Simone Spotlight | Preparing to Plant Your Fall Garden

Preparing to Plant Your Fall Garden

SEPTEMBER 11th

Fall starts Saturday, September 23rd, 2023, the same day as the Autumn Equinox. This is a great time to start getting your garden ready for the colder months. Here is a list of what to do to prepare your garden and what to plant in the September, October, November, and December months.

1. Shop for Bulbs 

Although it won’t be time to plant bulbs until late-October through mid-December, you’ll want to order your bulbs this month to avoid missing out on the best ones that often sell out. In many Northern California climates, some bulbs such as tulips may need to be chilled. You can chill bulbs by putting them in a refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks before planting or order pre-cooled bulbs. While you’re waiting to plant, store your bulbs in a cool, dark location that doesn’t have moisture.

2. Prepare for Fall Planting

If you haven’t started planting yet and your soil needs more nutrients, prepare your planting beds by adding compost or ready-to-use soil amendment. Spread the amendment over your existing soil at a depth of 1 to 3 inches. If you’ve been adding compost consistently throughout the year, just top dress around plants. It’s also a good idea to loosen compacted soil using a broad fork. This technique preserves the plant roots and soil biology while breaking up compacted soil (allowing air and water to penetrate further into the soil).

3. Plant New Garden Beds 

September through the end of fall is the best time to plant perennials, shrubs, and trees. Fall’s conditions provide plants with the ideal growing environment—cooler, but still warm temperatures and extra moisture from rain. It’s especially important to get flowering shrubs such as lilacs, camellias, rhododendrons, viburnums, hydrangeas, and roses off to a good start, so they should be planted in September. 

Some of the best trees to plant include patio trees such as Japanese maples, crape myrtles, dogwoods, maples, redbuds, and magnolias. California natives should be planted this month and you can continue through the fall. For ideas on which natives to plant visit the California Native Plant Society for more information. As you’re thinking about fall planting, a good place to get ideas or to see the mature size of plants you like is at botanic gardens.

4. Divide Hostas

If your hostas are overgrown for their space, you just want more around your garden, or they’re beginning to look crowded (which results in the center of the plant dying), then this is the time to divide them. In most regions in Northern California, September is a good time to divide hostas. To divide them, dig up the entire plant with a clean garden shovel or spade, trying to keep as many roots as possible intact. Place the plant and root ball on a tarp near the hole. Separate clumps and replant around your garden. Be sure to water new plants well. Learn more about growing and caring for hostas.

5. Continue Planting Cool-Season Crops

Once you’ve removed your summer crops, refresh beds with fertilizer and a fresh layer of compost. Fill your garden beds with cool-season vegetables such as broccoli, kale, peas, and carrots. You can also plant lettuce, mesclun, spinach, beet, and cauliflower. 

6. Plant or Refresh Your Lawn

If you are looking to add a lawn to your garden, then September is your month. In more coastal climates, early in the month is ideal. In gardens that are farther inland, you can wait until late in the month once the temperatures cool. If you need more information on planting a lawn visit Toro's YardCare website which explains the different methods. To refresh an existing lawn consider dethatching manually with a specialized thatching rake or a motorized dethatcher. It’s also a good time to aerate lawns and fertilize using either a granular fertilizer or compost.

7. Plant Garlic

Homegrown, freshly eaten garlic has especially good flavor. Try growing one of the many varieties of garlic available to add a special flair to your dishes next summer . Order garlic bulbs from suppliers and divide the bulbs into individual cloves to plant them. Plant the cloves in well-draining, rich to medium soil at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches. 

8. Grow Microgreens

Microgreens are packed with nutrients and make nice additions to salads and garnishes. A small greenhouse, hoop house, or cold frame are all great spots to grow microgreens as they do better when they are grown under controlled or more consistent conditions. They also need constant watering. 

9. Plant Now

Stagger plantings of early, mid- and late varieties of camellias and you can have flowers from November through April (or even May!) If the temperatures are still high, plants where they are protected from bright light or leaves may be scalded by the sun.

Providing year-round interest, crape myrtles are very resilient, love the sun, and are extremely heat tolerant. When planting, dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the container. Stake if needed and water thoroughly after planting.

Plant shrub roses in a sunny to lightly shaded site with fertile, well-draining soil that stays evenly moist for best results. You can also plant in a container, make sure the pot is at least 15 to 20 inches in diameter and 18 to 24 inches deep, with adequate drainage.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

SEPTEMBER 08- SEPTEMBER 14

Create lifelong memories in nature with the ones you love.

#FamilyNatureAdventures

Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!

Friday 09/08

All day FunCheap “Save the Bay” Bay Day Challenge on the SF Bay Trail (Sept. 8 – Oct. 7)

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3pm Eventbrite FoodieLand - San Jose 

3pm Visit Oakland Taylor Jay Happy Shopping Hour

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Science In September

4pm The Mercury News Tap Takeover Fridays at Tipsy Putt East Bay

5pm The Mercury News CORONATION 45 - TWISTED MASQUERADE

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA WITH GAMBIZI & DOS FOUR

5pm Eventbrite Food Pop-Up by Cat Allen w/ Filipino Food

5:45pm 510families Movie & Music Under the Stars: Shrek

6:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

6:30pm Visit Oakland Connecting the Work: American Born Chinese Episode Screening

7pm 510families Movie Under the Stars: Super Mario Bros

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

7:30pm 510families Movies in the Park: Vivo

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

7:30pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland LIVE

Saturday 09/09

2am Berkeley Public Library Ukulele Blues - Intro to Ukulele pt. 3

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Drake’s Brewing 7TH ANNUAL BATTLESTAR CLASSIC

10am The Mercury News Battlestar Classic 7

10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES

12pm FunCheap Oakland’s Rockridge Rock-N-Stroll Family Fest 2023

12pm Drake’s Brewing YAPPY HOUR

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOURS

2pm Eventbrite We The Medicine - Bi-Weekly World Meditation

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

7pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (7p + 9p Shows)

7pm 510families Montclair Outdoor Cinema: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Visit Oakland B:L:E:N:D - Acoustic Oakland Concert Series

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

Sunday 09/10

10am Oakland Zoo Little Vets

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET 

11am Visit Oakland Oakland Temescal Tastes

11am The Mercury News Universal Drumming Series

11am The Mercury News Sunday FUNDday at Tipsy Putt East Bay with Move For Hunger

12pm The Mercury News Drag Yourself to Brunch at the Alameda Comedy Club

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3pm Eventbrite "Come Meet A Black Person" Anti-Racism Virtual Series

4pm Eventbrite SUNDAZE OAKLAND

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland “HellaSecret” Comedy Show

Monday 09/11

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3pm FunCheap 19th Annual “9/11 Truth Film Festival” at Grand Lake Theater (Oakland)

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Clemente College Experience with Oakland Adult & Career Education

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

Tuesday 09/12

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

Wednesday 09/13

All Day The Mercury News Berkeley Dance Project 2022: Two films exploring the intersection of dance and technology

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story  Time on the Lawn @North

11am Eventbrite BAY AREA In Person (IP) Diversity Career Fair 9/13/2023

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

2pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Arts and Crafts

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Playdate in the Park @West

4pm The Mercury News College Night at Tipsy Putt

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont

6pm Drake’s Brewing GATHER STUDIO & EVENTS: FALL WREATH WORKSHOP

7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)

7:30pm Drake’s Brewing BARNFLIX: REMEMBER THE TITANS

8pm The Mercury News Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

Thursday 09/14

8am Alameda County Fair 2023 USA Weightlifting North American Open Series II

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking 

11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections

11:30am Oakland Public Library Insight Housing

1pm The Mercury News Free Big Screen Classics

2:30pm Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6pm The Mercury News Instant Band Night 22: WILD

6pm Drake’s Brewing KING TRIVIA

7pm FunCheap FREE: “Thirsty Thursday” Oakland Comedy Night w/ All-Night $5 Drink Specials

7pm FunCheap East Bay Outdoor Summer Comedy Festival 2023 (Live at Bay Street)

8pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland LIVE

11pm Eventbrite Lover's Paradise

Simone Spotlight | The East Bay Pumpkin Patches

Are you ready for Pumpkin Season?

Here is a list of the East Bay Pumpkin Patches.

Piedmont Avenue Pumpkin Patch Get all of your fall decorations and Jack-O-Latern kit at Piedmont Ave. They have 15 varieties of pumpkins, corn stalks, gourds, straw and straw bales. They have great Halloween decorations for your home. Shop for fall and enjoy their Haunted House while you are there.

Location: 4414 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA Dates: Sept. 4th - Oct 31st. | Halloween Store Sept. 15th - Oct. 31st | Pumpkin Patch Hours: 9 am - 3pm | Halloween Store & 9 am - 8 pm | Pumpkin Patch Click here for the website.

Westbrae Nursery Mini Patch A sweet autumnal corner dedicated to pumpkins and hay throughout October. It is a darling photo opp and a place to shop local for pumpkins. No frills; pick up your gardening supplies and other plants there.

Location: 1272 Gilman Street in Berkeley Dates: Oct. 1 - Oct. 31st Hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm Click here for the website.

Pick of the Patch Operates several locations in the East Bay that open in late September: Concord, San Lorenzo, Richmond, Fremont, and Antioch. They feature inflatable parks for kids ages 2 - 12, paint ball ranges and more. Dates: Mid Sept. - Oct. 31st Hours: Open until 9 pm or 10 pm depending on the date. Click here for the website.

Classic Pumpkin Patch The Rowell Ranch Rodeo is a great place to take the kids and browse for pumpkins. They also have multi story super slides, pony rides, teacups, train rides and a swing carousel. The rides cost extra. Location: 9711 Dublin Canyon Rd., Castro Valley, CA Dates: Opens Sept. - Oct. 31st Hours: M - F: 2 pm - 8 pm, Sat. & Sun.: 10 am - 8 pm Click here for the website.

Alameda Point Pumpkin Patch Looking for the perfect autumn adventure? The Speer Family Pumpkin Patch has activities for the whole family to enjoy. They have assorted slides, jump houses, carousel, petting zoo and much more!

Location: 2453 Hancock St., Alameda, CA Dates: Opens Sept. 29th Hours: 10 am - 9 pm Click here for the website.

G&M Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze G & M Farms has a corn maze and pumpkin patch. Extra features like hayrides, pedal carts, a cow train, bouncy pillows, and pony rides are only available on weekends. Location: 487 East Airway Boulevard, Livermore Dates: Wednesday - Sunday - Sept. 30th - Oct. 31st Hours: Hours vary per day Click here for the website.

Smith Family Farm Smith Family Farm is old school with a country fair vibe and is open for October harvest activities. Guests can pick their own pumpkin and then enjoy a corn maze, a butterfly habitat with frogs and caterpillars, and a picnic area. Bring your own wagon. Location: 4350 Sellers Avenue, Knightsen Dates: Sept. 30th - Oct. 31st Hours: 9 am - 4:30 pm Click here for the website. The Simone Koga Group

Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 @ThatEastBayLife Simone@SimoneKoga.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

marketingcenter--

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

SEPTEMBER 01- SEPTEMBER 07

Don't miss out on the Lavagem procession's timeless tradition, where streets are washed with flowers and water, embodying renewal and solidarity.

Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!

Friday 09/01

All day Drake’s Brewing  FIRST FRIDAY AT THE BARN

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

12pm The Mercury News RUTH TABANCAY: (UN)NATURAL ORDER

12pm The Mercury News Jo Ann Biagini: Botanical Imaginary

12pm The Mercury News 2023 Juried Exhibition: Within Sight or From Imagination

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

5pm FunCheap 2023 Official “Hiero Day” Festival Kick-off Party (Oakland)

5pm FunCheap “Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid” Block Party + DJs (Oakland)

5pm Visit Oakland First Friday Street Festival

5pm FunCheap FIRST FRIDAY

5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Fo'show Friday

6pm FunCheap Redwood City Music on the Square 2023 

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAYS: STELLAR ENDING, DEATH OF STARS

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS 

Saturday 09/02

All day Alameda County Fair 157th Scottish Highland Gathering and Games

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

12pm Eventbrite The Fifth Annual Afrobeats at the Lake

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOUR 

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm FunCheap 2023 “Hiero on the Runway” Fashion Show (Oakland)

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

3pm Eventbrite Toasted Life Labor Day Weekend Block Party

4pm FunCheap “Faeries of the Moonlight” Berkeley’s Summer Musical Theatre in the Park

5pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (6p + 8p Shows)

7pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland LIVE

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8:30pm Visit Oakland  Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9pm The Mercury News Rhythm & Perreo: Reggaeton, R&B and Hip Hop (OtebNSolrac)

Sunday 09/03

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9am FunCheap Outer Sunset Farmers Market & Mercantile (Labor Day Weekend 2023)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

11am The Mercury News SF Bay Brazilian Day & Lavagem Festival 2023

1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch

2pm Eventbrite CREAM OF BEAT OAKLAND DAY PARTY - LABOR DAY WEEKEND EDITION

2pm The Mercury News Live Music in the Cellar! at Dashe Cellars

2pm Eventbrite Salsa by the Bay Sundays Summer Concert Series ft. Local Bands

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6:30pm Eventbrite International Labour day wkd.

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

Monday 09/04

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 

11am Visit Oakland Hiero Day 2023

2pm Eventbrite Bay Area Labor Day Yacht Groove: Afrobeats Cruise

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6pm FunCheap “Faeries of the Moonlight” Berkeley’s Summer Musical Theatre in the Park (Labor Day)

7pm Eventbrite Oakland HellaFunny Comedy Show + 1/2 Off Oyster Night

Tuesday 09/05

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Series

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6:45pm Drake’s Brewing SUNSET YOGA SESSIONS

Wednesday 09/06

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Movie Night @Claremont 

4pm Oakland Public Library City Team Food Giveaway

6pm City of Oakland Personal Emergency Preparedness [PEP] Class

7pm Eventbrite "Comedy & Wings" Wednesday Nights / Oakland

8pm The Mercury News Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Thursday 09/07

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

10am The Good Life Stress Busters! 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking 

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Night at “Golden State Lounge” (6pm Show)

7pm Montclair Village Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting

8pm Comedy Oakland 47th Annual San Francisco International Comedy Competition

8pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland LIVE

Simone Spotlight | The Home Buying Process

The Home Buying Process

AUGUST 28th

The Homebuying Process

So you want to buy a house? The process may seem daunting, but the truth is that when you have clarity on how to achieve your home-buying goal, achieving it no longer seems like an insurmountable task.

In today’s blog, we break down the homebuying process into simple steps that will help you make a plan and execute it. 

Before solidifying your plan there are a few things you may want to consider. 

1. Will you be financing or are you buying all cash? This makes a difference in the process. 

2. If you need or want a loan, you will want to sit down with a mortgage lender to get pre approved and go over the different types of mortgage available to you.

3. You do not need to buy a home at the maximum amount you have been pre-approved for, consider what your mortgage payments will be and the lifestyle you want to have.

Steps to buying a home:

Representation

Once you have your pre-approval, you will want to meet with real estate agents and hire a buyer’s agent to represent you. Hiring a buyer’s agent costs you nothing and you want someone in your corner to help you with the process.

Priority List

It is important to have realistic expectations when buying a property. We all have a wishlist, but we may not get all of the things on our list, that is why it’s essential to have a priority’s list. What features must the house have for you to buy it? What are attributes that would be nice to have, but you can live without? It’s vital for you to tell your real estate agent what matters to you so they can find homes for you with those features.

Find Your Home

Once you have sat down with your real estate agent they will create an online search that will send you emails with properties that match your criteria. You can see the properties with your agent or go to the open house. The most important thing to remember is that in a seller’s market, there are more buyers than properties available. Therefore you should look at the list of homes and see the ones you like best first.

Submit an offer

Once you find the home you like, have your agent write up an offer. At the stage you 

want to lean in on the expertise of your agent and consider the price, and terms that 

they think will best help you get the property under contract. Their knowledge of 

comparable sales, negotiations and relationships with agents is an asset to you, and 

is essential during the offer process.

Offers will have one of 3 results. The offer will be accepted, rejected or countered. If 

your offer is accepted then you move on to the next step. If it’s rejected your agent 

can find out why it’s rejected and you can try to renegotiate or move on. If your offer 

is countered, have your agent negotiate on your behalf until you arrive at terms that 

both you and the seller agree on.

Under Contract

This is when the ticking clock begins. You have deadlines that you have to meet or 

you will need to extend which could have an impact on your closing date.

You want your real estate agent to schedule a home inspection as soon as possible, 

even though you are given an allotted time, it’s best to do it sooner rather than later. 

Once you get the home inspection report back you may want to negotiate with the 

seller depending on what items come up.

Purchase and Sale

Once you are happy with the negotiations after the home inspection you move on to the purchase and sale agreement. At this stage, the mortgage lender will work with you to apply for the actual loan of the property. They will need financial documents from you to submit the loan to underwriting and a home appraisal will be conducted before the loan is approved. Once the home is approved you are ready for closing. 

Closing

Once the loan is approved, everyone typically comes to the signing table to sign the contracts, the final payments are made and you will receive your keys. 

Note that buying a home requires a team. It typically consists of you, the buyer, your real estate agent, your mortgage lender, and your attorney. Other notable people in this process are home inspectors and home insurance representatives.

If you have any questions on this process feel free to contact our team!

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

AUGUST 25- AUGUST 31

Vegan Street Fair is coming to the East Bay in 2023!

Mark your calendars and get ready to indulge in the best vegan street food The Bay has to offer!

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below ⬇️

Friday 08/25

8am Alameda County Fair GOODGUYS 36TH WEST COAST NATIONALS GENERAL PARKING

9am Oakland Chamber of Commerce Inside Oakland with the Honorable Treva Reid

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12pm The Mercury News RUTH TABANCAY: (UN)NATURAL ORDER

12pm The Mercury News Jo Ann Biagini: Botanical Imaginary

12pm The Mercury News 2023 Juried Exhibition: Within Sight or From Imagination

12pm Drake’s Brewing DRAKE’S ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

2pm Berkeley Public Library Summer Movies @ THPS

2:30pm Oakland Public Library Plutocracy: Political Repression in the U.S.A.

3pm Berkeley Public Library Meet Officer Kajahna Futch, Community Liaison for BPD

5pm Oakland Museum of California Friday Nights at OMCA: Beatmakers and Aerosol Artists Unite

5:30pm The Mercury News Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill to Host a Codigo Tequila Paired Dinner

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center SUNSET SCIENCE: STARS ACROSS CULTURES FT NATIVE SKIES STAR STORIES

6:30pm 510families Starlight Movies in the Park: Space Jam: A New Legacy

7pm The Mercury News JACK LONDON SQUARE TO HOST FREE MUSIC PERFORMANCE BY ‘PURE ECSTASY’

7:30pm 510families Summer Movie Series: Encanto

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show

8pm 510families Movies in the Park: Strange World

8pm 510families Summer Movies in the Park: Encanto

8pm FunCheap Berkeley’s Summer Outdoor Movie Night: “Strange World”

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live Standup Comedy Show

Saturday 08/26

All Day FunCheap Oakland & East Bay Summer “Beer Book” (2-for-1 Beers)

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

8am Alameda County Fair GOODGUYS 36TH WEST COAST NATIONALS GENERAL PARKING

10am The Mercury News Puppet Fair 2023

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Berkeley Public Library Little Explorers' Petting Zoo @North (Registration Required)

10am Berkeley Public Library Community Focus Group - Tarea Hall Pittman South Branch

11am Eventbrite Vegan Street Fair Oakland 2023 - Premium Passes & Perks

11am Oakland Public Library Proving Ownership: Title Clearing & Its Importance in Disaster Preparedness

12pm Drake’s Brewing DRAKE’S ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

1pm BLACK CULTURAL ZONE PRESENTS GREEN SPACES ARE GREEN PLACES “BLACK AUGUST” CELEBRATION

1pm Oakland Museum of California Gallery Activation Hour

2pm Oakland Public Library Black American Strip Quilts and Their West African Textile Roots

3pm Eventbrite TrapSoul Saturday - Outdoor Summer Block Party

3pm Oakland Public Library Black August Film Series presented by Black Cultural Zone

5pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

7:45pm 510families Movies in the Park | Turning Red

8pm Visit Oakland B:L:E:N:D - Acoustic Oakland Concert Series

10pm The Mercury News Desmadre: Reggaeton, Dembow, Moobahton, Corridos, Latin Dance, Y Mas

Sunday 08/27

8am Alameda County Fair GOODGUYS 36TH WEST COAST NATIONALS GENERAL PARKING

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am FunCheap Oakland Chinatown 34th StreetFest

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

12pm The Mercury News Drag Yourself to Brunch at the Alameda Comedy Club

12pm Drake’s Brewing DRAKE’S ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

1pm Eventbrite Jack Daniels x SoOakland Presents: SoOakland 8 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

4pm Eventbrite SUNDAZE OAKLAND

4pm Eventbrite OFFICIAL Darryl Reed's 4th Annual Ultimate White Day Party Escape

7pm Visit Oakland Sam Smith at the Oakland Arena

Monday 08/28

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 

10am Oakland Public Library Free AARP Smart Driver™ Course

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

Tuesday 08/29

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

Wednesday 08/30

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

11:30am Oakland Chamber of Commerce OMCC Board Meeting

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

5pm Berkeley Public Library Flirting with Disaster @Claremont

5:30pm The Mercury News Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill Hosts Rombauer Vineyards Paired Wine Dinner

6pm Oakland Public Library Folkland Book Club Featuring Books from Small Press Distribution

8pm The Mercury News Geeks Who Drink Trivia Night at Triple Rock Brewery

Thursday 08/31

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas 

9:40am The Mercury News Kindergym-Fall Sessions

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Loud in the Library: Queeraoke

6pm The Mercury News The Revivalists & Band of Horses & The Heavy Heavy

7pm Visit Oakland LXGIT Performance

Simone Spotlight | Ways to Celebrate Labor Day in the East Bay

Ways to Celebrate Labor Day in the East Bay

AUGUST 21st

LABOR DAY WEEKEND BRUNCH & DAY PARTY!

