynn
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
7pm Comedy Oakland Online Show
7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center Free Telescope Viewings
Sunday 1/23
9am Jack London Square Farmer's Market
10am Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
10:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Children's Fairyland Performer: Juggler and Comedian Owen Baker Flynn
11am Oakland Museum of California Black Space & Time: Reflecting on Black World Building
12pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
1pm Rockyโs Brooklyn Basin Live Jazz and Wine Tasting
1pm Prima Materia Outdoor Wine Tasting
2pm Children's Fairyland Puppet Show: Mae Lin & The Magic Brush
2:30pm Children's Fairyland Performer: Juggler and Comedian Owen Baker Flynn
3pm Oakland Public Library Help for Renters
4pm Adult Skate at Liberation Park
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Monday 1/24
10am Berkeley Public Library One-On-One Tech Help
Tuesday 1/25
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time@ Grove Street Park
10:30am Berkeley Public Library ESL Conversation Club (on Zoom!)
11am Kids Play Zone JAMaROO KIDs Music & Movement Class
2pm Berkeley Public Library BPL Book Club
5pm Berkeley Public Library Resumes: Ways to Present Your Best, Then Add More
5:30pm Oakland Public Library Virtual Lawyers in the Library
Wednesday 1/26
9:30am Rockin Kids Sing-a-long
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North
10:30am Berkeley Public Library Virtual Family Storytime
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
Thursday 1/27
3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Virtual Children's Craft with GoGo Craft!
5pm Oakland Zoo Glowfari
6pm Berkeley Public Library FAUCI Film Screening and Conversation
6:30pm Oakland Public Library You're in America - Now What? 7 Skillsets to Integrate with Ease and Joy
That East Bay Life with Simone Koga - January 2022
61% of CA homes sold above asking price, the highest % in at least 30 years. Both the share of sales with multiple offers and the average number of offers received reachedโฆ
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EAST BAY WEEKLY EVENTS
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - ALAMEDA FOOD BANK
Monday, Wednesday and Friday 2022
WHERE: 650 West Ranger Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 (Bus Line 96)
In these unprecedented times it is important to remember that we are a community of people and some people are facing unforeseen hardships. Although these may not be the best of times, these hard times will not last forever.
Let us be thankful for what we have and extend a hand to one another.
If you know of someone in need or if you would like to volunteer and help your local community, The Alameda Food bank is available to help.
ALAMEDA FOOD BANK
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - ALAMEDA FOOD BANK
Monday, Wednesday and Friday 2022
WHERE: 650 West Ranger Ave. Alameda, CA 94501 (Bus Line 96)
In these unprecedented times it is important to remember that we are a community of people and some people are facing unforeseen hardships. Although these may not be the best of times, these hard times will not last forever.
Let us be thankful for what we have and extend a hand to one another.
If you know of someone in need or if you would like to volunteer and help your local community, The Alameda Food bank is available to help.
Serving the Alameda community since 1977. The Alameda Food Bank is currently helping 800 families and they are always in need of volunteers. They welcome volunteers, donations and families in need of assistance.
To sign up for assistance, to volunteer or to donate you can use the link below:
https://www.alamedafoodbank.org
For those in need of assistance you can schedule an in-person appointment online. The appointments are available on M,W,F between 11:30am to 3:30pm.
If you are handicapped, the food bank provides a curbside option that allows you to order online.
You donโt need an appointment to receive food, but if you donโt have an appointment, you have to wait to receive food after everyone who has an appointment has been served.
You will need to provide an official I.D. and piece of mail (current, last 30 days) for every adult in your party to pick up food. If you have small children you must provide official documentation (e.g. birth certificate) for them.
You must wear a mask while in the building.
For people who want to volunteer use the link above to sign up. You can sign up using the 2022 sign up sheet available online or you can contact the program manager.
Volunteers must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of COVID vaccination.
There are many ways to give back to the community, helping the food bank is one way to give back in a big way. The Alameda Food Bank welcomes donations, for every $1 you donate they can buy $7 worth of food.
You can use the link above to donate money, food, you can even use your online shopping through Amazon to have donations sent to The Alameda Food Bank. When you purchase through Amazon Smile, Amazon will donate a portion to the food bank.
EAST BAY WEEKLY EVENTS
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - SIDEWALK CHALK PEACE WALK
Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 - Saturday, January 22nd, 2022
When: Tuesday, January 18th to Saturday, January 22nd
Where: El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Avenue
In honor of the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the El Cerrito Library will be holding a sidewalk chalk peace walk. Everyone is encouraged to participate in creating chalk art for this memorable occasion.
SIDEWALK CHALK PEACE WALK
๐ Hey East Bay ๐ - SIDEWALK CHALK PEACE WALK
Tuesday, January 18th, 2022 - Saturday, January 22nd, 2022
When: Tuesday, January 18th to Saturday, January 22nd
Where: El Cerrito Library, 6510 Stockton Avenue
In honor of the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. the El Cerrito Library will be holding a sidewalk chalk peace walk. Everyone is encouraged to participate in creating chalk art for this memorable occasion.
Bring your children, families and friends to this peaceful gathering and leave your mark.
It is a beautiful display of creativity, love and tribute to respect Dr. King Jr. and to reflect on how each one of us can better the world and create through our love and kindness.