Indulge in delicious brunch bites while vibing to the hottest trap music. Our talented DJs will keep the energy high, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a trap music enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, this event is perfect.

Gather your friends and dance the day away. Our spacious venue provides ample room to groove and mingle. Don't forget to dress to impress, as this event is all about style and swag.

Tickets are limited, so make sure to secure yours now. Get ready for an epic day filled with good vibes, great music, and a whole lot of fun. Don't miss out on this Brunch & DAY PARTY!

Date & Time | Saturday, September 2 · 2 - 8pm PDT

Location | TEASE SOUTHERN KITCHEN OAKLAND 5319 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. WAY Oakland, CA

Cost | $25-$75

Get tix 

Sobre Mesa Labor Day Rooftop Take Over

Come celebrate the end of summer at the sexiest rooftop in the East Bay! Join us at 17th & Broadway rooftop lounge on Sunday, September 3rd during Labor Day weekend! Sobre Mesa is once again bringing you the sexy vibes, cocktails and delicious food to make this an epic rooftop party!

Ticket price includes an open bar featuring Hornitos, Tres Generaciones and more, and food stations with summertime bites curated by Top Chef season 18's Chef Nelson German. DCisChillin and Emmelle will be spinning hip hop, reggaeton, funk and R&B jams and you'll be able to enjoy both the indoor lounge and the outdoor rooftop with the best view.

Enjoy a game of pool, shuffleboard, fire pits, and the best roof top view of the Bay Area while sipping on our craft cocktails. Come celebrate Labor Day with us!

* Must be 21 or over

* Open Bar

* Food Stations open from 3-6pm

* Free sampling: Tres Generaciones Frozen Ice Bar will be open from 4-6pm

* Vegetarian options will be available. Non alcoholic drinks will be available.

* Sales are final and non-refundable. No exceptions. Transfers are acceptable.

Date & Time | Sunday, September 3 · 3 - 7pm PDT

Location | 17th & Broadway Apartments 447 17th Street Oakland, CA

Cost | $85

Get tix

CREAM OF BEAT OAKLAND DAY PARTY - LABOR DAY WEEKEND EDITION

Personal Touch Entertainment, The Pirate DJs & True SF Present...

THE LEGEND CONTINUES!!! The Pirate DJs serve up another meal... We're gonna party like we used to back in the day! Featuring Music by Pirate DJs, MIND MOTION * IVAN * DARK MONEY. With Special Guest DJs SCOTTY FOX * POS RED * FUZE * H HOLLA * CHRIS DOPE * TAY ROCK (ATL)

Date & Time | Sunday, September 3 · 2 - 8pm PDT

Location | For The Culture 701 Clay Street Oakland, CA

Cost | $20 - $100

Get tix

Bay Area Labor Day Yacht Groove: Afrobeats Cruise

Get ready for an unforgettable Labor Day celebration at the Bay Area Labor Day Yacht Groove: Afrobeats Cruise! Join us on Monday, September 4, 2023, at 2:00 PM PDT, as we set sail from the picturesque location at 2394 Mariner Square Drive #STE B, Alameda, CA 94501.

Immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats music while cruising along the stunning Bay Area coastline. Dance the day away, surrounded by breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere. Our expert DJs will keep the party going with the hottest Afrobeats tracks, ensuring non-stop grooves throughout the event.

Whether you're a seasoned Afrobeats enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled Labor Day experience, this event is perfect for you. Gather your friends and come aboard for an afternoon of music, dancing, and good vibes. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate Labor Day in style!

Please note that this event is in-person, and tickets are limited. So, book your spot early to secure your place on the Bay Area Labor Day Yacht Groove: Afrobeats Cruise. We can't wait to see you there!

Date & Time | Monday, September 4 · 2 - 6pm PDT

Location | LUXE Cruises and Events 2394 Mariner Square Drive #STE B Alameda, CA 

Cost | $50 - $65

Get Tix

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

AUGUST 18- AUGUST 24

Get ready for these fascinating new laser shows, laser and light demos, beer, wine, and the evening's featured themed cocktail!! 🤩

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 08/18

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11:30am Visit Oakland Left Bank Brasserie Oakland Celebrates Taste of Provence Wine & Food Week

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

4pm Berkeley Public Library Music Performance by Chris Waltz & Tina Digesti @Central

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA: HIP HOP MEETS JAZZ

5pm Black Cultural Zone SALSA ‘N’ SKATE

5pm The Mercury News Red Tomato Pizza House Who's That? weekly comedy series

5:30pm The Mercury News Musical Park Shabbat

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP WITH SPECIAL GUEST MICHAEL CHARNOFSKY, EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT NATURALIST

7pm Drake’s Brewing FRIDAY NIGHT MARKETS 2023

7pm Visit Oakland Live Music Series - Jazzaholics at Jack London Square

7pm Jack London Square LIVE MUSIC SERIES - JAZZAHOLICS

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

7:30pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland Live

8pm 510families Summer Movies in the Park: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

8pm 510families Movies in the Park: Turning Red

9:45pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland Live - Friday August 18, 2023 Late Show

Saturday 08/19

All day Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

9am The Mercury News High on Flavor! A Unique Coffee and Cannabis Pairing Experience

10am Berkeley Public Library Repitles, Amphibians, and You @North *NEW TIME*

10am Berkeley Public Library East Bay Vivarium @West *NEW TIME

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Eventbrite Black Liberation Walking Tour

10:30am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

1pm Eventbrite 626 Night Market Mini @ Great Mall Milpitas (Summer 2023)

2pm Oakland Public Library Black August Film Series presented by Black Cultural Zone

2pm The Mercury News Return of the Funk Festival

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

3pm Eventbrite Praise Fest

3pm The Mercury News A Bohemian Summer Celebration with Fleetwood Macrame

4pm FunCheap “Faeries of the Moonlight” Berkeley’s Summer Musical Theatre in the Park

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy

6:07pm 510families Star Wars Drone Show vs. Baltimore Oreoles

7pm 510families Montclair Outdoor Cinema: Dungeons & Dragons

7pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland Live

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: QUEENS OF POP

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm 510families Movie Nights: Shrek 2

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9:20pm The Mercury News Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday August 19, 2023 Late Show

9:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center LASER AFTER HOURS: QUEENS OF POP

Sunday 08/20

All day Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Visit Oakland Weekly Farmers Markets

10am Oakland Zoo Clear the Shelters Pet Adoption Day at the Zoo

11am The Mercury News JACK LONDON SQUARE INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO ITS WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET

11:30am Visit Oakland  Left Bank Brasserie Oakland Celebrates Taste of Provence Wine & Food Week

1pm The Mercury News The Cali Fest

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

4pm Visit Oakland Sunset Sundays: Soulful & Eclectic Concerts on the Oakland Waterfront

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland “HellaSecret” Comedy Show

8pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST GLANCE: MEMBER TELESCOPE VIEWING

Monday 08/21

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 

10am Eventbrite What's Cooking, Oakland? The Future of Commercial Kitchens

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

Tuesday 08/22

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

7pm Eventbrite Taco Tuesgay

7pm FunCheap Oakland’s New Stand-up Comedy Pop-Up w/ HellaFunny (Summer 2023)

7pm Drake’s Brewing SUNSET YOGA SESSIONS

8pm FunCheap Tuesday Trivia Night at Nigh Heron (Oakland)

8:30pm FunCheap $6 Drive-In Movie Night in Concord & San Jose

Wednesday 08/23

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

12pm Oakland Chamber of Commerce New Member Orientation

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)

8pm The Mercury News Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

Thursday 08/24

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas 

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking 

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

2pm Oakland Public Library Africa: An Art Exhibition by the African American Quilters Guild of Oakland

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Night at “Golden State Lounge” (6pm Show)

6pm Drake’s Brewing KING TRIVIA

Fire Emergency Plan Checklist Blog

Are you Prepared for Fire Season?

SAFETY FIRST: DISASTER PLANNING 101 Northern California is no stranger to natural disasters. When you live at the foot of nature, you’re bound to get in its way a time or two. Evacuation orders have become so commonplace, it’s easy to get a bit complacent in the routine – especially when you typically return to find things just as you left them. If your “plan” is more or less, “slippers by the bed, La Croix in the fridge, and a flashlight somewhere, I think” – you may be interested to learn that the average government response time to a major emergency is 72 hours. That means, for 72 hours, you’re essentially on your own. It might be time to flesh out that plan a bit. We’ve put together customizable checklists for simple yet effective disaster planning, as well as a comprehensive Emergency Kit guide that can be accessed here. Don’t be daunted if you feel woefully unprepared; just take it one step at a time. These recommendations are intended to empower you toward positive preparedness and peace of mind.

MAKE A PLAN: Select your “emergency buddies” – a small group of friends and loved ones you’ll meet up with in the event of an emergency. Decide on a public meeting spot like a park or major landmark. Practice escape routes, evaluating each for ease of access. Keep a flashlight next to your bed, along with rubber-soled slippers or a pair of shoes. SAFEGUARD YOUR HOME: Locate your gas shut-off valve – you will want to act fast after an earthquake, so hang a wrench nearby if possible and make sure you know how to use it. Secure large furniture, mirrors, and frames to the wall. Learn about defensible space zones and implement them in your yard. PROTECT YOUR FINANCES: Closely examine your insurance paperwork to determine the full scope of coverage. GET INVOLVED: Join your Community Emergency Response Team to learn basic disaster response techniques and find out who amongst your neighbors is equipped to help. Sign up for local emergency text alerts. Visit https://oaklandfiresafecouncil.org/programs/ for emergency preparedness education and real-time information. EMERGENCY KIT CHECKLISTS YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE OR WHEN A DISASTER MIGHT STRIKE, SO KEEP ONE KIT IN YOUR HOME AND ANOTHER IN YOUR CAR. HOME EMERGENCY KIT: Food: Forego the granola bars in favor of something more lasting like freeze-dried food, canned items, or MREs (Meals Ready to Eat.) Tea and coffee are always a good idea – throw in some Dripkit Pour Over packets for a just-add-water caffeine buzz you’ll actually enjoy. Kitchenware: Can opener, utensils (this is where sporks really shine), plates, bowls, dual-burner stove – anything you need to prepare and consume the food you packed. Water: A case of Sparkletts won’t quite cut it if you’re stranded for a week. You’ll want at least a gallon per person per day, not including cooking or bathing. Food-safe water barrels hold up to 55-gallons and have a shelf life of five years. First-Aid Kit: Think beyond band-aids and look for one equipped to stop bleeding and control serious trauma, like Adventure Medical’s Trauma Pak with QuikClot. Clothing: Pack comfortable clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy shoes, a durable jacket, multiple pairs of socks, and underwear. Hygiene: Stock up on wipes for hand cleaning and waterless showers. Duplicate your dopp kit basics, and don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. Other easy to miss essentials include deodorant, sunscreen, liquid and bar soap, feminine products, hair accessories, a nail file, and clippers. Sanitation: You may find yourself without working plumbing. Invest in a portable toilet and toilet waste bags – and don’t forget the two-ply. Highly recommended extra: Bio-Blue Toilet Deodorant. Sleep Stuff: At minimum, you’ll want a sleeping bag and plenty of blankets, but you may want to add a tent and air mattress, just in case. An eye mask and ear plugs may help the Zzzs come a bit quicker. Technical Supplies: Work gloves, paracord (military spec rope), waterproof safety matches, gorilla tape, tarps, clear plastic sheeting, multi-tool pocket-knife – basically the suburban garage starter kit. Father really does know best. Fire Extinguishers: Keep one near every room, if possible, along with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Search & Rescue Tools: A basic whistle can be a huge lifesaver. You should also keep recent photos of family members or housemates in sealed Ziploc bags in case anyone gets separated. Explore all-weather notebooks and pens to leave waterproof messages that won’t run or turn to mush. An ax and folding saw might seem a bit heavy-handed, but you’ll be glad to have them if you need to clear trees. Lighting: You’ll likely need more than just the flashlight beside your bed. Put a couple more flashlights with rechargeable batteries in your kit along with a headlamp and emergency candles. Communication: Long-range walkie-talkies are a great alternative when cell towers are down or overloaded – just make sure to charge their batteries somewhat regularly. Power: It’s stressful enough keeping your phone charged on a normal day. Fortunately, portable chargers have come a long way. For max power, select a solar or gas-powered generator – the latter can even keep a mini fridge running. Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries are good to have on-hand as well. Personal Items: Remember your first overseas trip without your parents? Everything your mom put in your carry-on goes in this kit, or at least upload it to the Cloud – copies of your passport, birth certificate, insurance policies, medication information, proof-of-address, an extra set of keys, and at least one hundred dollars in cash. (ATMs might be out of commission for a while.) Entertainment: Cards, board games, Mad Libs, coloring books, the Great American Novel – anything that can serve as a fun distraction from a very stressful reality. EStorage: Stow your kit in a water-resistant plastic storage container, preferably in the yard outside your home in case the structure collapses. Include gallon size Ziploc bags and mesh storage sacks to keep loose items dry, organized, and easy to take on the go. EMERGENCY CAR KIT: Food & Water: 6 flameless MREs and two gallons of water are the recommended minimum for two people. If you typically travel with more passengers, adjust the amount accordingly. Mask: We’ve all become well-acquainted with these lately. For your emergency kit, look for an N95 or similar particulate respirator to prevent dust and debris from entering your lungs. Survival Blanket: Mylar blankets help you retain your body heat, providing exceptional warmth – especially if you have to sleep in your car or outside overnight. Technical Supplies: Keep an escape hammer and knife in your door pocket in case you need to break the window and/or cut your seatbelt. Basic supplies like a tarp, duct tape, and pocket-knife can go in the trunk with the rest of your kit. First Aid Kit: You’ll want a well-organized first aid kit with supplies for a variety of injuries, such as bleeding, blisters, fractures, sprains, and open wounds. Search & Rescue Tools: Light sticks are great for signaling and marking locations; throw in an emergency poncho in case you have to wait for assistance in the rain. All-weather tactical notebooks and pens let you leave waterproof messages that repel sweat, grease, and mud. Local Emergency Numbers Simone Koga Group Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 @ThatEastBayLife Simone@SimoneKoga.com Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

marketingcenter--

Simone Spotlight | Fireproofing Your Home

Fireproofing Your Home

Aug 14th

Fireproofing your home involves a combination of preventative measures and preparedness strategies. Here are some effective ways to fireproof your home:

1. Create Defensible Space:

   • Clear flammable vegetation and debris from around your property, creating a buffer zone that reduces the risk of a fire spreading to your home.

   • Maintain a distance between trees, shrubs, and other vegetation and your home's exterior.

2. Roof and Gutters:

   • Choose fire-resistant roofing materials like metal, clay, or asphalt shingles treated with fire-retardant chemicals.

   • Regularly clean your roof and gutters to remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris that could ignite during a fire.

3. Siding and Walls:

   • Opt for non-combustible or fire-resistant siding materials, such as stucco, brick, or cement board.

   • Use metal mesh screens to cover vents, chimneys, and other openings to prevent embers from entering your home.

4. Windows and Doors:

   • Install tempered glass windows that are less likely to shatter in intense heat.

   • Consider using fire-resistant shutters or drapes to provide an additional layer of protection.

5. Landscaping and Plants:

   • Choose fire-resistant plants that are less likely to ignite, and maintain them properly.

   • Keep lawns well-watered and mowed to reduce dry vegetation that could fuel fires.

6. Fire-Resistant Fencing:

   • If you have a fence, consider using metal or non-combustible materials, and create a gap between the fence and any flammable vegetation.

7. Fire-Resistant Building Materials:

   • Use fire-resistant materials for decks, patios, and other outdoor structures.

   • Consider adding spark arresters to chimneys to prevent sparks from escaping and igniting nearby materials.

8. Eaves and Overhangs:

   • Install non-combustible soffits and eaves to prevent embers from getting trapped and igniting your home.

9. Emergency Water Supply:

   • Maintain a water source on your property, such as a well, pond, or swimming pool, that can be used by firefighters during a wildfire.

10. Home Safety Measures:

• Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the attic and basement.

• Create a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and meeting points.

• Have fire extinguishers readily available and ensure family members know how to use them.

1. Regular Maintenance:

   • Regularly inspect and maintain all fireproofing measures to ensure their effectiveness over time.

2. Community Efforts:

   • Participate in local fire prevention and community awareness programs.

   • Work with neighbors to create a defensible space and address fire hazards collectively.

Remember that no home can be completely fireproof, especially in extreme wildfire conditions. However, implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of your home being impacted by a fire and improve your chances of successfully defending it if a fire does occur.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

AUGUST 11- AUGUST 17

Satisfy your cravings, don’t count the calories! Take some time to attend the FoodieLand Night Market event and have some mouthwatering moments.

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below.

Friday 08/11

8am City of Oakland Community Emergency Response Team Training - 2023.4 3-Day Accelerated Delivery

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Bilingual Baby Bounce (Spanish/Español) @West

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

11am FunCheap “Pay-What-You-Can” Taco Day at SF’s Tato

12pm The Mercury News Celebrating Everett and Jones Barbeque’s 50-Year Legacy

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

2pm Berkeley Public Library Summer Movies @ THPS

3pm Eventbrite FoodieLand Night Market - Berkeley

4pm 510families Blankets & Blockbusters: Lightyear

4pm The Mercury News Tap Takeover Fridays at Tipsy Putt East Bay

5pm FunCheap Sunset Fridays at San Francisco Zoo

5pm Oakland Museum of California Friday Nights at OMCA: A Celebration of Hip Hop Culture

5pm The Mercury News Red Tomato Pizza House Who's That? weekly comedy series

5pm Eventbrite Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid

7pm FunCheap “Crazy Funny Asians” Friday Night Comedy Show (SF)

7pm FunCheap SF’s Summer Beer & Comedy Festival 2023 (Speakeasy Brewery)

7pm Jack London Square LIVE MUSIC SERIES - MIRAGE BAND

7pm Eventbrite Dark Leather: Circus Show & Art Party

7pm Eventbrite HellaSecret Speakeasy Comedy & Cocktail Night : Oakland / 2023

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Chabot Space & Science Center NATIVE SKIES STAR STORIES

8:15pm 510families Movies in the Park: Turning Red

9pm FunCheap Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s 2023 “Free Movies on the Beach”

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

10pm FunCheap Secret Summer Guest List: Cobb’s Free Comedy Late Night

Saturday 08/12

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Jelly Jam Time presents The Muffin Man @THPS

10:30am Chabot Space & Science Center FAMILY NATURE ADVENTURES

11am The Mercury News Laurel StreetFair World Music Festival

11am The Mercury News 22nd Annual Laurel StreetFair World Music Festival

11am Berkeley Public Library Screenprinting with Raine Robichaud @West

11am Oakland Public Library Club de Lectura en Español / Spanish Book Club

11am Oakland Public Library Hoover Branch Library Feasibility Study Community Vision Workshop

11am FunCheap SF’s Pistahan 2023 at Yerba Buena Gardens

11am Drake’s Brewing LAUREL STREETFAIR WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL

11:30am Oakland Public Library Hip Hop Film Matinee Marathon

12pm Eventbrite In Memoriam Victorian Oddities Market

1pm Eventbrite AfroSocial Brunch (R&B x Afrobeats)

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOUR

2pm Eventbrite Black Panther Party Legacy City Tour

2pm FunCheap SF’s Valencia Street Saturday Block Parties

2pm Eventbrite Wine Tasting at Côte West - Oakland's Favorite Winery!

2pm Eventbrite BATTLE OF THE BAY X

2pm Black Cultural Zone Soledad Brother: A TributeTo George Jackson

2pm Black Cultural Zone  BLACK AUGUST (Revolutionary And Radical Acts of Service)

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

7pm FunCheap SF’s HellaDesi Comedy Night

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm 510families Ardenwood Historic Farm Movie Night: Lightyear

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9pm Eventbrite Energy 2nd & 4th Saturdays For The Culture Oakland

10pm Eventbrite SILENT PARTY OAKLAND "TRAP, R&B AND AFRO-BEATS"

11:45pm Chabot Space & Science Center PERSEID METEOR SHOWER

Sunday 08/13

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

11am FunCheap “Lindy in the Park” Swing Dance Party (Golden Gate Park)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

11am Eventbrite Family Winemakers August Tasting

1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch

1pm FunCheap Golden Gate Park Sunday Roller Disco Party (SF)

1pm Alameda County Fair Gran Jaripeo Y Baile

3pm Black Cultural Zone SHOP & SKATE AT LIBERATION PARK

4pm Visit Oakland Sunset Sundays: Soulful & Eclectic Concerts on the Oakland Waterfront

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland “HellaSecret” Comedy Show

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

8pm Eventbrite Butter OAK

9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters

Monday 08/14

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

11:30am Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

Tuesday 08/15

10am Berkeley Public Library Need Medical Care? @West

10am Alameda County Fair CTBA Horse Auction

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates

11:30am Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

1:30pm Berkeley Public Library Drop-in Lego Build @West

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Research Talks: Popping the Science Bubble @Central

6pm Oakland Public Library Proving Ownership: Title Clearing & Its Importance in Disaster Preparedness

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S DEALERSHIP

6:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Book Club

7pm The Mercury News Comedy Soup at NIDO's Backyard

8pm FunCheap FREE TIX: HellaFunny’s Brand New North Beach Comedy Blast (Opening Night)

8:30pm FunCheap $6 Drive-In Movie Night in Concord & San Jose

Wednesday 08/16

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

11:30am Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

1:30pm Berkeley Public Library Death Cafe @West

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Public Presentation: Hoover Branch Feasibility Study

6pm Berkeley Public Library CraftLab: DIY Light Up Cards

6pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

6pm Drake’s Brewing TRIVIA NIGHT AT DRAKE’S BARREL HOUSE

7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)

8pm The Mercury News Nuthouse at the Golden Squirrel

8pm FunCheap “HellaSecret” SF Outdoor Comedy Night & Secret Beer Garden (Marina)

Thursday 08/17

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11:30am Jack London Square 2023 TASTE OF PROVENCE WINE AND FOOD WEEK

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

4pm Eventbrite Bar Car at Embarcadero Center

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Night at “Golden State Lounge”

6pm FunCheap Free “Movies on the Square” Puss in Boots + Whitney Houston (Redwood City)

7pm Eventbrite Thursday Happy Hour Cocktail Bay Cruise Buy ONE ticked

7pm FunCheap “Puff Puff Laugh” SF’s Cannabis Lounge Comedy Show

August 2023 | Market Report

The Simone Koga Group

Simone Koga Group Realtor® | DRE #: 01897985 | www.SimoneKoga.com M: 415.706.1586 @ThatEastBayLife Simone@SimoneKoga.com

Statistics are generalities, essentially summaries of widely disparate data generated by dozens, hundreds or thousands of unique, individual sales occurring within different time periods. They are best seen not as precise measurements, but as broad, comparative indicators, with reasonable margins of error. Anomalous fluctuations in statistics are not uncommon, especially in smaller, expensive market segments. Last period data should be considered estimates that may change with late-reported data. Different analytics programs sometimes define statistics - such as "active listings," "days on market," and "months supply of inventory" - differently: what is most meaningful are not specific calculations but the trends they illustrate. Most listing and sales data derives from the local or regional multi-listing service (MLS) of the area specified in the analysis, but not all listings or sales are reported to MLS and these won't be reflected in the data. "Homes" signifies real-property, single-household housing units: houses, condos, co-ops, townhouses, duets and TICs (but not mobile homes), as applicable to each market. City/town names refer specifically to the named cities and towns, or their MLS areas, unless otherwise delineated. Multi­county metro areas will be specified as such. Data from sources deemed reliable, but may contain errors and subject to revision. All numbers to be considered approximate. Many aspects of value cannot be adequately reflected in median and average statistics: curb appeal, age, condition, amenities, views, lot size, quality of outdoor space, "bonus" rooms, additional parking, quality of location within the neighborhood, and so on. How any of these statistics apply to any particular home is unknown without a specific comparative market analysis. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California operating under multiple entities. License Numbers 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. All material is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description or measurements (including square footage). This is not intended to solicit property already listed. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

marketingcenter--

Simone Spotlight | Home Buyer Purchase Power

Home Buyer Purchase Power

Aug 7th

You may be wondering how a buyer’s purchase power influences home prices and the real estate market.

For today’s blog, we sourced an article from First Tuesday Journal that explains the importance of understanding your purchase power and how interest rates can affect your purchase power.

The driving force in real estate pricing

Firstly, a buyer’s purchasing power determines home prices — always. It’s the buyer’s purchasing power that drives real estate pricing.

On one side of the pricing scale sits the buyer with some down payment money. On the other is the seller with a property. Between them sits the all-powerful lender with the funds necessary to close the transaction. The lender’s mortgage rate moves the pricing up and down.

This chart displays the Buyer Purchasing Power Index (BPPI). This index measures the year-over-year change in the amount of mortgage money available to a buyer based on average gross income. It varies based on the interest rate charged for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM).

An index number of zero translates to no year-over-year change in the amount a buyer can borrow. A positive index number, say 5, means the buyer can borrow 5% more money this year than one year earlier. The index is based on today’s incomes.

Finally, a negative index number translates to a reduced amount of mortgage funds available to a buyer compared to one year earlier.

At the end of 2022, the BPPI was -31. This figure tells us a homebuyer with the same income today is able to borrow 31% less purchase-assist mortgage money than a year ago when mortgage interest rates were still near historic lows.

Mortgage funds ARE available, but limited by rates and THE buyer’s income

This chart contrasts the average 30-year FRM rate with the corresponding mortgage funds available, in today’s dollars. From the 1980s through 2012, interest rates generally decreased, resulting in more funds available to buyers each year. Since 2012, mortgage rates have generally increased.

The mortgage funds available to a buyer from year to year are depicted by the solid line on the chart above. These amounts are in today’s dollars and are based on the mortgage amount an average income earner in California qualifies to borrow.

Payments are set at 31% of gross income (before withholdings), as required for qualified consumer mortgages.

What appears is a purchasing power drop of roughly $150,000 in the amount an average buyer can borrow with the same income over the past year — due solely to 2022’s interest rate jump.

The yearly change in available mortgage funds (shaded bars) depicts the percentage change in mortgage funds available to a buyer compared to one year earlier. Mortgage funding changes in lockstep amount as interest rates rise and fall. The higher the shaded bar, the higher the mortgage amount a buyer will qualify for compared to the previous year using today’s pay.

In the coming decade, the annual BPPI figure will generally remain negative due to continually rising interest rates, a turnaround of long-term interest rate movement which began in 2012. The impact to homebuyer mortgage funding has been devastating — and the inevitable shockwave to home prices arrived in the second half of 2022, pushing prices to rapidly implode.

However, this decrease will be slightly offset by an annual increase in the wages of homebuyers.

The lender determines the buyer’s mortgage amount

Each buyer has a maximum price they can pay to purchase property. This maximum price depends on:

• the buyer’s down payment; and

• the mortgage funds they qualify to borrow from a lender.

The amount of mortgage funds a buyer can borrow is based on two factors:

• the buyer’s income, which adjusts annually at the rate of inflation; and

• current mortgage rates, which change constantly.

Lenders know buyers are less likely to default if they allocate no more than 31% of their monthly gross income to their monthly mortgage payment. Accordingly, mortgage lenders refuse (as mandated) to lend more money than the buyer can repay at that 31% gross income ratio, amortized over 30 years.

The buyer’s income and mortgage control the seller’s price

On the other hand, sellers seek the highest possible sales price they can get from a buyer whose standard of living is typical for the location. The sales price of all homes sold within each pricing tier cannot on average exceed the purchasing power of buyers shopping in that tier.

When all sellers within a tier hold out for above-market prices, buyers for that tier of property will eventually be unable to buy. Thus, buyers control the price sellers will receive, based primarily on mortgage funds available at current interest rates.

Sellers of any type of asset have received greater and greater prices over the past 20 years driven primarily by a continuous drop in interest rates (a Fed activity historically called the Greenspan put).

However, the pricing trend has reversed, moving out of the zero lower bound interest rate regime we left in 2012. And the downward pressure on prices will continue for a long time as interest rates are unlikely to drop for the next couple of decades — except temporarily during Fed-engineered business recessions.

Rates hovered near zero from 2009-2015 and again in 2020 — and while a rate of zero was too high to stimulate the economy, the Fed (unlike some countries) was unwilling to go negative. Expect rates to trend upward over the next 20 years (except during recessions).

As mortgage rates rise, the maximum price a buyer can pay for a home declines since the amount they are able to borrow declines.

The static 31% debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is set for buyers needing a mortgage. Going forward, buyer income will rise annually based on consumer inflation of around 2%. This inflation figure has been typical for nearly two decades — with the rapid inflation of 2022 the big exception. However, wages have not kept up with consumer inflation, much less asset inflation (think homes) over the past 15 years.

Source | https://journal.firsttuesday.us/buyer-purchasing-power-determines-home-prices-always/88493/

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

AUGUST 04- AUGUST 10

Experience the power and resilience of the Black community at the Black Futures Ball.

The East Bay Weekly Events are listed below. ⬇️

Friday 08/04

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

11am FunCheap “Pay-What-You-Can” Taco Day at SF’s Tato (Every Friday)

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

3pm The Mercury News FoodieLand Night Market

4pm The Mercury News Coco Noir Wine Shop and Bar

4pm The Mercury News Tap Takeover Fridays at Tipsy Putt East Bay

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA: THE ROOTS OF HIP HOP CULTURE

5pm 510families Oakland First Fridays: Family-friendly Street Party

5pm Visit Oakland First Fridays 10th Anniversary

5pm FunCheap “50 Years of Hip Hop – A Cultural Celebration in California” at OMCA (August 2023)

5pm Visit Oakland Black Cultural Zone: Fo'show Friday

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center FIRST FRIDAY: COLORFUL CONSTELLATIONS  

6pm FunCheap Redwood City Music on the Square 2023

6:30pm FunCheap “Ship of Fools: A Giant Puppet Odyssey” Live Puppet Theater (Alameda)

7pm Jack London Square LIVE MUSIC SERIES - JAZZAHOLICS 

7pm FunCheap “Crazy Funny Asians” Friday Night Comedy Show (SF)

7pm FunCheap SF’s Summer Beer & Comedy Festival 2023 (Speakeasy Brewery)

7:30pm FunCheap SF Symphony’s “Maxwell Night: The Trilogy Show” Summer Concert (2023)

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm FunCheap “The Stoner Comedy Jam” Friday Nights (SF)

9pm FunCheap Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s 2023 “Free Movies on the Beach”

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

Saturday 08/05

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am 510families Fremont Festival of the Arts

11am 510families Summer Science Fundays: Bug Bonanza

11am Oakland Public Library OPL Summer Party

11am FunCheap SF’s 2023 Nihonmachi Street Fair in Japantown (August 5-6)

11am Berkeley Public Library Village Rhythms @George Florence Park

11am Oakland Public Library End of Summer Party Bike Ride

12pm Oakland Public Library Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club @ Chávez

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

1pm Fourth Street  OUT & ABOUT WITH EDGARDO & CANDELA 2023

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOUR

1pm FunCheap SF’s AfroSolo Arts Festival 2023 (Yerba Buena Gardens)

1:30pm Berkeley Public Library Ice Cream Party @North

2pm Visit Oakland Outdoor Wine Tasting

2pm Oakland Public Library Black August Film Series presented by Black Cultural Zone

3pm Oakland Public Library Teen Game Day @ 81st Ave // Dia de Juegos para Adolescentes

3pm Berkeley Public Library Puzzle Swap @North

4pm FunCheap Ounces Outdoors’ Summer Beats Festival (2023)

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (6p + 8p Shows)

7pm FunCheap Women’s World Cup: Round of 16 Watch Party | SF

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - August 2023

7pm FunCheap “Crazy Funny Asians” Comedy Showcase (SF)

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Eventbrite Black Futures Ball 2023

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9:30pm Comedy Oakland MR. JAZZIQ (LIVE IN OAKLAND) 8/5 

9:30pm Visit Oakland Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday August 5, 2023 Late Show

10pm Eventbrite Afrobeats Oakland presents AFRO RAVE

10pm Eventbrite ISSA VIBE

Sunday 08/06

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Alameda County Fair NORCAL BARBER EXPO GENERAL PARKING

10am Alameda County Fair EXOTIC BIRD MART GENERAL PARKING

11am Oakland Museum of California FIRST SUNDAYS

11am FunCheap “Lindy in the Park” Swing Dance Party (Golden Gate Park)

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

11am Black Cultural Zone AKOMA GRAND MARKET & MELON JUBILEE

12pm Eventbrite Jack London Brewing District Block Party 2023

12pm Eventbrite Vibrant Brunch Party

12:30pm Black Cultural Zone BENEFIT SCREENING! “A RISING TIDE” A Look At Homelessness In Alameda County, CA

1pm Eventbrite Join us every Sunday for our Signature Brunch

1pm FunCheap Golden Gate Park Sunday Roller Disco Party (SF)

2pm Chabot Space & Science Center NATIVE SKIES STAR STORIES

2pm Oakland Public Library Sunday Puzzle Competition

3pm Eventbrite PENT ROOFTOP PARTY hosted by Afropolitan

3pm 510families Fish Feeding Viewing

3pm 510families Slammin’ Sunday Skate

4pm Visit Oakland Sunset Sundays: Soulful & Eclectic Concerts on the Oakland Waterfront

4pm Eventbrite SUNDAZE OAKLAND

4pm The Mercury News AfterGlow Chorus Concert: Love Is Stronger Than Hate

4pm The Mercury News Hawaii: Celebrating Cultural Food Traditions

7pm Eventbrite Stand-Up Comedy at Nido's Backyard In Jack London Sq.

9pm Eventbrite Jush Sundays! Drag Cabaret hosted by Jasmine Masters

Monday 08/07

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

7pm Comedy Oakland Oakland HellaFunny Comedy Show + 1/2 Off Oyster Night

Tuesday 08/08

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

5pm 510families Hacienda Nights Food Truck Event

7pm The Mercury News Tipsy Tuesday Trivia at Tipsy Putt Emeryville

8pm FunCheap Secret Summer Guest List: Cobb’s Free Comedy Night (Aug. 8)

8:30pm FunCheap $6 Drive-In Movie Night in Concord & San Jose

Wednesday 08/09

9 am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Peace Day Commemoration featuring Shirley Kazuyo Muramoto @North

5pm Oakland Public Library Mix It Up: Family & Friends Game Night

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Frances Ha @Claremont

7pm The Mercury News Salsa Nite at Temescal Brewing

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

8pm FunCheap “HellaSecret” SF Outdoor Comedy Night & Secret Beer Garden (Marina)

Thursday 08/10

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

3:30pm Oakland Public Library Lakeview Knitters!

6pm Berkeley Public Library Jazz Tribute to Muziki Roberson @THPS

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ACRYLIC SPACE PAINT & SIP: THE GREAT CARINA NEBULA

6pm FunCheap Free “Movies on the Square” Elvis (Redwood City)

6:30pm 510families Music & Market Concert Series

7pm FunCheap East Bay Outdoor Summer Comedy Festival 2023 (Live at Bay Street)

7pm FunCheap “Puff Puff Laugh” SF’s Cannabis Lounge Comedy Show

8pm Visit Oakland F Bomb Presents: Hofkuche Comedy

Simone Spotlight | Getting Ready for Back to School

Getting Ready for Back to School

JULY 31

Getting ready for back to school can be an exciting and busy time for both parents and children. Here are some tips to help parents prepare for the upcoming school year:

1. Establish a Routine: Before school starts, gradually adjust your child's sleeping and waking schedule to match their school routine. This will make the transition to early mornings much easier.

2. School Supplies: Check the school's supply list and make sure your child has all the necessary supplies. Involve your child in shopping for supplies to make it a fun experience.

3. Organize School Paperwork: Create a designated area for school paperwork and important documents, such as school calendars, permission slips, and contact information for teachers and school staff.

4. Check School Policies: Familiarize yourself with the school's policies, such as drop-off and pick-up procedures, dress code, and lunch policies.

5. Arrange Transportation: If your child will be using school transportation, confirm the schedule and pick-up/drop-off points in advance.

6. Meet the Teachers: Attend any "Meet the Teacher" events or orientation sessions offered by the school. It's an excellent opportunity to meet the teachers and get familiar with the school environment.

7. Re-establish Homework Routines: Get back into the habit of doing daily reading or other educational activities to prepare your child for homework during the school year.

8. Healthy Meals and Snacks: Plan nutritious meals and snacks that will fuel your child's energy and help them stay focused during the school day.

9. Address Health Concerns: Ensure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations and schedule any necessary medical check-ups before school starts.

10. Talk About Expectations: Have an open conversation with your child about what to expect in the new school year. Discuss their feelings and concerns, and offer reassurance and support.

11. Prepare for Emergencies: Review emergency contact information and ensure your child knows who to contact in case of an emergency.

12. Update Clothing: Check your child's wardrobe and make sure they have appropriate clothing for the upcoming season and any school dress code requirements.

13. Set Goals: Help your child set academic and personal goals for the new school year. This can motivate them to work towards achievements.

14. Foster Independence: Encourage your child to take on age-appropriate responsibilities, such as packing their backpack or preparing their lunch. This fosters independence and prepares them for the school routine.

Remember, back-to-school preparation can be a fun and bonding experience for you and your child. Stay positive and supportive, and be prepared for a successful start to the new school year!

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JULY 28- AUGUST 03

🎉 Hey East Bay 🎉

Get ready to experience an astounding night of music and dancing at our Afro Caribbean Fridays event.

Your weekly list of fun local events is here.

Check this out 👀⬇️

Friday 07/28

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

2pm Berkeley Public Library Summer Movies @ THPS

3pm Black Cultural Zone DAY OF ACTION! Dist. 7 Community Safety Force

3pm Oakland Public Library The Bike Fix

3pm Alameda County Fair 626 Night Market

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library Germar the Magician @West

4pm Berkeley Public Library Charged Particles Music Performance @Central

5pm The Mercury News  Berkeley Food Network June Open House

5pm Oakland Museum of California Friday Nights at OMCA: Afrobeats Oakland Friday Night Takeover featuring emcee Christina Alexandria, live music by Seyi Sax and Matias, dance lessons with  Danaite, DJs  Juan G, Koko and TieDye Trippin

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center SUNSET SCIENCE: STARLIGHT ASTRONOMY 

6pm FunCheap Redwood City Music on the Square 2023

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

6:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center SUNSET SCIENCE

7pm Jack London Square LIVE MUSIC SERIES - MIRAGE BAND

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 28, 2023 Early Show

8:30pm 510families Movies in the Park: DC League of Super Pets

9pm Eventbrite Afro Caribbean Fridays | Bay Area Reggae, Soca, Afrobeat, Dancehall

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 28, 2023 Late Show

Saturday 07/29

All day Oakland Public Library Visions Toward Tomorrow Exhibition

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

10am The Mercury News Alameda Art & Wine Faire

10:30am Oakland Public Library Intermediate Computer Skills Classes

11am Berkeley Public Library James Chan Magician @North

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

12pm Black Cultural Zone ROOTS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER – BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH & RESOURCE FAIR

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOUR

1pm Alameda County Fair 626 Night Market

1pm Visit Oakland Jazz on 9th in July

2pm Eventbrite Oakland Jollof Festival - 2023

3pm Oakland Public Library Teens - Asian Culture Club

5:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (6p + 8p Shows)

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 29, 2023 Early Show

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Visit Oakland "Challenge Tonight" Improv Comedy Show

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9pm Eventbrite Afro Caribbean Fridays | Bay Area Reggae, Soca, Afrobeat, Dancehall

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 29, 2023 Late Show

Sunday 07/30

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am Oakland Public Library Mam Language & Culture Workshops

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

1pm Eventbrite Sunday BLISS 8yr Anniversary w/ Master Kev & David Harness

1pm Alameda County Fair 626 Night Market

2pm Chabot Space & Science Center NATIVE SKIES STAR STORIES

3:30pm The Mercury News Gallery Install

4pm Visit Oakland Sunset Sundays: Soulful & Eclectic Concerts on the Oakland Waterfront

Monday 07/31

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi 

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

5:45pm Oakland Public Library Library Advisory Commission Meeting

7pm The Mercury News "LA RUMBA ME LLAMA": Clases de Música Rumba Cubana

Tuesday 08/01

All day Oakland Public Library Demolition in Emeryville: A decade of destruction 1990-2000

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

10:45am Oakland Public Library Summer Stay & Play

11am Oakland Public Library Family Storytime

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

12pm Black Cultural Zone LEND A HAND FOUNDATION (LAHF) 24TH ANNUAL STAY-IN-SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL SUPPLY KIT DISTRIBUTION EVENT

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

4pm Berkeley Public Library In The Stax Music Series @THPS

4pm Oakland Public Library Family Game Night @ 81st Ave // Noche De Juegos en Familia

4pm Oakland Public Library Intergenerational Origami Workshop Series

5pm Berkeley Public Library National Night Out @ THPS

5pm Berkeley Public Library National Night Out @Claremont

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Film Club @West: Birdman

5:30pm Oakland Public Library Walk the Lake

6pm The Mercury News Trivia Night

8pm The Mercury News Lime Cordiale

Wednesday 08/02

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk 

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Story Time on the Lawn @North

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength 

12pm Oakland Public Library Chair Yoga

12pm  The Mercury News Summer Sounds Concert Series

1pm Oakland Public Library Utility Assistance with Spectrum Community Services

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

4pm Oakland Public Library City Team Food Giveaway

4pm Berkeley Public Library  Family Yoga Storytime @THP South

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Sing Street @Claremont

6pm Oakland Public Library Basic Computer Skills Course

7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

Thursday 08/03

12am The Mercury News ALAMEDA LANDING TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas 

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

10am The Good Life Stress Busters! 

10:30am Berkeley Public Library Musical Story Time @Freight & Salvage

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking 

11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections

11:30am Oakland Public Library Insight Housing

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Family Game Night @West

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Night at “Golden State Lounge” (6pm Show)

7pm Montclair Village  Montclair Neighborhood Council /Montclair Organized Neighborhood Leaders Monthly Public Meeting

Simone Spotlight | Protecting Your Family from Carbon Monoxide

Protecting Your Family from Carbon Monoxide

JULY 24th

How to keep your family safe from Carbon Monoxide

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), carbon monoxide poisoning is the leading cause of unintentional poisoning deaths in people in the United States. It is estimated that unintentional, non-fire-related carbon monoxide poisoning is the reason for 15,000 emergency department visits and nearly 500 deaths annually in the U.S. 

While similar statistics may not be available regarding how many pets are affected every year, we do know that over one third of U.S. households have either a dog or cat in the home—meaning that pets are likely included in many of these poisoning cases. 

What is carbon monoxide and why is it harmful? 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the silent killer because it is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas—but still highly toxic.  CO impairs the oxygen-carrying capacity of the body’s red blood cells. Organs that require high amounts of oxygen, such as the heart and brain, are most affected.  

Carbon monoxide is roughly the same density as room air, so animals close to the ground are at no more risk than taller animals.  However, birds, due to their unique respiratory system are more sensitive to the effects of carbon monoxide than other animals are. 

Symptoms of poisoning may range from mild or moderate to severe and can include:

• Depression

• Vomiting

• Weakness

• Coma

• Seizures

• Dyspnea (difficult or labored breathing)

• Cardiac Arrhythmias

• Acute lung injury

• Acute Respiratory Disease (ARDS)

• Death

• Permanent deafness and blindness are also possible 

For animals who recover from carbon monoxide poisoning, monitoring should continue for at least another three to six days (or longer), for sudden worsening or return of neurological signs. Delayed neurologic effects have been reported in animals, and may have a poor prognosis.   

How do you protect your animals from carbon monoxide poisoning? 

First, it is good to know what time of the year comes with the highest risk of CO poisoning, and where carbon monoxide most commonly comes from. 

Winter is the time of the year for carbon monoxide. Since home furnaces are one of the most common sources of CO, winter can increase CO emissions for many parts of the country.

Other common sources of carbon monoxide include:

• Vehicle exhaust

• Household fires

• Stoves

• Water heaters.  

The best way to keep yourself and your pets safe is by making sure you’re armed with the facts, and by taking preventive measures.

• You’ll want to ensure that your home is equipped with a carbon monoxide detector and that it is regularly maintained.

• Never run engines in a closed area

• Keep fireplaces clean and well ventilated

• Schedule regular maintenance on your water heater or furnace on a regular basis. 

If you suspect your pet may have been poisoned by carbon monoxide, you should not waste any time, and take them to a local emergency veterinarian immediately. While this “silent killer” may sound scary, the above steps could potentially save your pet’s life. As winter approaches for many of us, it’s critical to ensure that your home is safe and sound for you and your fur family.

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JULY 21- JUly 27

Join us for a hilarious comedy night at HellaSecret Comedy in Oakland.

Here's the list of fun local events in the Eastbay!

Friday 07/21 

12am Berkeley Public Library Super Cinema Suggests

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

8:30am The Mercury News Creekside Farmers' Market

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

9:30am The Mercury News Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

11am Funcheap “Pay-What-You-Can” Taco Day at SF’s Tato (Every Friday)

12pm Oakland Public Library Volunteer Computer Help

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength 

2pm Oakland Public Library Oakland Symphony Petting Zoo

3pm The Mercury News Community Day at the J! Free Pool Party

4pm 510families Blankets & Blockbusters: Stephen Curry: Underrated

4:30pm The Mercury News Water Lantern Festival Returning to

5pm Black Cultural Zone Salsa ‘N’ Skate

5pm Chabot Space & Science Center HIKE & SIP

5pm Oakland Museum of California Friday Nights at OMCA: Let’s Lab with mayx/maya, JUJU, Dj Jerry Ross, and Lorenzo on Keys, and DJ Durt

5pm Visit Oakland Hike & Sip at Chabot Space & Science Center

5:30pm The Mercury News San Jose, CA Water Lantern Festival

6pm The Mercury News Music on the Square 2023

6pm FunCheap Women’s World Cup: USA vs. Vietnam Outdoor Watch Party | SF

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

6:30pm 510families Starlight Movies in the Park: Lightyear

6:40pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Astros (Italian Heritage Night)

7pm FunCheap  “Crazy Funny Asians” Comedy Show + Dim Sum: Live in Chinatown (SF)

7pm Visit Oakland Live Music Series - Pure Ecstasy at Jack London Square

7pm The Mercury News Family Movie Night

7pm Jack London Square LIVE MUSIC SERIES - PURE ECSTASY

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 21, 2023 Early Show

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Eventbrite SF Ghost Hunting Tour in Chinatown with a Paranormal Investigator

8:27pm FunCheap SF’s Free Film Night in the Park “Moana” (Crane Cove Park)

8:30pm 510families Movies in the Park: The Croods 2: A New Age

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 21, 2023 Late Show

Saturday 07/22

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

8am The Mercury News Redwood City Kiwanis Farmers Market

8am The Mercury News Neighborhood Cleanup and Planting Event

9am The Mercury News Bair Island Volunteer Workday

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am Chabot Space & Science Center BUBBLEFEST WEEKEND

10:30am Oakland Public Library Firelight Shadow Theater

11am Berkeley Public Library Mindful Making @THPS

11am FunCheap SF’s 2023 Chinatown Lion Dance Festival

11:30am Oakland Public Library East Bay Vivarium

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

12:30pm The Mercury News Koret Young Performers Concert I

12pm Eventbrite JJ Pfister Distilling Co 6th Anniversary Carnival Celebration

1pm Visit Oakland Jazz on 9th in July

1pm Oakland Museum of California Gallery Activation Hour

1pm  Oakland Public Library Berkeley Rep Docent Talk: Out of Character

2pm Berkeley Public Library International Chess Day Tournament @North

3pm Berkeley Public Library Gamelan Sekar Jaya @Claremont

3pm Oakland Public Library Teens: Graffiti Workshop at Chávez

4pm Oakland Public Library Oakland Youth Poet Laureate Poets at Beast Crawl Literary Festival

4pm Eventbrite Summer Social at Beau SF

6:07pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Astros (Country-Themed Fireworks Show)

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 22, 2023 Early Show

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm Visit Oakland "Challenge Tonight" Improv Comedy Show

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

9:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 22, 2023 Late Show

Sunday 07/23

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

5:15am FunCheap San Francisco Marathon 2023

9am Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

9am FunCheap Outer Sunset Farmers Market & Mercantile 2023

9:30am The Mercury News Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival

10am Oakland Public Library Mam Language & Culture Workshops

10am Chabot Space & Science Center BUBBLEFEST WEEKEND

11am The Mercury News Sunday FSunday Funday - Taylor Swift Sing-A-Long Trivia!nday - Taylor Swift Sing-A-Long Trivia!

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

11am FunCheap “Lindy in the Park” Swing Dance Party (Golden Gate Park)

12pm Oakland Public Library East Bay Games Day 

1pm FunCheap SF’s 2023 “Bon Odori” Street Dance Festival (Japantown)

1pm FunCheap Golden Gate Park Sunday Roller Disco Party (SF)

2pm FunCheap “San Francisco Symphony” 2023 Stern Grove Festival Free Concert in the Park

2pm Oakland Public Library Volunteer Computer Help

2:07pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Astros

4:30pm The Mercury News Water Lantern Festival Returning to

5pm The Mercury News Sounds of the Shores- RJae Haas Band

Monday 07/24

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

10:30am Oakland Public Library Oakland Symphony Petting Zoo

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves 

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

6pm FunCheap Monday Movie Nights on the Square “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” | Santa Rosa

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

11:59pm Eventbrite Latin Sundays afterparty: all-night/all-inclusive Silent Disco Memorial Day

Tuesday 07/25

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

8:15am The Mercury News Meditation & Awareness Practice

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

9:30am The Mercury News Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival

10am Oakland Public Library Mobile Medical/Dental Clinic

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates 

1pm Berkeley Public Library Line Dancing at the Library @Central

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

7pm Visit Oakland Tuesday Improv Jam

8pm FunCheap FREE TIX: HellaFunny’s Brand New North Beach Comedy Blast (Opening Night)

8:30pm FunCheap $6 Drive-In Movie Night in Concord & San Jose

Wednesday 07/26

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

9:30am The Mercury News Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival

10am FunCheap “Pay What You Can” Wednesday at SF’s Museum of Craft and Design

10am Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital Tours

10am The Mercury News Mobile Recreation- Red Morton Park (Valota Rd. Side)

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

12:30pm The Good Life Mind, Body & Spirit: Consumer Fraud

1:30pm Oakland Public Library Oakland Symphony Petting Zoo

2pm Oakland Public Library Breathe A Minute

2:30pm Oakland Public Library Little Explorers Petting Zoo

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

4pm Oakland Public Library Chess Club at Rockridge

5pm Black Cultural Zone BLACK CULTURAL ZONES’ HEALING HUB TEAM PRESENTS WELLNESS WEDNESDAY

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Ball of Fire @Claremont

6pm FunCheap Women’s World Cup: USA vs. Netherlands Outdoor Watch Party | SF

6pm FunCheap Theatre Rhino’s “Pericles” at Yerba Buena Gardens (May 26 – 27)

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

Thursday 07/27

12am The Mercury News PACIFIC COMMONS TO HOST ONLINE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9am Oakland Zoo Summer ZooCamp

9:30am  The Mercury News Voyage to Vietnam: Celebrating the Tet Festival

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

11am The Mercury News 4th Annual Inclusion Festival

11:30am Oakland Public Library Community Connections

11:30am Oakland Public Library Insight Housing

12pm Eventbrite Summer Event

12:30pm Oakland Public Library Discovery Museum Try It Truck

1:30pm Berkeley Public Library Unique Derique @Central

3pm Oakland Zoo Discount AfterZOOns

6pm FunCheap Free “Movies on the Square” Indie Film Fest + Black Panther (Redwood City)

Simone Spotlight | Security Measures to take when on Vacation

Simone Spotlight | Security Measures to take when on Vacation

JULY 17th

Going on vacation is super exciting. Now that it is all booked up and paid for, your bags are packed, and you are headed to the airport, can you be sure that you have taken enough steps to protect your home while you are away?

Putting in place a few extra security measures while your house is empty will give you extra peace of mind and allow you to fully enjoy your long-awaited break.

Invest in a Monitored Security System

This should be your first line of defense for your home security. Many homeowners choose to invest in smart security systems. These are entirely effective when you have access to your cell phone, but if you are heading somewhere remote or want to leave your phone at home, monitored home security systems offer an extra layer of protection.

By installing sensors in your home, the security system will be able to detect movement or if your doors or windows are opened. This will activate an alarm that not only notifies neighbors but will also send a message to your alarm company which will alert the police if there is a breach.

Put a Pause on Your Mail Deliveries

An overflowing doormat is a sure sign of an empty property. While you are away, you could have a trusted friend or neighbor pop in to pick up your letters and any junk mail.

You can stop your mail carrier from coming for a short period of time by simply visiting the USPS website and filling in a short form online. They will stop mail from being delivered to your address and hold it for you until you get back.

Have Someone Keep an Eye on Your Empty Home

If you have a friend, family member, or neighbor that you trust, ask them to drop into your home on a regular basis to ensure that everything is in order. They should be able to attend every few days or so, and be able to go inside to check back doors, windows, and any other entrances.

Set a Timer for Your Electronics

You can keep your house looking lived in, no matter how far away you are, by setting a timer for your lights, lamps, TV, and radios. You can order timers online or pick them up in your local hardware or grocery store. By placing them in your regular sockets, you simply need to plug in your electronics and set the timer to tell each appliance when to come on.

Keep Your Lawn Mowed

If you have a front yard, easily accessible backyard, or other outside space, it may well be worth asking a friend or neighbor to mow your lawn for you. Unkempt, overgrown gardens, yards, and lawn areas are a tell-tale sign of an empty house.

Keep Tools and Ladders Locked Away

Make sure you tuck everything out of sight before you travel. Ladders are an invitation for would-be burglars to attempt access via upper floors, while other tools can be used to pick locks, break windows, or gain entry to your property in some other nefarious way.

Leave Your Car in the Driveway

Obviously, this only works if you aren’t using it for your vacation. If you are a 2-car family, or maybe even more, be sure to park a vehicle on your driveway while you are away. If you are not able to leave your own car at home, maybe ask a neighbor to use your driveway for themselves while you are away.

Keep Your Vacation Plans Away From Social Media

Posting pictures of you and your family sunning themselves hundreds of miles from home is an open invitation to would-be burglars and those who intend to do you no good.

Checking in at the airport may seem like a cool way to flex on Facebook, but in reality, it’s just telling people your home will be empty for the next week or so. Keep your photos and memories to share privately.

Lock up Your Valuables

You should always ensure that your expensive or sentimental items are locked away in a safe, hidden lockbox, or other secure space before you leave for your vacation.

Keep Your Regular Cleaner Schedule

If you are fortunate enough to have some help around the home, you should ask them to continue coming while you are away. House cleaners, gardeners, and even the pool guy should all still arrive as per their regular schedule even if you aren’t there.

Keep It on the Down-Low

Vacations are exciting, and it can be tempting to tell the whole world that it’s your turn to take time off. You will need to tell work and close family, of course, but there is probably no need to tell your hairdresser, the checkout guy at the store, all the moms at the school gate, and everyone else you see.

This may sound a little mean, but when you return, you can tell them all about how awesome your vacation was instead.

Tell Your Neighbors

Giving your neighbors the heads up that you are off on vacation is a useful way of making sure that someone is keeping an eye on your home for you

Consider Your Curtains

If you usually leave your shutters half-open, or blinds rolled up, suddenly shutting them all gives your house a locked-down look that will scream “vacant” to anyone who is interested. As much as possible, keep your curtains, blinds, and shutters in a similar position to how they usually would be.

Don’t Stash Your Key

For many of us living in relatively safe communities, surrounded by trusted friends and neighbors, it can be tempting to leave a key hidden outside your property just in case someone needs to pop in for you. Don’t do this — and especially don’t do this when you are going away for an extended period of time.

Have Someone Take the Trash Out for You

Most people will empty their trash cans before they head off on vacation, but even if you are good enough to do that, remember it still needs to be collected. Ask a neighbor to take your trash can into the street on collection day to ensure that they are removed.

Install a Sensor Light

These cheap and easy-to-install light fittings are super useful for alerting your neighbors when someone is approaching your house. 

Disconnect the Garage Door

If you have an electric garage door that is opened by using a remote, disconnect it before you go. Most garages have direct access to your home, and if a thief can hack the electronic signal, they can be in your home quickly as a flash. 

Tell Your Local Police Department

While it is not national news that you are off on vacation, if you live in a small community, it might be worth mentioning to your local police department that your home will be unoccupied for a short period of time. 

Install a Video Doorbell

These fun little gadgets are also really useful for adding an extra layer of home security. Smart video doorbells allow you to see who is ringing your bell no matter where you are in the world.

Check Your Security Devices Before You Leave

Plan to have a quick once over of all of your security systems and devices a few days before you plan to head off, giving you enough time to replace batteries or repair broken parts for when they will be needed.

Check Your Household Insurance Policy

Before you flee for your month of fun and frolics, check that your home insurance is valid and in date. Should something happen while you are away, you will want to be able to call on your insurers to help rectify the problem on your return.

Hire a House Sitter

Finally, if you are really concerned about leaving your house empty while you are away, consider hiring a house sitter. This might just be a trusted friend or family member, or you could reach out to a company or agency that offers professional house sitting services. 

East Bay Weekly Events

Your Weekly Guide to Local Events

JULY 14 - JUly 20

Join us for a Sunday funday with True Crime, Cheese & Wine Bingo, solving mysteries, and enjoying delicious cheeses and wines.

Here is the list of fun local events, Eastbay!

Friday 07/14

All day Jack London Square BASTILLE DAY 2023

10am Oakland Museum of California MEMBER BONUS RECIPROCITY WEEKEND AT SFMOMA

10am Oakland Zoo CLOSING EARLY for Friends of the Wild Exclusive Afternoon

12pm Oakland Public Library Volunteer Computer Help

1pm The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Stretch/Strength

2pm Berkeley Public Library Summer Movies @ THPS

3pm Oakland Public Library Teens: Hip-Hop and Fashion Workshop at Lakeview

3pm Oakland Public Library Teens: Graffiti Workshop at Melrose

5pm Visit Oakland Hike & Sip at Chabot Space & Science Center

5pm Oakland Museum of California FRIDAY NIGHTS AT OMCA: MUSICIAN JAKE ZIMMA, DEBAJO SOUND SYSTEM COLLECTIVE, AND DJ MAI GIRL

5pm FunCheap “Friday Nights at OMCA with Off the Grid” Block Party + DJs (Oakland)

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland’s HellaSecret Comedy & Cocktails (2023)

6:15pm FunCheap Free Moonlight Movies “Emperor’s New Groove” | Danville (2023)

6:30pm 510families Dive-In Movie: Princess & The Frog (RSVP)

6:30pm 510families Moonlight Movies: Emperor’s New Groove

6:40pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Twins (African American Heritage Night presented by Chevron)

7:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 14, 2023 Early Show

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm 510families Summer Movies in the Park: Night at the Museum

8pm Eventbrite SF Ghost Hunting Tour in Chinatown with a Paranormal Investigator

8:30pm 510families Movies in the Park: Puss in Boots – The Last Wish

9:45pm Comedy Oakland Live - Friday July 14, 2023 Late Show

Saturday 07/15

All day Jack London Square BASTILLE DAY 2023

7am Montclair Village Music at Sophie’s Cuppa Tea

9am Visit Oakland Grand Lake Farmers Market

9am City of Oakland Physical Ability Test (PAT) Workshop

10am FunCheap Downtown Martinez Makers Market w/ 100+ Vendors

10:30am Oakland Public Library Insect Discovery Lab

11am Oakland Public Library Family Time

11:30am Oakland Public Library East Bay Regional Parks

12pm Oakland Public Library A Tour of AAMLO

1pm Visit Oakland Jazz on 9th in July

1pm Oakland Museum of California GALLERY ACTIVATION HOUR

4:07pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Twins

5:30pm Visit Oakland Hike & Sip at Chabot Space & Science Center

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Saturday Night @ Secret Speakeasy (6p + 8p Shows)

7pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 15, 2023 Early Show

7:30pm Chabot Space & Science Center FREE TELESCOPE VIEWINGS

8pm 510families Movie Nights: Lilo & Stitch

8pm Visit Oakland All Out Comedy Soft Opening Shows

8:30pm Jack London Square WATERFRONT FLICKS - MINIONS THE RISE OF GRU (PG)

8:30pm Visit Oakland Nuthouse at The Golden Squirrel: A Weekly No-Cover Comedy Cabaret

 9:30pm Comedy Oakland Live - Saturday July 15, 2023 Late Show

Sunday 07/16

All day Jack London Square BASTILLE DAY 2023

9am Montclair Village Montclair Village Sunday Farmers’ Market

10am City of Oakland Oral Exam Workshop - Prepare for the Police Officer Trainee Oral Exam

10am Eventbrite Sofra: A High-Tea Brunch Affair

11am Visit Oakland Weekly Water St. Makers

11am Eventbrite Sunday Funday - True Crime, Cheese & Wine Bingo Time!

11am Jack London Square WEEKLY FARMER'S MARKET

1pm Oakland Museum of California SUMMER OF JOY MARKETPLACE

1pm Visit Oakland VIBEZ with OakCali: Celebrating Juneteenth & Fathers' Day

1pm FunCheap Concert at the Lake: Oakland Municipal Band | Lake Merritt

1:07pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Twins

2pm Chabot Space & Science Center NATIVE SKIES STAR STORIES

4pm FunCheap “A Room with a View” Berkeley Summer Outdoor Theater in the Park

4pm Visit Oakland Sunset Sundays: Soulful & Eclectic Concerts on the Oakland Waterfront

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland “HellaSecret” Comedy Show

11:59pm Eventbrite Latin Sundays afterparty: all-night/all-inclusive Silent Disco Memorial Day

Monday 07/17

9am The Good Life Mindful Mondays with Iya Kemi

9am Visit Oakland Summer ZooCamp at the Oakland Zoo

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Moves and Grooves

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

6:40pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Red Sox

7pm FunCheap 1/2 Off Oysters + Monday Night HellaFunny Comedy Show (Oakland)

Tuesday 07/18

9am Visit Oakland Summer ZooCamp at the Oakland Zoo

10am Berkeley Public Library Gentle Yoga @North

10:45am Oakland Public Library Summer Stay & Play

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Pilates

3pm Eventbrite Father's Day

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

3:30pm Berkeley Public Library The Traveling Reptile Show with East Bay Vivarium @THPS

6:40pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Red Sox

8:30pm FunCheap $6 Drive-In Movie Night in Concord & San Jose

Wednesday 07/19

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Barbershop Talk

9am Visit Oakland Summer ZooCamp at the Oakland Zoo

11am The Good Life Let's Get Moving - Cardio/Strength

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

5pm Visit Oakland Wellness Wednesday by TogetherWell

5:30pm Berkeley Public Library Charade @Claremont

6pm City of Oakland Personal Emergency Preparedness [PEP] Class

7pm FunCheap Comedy & Wings Night + “Wing Wednesday” $10 Specials (Oakland)

7:30pm FunCheap Win Tix: Jason Mraz and His SuperBand Live at the Greek Theatre (Berkeley)

7:30pm Visit Oakland Wednesday Trivia Night

8pm Visit Oakland Jazz Wednesdays

12:37pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Red Sox (Camp Day)

Thursday 07/20

9am The Good Life Brothas Building Brothas - Let's Get Movin' Brothas

9am Visit Oakland Summer ZooCamp at the Oakland Zoo

5:30 pm Visit Oakland 90's Trivia Night

6pm Chabot Space & Science Center ACRYLIC SPACE PAINT & SIP

11am The Good Life Let's Get Cooking

12:30pm Oakland Public Library Discovery Museum Try It Truck

3pm Visit Oakland Discount AfterZOOns at the Oakland Zoo

4:30pm Oakland Public Library  Teens: Radial Relief Origami at Temescal

6pm FunCheap FREE: Oakland Comedy Night at “Golden State Lounge” (6pm Show)

6:30pm Berkeley Public Library Intro to US Citizenship Process

6:40pm Visit Oakland Athletics vs. Astros (Portuguese Heritage Night)

7pm FunCheap Karaoke by Mixterious at Bay Break Thursdays (Emeryville)

7:30pm Visit Oakland An Evening of Flamenco at the Sound Room